Been a moto coach for over 20 years, about 5 years back I expanded to also coach for H-D at a local dealership. Coming in as a non H-D owner I have seen how H-D is far more than just owning one for most of their riders. I can confirm from a previous comment, they are customized and can be built to fit pretty much exactly how a rider wants their bike to be.
Pretty like everything real American, such as good ole S&W revolvers, muscle cars and lever action rifles, it's the continuation of the perfection of old designs with new technology. People who have it know the feeling, which cannot be talked into people who have not experienced.
Traded my Striple RS in for a 2020 Low Rider S (second choice was the fatty). These bikes are fucking brilliant, if a bit overpriced. TMF hit the nail on the head with how they make you feel. It's not easily describable, but riding what is effectively a 1.8 litre engine with some wheels on it has this intoxicating joy associated with it. Actual speed be damned, having a 310kg bike move the way it does when you twist the throttle and apply 160nm of torque (stage 2 on mine) to the rear wheel is so much fun. They also handle well. You can push them pretty hard in the mountains and they don't get out of shape. Yeah they're still limited by ground clearance but it's juuust enough to not be annoying. No scraping pegs on normal riding, just on particularly tight or off-camber corners. Glad you're covering HD's. They deserve to be under the spotlight with the new softail range. I'm only 30 and never rode the old HD's that people love to hate, but those days are gone as of this 2018+ platform. There are still lots of people with their head in the sand pretending that all HD's are rusty old shit boxes that tie themselves in knots the second they see a corner. Maybe these videos help convince some of those muppets to go out and actually test one.
Have a 2021 Low Rider S myself. Love it. More than fast enough for anyone not on a track and get's there quickly. That said it really is just the feeling it gives you when you ride. Just a great feeling.
Hey Jasper thanks for the link. Nice to see the Fatty get some love. Agree the 2021 Low Rider S and Fat Bob are the go to bikes in the Harley range if you like to 'push' along a bit. No words can genuinely describe the feeling these bikes give you. The bikes have no right to handle as good as they do considering their weight. Thank you tooTMF for your honest first impression. Look forward to seeing any update after you've had some more time on her.
I have a keyless ignition and alarm on my 2008 Fat Bob and absolutely love the idea that I do not have to have a key sticking up on the bike with potential other keys fitted to it and flapping in the wind. Just walk up to your bike and start her up with the fob in your pocket, get off, walk away and the alarm actives.
Watching this while having coffee and getting ready to go to work on my first-gen 250 Ninja, a bike which also brings a smile every time I ride it, though about as far from a Harley as you can get (I have big bikes, that's just today's choice). I've ridden Harleys and just don't get it, but as a friend remarked once, "he's having fun his way and not hurting anyone, so why criticize."
One of the nice things about the big twin Harley's is the way they hold their value, 20 years from now, that bike will still be going and someone somewhere will be willing to pay a lot to get their hands on it. Nice review as always.
@@timholt8141 Yes, I sold my '82 FXRS Shovelhead to my friend 15 years ago and he still uses it almost daily, as did I when I owned it, 40 year old bike now and still turns heads with how it looks, sounds and goes.
@@shegocrazy It has always been something that I have considered when buying any motor vehicle. I know a bloke who lost almost 50% of the purchase price on a Range Rover in a year, and it wasn't a cheap vehicle, it's certainly worth thinking about.
@@shegocrazy Don't get me wrong, I love bikes and have owned lots of them, the biggest financial bath I ever took was on a Ducati 907 ie, I liked it but no one else did, conversely, I sold the HD FXRS for more than I paid for it after 3 years of almost trouble free riding and if I still had it today, it would be worth a small fortune to the right buyer.
I've been waiting for this review from you/teapot for ages. I'm a bit of a triumph fanboy and used to be a Harley hater, until I got a chance to ride the fatbob. It's such a cool machine! Great review! Probably one of the most enthusiastic reviews I've seen in a while.
Needs a 10 inch rise, club style fairing, heavy breather air intake, 2 into 1 TBR exhaust, stage 1 tuning. This is what i love about Harleys you can make them what you want. And if your a good rider you can chuck any bike round the twisties like a sports bike.
I am very new to your channel having just discovered it. I live in the states and ride harleys but my secret obsession is euro bikes which unfortunately are virtually non existant here. I love your reviews, you put so much work into them and you really really shine. I think you are the absolute best reviewer I know of and you are a damn hoot to listen to with your brills and crack ons and such. Well done Mr Flyer, I really look forward to each of your films. Ohhh and your touring series are just great, I really cant tear myself away from your posts.
This is the Zombie Apocalypse themed Harley. One of the most thrilling motorcycle's I have ever ridden. Guaranteed grin on your face,,head turner. Love it.
Looks fantastic...would definitely have one if I had a garage like Harry Metcalfe's. However how reliable are Harleys? I hear different things and don't know what to believe?
I’ve had two different Harleys over the last few years and I had a side stand sensor fail on my Sportster and front brake level light switch fail on my Breakout and Harley were very quick to remedy both under warranty. I think with any modern vehicle your always going to have the odd electrical niggle but mechanically these new Harleys will last if looked after.
Harley don't make anything that suits the kind of riding that I do or the roads in my neck of the woods. But, I can't deny that they're beautiful machines and put a big smile on a lot of people's faces, which is what it's all about. Those header pipes look gorgeous!
"It may well be the depths of winter". I don't know anyone who has your luck TMF. As I watch it is sunny and the mildest November I can recall. Indeed, so nice I'm off out for a ride on my 1991 Kawasaki Voyager xii
Bib the Boulder. Hope you had an enjoyable ride mate 👍, I'm loving the ZZR although I'm still running it in. Make the best of the good weather, the snow's to start up North soon and spread South. -7 to -11 I think I'll need more than heated grips 😉
@@michaellilley6725 Hi Michael, glad to see you are on here! Yep, making the most before winter shows its head.....summer 2022 cannot come fast enough for me...
@@BibtheBoulder We've got to get through winter 2021/2022 first, a little birdie tells me TPTB are going to be hammering us from every angle, food, fuel, power supplies and Wintery storms. Batton the hatches buddy, when they talk about tidal waves you know they're planning a Tsunami
Since I started riding back in the 70's I always referred to them as junk. It wasn't until 2015 that I tried one (2014 Low Rider) and I found the magic. I quickly moved up to a 2015 Road Glide and now a 2020 Street Glide. My current Street Glide is by far the best bike I have ever owned. Stock the rear suspension is too stiff but that was fixed with aftermarket coil overs. In two seasons riding it I have put over 38,000 km on it. I did a quick walk around of the bike on my channel if you want to check it out.
Late to seeing this video! Re: your Richa Daytona 2 jacket, do you remove all the D30 protection when you're using the inflatable jacket? I have the Daytona 2 in brown and I love it but I find it quite a heavy jacket. Yours looks very light weight compared?
