The wave isn't about liking each other's bike, or style, or anything like that. It's about acknowledging that were both out here, enjoying the ride. It's just wishing each other a safe ride, 2 wheels down, get there safe, have fun.
Right on brother, we’re all just enjoying the ride at the end of the day right, being courteous to your fellow drivers and having a good time is what it’s about.
Harley rider here. I always wave and I would never, under any circumstances, drink while I'm on the bike. Ever. Period. Drinking and then getting on a bike will always be a terrible decision. There's no excuse for it.
Good luck brother, life is better clean/sober (37 years) and when you are my age you’ll still be riding bro ..(50 yrs/still going cross country) @@UnderestimatedA1
I don't ride with out a helmet, in my state it's the law. When I go somewhere you can, I still wear a helmet. Kinda like the seat belt law, just got use to, so I always buckle up,. Now I do get friends trying to get me to wear a better helmet. Mine is dot, but the , a beanie style. Hell I admire the nuts I see dodging the pot hole with those tiny wheels. Keep your knees in the wind.
Well,it seems to me that most or at least the newest generation,of Harley riders are watching too much Sons of Anarchy,trying to act all though and we own the road attitude,and if one doesn’t drive another Harley…they don’t even wave or anything
I agree with your views, at 54 years old I just wish everyone would just act like a simple decent human being, I think this world would be much different.
Exactly. I agree with you, Ride your own bike and don’t worry about anybody else is doing as far as Harley riders. That’s a bunch of bullshit doesn’t matter what kind of motorcycle you’re on as far as waving to people I’m tired of lifting my left hand up to wave all the damn time.
The next subject he talks about is revving your motor up. We all do it if you’re cool about riding your Harley you don’t need to rev your engine you get more respect from not being obnoxious and revving your engine and people just look at you as a punk ass, and no not everybody does it not everybody weaves in and out of traffic not everybody needs to show off it’s like why would you do a podcast with rifles and guns in your backdrop that’s just a sign of insecurity more so than popularity or trying to be a tough guyI said it bothers me these people get on here and they don’t know what the hell they’re talking about and on the first person to call somebody out I don’t have a problem with that
I owned 14 Harleys for over 25 years. I was in an MC. I bought a Kawasaki Concours 14. I ride all year long. I can no longer do the image, polishing chrome, or the old guy midlife crisis anymore. I wanted to enjoy riding something that didn’t cost as much as a car and has modern technology and just wanted to enjoy the ride, by myself.
I sold my HD, kept my 20 yr old metric cruiser, and snagged a Concours. Now I own my 2 favorite forever bikes, one is a rolling recliner, the other a rolling rocket.
Enjoying riding your motorcycle? No way, it's supposed to be about the image and being seen and being heard, and making others think about you what you want them to think about you. As for me, I had a motorcycle when I was 16. My divorced dad took it from me because his live in nut bucket decided she liked it. So I abhor motorcycles, glazed donuts, Siamese cats, catholics, american pony cars, and liver. She had a vaginal yeast infection, and it got into his sinusses. They kept accusing each other of infidelity. Hating HD riders? No way, not if they do their own maintenance.
Nearly the same deal here. Nothing against H-D, but I picked up a lightly used '16 Concours 14 two years ago and found out what a "real bike" actually consists of.
That is correct i have the same , a good rider makes a better driver !, i think it is because that is if you ride your bike you realize that you are more vulnerable !
@@Vapourwear true enough...the closest I feel 50 mph while not on a bike is in a jeep with no doors and that hardly comes close. Inside a car with the windows up, you might as well be playing a video game as well insulated against the weather, noise, wind, and speed.
I am a Harley owner and rider . I choose to wear gear when I ride . I also respect all motorcycles and riders and always acknowledge them. For Me it’s all about riding and the freedom that comes with it. Everyone ride safe
Im 55, just bought a 2015 Katana, riders have waved to me, I dont have the skill to take my hand off yet, but once that comes I will initiate the wave. Ride safe and have fun.
@@lunchonaskyscaper ,don’t worry about it brother,specially when you see a harley devidson bike,a lot of them do the same to sport bike guys,they don’t even look at you ,don’t wave,no nod or nothing at all,so just keep doing what you’re doing 👍
The day my dad graduated from high school, he bought a brand new 1955 PanHead. When I finished US Navy boot camp, he gave me the bike. It was my only transportation for 15 years, until I left for University in Germany in August 1995. I never felt hated for riding a Harley-Davidson. Often, other riders on other bike brands, would comment on how much they wished they had a classic Harley-Davidson, and how lucky I was to have it.
@@clarson2916 People nowadays, specifically the younger generation, don't know what a normal human interaction is like. Every thing is binary and everything is so serious. A very valid comment would be about motorcycle clubs who for the most part ride Harleys, trying to impose their roleplaying on other road users.
As a person who doesn't ride a motorcycle, I don't hate HD riders....but....pretty much every time I encounter someone on a motorcycle who's gone out of their way to be obnoxiously loud, that person is riding a HD. In the video this is chalked up to possible jealousy but for people who don't ride and are just going about their lives, no, it isn't jealousy. At all. I think the feeling of people like me is "If you want to ride a motorcycle that's awesome, you should absolutely do it. If you want to wear no protective gear, well, that wouldn't be my choice but you do you, that's also awesome. But respect goes both ways and when you blast your engine just for the sake of blasting your engine, you're basically screaming at me, and that's not cool at all."
I can certainly understand why you feel the way you do. Not speaking of your reasons, but there are also a lot of nervous drivers on the road that really just get surprised and scared by sudden loud sounds, so I can see how this could be viewed as annoying. I am not sure what you mean by "going out of their way to be obnoxiously loud," but obviously there is a minority of obnoxious people in ever group of every kind of people, not just bikers; however, as a Harley rider with fairly loud pipes, I do know that most of us are NOT doing it to be obnoxious. It is more of a safety issue for most of us. Think of how many times you might have heard a motorcycle beside you before you seen them. We have cars come over in our lanes and risk running us off the road all the time. The first thing a car driver says is "I did not know you were there." Bikes are much smaller than cars, and they tend to get lost in the side view mirrors and blind spots quit easily. We rev our pipes up in an attempt to help drivers identify that we are there. I know whenever I am rolling up to a stop in traffic beside other vehicles, I will rev my pipes loud enough to warn others that I am there so they will not suddenly change lanes and crash into me; but I do try to do this with respect and restraint to keep it to a minimum decibel level.
@@Chris-rg4jx What I meant by "going out of their way to be obnoxiously loud" I mostly meant people who unnecessarily rev their engines at lights in urban areas. Certainly riders on other brands do this, but my experience is that Harleys are the biggest culprits. As an aside, I've seen several motorcycle channels asserting that the belief that "loud pipes save lives" is a myth not born out by science. I have no idea if that's true or not. But if it is true, it seems odd that riders on one particular brand of motorcycle would rev their engines more than others. If it were about safety, you'd also expect people riding the noisiest motorcyces to also wear the most protective gear, no? But if anything the opposite is the case. Regardless, in urban settings it certainly feels like it's not about safety, and is instead similar to people who have massive sound systems in their cars and blast their music for the rest of the world to hear. Both seem about ego and imposition.
@@ArchilochusOfParosI I do know that you experiencing Harley Davidson riders do it more is mathematically reasonable based off the law of average. Since there are more Harley Davidson’s on the roads in the United States than any other make or model of bike, it is reasonable to presume that you will have more interaction with Harley Davidson’s than any of the others. I think most people’s perception of bikers in general comes from Harley riders due to this fact. As for those who make the argument that there is no scientific evidence that loud pipes save lives, we do not always need a scientific study to prove things we are able to comprehend through basic common sense. I feel the scenario I gave above was a pretty valid and reasonable example as to how sound can improve bikers chances of being noticed on the road. Human beings have five “scientifically proven” senses; eyes are just one of those senses. Whenever we stimulate more than one of those senses, we increase the amount of information available to us, thereby increasing our perception of our surroundings. It’s really not rocket science. As to what the actual motives are of “those” who are in denial of this, I cannot say, but too each their own I guess. Live and let live.
@@Chris-rg4jx While it's true that HD has the largest market share of any single motorcycle manufacturer in the US, HD has a minority market share overall at 23.4%. In any case, as I mentioned, if loud engine revving were for safety then I'd expect HD riders to also be the ones wearing the most protective gear but, if anything, protective gear seems to run counter to the general HD ethos. Now, to be fair, while I find HD riders the most annoying group of riders in urban settings, I also find them to be among the best on the highways. While sport bike riders are more likely to speed and weave, HD riders generally hang out peacefully in their lanes. On the highways, HD are some of my favorites.
@@ArchilochusOfParos Fair enough my friend; I do appreciate the respectful conversation. As for the safety gear, I can only speak for myself on this issue. Yes, I am concerned for my safety as noted in our conversation, but I also want to enjoy my ride. Wearing all leather, full face helmets, or other full clothing with body armor is miserable and suffocating in the hot summer months. The heat I feel and the sweat constantly running down my face and body makes the ride totally not enjoyable for me, and if I am not enjoying my ride, why should I ride at all? I do wear all the gear in the cooler parts of the year. Yes, I know it is dangerous not to at all times, but life has risk; we just have to weigh the risk vs. reward, and that conclusion is different for each individual. For the record, I grew up on sport bikes. I mostly had Honda’s, but I owned a Kawasaki and a Suzuki at one time also. I have nothing negative to say about those bikes; I enjoyed and loved them immensely! This is actually my first time owning a Harley and I am loving it every bit as much as my other bikes. I had racing headers put on most of my sports bikes, so they were every bit as loud as my Harley is. My gear back than in summer was tennis shoes and T-shirts; at least I wear boots, gloves, and a leather vest now, so partially a step in the right direction I guess. Take care!
I ride a 2003 Honda VTX1800R. My Harley buddies are pretty cool, but I’ve seen some of these things. My favorite is my buddies jokingly call mine a "Hardly Davidson." I love it, told em to bring me a badge for my tank.
@@PeterAngles-jq7gr i like both. One day I plan to own a shovelhead. I'll probably put a tiny shovel on it to go with the old joke, "why do they call it a shovelhead? Gotta stop every few miles and shovel up all the pieces that fell off." Both are cool to me, I just love my VTX cause its my 1st bike. Honda is cool. I plan to own a CT125 or the like as well. Cheers!
Right in the middle of this video I got an ad from Viking Bags showing a girl on a Harley wearing tights, a small tank top, and a half helmet to show off her caterpillar eye lashes.
