2024 Road Glide vs. Indian Challenger: Mind changed?
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 2 ก.พ. 2024
- In this video, I dive deep into the latest motorcycle showdown between the 2024 Harley-Davidson Road Glide and the Indian Challenger. If you've been following my journey, you'll remember I initially leaned towards the Indian Challenger. However, with the introduction of Harley's new 2024 models, I've had a possible change of heart. Join us as I explore the features, performance, and overall experience of these two iconic bikes, and discover why our preference might have shifted. Whether you're a Harley enthusiast or a die-hard Indian fan, this comparison will provide valuable insights into these impressive machines and possibly help you make an informed decision. Don't miss it!
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Let's call a spade a spade. If Indian had not come out with the Challenger/Pursuit - Frame, features, power train, ride modes etc. - the 2024 Road Glide would look just like it has been for the past decade but with a new paint job. Change my mind. 🤷♂️
Totally agreed. They MIGHT have tossed the LED’s in the bullet turn signals and an LED taillight and called it new. Indian undoubtedly pushed the need for HD to come out with significant changes IMHO.
and Indian completely ripped off HD with the challenger in the first place so what's your point?? Indian didn't make bikes for 40 years then came out with a bike with more featured than a HD. Big deal, like it's hard to see a product that's already in the market and then come out with something better that is literally a clone of the HD haha now HD will shit on them till they go on another 40 year hiatus.
@@ledfoot666 not hard at all. You just need incredibly talented engineers, manufacturing facilities, dealer networks, and thousands of hard working Americans to put it all together. Anyone can do it. These are both publicly traded companies making dope ass American V-Twin motorcycles. It’s not like Willie G. Is handcrafting your Harley in his basement, these comments are always incredibly tone deaf to the reality that both Harley and Indian (Polaris) are publicly traded companies with fiduciary responsibility to wall street first, value to consumer second. So the one that delivers the best value IS the better and cooler company. Not the one who gives less to the consumer for maximum dollar for the profit of investors.
@@GearsGadgets FACTS 💯💯💯
@@ledfoot666 BMW had the first fixed fairing, R100RS. So Harley ripped off BMW. Get bent loser.
I rode them both in the last week, the HD feels like a tank in the handling compared to the Indian. And both have more than enough power, but the HDs seems dated in the way it come-on . I have owned 3 HDs , I'm going Indian Challenger it just feels and handles so much lighter and better.
Agreed - A TEEN pulled out across my path in 2020.🚑🚓🚨
My lawsuit got me $64,000 #Clear.. after Med’s & his fee. Etc.
But totaling ($) out ..the only New Harley ..that I’d ever owned (aka)
⚓️Boat Anchor
..was the best part of the Accident 🙌🤑
NeverAgain
The Indian clearly outperforms the Harley in every category except aesthetics. In my opinion Harley absolutely nailed “the look” while Indian missed the mark in that category. Ahh hell,,, I’m gonna have to ride them both again.
Great step for Harley. This update for them is their acknowledgement that Indian exists and makes a great product. Thank you Indian.
Great content, last year at sturgis I rode cvo road glide and CHALLENGER back to back.
I bought the CHALLENGER !
Hands down way better suspension
And better value.
I own 2 harleys and 3 indians and they are all GREAT BIKES!
Tough choices, but have fun riding them whenever you can!
Both bikes are beautiful, but Id go for the Indian, comfort looks and reliability I think I’d lean more towards. Also, the HD is still not fully liquid cooled
But they have started going in the right direction. interesting times
Coming from owning two different Indian models (2019 FTR 1200 S and a 2020 Challenger), they are FAR from reliable. Had several issues with both bikes, the FTR would just shut off on its own while riding, checked all battery connections - not the issue, several others had same problem with early ecu firmware. Had a severe tank slapper on the interstate with cruse control on - not recommended. Challenger had a slew of electrical issues and threw codes almost every other ride. Wore out swing-arm pivot pin, neck bearings, and belt in just 30k miles.
@@UnrulyRider I have also owned Indians and Harleys Hondas Kawasaki‘s, so I also know the reliability on all the bikes that I have owned and in my opinion, the Harley was the worst. I don’t think anybody could deny that that owns a Harley. All bikes will have issues there’s just some manufactures that will have more than others. I’m not here to poop on Harley. I’m just saying for my personal experience.
@@mrdude3540 I've owned 5 Harley's before the Indians (4 Dyna's: Street Bobs, Low Rider S, and a Super Glide, and a Sportster Iron 883 before them), zero issues with any of them. I've also owned Kawasaki, Honda, and Yamaha... the easiest to do my own engine work, upgrades, and maintenance on was by far the Harley-Davidson motorcycles.