Another great review. Glad you’re doing Harley Davisons as a Harley rider myself I like your honest opinions been watching the videos over a while now and you’ve done a good selection of Harley’s I’d like to see you do one on the heritage.. I think you should definitely find room in your garage for one specially the heritage.
Howdoo TMF. I love the fact that you are getting Harley's. Like i have said many times before, i got bored with other bikes and even though mine is a 2007 model after all these years i still grin like a 5year old at Christmas when i ride it. Good on you.
Iv had my Harley Night train for 19 years now. Its been all over Europe and the UK with no problems at all. Still looks and runs well although its showing its age in some areas where I haven't kept it that clean. Cost me about 12k 19 years ago and still insured as agreed value at 10k. Will never sell it.!!
I think I remember the old days you frequently would say “I’ve never ridden a Harley much to me chagrin, must change that soon”, and definitely every time you mention them now it’s positive, I would not be surprised to see a Harley find a permanent home in your garage one of these days! Great video as always! This one edited in the non-sequential format you sometimes use, this is by far my favourite editing style of yours, though if memory serves not everyone agrees with me. Regardless I will continue to watch and like!
Thank you - yes I will likely mix and match my review formats - doing it this way takes considerably more planning and effort althouygh I think is a better format.....
Wonderful bike, every garage should have one but out of my price range. I'll stick to my 2000 Sportster 1200, still puts a smile on my face every time I ride it.
No truer words are spoken, when I hear, “don’t put down ANY bike you’ve not actually ridden”. Looks are subjective and obviously personal. I do sometimes get grief for my Harley bagger, I just shake my head and step away from the conversation. That Fatbob is a looker for sure. So if needed to choose, I’d definitely get the paint model you’re currently borrowing. So very glad you’ve developed a great relationship with the Harley dealer, brings a tremendous addition to our favorite motorcycle channel. 👍🏼😎 🇺🇸 🌎
@@TheMissendenFlyer ……. We’ll now, that takes it to a whole other level. Rare indeed my friend. So many others have attempted this feat, with zero results. The channel has attracted keen interest from a Big Dawg, truly impressive. Well played Andy. Enjoy a 🍺 for this mega score, You’ve definitely earned this high value win. 👍🏼
Interesting road test. Traded my GS in for a Pan America Special and its a great bike priced competitively against its rivals but it just was not doing it for me. I just missed the low down torque of the GS. But I now had problem in the short time I had owned the PAS I have made so many friends at our weekly meet ups returning to a Beemer was a non question. So what to do then ! Well given my new mates had kept telling me it wasn't a proper Harley I decided I needed to ride one. And my first choice was a Fatbob. It was always going to feel awkward as it was my first feet forward bike but I loved the engine. However with that big fat front tyre riding around a roundabout you would of thought I had only been riding 50 minutes rather than 50 years. So it wasn't going to be my next bike then. Since then I decided to take a Fatboy out and I just love it. So much so I collect it on Saturday. Andy you are so right when you say its about the riding experience of a Harley. Still going to struggle for a while with feet forward riding position but it feels comfortable and the FB is plenty fast enough for me. Never thought I would end up riding a Harley but I am going enjoy riding it I am sure. Ted
I love my Road King Special, I have done more miles on my Harley than I have done on ALL of the bikes I have owned collective, purely because I prefer riding it, as you said Andy, the smile is always there on it. I'm sure the mileage thing is based on the type of bikes I have owned in the past but I just love riding a Harley. I know there is people that don't and won't, which is totally fair enough. Everyone is different, boring if we all rode the same bikes anyway. Great little incite as always TMF, thanks
This is the Harley that I would have. I love the design on this one, and would love to test drive one… can’t you mount the pegs in a middle position? But when I look to that classic lines and floating seat from the triumph bobber, I know that the triumph would be my ride. When you can please test ride the 2022 bobber.
So based on your last few harley reviews which have all been great, can we expect to see a new purchase to add to the TMF garage coming soon? (Martin, IOW)
Hi mate, wow youre saying all the right words for me with this one. I’m luckily enough to have two Harleys now, a 114, 2021 street Bob which is similar to the Standard just a little more on it. Number two is a beautiful CVO, 2021 street glide 117 which is now my pride and joy. These machines really do fill you with joy when ridden, i get and agree with everything you say. Hope life is treating you well and i still love watching all your stuff my friend. Kind regards Beans.
Another enjoyable review. You have a great presentation style and I watch regardless of whether I’m interested in the bike. I’m collecting a helmet and gloves from my local Sports Bike Shop store later on your recommendation. As you say it feels like excellent service. Thanks.
Thanks Andy. Another good video. 👍🏻 Never ever ridden a HD but it’s an itch that needs scratching. Out of pure curiosity how would you compare the Fat Bob riding position to the Triumph Bobber? Better/worse..More comfy? Etc. I’m reticent about going down the road of another Bobber/cruiser type as only once I got the Bobber did I realise the uncomfortablenesses after 100 miles or so. 🤦🏼♂️ Col.
Excellent review thank you. Stayed on for the fashion segment and I have to say I'm a late convert to riding jeans. Got the latest AAA single layer jeans from Knox, absolutely fantastic. Staff at the Sportsbike shop Boston were fantastic and patient
What a fantastic pick-me up on a freezy November day. I have one of the last ducktail twin headlight fatbobs, on paper it does nothing great, it canna go, stop, corner, anything. What it does do is make me smile. What more would you want.
I bought my first HD a few weeks ago. It’s a 114 Fat Bob and I love it. I had a Tiger 800 before and it was a very good bike but no emotional connection for me. The HD is just fun, looks great and sounds great and the torque is brilliant.
@@bikedaft1611 Yes. I have a similar issue and want a bike that I don’t dwarf. I find my fat bob perfect for me. I’ve not ridden for hundreds of miles yet in a single ride so cannot comment on how that’s feels but I’ve done 80 in a single trip and not felt uncomfortable in the legs at all.
@@richiew3184 this is like music to my ears. I’m going to change to a Harley next year. (First time on that style of bike) I’m 40 next year so kinda like a midlife crisis bike 😂
Hi Andy this is the one i was waiting for as i have had the Fat Bob 114 for just over 2 years now. i added a stage 1 /heated grips/cruise control and a fairing. mine is brown denim in colour. i also got rid of the bit at the back that has the number plate on. love it. glad you do too.
In my mind this is one bike where the keyless ignition makes sense. Just get on and ride, I have never locked the steering on mine and the alarm is armed as you get off. Key never leaves my jacket pocket.
