I own both, a Honda Transalp and a FLHP Harley. The Honda is a pain in the ass to work on, I love my HD, easy to service and no problems. Only made 1000 km on my Honda this year because of electronic problems but 10000 km on my HD.
I have always owned Hondas I think they are superior over Harley having one Harley was enough not to buy another one they sound good but they are clumsy underpowered for their size and weight that's just my opinion the only thing they got going for them they look nice but I prefer performance and reliability and now the Cruisers look just as nice as the Harley's
It's great that you found a bike for your needs. A google search and a few studies later, Harley consistently shows a failure rate more than double the Japanese companies. Your experience is somewhat unique in the overall picture of brand reliability.
You pretty much have to change a lot of Harley to make them dependable. Many goldwings go 300.000 miles with out a motor failure Harley 100.000 I have one of each. I do like the seating position better on a Harley.
The biggest problem with Harley reliability is the owner that “makes it their own” with engine modifications that add heat to an air cooled bike. I went stage 4 on my last bike and ruined it for anything but a bar hopper. I left my 2017 Road Glide Ultra bone stock and it is bulletproof. It has 50k miles and I haven’t spent one dime on repairs - just normal maintenance and comfort items.
And, they perform the same mods (as l did) to augment the hp and torque of their motorcycle. All of which, as you stated, no doubt affects the long term reliability of said motorcycles... If you want touring comfort for long haul go for HD. If performance is a going concern opt for sport tourers such as Yamaha FJR, Kawasaki Concours or BMW K1600...
Emil George wrong! I bought a brand new 2018 Road King Special and since it was new I kept an eye on fluids through the break in period and guess what? At 480 miles on the clock my transmission fluid wasn’t showing on the dipstick. Guess where it went? Into the primary! 11 ounces had transferred to the primary. Took it to the dealer and they just changed all the fluids again to make sure they were at proper level. Told me to bring it back again after 1000 miles. At 500 additional miles which put the bike at 980 miles at this point, guess what the transmission was empty again. The dealer picked up the bike from my home and took several days for the to look at it. Guess what? Still they didn’t fix it. Just changed fluids again and said they’re waiting to hear back from the MOCO on what a fix would be. I kept getting the run around for months. So I finally got rid of it. Mine wasn’t a fluke, went on the Harley Davidson forums and there was a lot of people experiencing the same problem and other oil dumping problems. Harley’s bandaid fix now for this is drilling a hole to make a vent in either the primary or the transmission. Guess what the 2019 bikes are still having the problem. Not everyone of them but enough of them to stop people from buying new bikes. No wonder Harley sales have gone down and Indian sales have gone up! I don’t like the looks of Indian so I bought a 2019 goldwing tour dct. The goldwing is faster, lighter handles unbelievably well. I like Harley for there looks, fit and finish, but that doesn’t help me since I like to put down a lot of miles. Harley touring bikes are just becoming bar hoppers now.
In my relatively short time riding , compared to the geezer crowd that has been around a while, Harley"s reputation for being unreliable stemmed from the chopper movement? Seems that Harley, Honda, etc.. are pretty damn good these days. Ride what you like. I'm not a brand snob.
It was when Harley was owned by AMF that they were at their worst. AMF Harleys suffered from terrible reliability at a time when the Japanese bikes were just starting to come into their own, and that nearly killed the brand.
I'm from Brazil and I have to clarify that our police dont use Harley. You can search for ROCAM (that's our 2 wheels police) and verify the different models that are used here. Keep up with the awesome videos.
I owns 2 Honda’s a VTX 1800 and a CB1100 and they are absolutely bullet proof. Having said that Harley’s are pretty sweet. Would love to have one of the newer Heritage Softails. I rented one and they are very comfortable and nimble.
quomofo1 I rode 70s and 80s cb750 and 900 ur right I ran a hundred thousand miles on them with no problems and they still ran like new.i ride 09 rk now and love it also.
I have no issues with Harley bikes, but I can only speak to Honda reliability. 2005 VTX 1800R no repairs in 150K miles. Fact is, I have never had any repairs on any Honda or Kawasaki I've owned over the last 49 years.