@@UnrulyRiderThat’s exactly why anyone who has ever owned a Harley, knows to carry a toolkit and spare parts!
@@denniswilliams2385 Was speaking of the issues with the Indians I've owed... no problems with my Harleys which I can easily work on myself.
3:22 - 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 "The Speed Limit" 🤣🤣🤣🤣
yeah , that had me cracked up too!
I have owned 2 Polaris bikes. 1 Victory, 1 Indian. I have considered buying a Harley. The first Harley I considered buying was a sport glide . But they discontinued it and came out with the low rider ST and I thought that bike was pretty sweet with these new designs, I am truly digging the road glide & street glide. So with that being said, I probably would lean more towards the Harley.
I had a Victory Vegas Jackpot I would never touch another Polaris as long as I live. What an absolute piece of junk. Definitely get the Harley.
I rode H-D from 1964 to 2018, tried or rode almost all the other brands but stuck with H-D primarily. Switched to Victory. The best motorcycle I've ever owned. Still mystifies me as to why Polaris dropped them
Until Harley does something to correct/change the lower end I would have to think long and hard to accept one as a gift.
Worked in several dealerships and independent shops over the years, the forked rod set up was never ever designed to stand up to the displacement and hp that is available now.
Witness the pinion runout problems they have had since 2003. Among a host of others, Transmissions, compensator sprocket,, primary chain adjustors etc.
Fly wheel spread is very common on them especially when modified.
If paint and cosmetics are that important then buy a Harley.
If you want thousands of mile of trouble free riding then buy an Indian.
Fair
I was leaning towards getting the challenger before the 2024 announcement. The 2024 launch swayed me, 117 motor, the liquid cooled heads (big plus being in a hot state), taller stock bars, suspension updates, comfortable stock seat, and the new infotainment layout made me look at the Harley. We all have our own preferences and I think the RG looks even better in person, it's just a super aesthetically looking motorcycle and is a big part of what sold me on it. I love looking at it and riding it!
Sounds like we have similar mindset.
I'm in the same boat guys. I was dead set on a Challenger, but now I'm looking at the RG.
Can you say 116 THUNDERSTROKE
Looks are subjective to personal taste. I would like to see more conversations on motor performance and reliability rider position comfort
@@sdacman I said it was my preference, so yes, my personal taste. You are also more then free to start those conversations yourself lol.
White and Black Road Glide is a great looking bike, I'd definitely go with the white. I actually think the Harley fairing looks a lot better.
Harley definitely took a step up with this model for sure. I still prefer the Indian challenger and pursuit, but it’s a much closer bake off now. I like how Polaris has really moved the market on these tour bikes overall the last few years and it’s making Harley play catch up. The feel of the challenger is amazing (but I haven’t ridden this new Road Glide). I also like the electronically adjustable suspension on the Indian. But man it’s close now.
I have the 2024 Pursuit & 2018 CVO with upgraded Ohlins front & back.
Just rode the 2024 RG CVO ST & it is badass. If you're choosing between the 2024 RG with the 117 & the 2024 Indian Challenger 108........go with Indian. (and I am HUGE HD supporter)
The suspension, handling & performance are still better on the Indian.
Two caviots that may not be important to you: you will get more looks/compliments & more bro-love on the HD. (No biggie to me)
The Harley fairing is much better looking. And I don’t hate the Indian. Thank God for Indian pushing Harley to make improvements every year.
Totally agree.
Yep!
I think the headlight is ugly
I like both fairings, both look great. I’m not sure I’m loving the Harley headlight though. I have a challenger and FTR and a sport chief.
But I gotta be honest I think Harley hit it out of the park with the road glide inter fairing .
Don’t think you could go wrong with either bike ……….. Harley stepped up It’s game. Now it’s time for Indian to do the same.
I love the competition because it brings us better bikes
I think they both look great. Who cares though - it's completely subjective.
I test rode them back-to-back on 5/3/24. Base challenger, base Roadglide. Challenger provided better wing protection, superior suspension, more comfortable ergonomics and a smoother engine. Harley has the edge on styling and power but it costs 8k more OTD bc of the extra charge from any other color/trim than grey/chrome.
Head scratcher for sure!...I would probably go for the Road Glide still!...great to see these 2 awesome companies producing some great new products!...can't go wrong with either!...great video...stay safe out there!!😎👍🤙👍🤙🇨🇦
I went with the Indian Challenger, mainly because it just fit me. Every Harley I've ever sat on seemed cramped and designed for someone who was at most 5'8". I sat on the Indian Challenger and it was just perfect for me. Haven't regretted it.
I had the same experience.