Came from dirt bikes and sport bikes, after a break looking at cruisers. I did not like this bike at first, but the more I look and it the more I like it. To the point that I now love it and if I had to buy today it would be a Fat Bob. I’m still a few weeks out from buying, but I think this will be the bike. It will be either a Harley Street Bob, Road Glide or Fat Bob or Indian Scout or Chief. Great review TMF! When I started liking this bike I remembered you had reviewed it and I came back to watch it again. You should add a HD to your stable 😀
Dear Flyer! What a really likeable clip! Judging by the weird comments you really seem to strike a nerve every time you swing your leg over a Harley. But then, what I do not get, someone so obsessed with cleaning his bikes should be able to appreciate the instant gratification brought on by polishing chrome?
Really never been a fan of Harley’s last time I rode one was 30 years ago. I saw the new Pan America close up recently and was really impressed with the fit and finish is looks so much better close up rather than in pictures. I think I need to get a ride on one. Good review Andy it seems you liked it.
Nice beast that one, I’m no big fan of HD but this one did grab my attention. I ride a Cruiser it’s only a Kawasaki VN900 Custom SE all Matt black no chrome to speak of which weighs 268 Kgs dry. Vance and Hines pipes with quiet baffles (it’s not quiet 😊) Thanks for another excellent review Andy. Much appreciated. Have a good day.
Ah ha. You now know… and you do have room to fit a Fat Bob in the garage, I recon you will be getting a Harley on order later in 2022. Once you have one there is no escape. Excellent vid… 👍👍👍👍
Harley owners all customise their bikes with loud exhausts etc - partly to increase performance. If you did performance comparisons with your other bikes, particularly the GS and Goldwing, I think they would be very popular.
Hello Lee, I’m also a Lee, I ride an Ultra Limited. In my view a thing Harley have done really well is to recognise the importance the pillion plays in the decision to purchase motorcycles this expensive. The pillion experience on the UL is outstanding, which enabled me to gain permission from the boss to buy one! I’d love to see more motorcycle reviews which focus on the pillion experience. And while I agree with TMF that the Goldwing is magnificent, for me it just doesn’t have the personality or riding experience of the UL.
hi like your good reviews --------please advise ----what would you recommend ---for touring long distance-----like around Switzerland---a typical tour bike holiday----either a Fat bob or the Indian Chief Dark Horse and why
Rode my last Harley Davidson in 1998 at the 95th Harley event in Milwaukee, WI, where I joined Peter Fonda, jay Leno and Willy G Davidson at the front of the ride. That was the best experience of riding with those three individuals for a once in a life time experience. I haven’t ridden a HD ever since.
@@TheMissendenFlyer the company I worked for sponsored the 95th anniversary and at that time I handled all of the IT communications for Harley Davidson at their Juneau HQ location in Milwaukee, WI. I’ve owned three of the motorcycles, Springer, Ultra Classic and. Deuce.
I was looking forward to this review ever since you posted on Instagram about it. You didn't disappoint either my good man, fantastic viewing and a astounding bike. Best looking Harley they make to my eyes, because it doesn't look like one?
How did you find the furygan airbag vest TMF? Thinking about buying one rather than a tethered to the bike helite air vest for convenience. Hopefully not form over function
Very good but I do wonder under some of my jackets if there’s enough room for inflation, plus the Helite tether is pretty foolproof….so I’m actually a bit on the fence between the two at the moment…
Its like shooting a colt python, u only enjoy it after riding it. I like the no nonsence color scheme big fat tires. Its pretty good for long long saddle time.
First off, excellent review! Second, In the past I used to give H-D a lot of criticism, mostly because I came from metric bikes. I got stuck on sport nakeds for 10 years, but the older I got, the more my riding style changed. After swinging a leg over a softail slim…. I was sold. Harleys are NOT as bad as everyone says they are. I’m now on Harley number 3, so needless to say don’t be critical on something you haven’t ridden yet, you may be surprised .
Couldn't agree more - I have no issue with people having different tastes in bikes but I do have an issue when people make negative comments about how bikes ride or handle without having ridden them!
@@TheMissendenFlyer To be honest, I believe it comes from past issues with the brand 1970’s), and word of mouth by friends or family. I feel that we as humans tend to listen to opinions of friends and family more than experience it for ourselves.
Had one for two years. Great fun bike. Quick heads-up for prospective buyers though. Get the front disks checked for warping before the warranty expires. Mine went after just 2,500 miles of moderate riding. This is an MOT fail item and as you might imagine, replacing both disks and pad sets is expensive.
An amazing bit of kit. Looks like it's ready for anything 🤘🤘. I have never ridden or owned a motorcycle but watch all your videos. Love bikes though, so maybe one day. It could bring out the marc marquez in me
Great review Andy. It is a good looking, well made bike. My only gripe would be that short front mudguard, ride through one muddy puddle and you’d spend a hour cleaning the front of the bike off.
The Fat Bob is a bit of a marmite bike in the both the looks department and the way it rides , I didn't get on with it myself and preferred the Low Rider S (which you should review ) however your review was as always honest and fair, you hit the Harley riding experience on the head , its the way it makes you feel that makes its special.
Dont forget the current fatbob was introduced as a more sporting cruiser with better ground clearance and compact design with attention on handling. The rear guard thing caused quite a stir at the time, as did the headlight but views have softened on those. TMF you might give it a bit of a go around some corners and see how it feels.
You should spend a couple of days with one, if you can. I've had everything BUT Harleys until I recently inherited a Low Rider and, while I can't get used to the riding position, I can understand why people love these things.
Seems like this bike is equped with options like: 1) heated right passenger peg; 2) heated riders right foot; 3) heated man parts with rear cylinder head; 4) oil radiator on air-cooled engine that bigger then some radiators on water-cooled bikes; 5) wet legs because of short front wheel mud-guard (puddles and rainy situations); 6) auto-bow riders head to look on speedo before every speed cameras (with full face helmets).
Monster helmet, black jacket, jeans and nice lace up boots! Id say you are looking quite the part on that Harley. Hope you make some room for a v-twin cruiser in your garage :D
@@TheMissendenFlyer one or the other. Different kind of bikes but IMO both used by middle aged men for casual weekend riding. I don't think it makes sense to blow a stack of cash to own both, unless it's burning a hole in your pocket of course 😄
I have never had any interest in a Harley-until now. I really like the looks of the FatBob. My wife has had her eye on a couple of different models, so we may try to test ride some this weekend.
Bike looks an absolute dream, and that's all it will be for me, unless I win the lottery lol😎 as always Sir, a great review and love the flitting back and fore with techie stuff.
Cruisers in general are improving their looks and ride. With technology comes improvements along all motorcycle types. Harleys are starting to include items like traction control, so they're listening to us non cruiser owners and hoping to get some of us to buy.
Hi Andy, greetings from Vienna! Great review as always! But I'm desperately waiting for the "Garage/How To..." video where I can watch you throwing your airbag vest around in your garage to see if it inflates! ;-)
Great vid & very nice editing & production TMF. Also a pretty cool bike too. The last 5 years I've really started to get the Harley appeal if not the lifestyle. Like yourself if I had the space & money it would be cool to have one. Keen to see you try out the new & seemingly controversial Harley Sportster S. You should also try out some of the Indian range too if poss. FTR looks very cool.