I have not felt any hate toward or from Harley riders. I ride a Honda and wave at everyone with the exception that I am engaged in a situation that needs full attention. I'd rather be rude than have a mishap. Safe riding to everyone. Thanks for a great video.
I grew up on sports bikes. I ride a Harley now, and I always wave at everyone when I see them and not working the clutch; heck, I even gave the two down wave to a young lady on a scooter the other day. I figured she is in the beginning stages of her motorized two wheel journey, and I wanted to encourage her.
I ride a Harley and have owned 4 other bikes from different manufacturers. All riders get the same feeling as me. I do not recommend to anyone, what bike to buy or ride. We all our grown and have our own preference.
I've always worn a helmet for as long as I've been riding. I started out with a 3/4 helmet when I first started riding at about 7 years of age. At around 12, I got my first full-face helmet, and I've owned quite a few of them. At around 50, I got my first modular, and for me, that's the way to go. While I don't always wear the proper gear, due to the excessive heat in southern Louisiana, leather boots, gloves, and a modular helmet are mandatory for me. Waving is something I do, no matter what somebody is riding. While I've never had a sport bike (not my style), I've had mini-bikes, motocross bikes, and cruisers, and they were all Japanese. So, to me, "It's not what you ride it's that you ride." It's really hard to believe how many sales people at a Harley dealership are Harley "snobs". I walked right out of a dealership after the salesman I was talking to started making stupid remarks about the Suzuki Volusia I was riding, and I was thinking about trading it in for a Road Glide. As it turned out, the Indian dealer didn't seem to have the same problem with my bike, and I bought a 2022 Pursuit Limited, and Indian gave me twice the trade-in price Harley was going to give me and threw in a driver backrest. Riding brings me relaxation and peace of mind. Now that I've retired, it's even better because now there is no timeline to be back on a Monday morning. Keep up the videos.
One reason I now own TWO Indians. The Harley dealer in my own town went out of business. I’ve Road Harley’s my whole life and was thinking about getting another but I bought another Indian instead. Why? Because the idiot CEO of Harley announced to the world that they are converting their ENTIRE motorcycle fleet to Electric. They have also added Made in China bikes to their fleet. Harley is DEAD. Now I won’t even walk into a Harley dealership anymore. If they think I’m trading my Indian in for an electric one they have SHIT FOR BRAINS!!! Them COMMIE BASTARDS will have to SHOOT ME off of mine
I ride Harley Davidson, many riders think they’re tough guys just because they can afford a HD. Bullsh1t SOA wanna be. It’s very annoying especially if you’re riding in a 1% club. Be who you are, enjoy the ride, owning a brand of bike doesn’t mean you can take a beating.
Sometimes, people just miss the wave entirely or they are not comfortable yet removing a hand off their handlebars (me for most of this year). As you do not know the experience of the oncoming rider. With me being a new rider and just about to finish up my first season of riding. I know I have missed the waves entirely by concentrating on the vehicles around me or the other reasons you mentioned. I feel bad for missing the waves every time, and I have shrugged off the times I didn't receive 1 back. Awesome content.
True... sometimes I'm just focused on the road, if I missed returning the salutation it's never intentional. But most times I always try and return it. 👍🏻
I wave usually. I don't care what you're on. I even wave to mopeds. If I don't then I was zoned out, in traffic and concentrating on the car in front of me or just saw you too late. I ride a Harley Fat Boy and often don't get waves from other Harley riders either so. I dunno.
I don’t fit into most of these categories either. I don’t really wash my bikes, but I do wipe them down and mainly clean off the dead bugs. I also always wave if I can. If I don’t, it’s because I just didn’t see them until it was too late. I’m focusing more on traffic ahead of me and I sometimes won’t see another rider until they are already passing.
I am a Harley rider and I’m proud of it but I don’t do the stupid things that most riders do and I respect all other motorcycle enthusiast as long as respect the roads, the people around us and the people that ride with us that’s the main thing and the ride
Great video! I think that you nailed it. I'm a Harley rider and for the most part couldn't care less what you ride. The exceptions are: if you ride a Harley, we probably have more to talk about; if you ride a Softail (which I ride), we have have a little more to talk about; if you ride a Sport Glide (my bike), we have a lot more to talk about. On the other hand, if you don't ride a Harley, I may lean something from you. I suppose that's true about pretty much anything though. Keep up the great work!
I can agree with most of your points except, Noisy Davidsons or other piped Vtwins that are ridden to be obnoxious and actually hurt your ears as they blast through the neighborhood are not cool. Riders like this are crying out for attention and for people to look at them. They have no class.
I always wave to other riders . Always have. But riding with my wife I noticed she never waves to anyone. When I asked her about it she said she's just focused on the road and doesn't even notice other riders. I'm not sure how that works but ok. I'm from NC and to be honest I had never seen other riders who didn't wave until I spent a couple of years in Florida.
I ride with my wife also she always says she doesn't get waved back to and I always get a return wave she cant get no respect it accually pisses her off I just laugh
I have a Harley Street Bob and a Kawasaki Vulcan S. I wave at everyone when I can. Sometimes I just can't, like you said there are a lot of things that can keep you from waving. I ride to work at 5 am and the sprinklers in the esplanade's are on at that time so polishing every day is not happening. I wear full gear and full face helmet. Because that's my choice just as its other peoples choice not to. Here in Houston Texas it's hot and I see a lot of ridders on all sorts of bikes lacking gear due to the heat. I won't wear my jacket some rides if I'm not getting on the highway. I have met Harley snobs and street bike snobs. Most ridders I meet are chill and just see it as being on two wheels is all that matters.
Years ago when I first started riding, if someone didn’t wave back I thought what the heck man. But I don’t think twice about it anymore. Probably only the newer riders are bothered by it.
Love your comments, spot on! I started riding a Honda 90 in 1969 as a teenager, then to a Honda 350 twin, 500 four and to a '93 Harley that a rode for 25 years and sold to a police officer (he got a great deal) but now ride a Suzuki and KTM as I live in Southern California and am addicted to Baja and desert riding and occasionally on my BMW R 1200RT for street riding. Most (95% at least) Harley riders wave at me and I've been to many biker bars in SoCal and everyone gets along very well and helps each other out.
I had a few Harley riders hated on me already. One saying, nice scooter to me like his bike is better than mine, another look at me making fun of my sportbike by acting like he was on a sportbike looking at me. Since then I stopped acknowledging people. We are all motorcycle riders we should respect each other.
I ride a Ducati on race tracks and, for the first time ever, I bought myself a Street Glide Special for the road last year. I absolutely love it as I do my Ducati on the track - different tools for different jobs. Riding through the whole of Europe, I was filtering on the autobahn in a traffic jam and I had two GS1250 riders deliberately block me from filtering - no reason - just ignorant Harley hating Germans. Really surprised me. But it was the only incident on the whole 2000 mile trip.
@@64Goef Nope. It’s totally legal in German autobahns, UK and in the rest of Europe. The only place where I’ve heard it being illegal is in some States and Canada.
@@JR-gc5ef In Germany and France its still not legal as per 2023. Not saying that its not happening but if the police stops you its defenitly costing you money.
Years ago I used to be a heavy drinker. Fortunately I quick drinking alcohol before I started riding motorcycles. When I'm out riding I'm in high alert at all times. You see all kinds of things going on that could potentially kill you that you don't see or think about when driving a vehicle. So you owe it to yourself to be your best when riding a motorcycle.
Don't be hating on mopeds Hegshot! I have two Harleys, but when my wife wants to ride her moped, I hop on mine and ride mine too! And I have to say, they're a lot of fun!
I used to not give a shit what other riders wore safety wise until I had a chat with a considered rider at a MC Rally a while back. He pointed out that if some idiot crashes on the boulevard, wearing his tshirt, flipflops and shorts, thats now one less emergency room bed. Then there's the staff, specialists etc when he may have limped away. Now some other human who wasn't being reckless and needs emergency services are being shunted in an ambulance. When I think of freedom, I think about civic duty as well. The only reason we are Free is because of consideration of our selves and our impact on others around us.
It's political. Harley riders tend to be more conservative, metric riders lean more liberal. In these times, that's all that's required for people to hate each other.
I agree with your last part of the video 100% I do drink but won’t drink why I’m riding I think knowing your surroundings and Senses when riding is more important enjoyed the whole video as well
My only peeve about the HD rider are the ones who practically don’t have a muffler. The ones where the DBs are off the charts and assault your hearing from miles away. I understand trying to be heard for safety, but It’s the “look at me, I’m cool” factor that exudes extreme selfishness.
You simply have NO comprehension of as to why some pipes are loud. Yes, one can put louder pipes on a bike, but when one has a BIG displacement engine, one ends up have to make their OWN stepped headers to get the engine breathing right. So blame YOUR E.P.A. for the headaches you seem to suffer from.
I have never owned one but I like HD riders and bikes. The machines usually need some maintenance and owners always like to change things up a bit when nothing else is needed. I wave at all of them when I am on my sportbike, enduros, or even my moped. They may be my next customer! I don't care what you ride, just love to see others riding.
In over 45 years of riding it's a little hard not to notice that some , no all but some newer riders have a real bad case of I am better than you. I will tell you this I have been on almost every kind of motorcycle , big , small, Harley chopper , bobber you name it and I am not a prick about it. I worked at a Harley Parts Warehouse in California. Newer Harley's do nothing for me at all but I love 1970's Shovelheads and own two. I have way more respect for older riders and older H-D's. Show some respect for old school riders.
I respect and wave to anyone on two wheels even scooters but that’s a different wave. 20yr Harley rider love the culture and sounds of Harley Davidson respect others and yourself don’t drink and ride. Be safe and enjoy the wind.
Just to speak to the gear issue: I ride a RG while wearing a bright blue icon jacket, full face helmet, gloves, pants, and riding shoes. I believe everyone should. At the same time, I believe IT IS YOUR RIGHT not to wear the gear, no matter what type of bike you are on. It is also my right to call you an idiot for not wearing it. If a person wants to self delete, who am I to say they can't. To your other points. I have a blacked out bike so I don't have to polish it (too much sh!t and sh!ne in military). I don't mind the revs, but hate when stereos are at full volume. Finally, we all like a beer, but are our lives so horrible that we have drink and ride? Enjoyed the video. Keep up the great work.
A couple comments: 1) The wave - I wave at other riders as a prayer that each of us has a safe ride. I don’t take it personally when someone doesn’t return it. 2) Cleaning - I’m a serial bug killer. I kill bugs, clean them off and then kill more. I do a cursory wipe down if there’s any dust or the previous ride had rain. Keep up the good work, Howard!!