I sold my Challenger last year after just not being able to get pass a few aesthetics on it, when I sold it I knew it was a matter of time before HD stepped it up…..that time has come and I’m waiting on my dealer get a CVO ST in to buy, can’t wait!
Good choice. You won't be disappointed
Where are you located? We have two, and are getting 3 more in the next couple months...
Considering the markup I’m seeing in AZ… I’m betting you won’t walk out the door under 55K for one, and that’s before taxes or fees.
Damn, AZ dealer sucks, they .. My dealer (in Jersey ) will discount it 1.5 K for me.
I like the fairing on the road glide. However, I like the fully liquid motor in the Indian.
Once Harley updates their Ultra Limited I'm upgrading. They knocked it out of the park with this new redesign.
I am interested to see the rollout of the ultra. I’m sure that’s coming next year. Assuming the lowers will have a new design too which should be pretty cool to see.
You may see the ultra limited go away as a floored model. Instead the basic road glide and street glide will be orderable as packages and the selling dealer will assemble the customers order on delivery. May sound outlandish, but it's coming soon.
@@carlbruhn1772I agree. As a matter of fact, that’s exactly what I just did. I bought the Street Glide, then ordered the extras instead of buying the outdated Ultra with the smaller motor.
I bought a 24 road glide a few weeks ago, what @carlbruhn1772 said is correct. The dealership said the same thing. They are down sizing and consolidating all the models it is just going to be "Street Glide, Road glide, and CVO", for easier production and value. Essentially all the models are "Special" edition. From there, you will just buy the addon either from the factory or installed after purchase, but hey I could be wrong and blowing smoke up my azz for all I know.
I bought a 23 Challenger DH. Black Smoke. That windshield is life changing. Stock seat is great. Infotainment is great. 122 hp 128 tq. The indian lit up on femdet at night. Key fob. I love it. KST 14" Comanche bars Neighbor Hater exhaust. Speakers are loud easily heard at 80 mph. Rims amd tires are fire. I will admit i like the look of the new RG a little better. But i like lights better on Chal. Oh and frikkin Rain Mode when driving. Wow. And its liquid cooled btw
Also lifetime power train warranty no deductible
Absolutely love the look and ride of the new HD, just bought a new road glide shark skin blue last week
Great video. I agree - I own an '18 RGS and have been frustrated with the lack of innovation and lots of nickel and diming from HD. My neighbor got a Challenger Elite last year and I was considering jumping brands because it is a beautiful machine at a very competitive price point. Now I'm back to HD - and I love the new Road Glide fairing. I'd have to upgrade a few things - speakers, wheels, etc. but at a starting MSRP of $26K now there's room AND a better motor, tech, standard equipment and design.
Well said!
I just bought a twenty four roadwide and it really is night in day difference from the old ones. It's amazing. I would recommend it.
I can't believe HD still hasn't adopted the adjustable windscreen.
There was something said about it by Harley I believe. What they found was most people get it set where they want it and leave it... no need to add motors and moving parts (weight) if 90% of people are not going to take advantage of it. One less thing to break and/or maintain.
The only thing for me that is better on the new HD is the ability to turn some wind at you from the side of the fairing. I was talking with a buddy when Klock Werks brought out a wind deflector for the challenger/pursuit fairing, that it would be nice to have that ability, to turn some more air at me on warmer days, rather than just stuck with more deflection.
One thing that is glaring is HD left the tired old suspension on the new bikes. Only the CVO gets the upgraded suspension. 3” of travel on the rear. Front suspension isn’t much better. Overall I’m happy HD is doing something new.
The suspension on the new HD RG and SG has been upgraded in '24 at least in the rear. You can now set preload similarly like you would on a Legends or Ohlin's suspension (right shock). Left side still give you hydraulic control for easy adjuncts on the fly for luggage or passengers. But it handles WAY better then my '17 RG did. No Bagger wobble in sweeping turns at speed it feels way more grounded.
You get a new adjustable suspension and pre load on the new bikes, its one inch higher in the rear. Including non CVO models. Obviously the CVO is a better suspension. Its not horrible, its not the best either, I plan on changing it out anyway. Seems worthy of the money for comfort.
Good Review. Like both bikes but would go for the Road Glide.
I’ll be honest I’m in the market for a new bike. I like the 2023 RG I went to see it and test drive it, then I went to a local Indian dealer and checked out the challenger. I did not like their faring and the seat to handle feel. It felt too much like an European bike not a touring American “made” badass, I did feel the badassness on the HD RG. Now in 2024 redesign even more so, I sat on one yesterday and I want it now.
That pursuit frame is nearly identical to the victory in fact, I first saw the 108 power plus engine on a victory prototype right before they canceled it.