Good video on a really nice bike. Just FYI back in the "old" days Harley used the term "Fat Bob" to signify the type of tanks. Instead of just a smaller, single gas cap tank, they hung two gas tanks with separate caps, one on each side of the frame backbone and instrument panel. Go to any old school swap meet and ask a grey beard if they have a set of "Fat Bob" tanks for sale and they'll know exactly what you're talking about. It was later that the Fat Bob model evolved into what it has become.
Great review as usual, and, like yourself, not normally a Harley fan, but love the simple look of that bike, and that colour scheme........Edinburgh Harley open today.....
I borrowed one for a couple of weeks. As you say, all about the 'experience' In my case, after a 60mile run I had a pounding headache and had lost both rear indicators. Built for American freeways, not patched, bumpy UK roads.
For many many years I did not get the Harley thing but after taking a Fat Bor 1600 for a test ride in 2009 I was hooked. My wife still wasn't impressed (see has her own bikes) Since then I had the 2009 Fat Bob a small break (regrets) for an MV Agusta Brutale one bike season then a 2012 Fat Bob for 5 years sold because of ill health regrettably then got sorted health wise and last Christmas I brought my dream Harley a 2010 CVO(1800) Fat Bob which is fantastic and a keeper.... I have every type of bike over the years but sport bike where my bag until I got a Speed Triple which was great but had a crap gearbox. My wife got a 1200 Sportster and she loves it, we both put Vance an Hines open pipes on them and they sound great and various other customised parts. We really want to ride them to Gran Canaria to tour on there great roads with fab all year weather. I can ride as fast as I like, my CVO corners as good as anything i've ridden (its the rider that counts) but it sounds great and makes me feel alive when I ride it! Just come back from a ride (18/11/21) cold but in a Irvin flying jacket and open face helmet brilliant therapy My advise is absolutely don't knock it until you've tried it, I love forward control pegs but my wife has mid mounts... find what suits! Phil
Andy, I remember you rode a Triumph Thunderbird Storm a while ago. I would be really keen to know how you would compare it with the Fat Bob (which is about 6 years newer, I know). Why do I care? Well, I’m a Triumph + GS + Harley owner and fan-boy, like you!
Week Done Andy I see you left the best till last wanted to see your views before I brought one I loved it 1st time I rode it but price got me for a basic bike looks great but nothing on it look at bikes same money and you get a lot more triumph speed triple RS Suzuki GSXS1000 Ducati street fighter I don’t know what to do great review Andy take care I always like your road tests keep up great work
In my 43 years of riding, I've never owned (or even riden) a Harley and never thought I would. I was primarily put off but the reputation for terrible build quality and a little bit by the whole image thing... but as Harley's seem to be getting so much better (and maybe because I'm getting older), I'm liking them more and more and beginning to wonder whether I've been missing something. I'd love to see a review of the Street Bob, which is my current favourite...nicely stripped back and (relatively) reasonably priced (and looks great in the orange). Another excellent review.
Yes they even sound better with after market pipes . The M8 handle better than the twin cam (previous models) which i have one of. They have an improved frame. Good review as usual.
Been a moto coach for over 20 years, about 5 years back I expanded to also coach for H-D at a local dealership. Coming in as a non H-D owner I have seen how H-D is far more than just owning one for most of their riders. I can confirm from a previous comment, they are customized and can be built to fit pretty much exactly how a rider wants their bike to be.
Pretty like everything real American, such as good ole S&W revolvers, muscle cars and lever action rifles, it's the continuation of the perfection of old designs with new technology. People who have it know the feeling, which cannot be talked into people who have not experienced.
😆😂😆
😂
That’s probably one of your more enthusiastic reviews ever - says a lot about the bike.
Traded my Striple RS in for a 2020 Low Rider S (second choice was the fatty). These bikes are fucking brilliant, if a bit overpriced. TMF hit the nail on the head with how they make you feel. It's not easily describable, but riding what is effectively a 1.8 litre engine with some wheels on it has this intoxicating joy associated with it. Actual speed be damned, having a 310kg bike move the way it does when you twist the throttle and apply 160nm of torque (stage 2 on mine) to the rear wheel is so much fun. They also handle well. You can push them pretty hard in the mountains and they don't get out of shape. Yeah they're still limited by ground clearance but it's juuust enough to not be annoying. No scraping pegs on normal riding, just on particularly tight or off-camber corners. Glad you're covering HD's. They deserve to be under the spotlight with the new softail range. I'm only 30 and never rode the old HD's that people love to hate, but those days are gone as of this 2018+ platform. There are still lots of people with their head in the sand pretending that all HD's are rusty old shit boxes that tie themselves in knots the second they see a corner. Maybe these videos help convince some of those muppets to go out and actually test one.
I hope so Jasper - I don't have much time for those that declare a particular bike is rubbish without having tried one....
Have a 2021 Low Rider S myself. Love it. More than fast enough for anyone not on a track and get's there quickly. That said it really is just the feeling it gives you when you ride. Just a great feeling.
Hey Jasper thanks for the link. Nice to see the Fatty get some love. Agree the 2021 Low Rider S and Fat Bob are the go to bikes in the Harley range if you like to 'push' along a bit. No words can genuinely describe the feeling these bikes give you. The bikes have no right to handle as good as they do considering their weight. Thank you tooTMF for your honest first impression. Look forward to seeing any update after you've had some more time on her.
@HahrtDood The Ducati Drivell as I call it,is not a cruiser!
List of things to do in 2022 will include a test ride on one of these. Love the relaxed riding style and the looks of Harleys are growing on me!
I have a keyless ignition and alarm on my 2008 Fat Bob and absolutely love the idea that I do not have to have a key sticking up on the bike with potential other keys fitted to it and flapping in the wind.
Just walk up to your bike and start her up with the fob in your pocket, get off, walk away and the alarm actives.
Just purchased one in gloss black, I had a 2003 Lowrider which I sold in 2017, missed the brand so bought the Fat Bob and absolutely love it.
Watching this while having coffee and getting ready to go to work on my first-gen 250 Ninja, a bike which also brings a smile every time I ride it, though about as far from a Harley as you can get (I have big bikes, that's just today's choice). I've ridden Harleys and just don't get it, but as a friend remarked once, "he's having fun his way and not hurting anyone, so why criticize."
Exactly right....
I just don’t get Harley’s definitely not my sort of thing, although they do usually sound spectacular so at least that’s one good thing.
One of the nice things about the big twin Harley's is the way they hold their value, 20 years from now, that bike will still be going and someone somewhere will be willing to pay a lot to get their hands on it. Nice review as always.
Very true Mark
They certainly last. Mine still going strong after 19 years of use in all weathers.