Last time i road my bike it took both hands and both feet to operate, i can drive a car with one hand and one foot which do you think requires more focus and concentration
Sometimes I wear a helmet, sometimes I don't, but I think it's silly for ppl to get upset about what other people wear. People who wear full track gear to go down to the strip mall to sip coffee for instance...lmfao. I like clean bikes, but I don't like doing the cleaning..:/ If I go to the garage to see my bike, it's usually to ride. I also have a really long dirt driveway too, so, as soon as I leave, it's already dirty right off the bat anyway :/ :/ and yes, everyone revs their engines...admittedly, sometimes it's just to make sure the bike stays running haha.
People who don't wear helmets and protective gear has more likely to be seriously injured or even die, that's give the reson to Insurance companies race insurance premiums for everyone so think about that too!
I rev my carbureted Harley when it’s cold, because it needs to, but when it stabilizes it is kinda stupid to keep doing that and I doing wave to anyone because here where I live there are thousands of motorcycles all the time, but I understand that there aren’t a lot of motorcycles in the US.
I have a Harley and imports. I used to find it confusing to remember when to be a jerk, and when to be friendly depending on which bike I was on, so I just decided to wave no matter what.
I hate seeing bikes with strange shaped handlebars, simply because I've been down quite a few times, and know how bad the bike or car/vehicle can wound a person, I've had my hand impaled by a brake lever when I was run off the road into the grass. I've got three Harleys, a triumph, and I enjoy riding, regardless of the brand. I've always given the wave, and I've long given the wave to anyone on two wheels. "Keep riding and enjoy the day" is definitely the way to enjoy life. My daughter leans hard on me to quit riding because she's afraid I'll get hit and hurt. You either enjoy the ride, or just the pose, in my not very humble opinion. I built my last "chop" in 96, had a fine paint job for the first couple years, but it doesn't look anything like it did in this day and age. I started riding back in the sixties, riding just isn't the same in this day and age.
Triumph rider. I do not mind the loud v-twin noise. What I get annoyed by (and it’s big cruisers not necessarily Harleys) is the blaring music from some of the bigger bike speakers. I find it both obnoxious and distracting. You get better sound (and are safer) if you wear a helmet with speakers inside.
Harley riders feel the freedom of the ride! Do we always wave at oncoming bikers? Not always, but there's a reason why. Most of it is traffic, or what's going on up ahead. It doesn't mean we are stuck up, no that's not it. You're riding on a 1000 pound bike and sometimes even a wave can put you in dire straights! I've seen too many accidents because someone isn't paying attention. Most everyone waves when it's safe to do so, nobody wants to wreck their scooter and end up in the Horsepistol!? Lol! It reminds me of when I drove Semi Truck and Trailer! All Semi Drivers wave to other Semi Drivers, and 10 wheeler drivers wave to other 10 wheeler drivers, and nobody waves to bobtail drivers!! Lmfao!!!!! Drive Safe Everyone, and Stop Texting!!
Good video, and I agree on most points. I don't like the whole biker bar scene, when I'm riding I don't really drink, at most I will have a beer with dinner and that is it. I got the Indian Challenger Dark Horse in matte paint and blacked out pipes just because I hate cleaning and polishing the bike. I'd rather be riding than polishing.
What stuns me is the price you'd pay for a Harley and what you actually get for your money. Way overpriced, marginal performance, dependability issues, etc.
What concerns me most when riding is people head deep in their smartphones. Can't tell you how many times, I had to come to a complete stop pulling over because a cager had drifted into my lane coming from the opposite direction especially in the twisty mountain roads. Be safe out there.
Glad you did this review. I broke my back in Afghanistan and riding sucks some times. And the seats gotta go. Heard this is the ticker. It was worried if it was a waste of cash.
Great video and very good comments regarding HD riders. Like you I fit some of them but not all, I wear a full face helmet, gloves and a protective jacket when riding my Street Glide, if it's just around town I may just wear my leather vest but always full-face helmet and gloves. I don't do the biker bar scene, I will not drink and drive, but that's just me. I work in healthcare and have seen firsthand the trauma from motorcycle accidents.
I agree with the info of the vid. I think you are correct with everything you’ve said. I hope this reaches everyone on 2 wheels. That is my opinion. I’m a first time new Harley rider/owner. It’s good info for me and should be for everyone who rides. Thanks for the vid.
Hate seeing riders not wearing helmets. I always wear a helmet especially since my daughter came into this world. doesn't matter how good of rider you are you can't control the person in the car next to you. I do see a lot of riders not wearing helmets probably 90% of those being Harleys. In my opinion, especially if you have a family, not wearing a helmet is one of the most selfish things you can do. Riding is a dangerous hobby, and I love riding as it helps me clear my head, but I'm also going to make sure I take the precautions to make it back to my family in one piece or at least alive in the worst scenario of a crash.
Harley riders in Australia mainly only wear useless brain bucket helmets, because helmets are required by law. Crazy how helmets aren’t mandatory in the USA. It’s also crazy to not wear a full faced helmet. I have a friend who rides a Harley and has suffered for years wearing a brain bucket helmet just because of the image. I just tease him about it now … 😂
On gear: I have owned four Harleys, and put a ton of miles on them. My last one, a Wide Glide, I bought last March 2nd. March 3rd, I was rear ended by an SUV driven by an 89 year old lady. I was tossed out into the intersection and into traffic. I was very happy that I was wearing a helmet, gloves and my leather. I still got a fractured T6 vertebra and a bit of road rash, and this was a slow speed accident. Me? I like to wear some protection.
If I'm holding the clutch and can't wave I usually do a head nod, but I have to admit more often than not I see Harley riders without a helmet wearing flip-flops completely ignore me. But I also am a ridiculous man with a big fluffy floppy eared helmet cover.
I ride a Harley Davidson, for 40 years, now. I used to ride a Honda. Both are fine bikes. I don’t drink. I have ridden to rallies, years ago. I ride alone and don’t ride to rallies anymore. I enjoy the ride. Sometimes I wave. Sometimes my hands are occupied. NOBODY gives a s#;t, NOBODY. I ride when it suits me, where it suits me. I still enjoy eating at mom and pop restaurants, rather than franchise fast food places. Thanks, from…east Tennessee.
The funniest thing I have done with a group of old timer Harley riders coming the other way they saw me I nodded they looked but ignored me and did nothing so I shook may head as tho I was disappointed and to a man they all reacted….. it was so funny. But in saying all that if you happen to pull up at the same stop they are all great guys. We do need to keep that in mind.
First off, who gives a fuck what anyone else thinks. It's no one's business what another rider does. Wear what you want to wear. Mind your own business! We ALL know the risk.
I meet a Gold Wing and its owner once. All the Honda / Gold Wing emblems had been removed and replaced with HD emblems. As I walk around the bike its owner comes over and introduces himself, "Jim Davidson, Like my Honda / Davidson?" Yep. Oh, I was riding a KZ-1000 at the time.
Last Summer I was riding the Cascade Loop on my Electra Glide and stopped in Marblemount for gas before heading over the pass. I was pumping my fuel when a guy on a brand new Street Glide rolled up with Freebird cranked to 11, no shirt, buttless speedo, flip-flops, and a helmet that was so tiny I thought he was a rabbi, like it hardly covered the top of his head. He was sunburned like crazy as well. Ironically, his wife was dressed very safely, boots, jeans, leather jacket and full face helmet. All I could think is, “what an idiot.”
I’m a Harley rider from California. I actually feel that people respect me as I pull up to a stop or a restaurant or coffee shop. I get a smile or a wave. But I also don’t rev or do any other obnoxious things that some of the riders do. I try to be respectful to everyone and wave back or acknowledge anyone who makes an effort. Especially when they move over as l lane split (yes that is legal here). We do have helmet laws here in Cali. But even before the law I used to wear a helmet. We have very bad traffic here in the Bay Area. And now with all the distracted drivers with cell phones, we all have to be more vigilant especially if you have a passenger. These days I usually only ride with my wife. Helmets also allow us to talk on the intercom in addition to providing safety and some wind protection. I think being a courteous rider goes a long away in setting a good impression for us Harley riders. Crotch rockets? That is a different story. 😀
I've been riding for 51yrs this year, the last 40 on Harleys, and to the best of my knowledge, no one has ever hated me or shown any animosity toward me for doing it. I wave at anyone on two wheels with an engine, because if they're brave enough to get on the road with it, they have my respect. And throttle blipping, within reason, is necessary on older, carbed Harleys, because at idle, the carb loads up, and can spit and die out when you try to take off. There's absolutely no need for it on newer, fuel injected engines. Good video, ride safe👍
Me and some guys were discussing the situation now days. How many of these people would be riding if they didn't have electric starts ? Then again how many of these people even know how to wrench their bikes if something breaks. Those old Harleys would take themselves apart right in front of you. To this day I still carry a shithouse load of tools. I just don't feel right without them even though they don't build Harleys like they used to. Thank God for that.
@@stephenchota6396 My brother in law rode a new StreetGlide a coupla years ago, and I let him ride my '72. He said if that was all he had to ride, he wouldn't ride.👍
I've been riding for many decades and wear ATTGATT, not necessarily because I'm worried I may make a mistake, but tI do worry about the idiots on the road with me.
I've been in the biker MC/ Harley- community for well enough 30 years now and to be frank, during all these years if there would have been any troubles like fights and such my experience is that it had always included at least one Harley-rider. Especially this later years when i've witness so many "dudelidudes" who bought the full monty of becoming a gang-member/brother. Bike, clothes, tats, made up life story, and most of all, -attitude. Dedicated fools with low self esteem. These guys often don't hang around for long. Either loudmouths who manage to erase themselfes or they put themselfes in situations where they upset someone else enough to shut them down. But what i've summoned up during these years is that they seldom show up on a Suzuki.