I do a lot of night writing I don’t like these LED lights they don’t illuminate the stuff you can’t see near as well as dual halogens, but I have really good night vision and white light is not my friend.
That Road Glide is a good looking bike. I have two friends that just bought them.
But the short front fender on the Harley, that front tires spray is gonna beat the crap out of that cooler.
As far as the fairing goes, which one creates the best bubble.
Great vid.
Ride well and ride on!🍻
For me its an easy choice having owned 5 different Harley's. The Indian has great features but when Ive ridden them they seem kinda cheap feeling..There is always going to be a new bike that makes current ones seem old though....I will be getting the new cvo road glide later this year. Will probably be the last one I buy. Good luck with your decision.I just turned 70k miles on my 21 powerboost BTW. What a great truck its been
Good video and timing, I'm having this exact debate right now. I've ridden a 2023 Challenger Dark Horse and 2023 Road Glide ST. I definitely preferred the Challenger over the previous Road Glide but these new ones have some nice changes and are much more competitive.
I actually went into my local Harley dealer today and looked at the new Road Glides. They even had a CVO ST there but it would be over $50k OTD and that's just too much for me. Badass bike though. My biggest issue with Indian is the lack of dealer network. My nearest Indian dealer is 3 hours away. I've had issues on a trip before and having a Harley dealer only 30 minutes away from where I had my issue really helped out. I picked up a 3 inch lagbolt through my rear tire that broke my wheel. Got it to the Harley dealer, they drove me 2 hours home, and delivered my bike, to my door, washed and with a full tank of fuel on a Sunday a week later when the repair was complete. No out of pocket cost because I had the tire and wheel protection.
There are Polaris dealers all over the place, I wish they would allow any Polaris dealer to sell and service the Indian brand. I think it would alleviate a lot of the dealer network concerns that people like myself have.
I don't think the Challenger looks bad, but I do think the Road Glide looks better.
I was on the same boat, Challenger was winning until I went to the Harley dealership and saw the Shark Skin Blue. I bought it before it hit the showroom. Also the price ended up being cheaper than the Indian with black trims
I switched from a 21 street glide to a 23 challenger base, after putting over 3,000 miles on the challenger I can say that I’ll be switching back to a road glide.
What were the issues compared to street glide?
I had a lot of buffeting with the street glide despite trying multiple size/styles windshields. The challenger has more vibration through the bars and floorboards, the gauge pod rattles over bumps and the throttle response is not that great, it has a little bit of a lag in all modes. And I’m not a fan of the engine noise, sounds like something rolling around in the top end. The Indian is a good bike, I’m just not in love with it.
Just asking why, Respectfully. Like to get your feed back as I'm currently looking at both.
Rode the new Rg and Rg CVO yesterday. Power was great in comparison to earlier models, even my challenger. But the suspension still needs attention. Good to see hd moving forward.
If you were buying today, would you still go Challenger?
HD is still behind on the adjustable windshields and remote locking bags. Two very useful features.
and suspension (still not even close), and HP. only the $50k CVO ST comes close to the stock Challenger/Pursuit HP.
Last year I test rode a brand new challenger and the windshield stopped working 10 seconds down the road lol
Easy fix. Guy on yt had to have 24 cvo towed already@AlwaysBePrepared1131
Can only rip off so much in one year. Next year the will steal the rest.
great discussion on these bikes. i’m right there with you- wondering which one would be better… plus the street glide is way better this year too imo… so now you have to make that decision too, lol. unless you have a lot of money and a large garage!
Got my Pursuit in July of 22. I have nearly 11k on it. So far my favorite features that I think were better than Harleys at the time (haven't ridden 24s) 1 adjustable windshield. Seems gimmicky before you use it but I feel in love with it. We get brutally hot summers and it's great to drop it down in town. 2 Handling is awesome. Having the engine as part of the frame lowers the center of gravity. 3 The fob. Doesn't seem important for a there and back trip but it's a touring bike. It makes a big difference on a 10 hour ride. You get off and on all day it just stream lines everything, one less irritant on a long day. I think the new HD wins some points with integrating rds, leds and touchscreens. That was smart and classy. I hate seeing the nickel and dime game. My takeaway is the Indian did a good enough job to force HD to innovate based on rider feedback, and that's good for everyone. If I were you, I would get the HD purely for the sake of your channel. I prefer the indian but they are objectively very close in features and quality. The Harley will bring in more viewers though so it's likely the better play.