@@timholt8141 Yes, I sold my '82 FXRS Shovelhead to my friend 15 years ago and he still uses it almost daily, as did I when I owned it, 40 year old bike now and still turns heads with how it looks, sounds and goes.
@@shegocrazy It has always been something that I have considered when buying any motor vehicle. I know a bloke who lost almost 50% of the purchase price on a Range Rover in a year, and it wasn't a cheap vehicle, it's certainly worth thinking about.
@@shegocrazy Don't get me wrong, I love bikes and have owned lots of them, the biggest financial bath I ever took was on a Ducati 907 ie, I liked it but no one else did, conversely, I sold the HD FXRS for more than I paid for it after 3 years of almost trouble free riding and if I still had it today, it would be worth a small fortune to the right buyer.
Been waiting a while for this review.
As a 2020 Fatbob owner, I agree with everything you’ve said!!!
Pleased you seem to like it as much as I do!!
👍
Glad we concur Harry!
I've been waiting for this review from you/teapot for ages. I'm a bit of a triumph fanboy and used to be a Harley hater, until I got a chance to ride the fatbob. It's such a cool machine!
Great review! Probably one of the most enthusiastic reviews I've seen in a while.
you never fail to express the joy of motorcycling ! thanks mate
Really is my pleasure!
Needs a 10 inch rise, club style fairing, heavy breather air intake, 2 into 1 TBR exhaust, stage 1 tuning.
This is what i love about Harleys you can make them what you want. And if your a good rider you can chuck any bike round the twisties like a sports bike.
I am very new to your channel having just discovered it. I live in the states and ride harleys but my secret obsession is euro bikes which unfortunately are virtually non existant here. I love your reviews, you put so much work into them and you really really shine. I think you are the absolute best reviewer I know of and you are a damn hoot to listen to with your brills and crack ons and such. Well done Mr Flyer, I really look forward to each of your films. Ohhh and your touring series are just great, I really cant tear myself away from your posts.
Crikey - thank you Louis, I'm glad you found me!
It’s so hard to watch videos filmed in the summer, it’s now November and it makes you yearn for the long summer days ☀️
Top notch editing Sir - you should take up this malarkey full time!!!
Challenge accepted!
@@TheMissendenFlyer 😀
This is the Zombie Apocalypse themed Harley. One of the most thrilling motorcycle's I have ever ridden. Guaranteed grin on your face,,head turner. Love it.
Looks fantastic...would definitely have one if I had a garage like Harry Metcalfe's. However how reliable are Harleys? I hear different things and don't know what to believe?
I’ve had two different Harleys over the last few years and I had a side stand sensor fail on my Sportster and front brake level light switch fail on my Breakout and Harley were very quick to remedy both under warranty. I think with any modern vehicle your always going to have the odd electrical niggle but mechanically these new Harleys will last if looked after.
Harley don't make anything that suits the kind of riding that I do or the roads in my neck of the woods. But, I can't deny that they're beautiful machines and put a big smile on a lot of people's faces, which is what it's all about.
Those header pipes look gorgeous!
"It may well be the depths of winter". I don't know anyone who has your luck TMF. As I watch it is sunny and the mildest November I can recall. Indeed, so nice I'm off out for a ride on my 1991 Kawasaki Voyager xii
Yes defo a good day for a ride today!
@@TheMissendenFlyer What a trip. Took in a dealers and had to stop myself buying another bike. Mrs Boulder would not be pleased....
Bib the Boulder. Hope you had an enjoyable ride mate 👍, I'm loving the ZZR although I'm still running it in. Make the best of the good weather, the snow's to start up North soon and spread South. -7 to -11 I think I'll need more than heated grips 😉
@@michaellilley6725 Hi Michael, glad to see you are on here! Yep, making the most before winter shows its head.....summer 2022 cannot come fast enough for me...
@@BibtheBoulder We've got to get through winter 2021/2022 first, a little birdie tells me TPTB are going to be hammering us from every angle, food, fuel, power supplies and Wintery storms. Batton the hatches buddy, when they talk about tidal waves you know they're planning a Tsunami
Looks great fun Andy on the Harley and nice to see a lovely summers day now we are in the middle of November
Yes seems a while ago now!
Since I started riding back in the 70's I always referred to them as junk. It wasn't until 2015 that I tried one (2014 Low Rider) and I found the magic. I quickly moved up to a 2015 Road Glide and now a 2020 Street Glide. My current Street Glide is by far the best bike I have ever owned. Stock the rear suspension is too stiff but that was fixed with aftermarket coil overs. In two seasons riding it I have put over 38,000 km on it. I did a quick walk around of the bike on my channel if you want to check it out.
Late to seeing this video! Re: your Richa Daytona 2 jacket, do you remove all the D30 protection when you're using the inflatable jacket? I have the Daytona 2 in brown and I love it but I find it quite a heavy jacket. Yours looks very light weight compared?
Yes I removed the liner and back protector…
Another great review. Glad you’re doing Harley Davisons as a Harley rider myself I like your honest opinions been watching the videos over a while now and you’ve done a good selection of Harley’s I’d like to see you do one on the heritage.. I think you should definitely find room in your garage for one specially the heritage.
Cheers Paul - I don't have any room in garage for anything else alas!! Otherwide you may be right....thanks for watching
Another great review Andy ,
Great to see you reviewing more HD , hope will see you join the HOG family soon , Carlos
Howdoo TMF. I love the fact that you are getting Harley's. Like i have said many times before, i got bored with other bikes and even though mine is a 2007 model after all these years i still grin like a 5year old at Christmas when i ride it. Good on you.
Iv had my Harley Night train for 19 years now. Its been all over Europe and the UK with no problems at all. Still looks and runs well although its showing its age in some areas where I haven't kept it that clean. Cost me about 12k 19 years ago and still insured as agreed value at 10k. Will never sell it.!!
Great value out of that then Tim!
I'm not a cruiser type but some of these Harleys are really peaking my interest lately!
Hope you're well Andy great review as always 👍👌
Cheers MB
Like the new format Mr Flyer. Great work. I’ve been interested in Harley’s lately but haven’t been able to ride one so thanks.
Glad you like the format Joel, I’ll likely stick with it as I think it’s a bit more interesting than my old style….
@@TheMissendenFlyer I liked the old style too, but it's nice to see something different :)
I think I remember the old days you frequently would say “I’ve never ridden a Harley much to me chagrin, must change that soon”, and definitely every time you mention them now it’s positive, I would not be surprised to see a Harley find a permanent home in your garage one of these days! Great video as always! This one edited in the non-sequential format you sometimes use, this is by far my favourite editing style of yours, though if memory serves not everyone agrees with me. Regardless I will continue to watch and like!
Thank you - yes I will likely mix and match my review formats - doing it this way takes considerably more planning and effort althouygh I think is a better format.....