Ok. I will open this comment with a positive. Good video. You're well spoken, and to the point. You're video isn't to long and you keep to the topic. When I lived in America I rode a kawasaki KZ 1000 cop bike. I loved it. Great bike and literally bulletproof. The wave.....ultimately it's annoying because it isn't always possible. And you as a rider feel obligated to do it. Riding gear, i agree with you. Personal preference. Reving your bike. Yep....they all suck that do it. Can you say "I want everyone to know how much I want attention". It sounds good to you but not everyone else. Oh and by the way...harleys don't sound incredible when they rev. They are obnoxiously loud and annoying. Polishing your bike. Good for you. Myself I like a bit of road grime. It shows that I ride and I ride a lot. The biker bar......no comment.....to each his own. Now, what you call scooters. I no longer live in the USA and I will asume you have never been outside of the US borders. When in the US I rode a kawasakk KZ 1000. But where I live now I ride something very different. By bike is a honda wave 110cc fuel injected 4 speed semiautomatic. Wether you like it or not it is a full fledged motorcycle. In your words.....a frame, 2 wheels, and an engine with chain drive........Motorcycle. I ride EVERYDAY under the most extreme conditions possible. There are no rules. Every single ride no matter how short or long is a true battle in the extreme. Anything can happen at anytime. Your senses need to be hyperaware always. It's not a matter of if but a matter of when you will get into an accident. Because it will happen, so here if you don't wear proper gear you're just an idiot. Not including my experience in the US. My 4 to 5 years experience here in southeast asia has made me a better rider than 99% of americans with your awesome traffic conditions. I have more hours on a bike than most Americans ever will, in extreme conditions that MOST Americans will never experience. Now......why do I hate harley riders? Because no matter what......you all think that you're BETTER than all other motorcycle riders. You secretly look down on anyone that doesn't ride a harley. You think that all other bikes pale in comparison to your precious harleys. When in reality.....the company Harley Davidson is dying. Other bike manufacturers will definitely outlive them.
UL rider here, I choose to ride a Harley by virtue of the fact that it’s the best fit for me. The ultra limited is a very expensive bike and is the flagship of the Harley line so I’m proud of ownership. I keep my bike clean and polished for that very reason. How many of us have seen people on sport bikes who are virtually naked wearing beachsandals and shorts.
I’ve owned two Hayabusas and noticed Harley riders waved at me numerous times. Kinda thought it was weird as it’s a sport bike. Was at the HD shop riding with 4 friends all on Road Kings and the shop employees all came out and was asking questions about the Busa. Just told them I ride in back on flat land and once the mountains arrive I’ll move to the front. Don’t like heavy less braking capable bikes riding behind me.
when a Harley rider doesn’t wave it makes them look like a douche and perpetuates their douchey image. It’s like seeing your neighbor outside, them waving hello and you just blatantly ignoring them. I’ve never had any other bike besides a Harley not wave or at least give the nod when they’re shifting or something and can’t wave.
Very little waving in Australia. Mostly because on the other side of the road. Brake hand is on the lever and no fingers available. Not that common here. Please correct me if I'm wrong.
Plenty of us nod our heads, but rarely do old guys on Harleys or Adventure bikes. I find them comical … 😂 p.s. The right hand is on the throttle, so obviously can’t let go to wave. The brake lever has nothing to do with it unless you’re riding hard through the twisties …
I've owned three Sportsters, and just never got the whole Harley thing. I did find out that if you could chrome it, leather-fringe it, stud it, put an eagle on it, or middle-finger it, Harley and the aftermarket will sell it, and fools will buy it. So my go to question now is, "if Harley made a plane, would YOU fly in it?!" And another one about helmets: what's the difference between wearing a full-face helmet and no helmet at all? An open or closed-casket funeral...
I think it's the noise. There's a Harley rider goes along my street often and you can feel the noise, I have a child, just had the bar across the street that was under new management sent cease and desist for the noise blasting out from live bands with drums and powerful amps that were beyond even reasonable daytime noise- after 11 regularly, the only thing louder is the Harley rider, been to quieter concerts, I am already sensitive to loud noise and yearn for better urban design that encourages more people or if their cars for everyday stuff. I'm ok with the odd bit of intermittent noise or an occasional party, essential services in heavy vehicles or people having the odd bit of fun, but loud is constant due to cage-dependent design. I like motorcycles, I rode one and it was great fun, but the noise doesn't need to be loud, I'd love an electric motorcycle that allowed me that sensation of flying while hearing nothing but wind, tyres and my, make me more engaged with where I am and what I'm doing than the roar of an engine! But people who modify their bikes to be louder are just obnoxious, I like the sound of a motorbike when I'm in the mood, but I don't want to hear a modified bike splitting my ears multiple times a day late at night and, unfortunately, a lot of Harley's seem to do this, I don't hate Harley riders, just loud bikes on inappropriate places at inappropriate times, just unfortunate that there are bad apples spoiling the bunch. I don't own a car or a motorcycle and I'm not jealous of those who do- I like walking and riding my pedal bike around town and the transit here allows me to do most tasks, or I can get help from someone with a vehicle, rent one or get deliveries or taxis with the money I save when I really need to or want, I'm too busy with my son to go road trips on a bike and don't need a vehicle for anything else, it's not that I couldn't afford it, just an unnecessary expense as for daily tasks in an urban area, it just kinda sucks dealing with traffic, so I'm not able to enjoy it, this I don't do it! You do you, as long as it isn't disturbing the peace or making the street dangerous for my child, freedom is great, but your freedom to swing your fist ends where my face begins!
I usually wave to every bike. Sometimes Honda or other bikes like that are surprised that I wave and it looks like they might crash lol. If I don’t get a wave back, eh…no big deal. Been sober for almost 29 years I’m not a big fan of sitting in the bars but I’ll go in if it’s time to eat. I’m glad I found your site. Good stuff.
I ride BMW, Yamaha, Kawasaki. Not a fan of Harley or Harley riders. Yes, making a broad generalization here, but overall, I dislike the Harley culture. It’s a a clique . It’s like back in high school again or maybe college frat. You’re one of us, or you’re not. Harley logo on everything, clothes, back of truck, etc. The whole image that Harley riders keep pushing. And yes, I also wait before I throw down the wave when I see Harleys coming because I know when another rider passes by me and doesn’t return the wave, it’s always a guy on a Harley cruiser. Sport bike riders, ADV riders, classic motorcycles…always wave back. And don’t get me started on “Loud pipes save lives” and shit like that. How hateful is everyone in town when they’re enjoying a Sunday with their families, walking around, sitting an an outdoor cafe/restaurant enjoying food and conversation, when some guys on Harleys roll through with old pipes and raving the engines. I could go and on.
Agree, always dress for the slide not the ride. Helmet yes i wear one mainly to hold my face shield on, as I hate windshields on a Bike. I am fully aware that my Helmet will likely break my neck with the strap, if I'm in an accident. Mandating by State Law sucks....Let those that Ride decide.
I started with a 50cc moped. 150cc racing scooter. 750cc shadow. Vulcan 900. And this Friday, I'll officially be picking up my 2010 Heritage Softail and couldn't be happier 🤘
Full face helmet , 5X Joe rocket full armor jacket , 5x alpine stars full armored gloves. 90 degrees and NY humidity . 02 UltraClassic without tour pack. I wave at everyone even scooters , bicycles , tractors , walkers. Don’t rev or throttle blip . Full Vance and Hines I try to Be polite where I can but open areas let her breathe . Never had any issue with anyone quite the contrary. Wash bike every month ish lol Don’t drink anymore thank goodness don’t ride to bars events etc just get on with no phone and ride til it all falls away behind you and it’s you and the machine. Appreciate your work on bikes and pistol genre . If I could only mount a holster on left side of tank openly ….. in NY not much chance of that lol
The wave isn't about liking each other's bike, or style, or anything like that. It's about acknowledging that were both out here, enjoying the ride. It's just wishing each other a safe ride, 2 wheels down, get there safe, have fun.
Amen!
Right on brother, we’re all just enjoying the ride at the end of the day right, being courteous to your fellow drivers and having a good time is what it’s about.
I was driving the fast lane and a H-D rider was in the middle lane and gave a wave but I thought she was going into my lane but was waving .
Harley rider here. I always wave and I would never, under any circumstances, drink while I'm on the bike. Ever. Period. Drinking and then getting on a bike will always be a terrible decision. There's no excuse for it.
iam harley rider and i always wave and never drink. never. This thinking about harley riders is worst then racism
I quit drinking partly to ride and it's definitely the way to go for shure. 15 months now still going strong.
Good luck brother, life is better clean/sober (37 years) and when you are my age you’ll still be riding bro ..(50 yrs/still going cross country)
@@UnderestimatedA1
I don't ride with out a helmet, in my state it's the law. When I go somewhere you can, I still wear a helmet. Kinda like the seat belt law, just got use to, so I always buckle up,.
Now I do get friends trying to get me to wear a better helmet. Mine is dot, but the , a beanie style.
Hell I admire the nuts I see dodging the pot hole with those tiny wheels.
Keep your knees in the wind.
@@terryclay6668 I always wear helmet and gloves as well. Everytime. No excuses, but that's my standard for me.
I worked in the Harley world for 22 years. 85% of my customers were straight up out of that movie, Wild Hogs. Like watching kids on Halloween.
Well,it seems to me that most or at least the newest generation,of Harley riders are watching too much Sons of Anarchy,trying to act all though and we own the road attitude,and if one doesn’t drive another Harley…they don’t even wave or anything
Oh yeah... That wasnt even a satire. I seen that in real life. Just dudes having fun but knowing nothing about safety and respect.
Been riding Harleys for many years. Over that time, I have never had a problem with anyone on any make of bike. Main thing is to ride.
I agree...enjoy the ride and be safe!
And make excessive, unnecessary noise and annoy the hell out of everyone around you.
Nothing ruins a peaceful morning like a Harley with straight pipes, or 10 of them going down the road...
I agree with your views, at 54 years old I just wish everyone would just act like a simple decent human being, I think this world would be much different.
A simple decent person would never ride an obnoxious chrome air compressor down our road at 5 AM !!! arrogant assholes at work here!!!
Here’s an idea. Ride your own bike and mind your own business.
Tell Harley riders that 😂😂
Exactly. I agree with you, Ride your own bike and don’t worry about anybody else is doing as far as Harley riders. That’s a bunch of bullshit doesn’t matter what kind of motorcycle you’re on as far as waving to people I’m tired of lifting my left hand up to wave all the damn time.
The next subject he talks about is revving your motor up. We all do it if you’re cool about riding your Harley you don’t need to rev your engine you get more respect from not being obnoxious and revving your engine and people just look at you as a punk ass, and no not everybody does it not everybody weaves in and out of traffic not everybody needs to show off it’s like why would you do a podcast with rifles and guns in your backdrop that’s just a sign of insecurity more so than popularity or trying to be a tough guyI said it bothers me these people get on here and they don’t know what the hell they’re talking about and on the first person to call somebody out I don’t have a problem with that
There this guy goes again?” but at the end of the day.” I mean how many times are you gonna say that in your podcast? Seriously🙄
Live your life the way you choose. Isn't this supposed to be America?
Harley riders aren’t hated. They are laughed at.
Big difference.
Whatever makes you feel better about your own insecurities I guess !