Awhile back I was at the local Hog Farm picking up parts for my Wide Glide and a new Street Glide Special caught my attention. I had been thinking of a better way that my wife and I could do longer get away rides, but hadn't really considered a "geezer bike." Well, that bike stuck in my head, so the fall down the rabbit hole started. I did a lot of research and watch tons of videos (Including yours)(Repeatedly).I was sold on a 23 Challenger and almost bought it, but the numbers fell apart and the deal fell through. I loved the performance of that Indian, but I got a deal on a gently used 22 Street Glide in the exact combo that caught my eye when I started my bagger search. At the end of the day, I saved myself 10G buying used and I have the bike that I will always look back at as I walk away. I think it's great that the MoCo is taking on the competition and it shows that they are listening to their customers. I'm interested to see where this will lead in the next few years.
I'm thankful for the folks who purchase new Harleys, but in 40 years of riding I have always bought used. With the new 24 design I suspect my choices on used beauties is about to explode.
@@carlbruhn1772 It did, now is the best time to get a used low mile Harley. Probably not at the dealer, but yea.
I prefer the Rushmore road glide fairing over the both the challenger and the new road glide fairing. But would pick the new road glide over the challenger.
I really enjoyed this video. Harley stepped it up this year.
You cracked my up with "the speed limit" over the spedo display on the Indian. Good video.
I love my challenger limited miles of smiles with lots more power than I expected and way more sound coming from the speakers than I ever thought possible. Bought with 4,500 miles may last year and at 18,000 now
The 117 heads are also higher flowing and can support .550 lift. It’s an updated 117.
.550 lift as in a cam ?
@@anthonyhughes8888 Yes, the new heads can support up to .550 lift (from a cam), from what I’ve seen discussed.
thanks for the info
Yes, manifold redesign, larger throttle body & airbox also🤠✌️
I would never push stock springs to .550. Even redesigned, quality springs are quite expensive and I don't see the motor company putting anything like that in a stock bike. Hopefully we can see how close to coil bind these new springs are at .550.
harley, i have the 2024 its a nice ride
😅Nice to see you back on track. Understand your quandary when you are looking for a new ride, greener grass on the other side and so on. Other considerations might be that you are not exactly walking now, the ‘18 heritage has a lot of modernizations going for it. 1st yr for the M8 in a softail, monoshock suspension in rear. You have the 114ci , a CVO motor for 1yr before. One year only color “red iron denim”, when’s the last time you have seen one in person? Paraphrasing your own thoughts in a world full of specialty motorcycles, the softail is more utilitarian. Not many models from any manufacturer can do everything pretty well. Weigh your options.
I mostly agree. I am disappointed that HD didn't go with the inverted forks on the RG and SG. That and the fob that locks bags would have made a huge difference IMHO. But again...they did well. Just didn't go as far as they should've when I think they definitely could have.
Do you have a review video on your tascam podmixer? I couldn’t find one on your channel.
I do not but I do love it.
I've got the RG ST '23 model year 117 motor and it doesn't have the liquid cooled heads and even in 90-100 degree weather it never felt that hot. I'd Imagine the liquid cooled heads would make that even better. I wasn't sold on the new body styling when the '23 CVOs came out but I almost considered trading in my '23 RG ST for a '24 because I really like what they've done this year. Never owned an Indian so I am for sure biased. Maybe next year I'll upgrade.
I like the look of the fairing on the chalenger. I like the lighter weight of the challenger. I like the much bigger dealer network of Harley Davidson and numerous independent shops that work on Harley Davidson motorcycles.
It's about heat for me. I feel like the Harley doesn't cook my legs like the Indian. Also I think the Road Glide is the best looking motorcycle that's out there. The Indian will have better suspension probably, but I'd probably go Harley.
I got the new rogue glide ST and it rides great
Saw that on IG. Looks awesome!!
Indian is the way to go imo . Either way, have fun out there 🤘🏻
I gotta say - with the upgrades, I'd go Harley. It's a shame that Nav isn't baked into the price [it's a $350 upcharge], but the looks and other upgrades, while keeping the pricing around what my 2019 SGS cost? Solid. Let's see how the first 2 years play out in terms of issues and recalls, but when I'm ready for a new bike, it'll be at the top of my list :D
I bought a Pan America and mainly rode it on pavement. It was a blast! However, I was having so much fun, I started wondering if I would get in trouble with the law or worse, maybe get in a wreck or something. Anyway, about the same time I started thinking like that, my house took some damage from a major storm. Most of the damage was covered by insurance, but there were a few things they weren’t going to cover. So, I found myself needing some money. Since I already owned my touring bike, I decided to sale the Pan America. I used part of the money for my house and then put some more money into my other bike. I’ll need to keep it. It’s too much fun. But, for a second bike in the future… I’d still love to have the Pan America.