Wonderful bike, every garage should have one but out of my price range. I'll stick to my 2000 Sportster 1200, still puts a smile on my face every time I ride it.
Thats what bikes are there to do Splodge!
No truer words are spoken, when I hear, “don’t put down ANY bike you’ve not actually ridden”. Looks are subjective and obviously personal. I do sometimes get grief for my Harley bagger, I just shake my head and step away from the conversation. That Fatbob is a looker for sure. So if needed to choose, I’d definitely get the paint model you’re currently borrowing. So very glad you’ve developed a great relationship with the Harley dealer, brings a tremendous addition to our favorite motorcycle channel. 👍🏼😎 🇺🇸 🌎
It's better than a Harley dealer Bradley - it's Harley-Davidson themselves (the manufacturer) that send me the bikes, I'm chuffed!
@@TheMissendenFlyer ……. We’ll now, that takes it to a whole other level. Rare indeed my friend. So many others have attempted this feat, with zero results. The channel has attracted keen interest from a Big Dawg, truly impressive. Well played Andy. Enjoy a 🍺 for this mega score, You’ve definitely earned this high value win. 👍🏼
...thanks
Interesting road test. Traded my GS in for a Pan America Special and its a great bike priced competitively against its rivals but it just was not doing it for me. I just missed the low down torque of the GS. But I now had problem in the short time I had owned the PAS I have made so many friends at our weekly meet ups returning to a Beemer was a non question. So what to do then ! Well given my new mates had kept telling me it wasn't a proper Harley I decided I needed to ride one. And my first choice was a Fatbob. It was always going to feel awkward as it was my first feet forward bike but I loved the engine. However with that big fat front tyre riding around a roundabout you would of thought I had only been riding 50 minutes rather than 50 years. So it wasn't going to be my next bike then. Since then I decided to take a Fatboy out and I just love it. So much so I collect it on Saturday. Andy you are so right when you say its about the riding experience of a
Harley. Still going to struggle for a while with feet forward riding position but it feels comfortable and the FB is plenty fast enough for me. Never thought I would end up riding a Harley but I am going enjoy riding it I am sure. Ted
Enjoy Ted!
Good story and enjoy the bike and keep the rubber side down
@@steve-wu7jp Thanks Steve
I love my Road King Special, I have done more miles on my Harley than I have done on ALL of the bikes I have owned collective, purely because I prefer riding it, as you said Andy, the smile is always there on it. I'm sure the mileage thing is based on the type of bikes I have owned in the past but I just love riding a Harley. I know there is people that don't and won't, which is totally fair enough. Everyone is different, boring if we all rode the same bikes anyway. Great little incite as always TMF, thanks
Thank you!
This is the Harley that I would have. I love the design on this one, and would love to test drive one… can’t you mount the pegs in a middle position? But when I look to that classic lines and floating seat from the triumph bobber, I know that the triumph would be my ride.
When you can please test ride the 2022 bobber.
Now this is a kinda bike I want in the shed 😍😍
So based on your last few harley reviews which have all been great, can we expect to see a new purchase to add to the TMF garage coming soon? (Martin, IOW)
Sadly no room at the inn! If I had more room then yes, there probably would be one in there….
Another entertaining and informative review Andy. Methinks a garage extension is on the cards for you next year 😉 falcon boots now on my xmas list!
Hi mate, wow youre saying all the right words for me with this one. I’m luckily enough to have two Harleys now, a 114, 2021 street Bob which is similar to the Standard just a little more on it. Number two is a beautiful CVO, 2021 street glide 117 which is now my pride and joy. These machines really do fill you with joy when ridden, i get and agree with everything you say.
Hope life is treating you well and i still love watching all your stuff my friend. Kind regards Beans.
PS….have some Falco boots too…..waterproof, breathable and comfortable.
Good aren't they! ..and great to know you're still out there despite you being so quiet of late!
Another enjoyable review. You have a great presentation style and I watch regardless of whether I’m interested in the bike. I’m collecting a helmet and gloves from my local Sports Bike Shop store later on your recommendation. As you say it feels like excellent service. Thanks.
Appreciate the kind words Andrew!
Thanks Andy. Another good video. 👍🏻
Never ever ridden a HD but it’s an itch that needs scratching. Out of pure curiosity how would you compare the Fat Bob riding position to the Triumph Bobber? Better/worse..More comfy? Etc.
I’m reticent about going down the road of another Bobber/cruiser type as only once I got the Bobber did I realise the uncomfortablenesses after 100 miles or so. 🤦🏼♂️
Col.
Difficult to choose on the comfort stakes - very similar riding position..
@@TheMissendenFlyer Aha, perfect! Cheers Andy.
Looks like a T120 is (still) is for 2022 then.
Excellent review thank you. Stayed on for the fashion segment and I have to say I'm a late convert to riding jeans. Got the latest AAA single layer jeans from Knox, absolutely fantastic. Staff at the Sportsbike shop Boston were fantastic and patient
Told you they were good!
What a fantastic pick-me up on a freezy November day. I have one of the last ducktail twin headlight fatbobs, on paper it does nothing great, it canna go, stop, corner, anything. What it does do is make me smile. What more would you want.
Exactly my point Alex!
I bought my first HD a few weeks ago. It’s a 114 Fat Bob and I love it. I had a Tiger 800 before and it was a very good bike but no emotional connection for me. The HD is just fun, looks great and sounds great and the torque is brilliant.
Just out of curiosity, how tall are you? I’m 6ft 2” and thinking of getting a HD
@@bikedaft1611 6’2” as well.
@@richiew3184 awesome, is the bike a nice fit at that size? I often look like I’m eating bikes.
@@bikedaft1611 Yes. I have a similar issue and want a bike that I don’t dwarf. I find my fat bob perfect for me. I’ve not ridden for hundreds of miles yet in a single ride so cannot comment on how that’s feels but I’ve done 80 in a single trip and not felt uncomfortable in the legs at all.
@@richiew3184 this is like music to my ears. I’m going to change to a Harley next year. (First time on that style of bike) I’m 40 next year so kinda like a midlife crisis bike 😂
Hi Andy this is the one i was waiting for as i have had the Fat Bob 114 for just over 2 years now. i added a stage 1 /heated grips/cruise control and a fairing. mine is brown denim in colour. i also got rid of the bit at the back that has the number plate on. love it. glad you do too.
Nice one Paul - thanks for watching and for stopping by....
In my mind this is one bike where the keyless ignition makes sense. Just get on and ride, I have never locked the steering on mine and the alarm is armed as you get off. Key never leaves my jacket pocket.
Came from dirt bikes and sport bikes, after a break looking at cruisers. I did not like this bike at first, but the more I look and it the more I like it. To the point that I now love it and if I had to buy today it would be a Fat Bob. I’m still a few weeks out from buying, but I think this will be the bike. It will be either a Harley Street Bob, Road Glide or Fat Bob or Indian Scout or Chief.