Come on -
These people have paid a multi national corporation 20 - 30 - 40 thousand to be cool.
@@SongJLikes riight keyboard warrior real easy to talk shit from behind a computer screen, pussey
Riight keyboard warrior, real easy to talk shit from behind the keyboard, ain't it
@@EdwardTillotson-hj5pk yup the lib yards are brave hiding in their parents basement.
I owned 14 Harleys for over 25 years. I was in an MC. I bought a Kawasaki Concours 14. I ride all year long. I can no longer do the image, polishing chrome, or the old guy midlife crisis anymore. I wanted to enjoy riding something that didn’t cost as much as a car and has modern technology and just wanted to enjoy the ride, by myself.
I sold my HD, kept my 20 yr old metric cruiser, and snagged a Concours. Now I own my 2 favorite forever bikes, one is a rolling recliner, the other a rolling rocket.
Enjoying riding your motorcycle? No way, it's supposed to be about the image and being seen and being heard, and making others think about you what you want them to think about you.
As for me, I had a motorcycle when I was 16. My divorced dad took it from me because his live in nut bucket decided she liked it. So I abhor motorcycles, glazed donuts, Siamese cats, catholics, american pony cars, and liver. She had a vaginal yeast infection, and it got into his sinusses. They kept accusing each other of infidelity.
Hating HD riders? No way, not if they do their own maintenance.
Nearly the same deal here. Nothing against H-D, but I picked up a lightly used '16 Concours 14 two years ago and found out what a "real bike" actually consists of.
My bike has bed liner for paint. I slap a bag around the air intake, hose it off, and ride.
Ive been riding for only 6 years and I notice the higher senses since riding. It makes me pay more attention driving too.
That is correct i have the same , a good rider makes a better driver !, i think it is because that is if you ride your bike you realize that you are more vulnerable !
@@richard2951960 Most people have no fucking clue how fast 50 mph is.
@@Vapourwear true enough...the closest I feel 50 mph while not on a bike is in a jeep with no doors and that hardly comes close. Inside a car with the windows up, you might as well be playing a video game as well insulated against the weather, noise, wind, and speed.
I am a Harley owner and rider . I choose to wear gear when I ride . I also respect all motorcycles and riders and always acknowledge them. For
Me it’s all about riding and the freedom that comes with it. Everyone ride safe
Im 55, just bought a 2015 Katana, riders have waved to me, I dont have the skill to take my hand off yet, but once that comes I will initiate the wave. Ride safe and have fun.
That's exactly how it should be too. But unfortunately it isn't.
@@lunchonaskyscaper ,don’t worry about it brother,specially when you see a harley devidson bike,a lot of them do the same to sport bike guys,they don’t even look at you ,don’t wave,no nod or nothing at all,so just keep doing what you’re doing 👍
The day my dad graduated from high school, he bought a brand new 1955 PanHead. When I finished US Navy boot camp, he gave me the bike. It was my only transportation for 15 years, until I left for University in Germany in August 1995. I never felt hated for riding a Harley-Davidson. Often, other riders on other bike brands, would comment on how much they wished they had a classic Harley-Davidson, and how lucky I was to have it.
I'm sure it's fun being broken down every 3000 miles or less
@@PeterAngles-jq7gr The bike broke down on me once, in Houston, TX. Dealer had me back on the road the same day.
Yeah, saying people hate Harley riders is a bit of an over statement.
@@clarson2916 People nowadays, specifically the younger generation, don't know what a normal human interaction is like. Every thing is binary and everything is so serious.
A very valid comment would be about motorcycle clubs who for the most part ride Harleys, trying to impose their roleplaying on other road users.
@@PeterAngles-jq7gr Typical douche canoe response from someone who never threw a leg over anything with two wheels.
Riding and motorcycles are things of the past for me and I miss both every day. Best wishes to everyone enjoying the two wheel experience. 👍🏻🤠🇺🇸
As a person who doesn't ride a motorcycle, I don't hate HD riders....but....pretty much every time I encounter someone on a motorcycle who's gone out of their way to be obnoxiously loud, that person is riding a HD. In the video this is chalked up to possible jealousy but for people who don't ride and are just going about their lives, no, it isn't jealousy. At all. I think the feeling of people like me is "If you want to ride a motorcycle that's awesome, you should absolutely do it. If you want to wear no protective gear, well, that wouldn't be my choice but you do you, that's also awesome. But respect goes both ways and when you blast your engine just for the sake of blasting your engine, you're basically screaming at me, and that's not cool at all."
I can certainly understand why you feel the way you do. Not speaking of your reasons, but there are also a lot of nervous drivers on the road that really just get surprised and scared by sudden loud sounds, so I can see how this could be viewed as annoying. I am not sure what you mean by "going out of their way to be obnoxiously loud," but obviously there is a minority of obnoxious people in ever group of every kind of people, not just bikers; however, as a Harley rider with fairly loud pipes, I do know that most of us are NOT doing it to be obnoxious. It is more of a safety issue for most of us. Think of how many times you might have heard a motorcycle beside you before you seen them. We have cars come over in our lanes and risk running us off the road all the time. The first thing a car driver says is "I did not know you were there." Bikes are much smaller than cars, and they tend to get lost in the side view mirrors and blind spots quit easily. We rev our pipes up in an attempt to help drivers identify that we are there. I know whenever I am rolling up to a stop in traffic beside other vehicles, I will rev my pipes loud enough to warn others that I am there so they will not suddenly change lanes and crash into me; but I do try to do this with respect and restraint to keep it to a minimum decibel level.
@@Chris-rg4jx What I meant by "going out of their way to be obnoxiously loud" I mostly meant people who unnecessarily rev their engines at lights in urban areas. Certainly riders on other brands do this, but my experience is that Harleys are the biggest culprits. As an aside, I've seen several motorcycle channels asserting that the belief that "loud pipes save lives" is a myth not born out by science. I have no idea if that's true or not. But if it is true, it seems odd that riders on one particular brand of motorcycle would rev their engines more than others. If it were about safety, you'd also expect people riding the noisiest motorcyces to also wear the most protective gear, no? But if anything the opposite is the case. Regardless, in urban settings it certainly feels like it's not about safety, and is instead similar to people who have massive sound systems in their cars and blast their music for the rest of the world to hear. Both seem about ego and imposition.
@@ArchilochusOfParosI I do know that you experiencing Harley Davidson riders do it more is mathematically reasonable based off the law of average. Since there are more Harley Davidson’s on the roads in the United States than any other make or model of bike, it is reasonable to presume that you will have more interaction with Harley Davidson’s than any of the others. I think most people’s perception of bikers in general comes from Harley riders due to this fact.
As for those who make the argument that there is no scientific evidence that loud pipes save lives, we do not always need a scientific study to prove things we are able to comprehend through basic common sense. I feel the scenario I gave above was a pretty valid and reasonable example as to how sound can improve bikers chances of being noticed on the road. Human beings have five “scientifically proven” senses; eyes are just one of those senses. Whenever we stimulate more than one of those senses, we increase the amount of information available to us, thereby increasing our perception of our surroundings. It’s really not rocket science. As to what the actual motives are of “those” who are in denial of this, I cannot say, but too each their own I guess. Live and let live.
@@Chris-rg4jx While it's true that HD has the largest market share of any single motorcycle manufacturer in the US, HD has a minority market share overall at 23.4%. In any case, as I mentioned, if loud engine revving were for safety then I'd expect HD riders to also be the ones wearing the most protective gear but, if anything, protective gear seems to run counter to the general HD ethos.
Now, to be fair, while I find HD riders the most annoying group of riders in urban settings, I also find them to be among the best on the highways. While sport bike riders are more likely to speed and weave, HD riders generally hang out peacefully in their lanes. On the highways, HD are some of my favorites.
@@ArchilochusOfParos Fair enough my friend; I do appreciate the respectful conversation. As for the safety gear, I can only speak for myself on this issue. Yes, I am concerned for my safety as noted in our conversation, but I also want to enjoy my ride. Wearing all leather, full face helmets, or other full clothing with body armor is miserable and suffocating in the hot summer months. The heat I feel and the sweat constantly running down my face and body makes the ride totally not enjoyable for me, and if I am not enjoying my ride, why should I ride at all? I do wear all the gear in the cooler parts of the year. Yes, I know it is dangerous not to at all times, but life has risk; we just have to weigh the risk vs. reward, and that conclusion is different for each individual.
For the record, I grew up on sport bikes. I mostly had Honda’s, but I owned a Kawasaki and a Suzuki at one time also. I have nothing negative to say about those bikes; I enjoyed and loved them immensely! This is actually my first time owning a Harley and I am loving it every bit as much as my other bikes. I had racing headers put on most of my sports bikes, so they were every bit as loud as my Harley is. My gear back than in summer was tennis shoes and T-shirts; at least I wear boots, gloves, and a leather vest now, so partially a step in the right direction I guess. Take care!
I ride a 2003 Honda VTX1800R. My Harley buddies are pretty cool, but I’ve seen some of these things. My favorite is my buddies jokingly call mine a "Hardly Davidson." I love it, told em to bring me a badge for my tank.
I call anything else a, HARDLY as well. That's funny
My VTX has been called a Honda Davidson before, thought it was hilarious
The Honda is a vastly superior motorcycle to a piece of shlt Tractor Davidson
@@PeterAngles-jq7gr i like both. One day I plan to own a shovelhead. I'll probably put a tiny shovel on it to go with the old joke, "why do they call it a shovelhead? Gotta stop every few miles and shovel up all the pieces that fell off." Both are cool to me, I just love my VTX cause its my 1st bike. Honda is cool. I plan to own a CT125 or the like as well. Cheers!
@@thumb-ugly7518 I hate Harley, and the posers who buy them
Right in the middle of this video I got an ad from Viking Bags showing a girl on a Harley wearing tights, a small tank top, and a half helmet to show off her caterpillar eye lashes.
I have not felt any hate toward or from Harley riders. I ride a Honda and wave at everyone with the exception that I am engaged in a situation that needs full attention. I'd rather be rude than have a mishap. Safe riding to everyone. Thanks for a great video.
I have a couple of bikes Harley and kaw I wave like you unless safety is a concern rush hour traffic ect.
That's not rude we all know what's up
I grew up on sports bikes. I ride a Harley now, and I always wave at everyone when I see them and not working the clutch; heck, I even gave the two down wave to a young lady on a scooter the other day. I figured she is in the beginning stages of her motorized two wheel journey, and I wanted to encourage her.
I ride a Harley and have owned 4 other bikes from different manufacturers. All riders get the same feeling as me. I do not recommend to anyone, what bike to buy or ride. We all our grown and have our own preference.