It’s great I love it! Except it’s a first gen and it already needs a reflash recall - I’ll wait a couple of years and let them iron out the kinks on the HD - I’d buy the Indian challenger because of the electric windshield
I wanted a new 2024 HD RG in Whiskey Fire because it looked awesome online. Rode it and it was great but the color in the sun is more orange than red. Ended up getting a 2023 RG 120th Anniversary.
You definitely bought a beautiful machine.
Great video! I think the 24 Harleys are leaps and bounds better than previous model years.
Totally agree.
Challenger for the electric windshield alone.👌
Partial bias as I do own a Harley roadglide, I test rode a challenger at an Indian event and personally little things like the fit and finish feel of the hand controls were far above on the Harley in comparison, the power and light feeling were better on the challenger but to me little things mean more. I also had a better experience at Harley than Indian when I did purchase but that all depends on where you’re at I guess.
The White Onyx Pearl is so nice in person! Sucks that the CVO is the only model with VVT. I really like the new body and hand controls.
Rumor has it that they are going to be coming out with a screaming eagle VVT add on kit down the road. The new 117s have the bump for it on the cam chest...
I agree, I have not been excited about anything coming out of Harley since 2018. I don't buy bikes to impress someone, I could care less if someone knows my bike is a 2024 or a 2018. If you can I would keep the heritage and just add a touring bike. I have both and find my road glide is a choir for shorter rides, so glad I have a Fatboy.
Love the new fairing. Just bummed nothing was done to the RG limited. That is the bike I’m waiting for to pull the upgrade trigger. I also have a Heritage 114. I put a king tour pack on because I’ve been doing a lot of riding two up with my wife. But the further and longer we go the less the Heritage fits the bill. Just waiting for that limited.
Visually
My biggest issue WAS the tank on Harley. It looked like they just slapped one on, rather than integrated it.
Now it flows.
I’m really starting to like Harley’s!
My 2017 M8 had blowby exiting through the air cleaner which gunked it up and negatively affected compression, horsepower, and life of the motor. It was more than just a leak down the side of the motor. Oil transferred from the engine to the clutch. Oil is filtered after the cooler. I reference Kevin Baxter. Have they fixed these issues? It's a liquid cooled head push rod motor vs. a double overhead cam liquid cooled engine. Challenger has inverted forks. RG shark nose and taillights are better looking. Tank is semi-squared mimicking Indian, maybe.
Kevin Baxter is the man.
Yes sir, and I forgot to also reference Doc Harley (blowby) and John Maxwell (oil transfer to clutch)@@GearsGadgets
Do you think that after all the Polaris stuff you had been riding you just kinda forgot about HD? As for the cooled heads not a big deal. You will still need a oil cooler as I put on the 21 Tri Glide. I like the New Street Glide front end.
I definitely didn’t forget about Harley, I just didn’t find anything all that exciting about the touring bikes year over year. I rode them, I rode Indian and I just always viewed Indian as getting more bike for the buck. Harley had to do more to get me to look at them a little more seriously and it looks like they have finally done it by giving the buyer more for their money.
The other thing I find very appealing about Harley is their after market accessories. So many different options
Love my 2021 road glide special. I feel Harley is catching up and thought they would have incorporated the adjustable windshield and increased the wattage on the stereo. Indian includes that adjustable windshield and higher wattage stereo factory. Not to mention the power locking saddlebags . With Harley you’d have to spend way more on a CVO for that. Love the new infotainment on Harley. They are catching up but have a ways to go.
Aesthetically I like the challenger fairing better. Aerodynamically I like the road glide fairing better.
I like the Indian front fender more.
The street glide fairing still sits to far forward on the forks (cornering weave is more prominent if you ride hard)
Overall I think HD made a lot more good changes than bad. People seem to be griping over the end of the standard and special, but it was the right choice. Just created competition within its own lineup. The same people would complain if they got hung either way a new rope.
Indians biggest disadvantage is aftermarket customization and dealer availability.
Go Road Glide! Great video!
Thanks!
Tough choice... I have a 2019 Street Glide Special and i'm considering trading in on a 2024 Road Glide, but that inidian challenger dark horse makes a compelling argument!
I definitely like the RG fairing way better! It’s much more stylish than the Indian bulbous fairing! If you’re going to actually do some long haul touring then yes a RG or SG would be the right bike. Also do you plan on bringing the wife on those long rides? Again if so RG or SG is the right bike. However, if you only plan to do one or two trips a year, then your Heritage is the perfect bike for that. It’s small enough that it’s a great bike for riding around town with enough baggage space to hold your daily gear and it’s comfortable enough for those one or two yearly long touring rides. Personally I traded in my 14 SGS for a 21 RKS (in 2021) because I wanted to ditch all infotainment and the stereo system that had a be at max volume to even think about hearing it at highway speeds! To me the RKS is the best option for around town and touring simply because I get the wide open view, infotainment is sent to my helmet, where I can actually enjoy it and I still have the baggage room and passenger space when I need it.