Great review TMF! When I started liking this bike I remembered you had reviewed it and I came back to watch it again. You should add a HD to your stable 😀
I would if I could!
Dear Flyer! What a really likeable clip! Judging by the weird comments you really seem to strike a nerve every time you swing your leg over a Harley.
But then, what I do not get, someone so obsessed with cleaning his bikes should be able to appreciate the instant gratification brought on by polishing chrome?
Really never been a fan of Harley’s last time I rode one was 30 years ago. I saw the new Pan America close up recently and was really impressed with the fit and finish is looks so much better close up rather than in pictures. I think I need to get a ride on one. Good review Andy it seems you liked it.
Yes despite the limitations of this type of bike they do put a smile on my face and feeling good is what it’s all about!
Hi TMF. Great video as usual but isn't that a rev'it jacket you are wearing in the video?
You may be right - oops!
Nice beast that one, I’m no big fan of HD but this one did grab my attention. I ride a Cruiser it’s only a Kawasaki VN900 Custom SE all Matt black no chrome to speak of which weighs 268 Kgs dry. Vance and Hines pipes with quiet baffles (it’s not quiet 😊)
Thanks for another excellent review Andy. Much appreciated. Have a good day.
You too James….
Ah ha. You now know… and you do have room to fit a Fat Bob in the garage, I recon you will be getting a Harley on order later in 2022. Once you have one there is no escape. Excellent vid… 👍👍👍👍
Harley owners all customise their bikes with loud exhausts etc - partly to increase performance. If you did performance comparisons with your other bikes, particularly the GS and Goldwing, I think they would be very popular.
Hello Lee, I’m also a Lee, I ride an Ultra Limited. In my view a thing Harley have done really well is to recognise the importance the pillion plays in the decision to purchase motorcycles this expensive. The pillion experience on the UL is outstanding, which enabled me to gain permission from the boss to buy one! I’d love to see more motorcycle reviews which focus on the pillion experience. And while I agree with TMF that the Goldwing is magnificent, for me it just doesn’t have the personality or riding experience of the UL.
hi like your good reviews --------please advise ----what would you recommend ---for touring long distance-----like around Switzerland---a typical tour bike holiday----either a Fat bob or the Indian Chief Dark Horse and why
Neither - too big, heavy and resistant to turning for twisty alpine roads imo.
Rode my last Harley Davidson in 1998 at the 95th Harley event in Milwaukee, WI, where I joined Peter Fonda, jay Leno and Willy G Davidson at the front of the ride. That was the best experience of riding with those three individuals for a once in a life time experience. I haven’t ridden a HD ever since.
Wow, how did that come about??
@@TheMissendenFlyer the company I worked for sponsored the 95th anniversary and at that time I handled all of the IT communications for Harley Davidson at their Juneau HQ location in Milwaukee, WI. I’ve owned three of the motorcycles, Springer, Ultra Classic and. Deuce.
@@MWS1960 Nice one!
I was looking forward to this review ever since you posted on Instagram about it. You didn't disappoint either my good man, fantastic viewing and a astounding bike. Best looking Harley they make to my eyes, because it doesn't look like one?
How did you find the furygan airbag vest TMF? Thinking about buying one rather than a tethered to the bike helite air vest for convenience. Hopefully not form over function
Very good but I do wonder under some of my jackets if there’s enough room for inflation, plus the Helite tether is pretty foolproof….so I’m actually a bit on the fence between the two at the moment…
Triumph Rocket 3R or the Fatbob Andy? 🤔
Tough one - Fatbob I think....
Its like shooting a colt python, u only enjoy it after riding it. I like the no nonsence color scheme big fat tires. Its pretty good for long long saddle time.
Lovely. I prefer old style badging but hey. Great stuff. Nice to see a sunny day
Love your channel, great content 👍.
Personally I just don’t get the whole cruiser thing. Why sacrifice handling/ground clearance etc
Well they are fun to ride - I'm guessing you've not tried one?
First off, excellent review! Second, In the past I used to give H-D a lot of criticism, mostly because I came from metric bikes. I got stuck on sport nakeds for 10 years, but the older I got, the more my riding style changed. After swinging a leg over a softail slim…. I was sold. Harleys are NOT as bad as everyone says they are. I’m now on Harley number 3, so needless to say don’t be critical on something you haven’t ridden yet, you may be surprised .
Couldn't agree more - I have no issue with people having different tastes in bikes but I do have an issue when people make negative comments about how bikes ride or handle without having ridden them!
@@TheMissendenFlyer To be honest, I believe it comes from past issues with the brand 1970’s), and word of mouth by friends or family. I feel that we as humans tend to listen to opinions of friends and family more than experience it for ourselves.
Had one for two years. Great fun bike. Quick heads-up for prospective buyers though. Get the front disks checked for warping before the warranty expires. Mine went after just 2,500 miles of moderate riding. This is an MOT fail item and as you might imagine, replacing both disks and pad sets is expensive.
Ooh - good tip!
Oh do like that! Hmm need to test one of these 😎😎
Yes it's a bike that makes you feel good to ride...and that's what it's all about isn't it?
An amazing bit of kit. Looks like it's ready for anything 🤘🤘. I have never ridden or owned a motorcycle but watch all your videos. Love bikes though, so maybe one day. It could bring out the marc marquez in me
That’s fabulous! Thank you so much for watching!
Great review Andy. It is a good looking, well made bike. My only gripe would be that short front mudguard, ride through one muddy puddle and you’d spend a hour cleaning the front of the bike off.
The Fat Bob is a bit of a marmite bike in the both the looks department and the way it rides , I didn't get on with it myself and preferred the Low Rider S (which you should review ) however your review was as always honest and fair, you hit the Harley riding experience on the head , its the way it makes you feel that makes its special.
Dont forget the current fatbob was introduced as a more sporting cruiser with better ground clearance and compact design with attention on handling. The rear guard thing caused quite a stir at the time, as did the headlight but views have softened on those. TMF you might give it a bit of a go around some corners and see how it feels.
Another great review video and a beautiful bike. Glad you are getting the cruiser vibe, a terrific way to ride.
You should spend a couple of days with one, if you can. I've had everything BUT Harleys until I recently inherited a Low Rider and, while I can't get used to the riding position, I can understand why people love these things.
Seems like this bike is equped with options like:
1) heated right passenger peg;
2) heated riders right foot;
3) heated man parts with rear cylinder head;
4) oil radiator on air-cooled engine that bigger then some radiators on water-cooled bikes;
5) wet legs because of short front wheel mud-guard (puddles and rainy situations);
6) auto-bow riders head to look on speedo before every speed cameras (with full face helmets).
Monster helmet, black jacket, jeans and nice lace up boots! Id say you are looking quite the part on that Harley. Hope you make some room for a v-twin cruiser in your garage :D
Would you have the Harley in place of the Speed Twin? I simply don't see 6k worth of extra value in the cruiser if I'm being honest.