I own a livewire one which was created by Harley Davidson, when i wave to the Harley guys they just blank stare me lol
I've always worn a helmet for as long as I've been riding. I started out with a 3/4 helmet when I first started riding at about 7 years of age. At around 12, I got my first full-face helmet, and I've owned quite a few of them. At around 50, I got my first modular, and for me, that's the way to go.
While I don't always wear the proper gear, due to the excessive heat in southern Louisiana, leather boots, gloves, and a modular helmet are mandatory for me.
Waving is something I do, no matter what somebody is riding. While I've never had a sport bike (not my style), I've had mini-bikes, motocross bikes, and cruisers, and they were all Japanese. So, to me, "It's not what you ride it's that you ride."
It's really hard to believe how many sales people at a Harley dealership are Harley "snobs". I walked right out of a dealership after the salesman I was talking to started making stupid remarks about the Suzuki Volusia I was riding, and I was thinking about trading it in for a Road Glide. As it turned out, the Indian dealer didn't seem to have the same problem with my bike, and I bought a 2022 Pursuit Limited, and Indian gave me twice the trade-in price Harley was going to give me and threw in a driver backrest.
Riding brings me relaxation and peace of mind. Now that I've retired, it's even better because now there is no timeline to be back on a Monday morning.
Keep up the videos.
Thanks man
That's the Attitude 😎👍‼️
What Dennis said 100%.
One reason I now own TWO Indians. The Harley dealer in my own town went out of business. I’ve Road Harley’s my whole life and was thinking about getting another but I bought another Indian instead. Why? Because the idiot CEO of Harley announced to the world that they are converting their ENTIRE motorcycle fleet to Electric. They have also added Made in China bikes to their fleet. Harley is DEAD. Now I won’t even walk into a Harley dealership anymore. If they think I’m trading my Indian in for an electric one they have SHIT FOR BRAINS!!! Them COMMIE BASTARDS will have to SHOOT ME off of mine
I ride Harley Davidson, many riders think they’re tough guys just because they can afford a HD. Bullsh1t SOA wanna be. It’s very annoying especially if you’re riding in a 1% club. Be who you are, enjoy the ride, owning a brand of bike doesn’t mean you can take a beating.
Sometimes, people just miss the wave entirely or they are not comfortable yet removing a hand off their handlebars (me for most of this year). As you do not know the experience of the oncoming rider. With me being a new rider and just about to finish up my first season of riding. I know I have missed the waves entirely by concentrating on the vehicles around me or the other reasons you mentioned. I feel bad for missing the waves every time, and I have shrugged off the times I didn't receive 1 back. Awesome content.
True... sometimes I'm just focused on the road, if I missed returning the salutation it's never intentional. But most times I always try and return it. 👍🏻
I wave usually. I don't care what you're on. I even wave to mopeds. If I don't then I was zoned out, in traffic and concentrating on the car in front of me or just saw you too late. I ride a Harley Fat Boy and often don't get waves from other Harley riders either so. I dunno.
My shirt 👕 says " YOU CHOOSE NO HELMET I CHOOSE NO WAVE !!!!😂😂😂😂
I don’t fit into most of these categories either. I don’t really wash my bikes, but I do wipe them down and mainly clean off the dead bugs. I also always wave if I can. If I don’t, it’s because I just didn’t see them until it was too late. I’m focusing more on traffic ahead of me and I sometimes won’t see another rider until they are already passing.
I am a Harley rider and I’m proud of it but I don’t do the stupid things that most riders do and I respect all other motorcycle enthusiast as long as respect the roads, the people around us and the people that ride with us that’s the main thing and the ride
New Rider here, and I'm trying to learn as much as possible to be safe and responsible. Thanks for your helpful videos. God bless and Happy trails
Thanks man
You left out the.........only reason you don't ride a Harley is because you can't afford one.
@danielwalker3538
Sorry I didn't say anything. I ride an 2015 hd dyna lowrider.
That would be a lot of people, including myself.
Great video! I think that you nailed it. I'm a Harley rider and for the most part couldn't care less what you ride. The exceptions are: if you ride a Harley, we probably have more to talk about; if you ride a Softail (which I ride), we have have a little more to talk about; if you ride a Sport Glide (my bike), we have a lot more to talk about. On the other hand, if you don't ride a Harley, I may lean something from you. I suppose that's true about pretty much anything though. Keep up the great work!
I can agree with most of your points except, Noisy Davidsons or other piped Vtwins that are ridden to be obnoxious and actually hurt your ears as they blast through the neighborhood are not cool. Riders like this are crying out for attention and for people to look at them. They have no class.
South Park, did a episode on HD riders. It was perfect!
I always wave to other riders . Always have. But riding with my wife I noticed she never waves to anyone. When I asked her about it she said she's just focused on the road and doesn't even notice other riders. I'm not sure how that works but ok. I'm from NC and to be honest I had never seen other riders who didn't wave until I spent a couple of years in Florida.
I ride with my wife also she always says she doesn't get waved back to and I always get a return wave she cant get no respect it accually pisses her off I just laugh
I have a Harley Street Bob and a Kawasaki Vulcan S. I wave at everyone when I can. Sometimes I just can't, like you said there are a lot of things that can keep you from waving. I ride to work at 5 am and the sprinklers in the esplanade's are on at that time so polishing every day is not happening. I wear full gear and full face helmet. Because that's my choice just as its other peoples choice not to. Here in Houston Texas it's hot and I see a lot of ridders on all sorts of bikes lacking gear due to the heat. I won't wear my jacket some rides if I'm not getting on the highway. I have met Harley snobs and street bike snobs. Most ridders I meet are chill and just see it as being on two wheels is all that matters.
Years ago when I first started riding, if someone didn’t wave back I thought what the heck man. But I don’t think twice about it anymore. Probably only the newer riders are bothered by it.
Love your comments, spot on! I started riding a Honda 90 in 1969 as a teenager, then to a Honda 350 twin, 500 four and to a '93 Harley that a rode for 25 years and sold to a police officer (he got a great deal) but now ride a Suzuki and KTM as I live in Southern California and am addicted to Baja and desert riding and occasionally on my BMW R 1200RT for street riding. Most (95% at least) Harley riders wave at me and I've been to many biker bars in SoCal and everyone gets along very well and helps each other out.
I had a few Harley riders hated on me already. One saying, nice scooter to me like his bike is better than mine, another look at me making fun of my sportbike by acting like he was on a sportbike looking at me. Since then I stopped acknowledging people. We are all motorcycle riders we should respect each other.
I ride a Ducati on race tracks and, for the first time ever, I bought myself a Street Glide Special for the road last year. I absolutely love it as I do my Ducati on the track - different tools for different jobs. Riding through the whole of Europe, I was filtering on the autobahn in a traffic jam and I had two GS1250 riders deliberately block me from filtering - no reason - just ignorant Harley hating Germans. Really surprised me. But it was the only incident on the whole 2000 mile trip.
Probably they blocked you because filtering is not allowed on the german highways.
@@64Goef Nope. It’s totally legal in German autobahns, UK and in the rest of Europe. The only place where I’ve heard it being illegal is in some States and Canada.
@@JR-gc5ef In Germany and France its still not legal as per 2023. Not saying that its not happening but if the police stops you its defenitly costing you money.
Years ago I used to be a heavy drinker. Fortunately I quick drinking alcohol before I started riding motorcycles. When I'm out riding I'm in high alert at all times. You see all kinds of things going on that could potentially kill you that you don't see or think about when driving a vehicle. So you owe it to yourself to be your best when riding a motorcycle.
Don't be hating on mopeds Hegshot! I have two Harleys, but when my wife wants to ride her moped, I hop on mine and ride mine too! And I have to say, they're a lot of fun!
Died enjoying the fuck out of my freedom on the best goddamn motorcycle man ever built
I used to not give a shit what other riders wore safety wise until I had a chat with a considered rider at a MC Rally a while back. He pointed out that if some idiot crashes on the boulevard, wearing his tshirt, flipflops and shorts, thats now one less emergency room bed. Then there's the staff, specialists etc when he may have limped away. Now some other human who wasn't being reckless and needs emergency services are being shunted in an ambulance. When I think of freedom, I think about civic duty as well. The only reason we are Free is because of consideration of our selves and our impact on others around us.
I'm with you, Brother! I bought my Harley to ride, not to look at. Never drink alcohol while I'm riding, and I wear protective gear for every ride.
It's political. Harley riders tend to be more conservative, metric riders lean more liberal. In these times, that's all that's required for people to hate each other.
That's bullshit I ride Harley and Kawasaki an so do a lot of people I know it isn't political
It’s sad. I wish people could just get along. It’s exhausting to be honest
and Euros are facists ? what study was that?
LOL dumbest thing I have heard in a while.
Wait what?
The not waving thing is almost exclusively HD riders. That’s the biggest issue I have. Love the bikes, hate the attitude.
I never wave when riding my Harley. I always feel bad but I only have one arm and It’s being used to hold the handlebars.
Well aren't you the selfish one.
You could at least stick out your tongue.
Lol
Ride Safe!
Poor excuse
Gotta hand it to yah.
I agree with your last part of the video 100% I do drink but won’t drink why I’m riding I think knowing your surroundings and Senses when riding is more important enjoyed the whole video as well
My only peeve about the HD rider are the ones who practically don’t have a muffler. The ones where the DBs are off the charts and assault your hearing from miles away. I understand trying to be heard for safety, but It’s the “look at me, I’m cool” factor that exudes extreme selfishness.
Loud pipes save lives!
You simply have NO comprehension of as to why some pipes are loud. Yes, one can put louder pipes on a bike, but when one has a BIG displacement engine, one ends up have to make their OWN stepped headers to get the engine breathing right. So blame YOUR E.P.A. for the headaches you seem to suffer from.
@@kevinoconnor2921 nonsense. Some of them are louder than a Hemi without a muffler.
Helmets are designed to protect your brain! Therefore, it would be stupid to use something to protect something you don't have.
I have never owned one but I like HD riders and bikes. The machines usually need some maintenance and owners always like to change things up a bit when nothing else is needed. I wave at all of them when I am on my sportbike, enduros, or even my moped. They may be my next customer! I don't care what you ride, just love to see others riding.
Watch the South Park episode called The F Word and you'll understand why people hate Harley riders
In over 45 years of riding it's a little hard not to notice that some , no all but some newer riders have a real bad case of I am better than you. I will tell you this I have been on almost every kind of motorcycle , big , small, Harley chopper , bobber you name it and I am not a prick about it. I worked at a Harley Parts Warehouse in California. Newer Harley's do nothing for me at all but I love 1970's Shovelheads and own two. I have way more respect for older riders and older H-D's. Show some respect for old school riders.