I have to say that I like the Harley better! The Harley fairing looks like a smiling great white shark 🦈 I LOVE ❤️ IT!
Harley finally listens & nailed it!
Indian has a Pursuit that’s white and black with some red accents. Their manufacture site doesn’t show all the colors for some for some reason. Checkout some dealer websites.
I was torn between the challenger and the road glide too. I rode both. Then I rode the CVO road glide and the decision was made. I bought it. The new road glide is way better than the Indian. I couldn’t say that before with the pre 2024 road glide.
My biggest concern with the new 2024 Harley is having an entire front end of those electrical and anything goes wrong in the dashboard because it completely shut the entire electrical system off
If I had the money for a second bike, Indian would be the one. Just superb, comfortable machine. Great detail and quality work and looks super. I own 2020 Goldwing DCT Tour and I refuse to sell it for an Indian. I just love this bike.
I’d wait. HD has changed the bike to the point of doing the previous year buyer wrong, in a way. 23 CVO’s nice paint turned into late 23 brand new CVO. Questionable CVO VVT was left off a Higher output CVO ST the next version. 23 standard 107 turned into a new design with standard 117 for less…
told ya so…Harley.
that being said…..….i think the 2024 non-CVO Road Glide is a better buy overall than the CVO version.
I’ve liked CVOs in the past but the 2024 version doesn’t cut it.
I know you’re looking at a Challenger but …. the New Indian Roadmaster may well be the best overall touring bike for the money.
Definitely like the new road glide design the best.
Same here!
Oh hell yeah! It's on now! 🙌
For now. Harley is broke and Indian is doing well. Harley won’t be able to keep up!
Heritage is awesome as I got one before my Road King. Touring chassis is better for sure but yes heavy bike. I think nailed it especially with RG ST this year. I never buy first year releases too many bugs yet in 2026/7 they will work It out and than it would be right moment to get it.
I can agree with that.
I rode the 22 CVO RG and 22 Challenger back to back at the IMS...and the Indians engine and suspension was better. The "fit and finish" of the Indian was the low point, but if I was buying that day....I'd have bought the Indian. I own 92 Softail, 12 CVO Road Glide, 18 Goldwing, etc....and the new bike is the first time I've been intrigued by a new Road Glide since 2012....the HD suspensions are not great and IDK if the new suspension is going to beat the stock Indian..and I've ended up changing out the suspensions regardless. The Challenger was the only touring bike I rode that didn't feel like it needed upgraded suspension to make it "livable".
I just want a road king with Indian's fancy touch screen round dial man. Without that im just lost on what bike to commit to.
There's a reason even the previous Gen Harley beats the Indian in most professional comparison tests. It's fit, finish, and feel. The Challenger has a lot of plastic parts with visible molding seams, the switches feel cheap, and right when the engine is starting to wake up and make power it also starts getting buzzy. That makes it feel less willing. I really did want to love the Challenger and wanted to buy one but went to a demo day and after riding one I was unimpressed. I know petite are going to see my name on here and assume I'm shilling, but these are my honest personal thoughts on the bikes. The dealer I work at also owns a Triumph and an Indian dealership right across the parking lot. I love ALL bikes, hell even scooters are fun lol... I'll tell you the bike people are sleeping on... The Rocket 3.
I’ll tell you why I went with the pursuit and why I couldn’t be happier.
While HD is definitely being pushed by Indian to develop a better bike, I believe that Indian is still the better choice for several reasons.
When I was getting ready for a new bike in 2022 I test rode multiple times both the Harley’s and the Indians I am also an Eaglerider Member and rented the new Harley’s many times hers my reasoning.
#1 Ride. The Indian frame and suspension are still superior to what Harley offers out of the box. Indian uses as you mentioned a mono-shock setup but not just that. The suspension was developed by Fox and has at least two more inches of travel in the rear. The stock set up is much smother and handles harsh bumps far better than the Harley. If you go to the premium all of your suspension settings are adjusted in the infotainment center instead of with air or a dial behind a saddle bag. This added comfort make my passenger and I super happy after a long day on the bike.
#2 performance. Indian’s power plus motor has the performance of the 124 or close to a 131 stock of showroom floor the stiffer frame and suspension make the bike super stable and controlled during high speed (or any speed) Corning in the twisties.
#3 Setup adaptability. The Indian pursuit come with a detachable top case and all the hardware and wiring set up for it, so I go from performance bagger to 2-up tourer in a matter of minutes wait hour having had to spend a dime extra.