Err no, I don't think I would, different types of bike - ideally I'd have both id space permitted!
@@TheMissendenFlyer one or the other. Different kind of bikes but IMO both used by middle aged men for casual weekend riding. I don't think it makes sense to blow a stack of cash to own both, unless it's burning a hole in your pocket of course 😄
Great to see you are reviewing more Harley Davidson's 👍
Great video TMF. When can we expect a test ride on the new Honda NT1100?
Once it becomes available from Honda UK - I suspect Spring time
I agree, one of the best looking Harleys I've seen. Green looks great.
I have never had any interest in a Harley-until now. I really like the looks of the FatBob. My wife has had her eye on a couple of different models, so we may try to test ride some this weekend.
Enjoy!
I absolutely love matt paint on vehicles. Don't know why, but it just looks so lush!
Yes I like this one I must admit - not so keen on matt blacks though...
Bike looks an absolute dream, and that's all it will be for me, unless I win the lottery lol😎 as always Sir, a great review and love the flitting back and fore with techie stuff.
16:17 Have you tried an emergency stop yet? Or even a stoppie? Surely it can't wait until impact before deploying....
Cruisers in general are improving their looks and ride. With technology comes improvements along all motorcycle types. Harleys are starting to include items like traction control, so they're listening to us non cruiser owners and hoping to get some of us to buy.
Oooo summer - I remember that 😂
Hi Andy, greetings from Vienna! Great review as always! But I'm desperately waiting for the "Garage/How To..." video where I can watch you throwing your airbag vest around in your garage to see if it inflates! ;-)
I have actually tries that Wolfgang and so far it hasn't - bit of trust involved thinking it wil in a crash!
Great vid & very nice editing & production TMF. Also a pretty cool bike too. The last 5 years I've really started to get the Harley appeal if not the lifestyle. Like yourself if I had the space & money it would be cool to have one. Keen to see you try out the new & seemingly controversial Harley Sportster S. You should also try out some of the Indian range too if poss. FTR looks very cool.
I have got a review on here of the FTR - nice machine!
@@TheMissendenFlyer Yes, it's nice review but I believe they may have updated & come up with several new variants as well.
Good video on a really nice bike. Just FYI back in the "old" days Harley used the term "Fat Bob" to signify the type of tanks. Instead of just a smaller, single gas cap tank, they hung two gas tanks with separate caps, one on each side of the frame backbone and instrument panel. Go to any old school swap meet and ask a grey beard if they have a set of "Fat Bob" tanks for sale and they'll know exactly what you're talking about. It was later that the Fat Bob model evolved into what it has become.
Interesting! Thanks for that….
This review is very great, I would also like you to make a review of the low rider st.
I was exactly the same, never thought I'd like them.......rode a few and got lured in , ended up buying a sport glide which you should try out !
I hope to some day Nick!
The clearance on the new model is so much better than the previous(which I had) - still love the whole ethos of the Bob - will get another one day…
Looks a beautiful bike. Be interested to see how you review the road king / road glide cvo as they are designed for longer rides.
Great review as usual, and, like yourself, not normally a Harley fan, but love the simple look of that bike, and that colour scheme........Edinburgh Harley open today.....
Uh oh!
Lol, knew you’d like the Fat Bob! It’s a blast to ride and has the best gear change of any M8 engined bike.
I borrowed one for a couple of weeks. As you say, all about the 'experience' In my case, after a 60mile run I had a pounding headache and had lost both rear indicators. Built for American freeways, not patched, bumpy UK roads.
Certainly they make more sense in the highway for sure….lost both indicators??? What is that all about??
Vibration I have to assume, didn't know anything about it until I returned the bike:)
For many many years I did not get the Harley thing but after taking a Fat Bor 1600 for a test ride in 2009 I was hooked. My wife still wasn't impressed (see has her own bikes) Since then I had the 2009 Fat Bob a small break (regrets) for an MV Agusta Brutale one bike season then a 2012 Fat Bob for 5 years sold because of ill health regrettably then got sorted health wise and last Christmas I brought my dream Harley a 2010 CVO(1800) Fat Bob which is fantastic and a keeper....
I have every type of bike over the years but sport bike where my bag until I got a Speed Triple which was great but had a crap gearbox.
My wife got a 1200 Sportster and she loves it, we both put Vance an Hines open pipes on them and they sound great and various other customised parts. We really want to ride them to Gran Canaria to tour on there great roads with fab all year weather.
I can ride as fast as I like, my CVO corners as good as anything i've ridden (its the rider that counts) but it sounds great and makes me feel alive when I ride it! Just come back from a ride (18/11/21) cold but in a Irvin flying jacket and open face helmet brilliant therapy
My advise is absolutely don't knock it until you've tried it, I love forward control pegs but my wife has mid mounts... find what suits! Phil
Thanks Phil - great comment and agree on all points!
Never really drawn towards Harleys, but must admit the Fatbob looks really nice, cheers Andy.
Yes there's something about this one isn't there....
Andy, I remember you rode a Triumph Thunderbird Storm a while ago. I would be really keen to know how you would compare it with the Fat Bob (which is about 6 years newer, I know). Why do I care? Well, I’m a Triumph + GS + Harley owner and fan-boy, like you!
It was a while ago now so not sure I remember exactly - think I preferred the handling on the Harley (which is a surprise to me!)
Hi TMF, just spotted the Shoulder of Mutton pub in Wendover, took me back 50 years to my time at RAF Halton. Thanks from even sunnier OZ.
Oh wow that’s great Chris - I’ve only ever been to that pub once for a Sunday lunch….it was pants and I’ve never been back!
Week Done Andy I see you left the best till last wanted to see your views before I brought one I loved it 1st time I rode it but price got me for a basic bike looks great but nothing on it look at bikes same money and you get a lot more triumph speed triple RS Suzuki GSXS1000 Ducati street fighter I don’t know what to do great review Andy take care I always like your road tests keep up great work
Thanks Paul - will do!
In my 43 years of riding, I've never owned (or even riden) a Harley and never thought I would. I was primarily put off but the reputation for terrible build quality and a little bit by the whole image thing... but as Harley's seem to be getting so much better (and maybe because I'm getting older), I'm liking them more and more and beginning to wonder whether I've been missing something. I'd love to see a review of the Street Bob, which is my current favourite...nicely stripped back and (relatively) reasonably priced (and looks great in the orange). Another excellent review.
Yes it took me a while to “get” Harleys but I now see the appeal. You should defo have a go on one - you’ll be grinning from ear to ear!
Gorgeous bike Mr Flyer. If you do need to give it a clean, will it be a load of Hog Wash? :-)
:0)
Yes they even sound better with after market pipes . The M8 handle better than the twin cam (previous models) which i have one of. They have an improved frame. Good review as usual.