I agree 100%. I've been riding for about the same amount of time and have the same experience. I've been riding my 52 year old chopper for 38 years.
I respect and wave to anyone on two wheels even scooters but that’s a different wave. 20yr Harley rider love the culture and sounds of Harley Davidson respect others and yourself don’t drink and ride. Be safe and enjoy the wind.
Just to speak to the gear issue: I ride a RG while wearing a bright blue icon jacket, full face helmet, gloves, pants, and riding shoes. I believe everyone should. At the same time, I believe IT IS YOUR RIGHT not to wear the gear, no matter what type of bike you are on. It is also my right to call you an idiot for not wearing it. If a person wants to self delete, who am I to say they can't.
To your other points. I have a blacked out bike so I don't have to polish it (too much sh!t and sh!ne in military). I don't mind the revs, but hate when stereos are at full volume. Finally, we all like a beer, but are our lives so horrible that we have drink and ride?
Enjoyed the video. Keep up the great work.
A couple comments: 1) The wave - I wave at other riders as a prayer that each of us has a safe ride. I don’t take it personally when someone doesn’t return it. 2) Cleaning - I’m a serial bug killer. I kill bugs, clean them off and then kill more. I do a cursory wipe down if there’s any dust or the previous ride had rain. Keep up the good work, Howard!!
Thanks brother
Last time i road my bike it took both hands and both feet to operate, i can drive a car with one hand and one foot which do you think requires more focus and concentration
Sometimes I wear a helmet, sometimes I don't, but I think it's silly for ppl to get upset about what other people wear. People who wear full track gear to go down to the strip mall to sip coffee for instance...lmfao. I like clean bikes, but I don't like doing the cleaning..:/ If I go to the garage to see my bike, it's usually to ride. I also have a really long dirt driveway too, so, as soon as I leave, it's already dirty right off the bat anyway :/ :/ and yes, everyone revs their engines...admittedly, sometimes it's just to make sure the bike stays running haha.
People who don't wear helmets and protective gear has more likely to be seriously injured or even die, that's give the reson to Insurance companies race insurance premiums for everyone so think about that too!
Cleaning my bike. I think it’s a good way to thoroughly go over everything on your bike. And a great way for some thinking time. Let’s ride !
You're right, other riders do some of the negative things you mentioned but it's mostly HD riders that do it. That's why they have that reputation 😂
#1 issue why folks get aggravated with HD riders is EXCESSIVE LOUD PIPES.. not all but far to many think everyone loves the sound...NOT
Been riding since 1974 . As a Harley rider i really don't care what people think. And yes i wave at all bikers.
I rev my carbureted Harley when it’s cold, because it needs to, but when it stabilizes it is kinda stupid to keep doing that and I doing wave to anyone because here where I live there are thousands of motorcycles all the time, but I understand that there aren’t a lot of motorcycles in the US.
I have a Harley and imports. I used to find it confusing to remember when to be a jerk, and when to be friendly depending on which bike I was on, so I just decided to wave no matter what.
I hate seeing bikes with strange shaped handlebars, simply because I've been down quite a few times, and know how bad the bike or car/vehicle can wound a person, I've had my hand impaled by a brake lever when I was run off the road into the grass. I've got three Harleys, a triumph, and I enjoy riding, regardless of the brand. I've always given the wave, and I've long given the wave to anyone on two wheels. "Keep riding and enjoy the day" is definitely the way to enjoy life. My daughter leans hard on me to quit riding because she's afraid I'll get hit and hurt. You either enjoy the ride, or just the pose, in my not very humble opinion. I built my last "chop" in 96, had a fine paint job for the first couple years, but it doesn't look anything like it did in this day and age. I started riding back in the sixties, riding just isn't the same in this day and age.
Triumph rider. I do not mind the loud v-twin noise. What I get annoyed by (and it’s big cruisers not necessarily Harleys) is the blaring music from some of the bigger bike speakers. I find it both obnoxious and distracting. You get better sound (and are safer) if you wear a helmet with speakers inside.
ya but then they wont get the attention Hd riders crave.
Anyone listening to music in their helmet is a fool and a risk to themselves and other road users … 🤡😵💀
Harley riders feel the freedom of the ride! Do we always wave at oncoming bikers? Not always, but there's a reason why. Most of it is traffic, or what's going on up ahead. It doesn't mean we are stuck up, no that's not it. You're riding on a 1000 pound bike and sometimes even a wave can put you in dire straights! I've seen too many accidents because someone isn't paying attention. Most everyone waves when it's safe to do so, nobody wants to wreck their scooter and end up in the Horsepistol!? Lol! It reminds me of when I drove Semi Truck and Trailer! All Semi Drivers wave to other Semi Drivers, and 10 wheeler drivers wave to other 10 wheeler drivers, and nobody waves to bobtail drivers!! Lmfao!!!!! Drive Safe Everyone, and Stop Texting!!
"That lovely sound"...says it all right there. Everyone loves to hear a loud V-Twin roar everywhere. Sure, in your mind they do.
Thing is about your 1st segment. To us Harley riders, we don't care what you wear or don't wear.
Good video, and I agree on most points. I don't like the whole biker bar scene, when I'm riding I don't really drink, at most I will have a beer with dinner and that is it. I got the Indian Challenger Dark Horse in matte paint and blacked out pipes just because I hate cleaning and polishing the bike. I'd rather be riding than polishing.
Thats a sweet bike my buddy has one and had the engine built! Just to heavy for me.
What stuns me is the price you'd pay for a Harley and what you actually get for your money. Way overpriced, marginal performance, dependability issues, etc.
What concerns me most when riding is people head deep in their smartphones. Can't tell you how many times, I had to come to a complete stop pulling over because a cager had drifted into my lane coming from the opposite direction especially in the twisty mountain roads. Be safe out there.
Can't tell you how many times my life was interrupted by a loud ass Harley, with a guy on it that thought he was cool.......
South Park nailed the " harley fa..
Harley is the " bud light " of bikes
that episode was hilarious !
Glad you did this review. I broke my back in Afghanistan and riding sucks some times. And the seats gotta go. Heard this is the ticker. It was worried if it was a waste of cash.
Great video and very good comments regarding HD riders. Like you I fit some of them but not all, I wear a full face helmet, gloves and a protective jacket when riding my Street Glide, if it's just around town I may just wear my leather vest but always full-face helmet and gloves. I don't do the biker bar scene, I will not drink and drive, but that's just me. I work in healthcare and have seen firsthand the trauma from motorcycle accidents.
I agree with the info of the vid. I think you are correct with everything you’ve said. I hope this reaches everyone on 2 wheels. That is my opinion. I’m a first time new Harley rider/owner. It’s good info for me and should be for everyone who rides. Thanks for the vid.
Hate seeing riders not wearing helmets. I always wear a helmet especially since my daughter came into this world. doesn't matter how good of rider you are you can't control the person in the car next to you. I do see a lot of riders not wearing helmets probably 90% of those being Harleys. In my opinion, especially if you have a family, not wearing a helmet is one of the most selfish things you can do. Riding is a dangerous hobby, and I love riding as it helps me clear my head, but I'm also going to make sure I take the precautions to make it back to my family in one piece or at least alive in the worst scenario of a crash.
Harley riders in Australia mainly only wear useless brain bucket helmets, because helmets are required by law. Crazy how helmets aren’t mandatory in the USA. It’s also crazy to not wear a full faced helmet. I have a friend who rides a Harley and has suffered for years wearing a brain bucket helmet just because of the image. I just tease him about it now … 😂
On gear: I have owned four Harleys, and put a ton of miles on them. My last one, a Wide Glide, I bought last March 2nd. March 3rd, I was rear ended by an SUV driven by an 89 year old lady. I was tossed out into the intersection and into traffic. I was very happy that I was wearing a helmet, gloves and my leather. I still got a fractured T6 vertebra and a bit of road rash, and this was a slow speed accident. Me? I like to wear some protection.
If I'm holding the clutch and can't wave I usually do a head nod, but I have to admit more often than not I see Harley riders without a helmet wearing flip-flops completely ignore me. But I also am a ridiculous man with a big fluffy floppy eared helmet cover.
The glory of riding my iron horse. Stay well and vigilant. Taken my beatings luckily had chances to heal.. Healin hurts.💯🇺🇸😎🌪🌎
I ride a Harley Davidson, for 40 years, now. I used to ride a Honda. Both are fine bikes. I don’t drink. I have ridden to rallies, years ago. I ride alone and don’t ride to rallies anymore. I enjoy the ride. Sometimes I wave. Sometimes my hands are occupied. NOBODY gives a s#;t, NOBODY. I ride when it suits me, where it suits me. I still enjoy eating at mom and pop restaurants, rather than franchise fast food places. Thanks, from…east Tennessee.
I had a harley rider visibly whip his head away so he could pretend like he didn't see me wave the other day
Harley rider here - I I give exactly zero craps what anyone thinks of me. Let them go to their safe space and cry it out.
Right on, brother
Nothing says individual like dressing the same as everyone else
Right. Youre gonna regret not wearing a helmet when an accident happens. Ouch
The funniest thing I have done with a group of old timer Harley riders coming the other way they saw me I nodded they looked but ignored me and did nothing so I shook may head as tho I was disappointed and to a man they all reacted….. it was so funny.
But in saying all that if you happen to pull up at the same stop they are all great guys. We do need to keep that in mind.
I always tell new riders “If riding isn’t fun enough without drinking then riding isn’t for you “
First off, who gives a fuck what anyone else thinks. It's no one's business what another rider does. Wear what you want to wear. Mind your own business! We ALL know the risk.
I meet a Gold Wing and its owner once. All the Honda / Gold Wing emblems had been removed and replaced with HD emblems. As I walk around the bike its owner comes over and introduces himself, "Jim Davidson, Like my Honda / Davidson?" Yep. Oh, I was riding a KZ-1000 at the time.
Last Summer I was riding the Cascade Loop on my Electra Glide and stopped in Marblemount for gas before heading over the pass. I was pumping my fuel when a guy on a brand new Street Glide rolled up with Freebird cranked to 11, no shirt, buttless speedo, flip-flops, and a helmet that was so tiny I thought he was a rabbi, like it hardly covered the top of his head. He was sunburned like crazy as well. Ironically, his wife was dressed very safely, boots, jeans, leather jacket and full face helmet. All I could think is, “what an idiot.”