Not all of this matter to everyone but these factors really helped sway me when considering the return of get on my money after purchase. I’ve put a good 10k on my first year and honestly could not be happier, there are more things I could mention as well but this is already too long winded to type on a phone. 😅
I would go with the Harley as I believe the fit and finish is way better, Indian has too much plastic in my opinion, an Indian to me is just a more expensive Japanese cruiser..
I still think the Challenger with the inverted forks, dual Brembos, and a mono Fox rear shock is a better buy vs the regular RG. Plus, the 108 PP will still whip the 117. I feel like you have to get the CVO ST….and that bike is $43k vs the DH Challenger, which is $32k.
Look at the Limited if you don’t mind Chrome. They have the White Smoke Metallic.
I have a 2018 Heritage 114, and it's the best Harley I have owned. It does everything great. I also have a 3023 Highway King and and it has an edge on freeway riding, but the Heritage does everything else better.
I still prefer the sportier feel of my K1600 GTL, but if I went with the big touring v twin, it would be the Pursuit. Tech is still a decade ahead of HD.
the only drawback for the indian option is the lack of dealerships if your on a road trip it might be hard to find a dealership I have a friend that lives in a major metropolitan area and the nearest dealership to him is 400+ miles away
It does depend on where you are for sure. Here in SoCal there are 6 Indian dealers. I have had 2 Indians over the last 6 years with 80k of riding and never had a need for a dealer while on the road. The only 2 issues I have had while touring were a clutch cable (had a kit and fixed myself) and a rear tire (changed at a tire shop). More dealers nationwide would certainly be better for routine service in some areas and there seem to be more all the time.
Does Indian have adaptive cruise control? Fairing wise, at least the Indian goes up and down, that is a big plus imo. Heated grips and seats on Indian? I think I prefer the look of the HD…. But Indian is very temping also…
I was ready to pull the trigger on an Indian Pursuit Dark Horse with Premium Package in Stryker Red because at $35,000 MSRP, it had most of the features that an HD Road Glide CVO for substantially less.
The new updated fairings on the HD and Indian's price hikes are making me think again.
It doesn't really matter, because I won't buy new in any case. Ill let someone else take that first year depreciation.
Harry with no breaks is having to catch up to compete just let that sink in
I have a '21 Challenger and it's amazing. I rode sport bikes for years and the Indian damn near handles like one (to a point). HDs have always felt top heavy, dated, and cramped. This new lineup is beautiful, but the Indian is still the better looking better overall bike.
Indian is my pic, more hp and torque, full liquid cooled, and something different that all your buddies don’t have!!! But kootos to Harley , the new bikes they did a great job on!
I have a 2022 road glide limited, and in October, I demoed the indian pursuit limited (apples to apples bike comparison). The indian was way more powerful, i sat lower and the bike felt easier to hold up because of that. But also, the Indian felt extremely CHEAP. It felt like it was falling apart every time i accelerated or came to a stop.
My RGL feels robust, like an unstoppable force. Very sturdy and long-distance ready. It may not have as much power as the 116, but it has no problem hitting 100+ while 2-up.
I have to stick with my RGL, It's just a better bike.
I will say that I 100% plan to buy the Indian as my next bike.
My buddy bought one last summer and I road it for about an hour one day and I am 100% sold on that bike!
It rides so much better than nay HD I have ever owned or ridden that it wins hands down to me.
The HD while nice that they did update it a little is still a dated bike, heavy, and they are not well known for being quality built bikes anymore.
Ultimately I hope neither company completely takes the market again like Harley has food the last 50 years. I love the way these companies are competing. It only gives us better bikes, can't wait to see what the future will bring. Currently on Indians side as I feel like they are currently better.
I think with the release of these new Harleys the older bikes are now passe. Kind of like when the M8 s came out and you had a twin cam. There still behind in a few features, but jumped ahead on tech. They look real nice in person. The cvo st road glide is ridiculous 😮
Liquid cooled heads is not the same as an entirely liquid cooled engine. An entirely liquid cooled engine means there are jackets in the jugs that help keep the entire engine cool.
There also is a drastic difference in a Fox rear mono shock and the dual rear shocks of the Harley. You hit hard bumps and potholes on the interstate on an Indian and the bike feels like it floats over them. You’re going to feel every bump on a Harley.
You can adjust the rear suspension on an Indian from the infotainment/Ride Command system. On a Harley you still have to get on your knees and adjust the rear suspension with a knob.
The Indian fairing hands down is better mainly because Indian has an electric windshield. Completely eliminates the need to change up windshields. With the Harley you’re stuck with that stubby windshield. Indian just makes a better bike all around.