I’m a Harley rider from California. I actually feel that people respect me as I pull up to a stop or a restaurant or coffee shop. I get a smile or a wave. But I also don’t rev or do any other obnoxious things that some of the riders do. I try to be respectful to everyone and wave back or acknowledge anyone who makes an effort. Especially when they move over as l lane split (yes that is legal here). We do have helmet laws here in Cali. But even before the law I used to wear a helmet. We have very bad traffic here in the Bay Area. And now with all the distracted drivers with cell phones, we all have to be more vigilant especially if you have a passenger. These days I usually only ride with my wife. Helmets also allow us to talk on the intercom in addition to providing safety and some wind protection. I think being a courteous rider goes a long away in setting a good impression for us Harley riders. Crotch rockets? That is a different story. 😀
I've been riding for 51yrs this year, the last 40 on Harleys, and to the best of my knowledge, no one has ever hated me or shown any animosity toward me for doing it.
I wave at anyone on two wheels with an engine, because if they're brave enough to get on the road with it, they have my respect.
And throttle blipping, within reason, is necessary on older, carbed Harleys, because at idle, the carb loads up, and can spit and die out when you try to take off.
There's absolutely no need for it on newer, fuel injected engines.
Good video, ride safe👍
Me and some guys were discussing the situation now days. How many of these people would be riding if they didn't have electric starts ? Then again how many of these people even know how to wrench their bikes if something breaks. Those old Harleys would take themselves apart right in front of you. To this day I still carry a shithouse load of tools. I just don't feel right without them even though they don't build Harleys like they used to. Thank God for that.
@@stephenchota6396
My brother in law rode a new StreetGlide a coupla years ago, and I let him ride my '72.
He said if that was all he had to ride, he wouldn't ride.👍
@@rarebreed920872 sportster or 72?
I've been riding for many decades and wear ATTGATT, not necessarily because I'm worried I may make a mistake, but tI do worry about the idiots on the road with me.
I've been in the biker MC/ Harley- community for well enough 30 years now and to be frank, during all these years if there would have been any troubles like fights and such my experience is that it had always included at least one Harley-rider. Especially this later years when i've witness so many "dudelidudes" who bought the full monty of becoming a gang-member/brother. Bike, clothes, tats, made up life story, and most of all, -attitude. Dedicated fools with low self esteem. These guys often don't hang around for long. Either loudmouths who manage to erase themselfes or they put themselfes in situations where they upset someone else enough to shut them down. But what i've summoned up during these years is that they seldom show up on a Suzuki.
Ok. I will open this comment with a positive. Good video. You're well spoken, and to the point. You're video isn't to long and you keep to the topic.
When I lived in America I rode a kawasaki KZ 1000 cop bike. I loved it. Great bike and literally bulletproof.
The wave.....ultimately it's annoying because it isn't always possible. And you as a rider feel obligated to do it.
Riding gear, i agree with you. Personal preference.
Reving your bike. Yep....they all suck that do it. Can you say "I want everyone to know how much I want attention". It sounds good to you but not everyone else. Oh and by the way...harleys don't sound incredible when they rev. They are obnoxiously loud and annoying.
Polishing your bike. Good for you. Myself I like a bit of road grime. It shows that I ride and I ride a lot.
The biker bar......no comment.....to each his own.
Now, what you call scooters. I no longer live in the USA and I will asume you have never been outside of the US borders.
When in the US I rode a kawasakk KZ 1000. But where I live now I ride something very different. By bike is a honda wave 110cc fuel injected 4 speed semiautomatic.
Wether you like it or not it is a full fledged motorcycle. In your words.....a frame, 2 wheels, and an engine with chain drive........Motorcycle.
I ride EVERYDAY under the most extreme conditions possible. There are no rules. Every single ride no matter how short or long is a true battle in the extreme. Anything can happen at anytime. Your senses need to be hyperaware always. It's not a matter of if but a matter of when you will get into an accident. Because it will happen, so here if you don't wear proper gear you're just an idiot.
Not including my experience in the US. My 4 to 5 years experience here in southeast asia has made me a better rider than 99% of americans with your awesome traffic conditions. I have more hours on a bike than most Americans ever will, in extreme conditions that MOST Americans will never experience.
Now......why do I hate harley riders? Because no matter what......you all think that you're BETTER than all other motorcycle riders. You secretly look down on anyone that doesn't ride a harley. You think that all other bikes pale in comparison to your precious harleys.
When in reality.....the company Harley Davidson is dying. Other bike manufacturers will definitely outlive them.
UL rider here, I choose to ride a Harley by virtue of the fact that it’s the best fit for me. The ultra limited is a very expensive bike and is the flagship of the Harley line so I’m proud of ownership. I keep my bike clean and polished for that very reason. How many of us have seen people on sport bikes who are virtually naked wearing beachsandals and shorts.
I’ve owned two Hayabusas and noticed Harley riders waved at me numerous times. Kinda thought it was weird as it’s a sport bike. Was at the HD shop riding with 4 friends all on Road Kings and the shop employees all came out and was asking questions about the Busa. Just told them I ride in back on flat land and once the mountains arrive I’ll move to the front. Don’t like heavy less braking capable bikes riding behind me.
when a Harley rider doesn’t wave it makes them look like a douche and perpetuates their douchey image. It’s like seeing your neighbor outside, them waving hello and you just blatantly ignoring them. I’ve never had any other bike besides a Harley not wave or at least give the nod when they’re shifting or something and can’t wave.
Very little waving in Australia. Mostly because on the other side of the road. Brake hand is on the lever and no fingers available. Not that common here. Please correct me if I'm wrong.
Ride in NZ on LHS, most people wave with left hand
Plenty of us nod our heads, but rarely do old guys on Harleys or Adventure bikes. I find them comical … 😂 p.s. The right hand is on the throttle, so obviously can’t let go to wave. The brake lever has nothing to do with it unless you’re riding hard through the twisties …
I don’t take a wave or no wave personally. The only group that consistently doesn’t wave are the fully geared up adventure bike riders.
I've owned three Sportsters, and just never got the whole Harley thing. I did find out that if you could chrome it, leather-fringe it, stud it, put an eagle on it, or middle-finger it, Harley and the aftermarket will sell it, and fools will buy it. So my go to question now is, "if Harley made a plane, would YOU fly in it?!" And another one about helmets: what's the difference between wearing a full-face helmet and no helmet at all? An open or closed-casket funeral...
I think it's the noise. There's a Harley rider goes along my street often and you can feel the noise, I have a child, just had the bar across the street that was under new management sent cease and desist for the noise blasting out from live bands with drums and powerful amps that were beyond even reasonable daytime noise- after 11 regularly, the only thing louder is the Harley rider, been to quieter concerts, I am already sensitive to loud noise and yearn for better urban design that encourages more people or if their cars for everyday stuff. I'm ok with the odd bit of intermittent noise or an occasional party, essential services in heavy vehicles or people having the odd bit of fun, but loud is constant due to cage-dependent design.
I like motorcycles, I rode one and it was great fun, but the noise doesn't need to be loud, I'd love an electric motorcycle that allowed me that sensation of flying while hearing nothing but wind, tyres and my, make me more engaged with where I am and what I'm doing than the roar of an engine! But people who modify their bikes to be louder are just obnoxious, I like the sound of a motorbike when I'm in the mood, but I don't want to hear a modified bike splitting my ears multiple times a day late at night and, unfortunately, a lot of Harley's seem to do this, I don't hate Harley riders, just loud bikes on inappropriate places at inappropriate times, just unfortunate that there are bad apples spoiling the bunch. I don't own a car or a motorcycle and I'm not jealous of those who do- I like walking and riding my pedal bike around town and the transit here allows me to do most tasks, or I can get help from someone with a vehicle, rent one or get deliveries or taxis with the money I save when I really need to or want, I'm too busy with my son to go road trips on a bike and don't need a vehicle for anything else, it's not that I couldn't afford it, just an unnecessary expense as for daily tasks in an urban area, it just kinda sucks dealing with traffic, so I'm not able to enjoy it, this I don't do it! You do you, as long as it isn't disturbing the peace or making the street dangerous for my child, freedom is great, but your freedom to swing your fist ends where my face begins!
A lot of wisdom here.
And a nice calm delivery.
I usually wave to every bike. Sometimes Honda or other bikes like that are surprised that I wave and it looks like they might crash lol. If I don’t get a wave back, eh…no big deal. Been sober for almost 29 years I’m not a big fan of sitting in the bars but I’ll go in if it’s time to eat. I’m glad I found your site. Good stuff.
I ride BMW, Yamaha, Kawasaki. Not a fan of Harley or Harley riders. Yes, making a broad generalization here, but overall, I dislike the Harley culture. It’s a a clique . It’s like back in high school again or maybe college frat. You’re one of us, or you’re not. Harley logo on everything, clothes, back of truck, etc. The whole image that Harley riders keep pushing. And yes, I also wait before I throw down the wave when I see Harleys coming because I know when another rider passes by me and doesn’t return the wave, it’s always a guy on a Harley cruiser. Sport bike riders, ADV riders, classic motorcycles…always wave back. And don’t get me started on “Loud pipes save lives” and shit like that. How hateful is everyone in town when they’re enjoying a Sunday with their families, walking around, sitting an an outdoor cafe/restaurant enjoying food and conversation, when some guys on Harleys roll through with old pipes and raving the engines. I could go and on.
Agree, always dress for the slide not the ride. Helmet yes i wear one mainly to hold my face shield on, as I hate windshields on a Bike. I am fully aware that my Helmet will likely break my neck with the strap, if I'm in an accident. Mandating by State Law sucks....Let those that Ride decide.
I started with a 50cc moped. 150cc racing scooter. 750cc shadow. Vulcan 900. And this Friday, I'll officially be picking up my 2010 Heritage Softail and couldn't be happier 🤘
When are you gonna get a real bike … 😂
@@ma3stro681 I did 😂 The new(ish) Harley softails out in the garage now
Full face helmet , 5X Joe rocket full armor jacket , 5x alpine stars full armored gloves. 90 degrees and NY humidity .
02 UltraClassic without tour pack.
I wave at everyone even scooters , bicycles , tractors , walkers.
Don’t rev or throttle blip .
Full Vance and Hines I try to
Be polite where I can but open areas let her breathe .
Never had any issue with anyone quite the contrary.
Wash bike every month ish lol
Don’t drink anymore thank goodness don’t ride to bars events etc just get on with no phone and ride til it all falls away behind you and it’s you and the machine.
Appreciate your work on bikes and pistol genre .
If I could only mount a holster on left side of tank openly ….. in NY not much chance of that lol