I always wanted a HD road king, back then (2001) you had to order one and wait a year or so to get it. When dealer called that bike is in, wife and kids went all together to get it, I was exited to see it, long wait was over, I was the owner of a beautiful, black RK with aftermarket slip-ons. Life was good at first, it was amazing, powerful, handled well, did I say, it looked great? After 4k miles, while parked in the garage, there was a small puddle of oil underneath it (brought back dreadful AMF harleys to mind). I took it to the dealer, they said it had a bad seal between primary and starter if I recall right, it was fixed under warranty and all was good again till 10k miles, same thing. Dealer fixed it again under warranty but at 20k (after warranty expired) and on a long trip, same leak in the same spot. This time it cost me $350 to fix it. Motor also burned quite a bit of oil, 2.5 quarts in 5k miles seemed to be the norm for my bike. I was very disappointed in HD and problems I had. After the trip, bike was sold, bought a Honda ST and NEVER looked back. Honda never leaked or burned any oil between oil changes. It came with a 3 year unlimited warranty plus for $400 I got additional 4 years factory warranty, that's 7 years, unlimited mileage warranty, how good was that? In that seven years I did 130k miles and NEVER had to use warranty, EVER. Is this reliable enough, I'd say so. I'm still riding my ST today, great, great bikes, reliability, quality, plenty fast and great for touring.
I'm sure there are thousands of stories like your. As I said in the video, my experience with Honda Ace tourers used in police duty was pretty bad. All 3 were using a quart of oil every 300 miles and they spent more time in the shop than on the road. I've owned 18 Harleys and 5 Honda's since 1998 and never had a problem with any of them.
I have been owned few of H-D touring bikes. I do like H-D police bikes. Not only comes with very comfortable seat, bikes does equipped with “FAN ASSIST” oil cooler (riders can purchase through P/A) and also heated grips (started 2019 model) as standard. Most importantly 2020 police bikes FLHR and FLHTP equipping RDRS at no additional cost. I just ordered my self a brand new 2020 FLHTP. I can not wait. Ride safe 👍🏼
Not sure if you remember David out at the garage or not, but he’s still riding one of the old Honda’s to work everyday from Dade City! Looks like hell, but he still runs it! Now that we got rid of the motor unit and the Victory motorcycles we had, David is the closest thing to a motor deputy!
Geo Airday I know Berts Black Widow HD in Port Charlotte, FL works on all Harleys, yes even the old ones 👍. Must depend on dealer, but yes I have heard most will not work on older harleys which is stupid imo.
I think the state police where i live use BMW, but the city of Detroit just went to Harley. The local dealership i use had 50 police Harleys they were getting ready to go into service. Pretty cool.
Excellent video. Metric bikes are great and cheaper too. But like you said Harley’s are the best heavy cruisers on the market today and better quality as well. I owned just as many metrics as Harley’s. The sound feel and quality are second to none.
I agree. We had both the Honda's and the Harleys serviced by the dealers every 3K miles. The Honda's were worn out by 30K of use in police service. Under normal civilian use the Honda would be just fine for many miles. But, over load them as we did and ride them hard, and they didn't fair very well. The Harley's are built like a tank and didn't have any problems in severe duty.
@@motorman857 .....mmm, not our experience....Honda the police bike of choice here for years until recently and kept to 100k miles/10 years. We run a fleet of 5 Honda's some now with 6-figure mileage. ...
I think it's worth noting that the additional gear that those Hondas were saddled with probably put the motorcycle over or near the manufacturer recommended capacity. Most motorcycles don't allow much extra capacity.
I have owned all brands and kind of bikes in my 40 plus years of riding. I currently own and ride a Harley. It is not brand new and just turned 40 thousand miles on it. I love my Harley and it is probably my favorite. That being said it is not the most reliable bike i have ever owned. I am 100 percent positive that Hondas in general are the most reliable with Yamaha. Suzuki and Kawasaki all coming in ahead in reliability. I am not that informed on the European bikes. All I know about them are they are expressive to fix and the parts are high and harder to find. The Harley has had its share of issues already. Top end rebuild due to leaking base gaskets, cam bearing had to be replaced at 33 thousand miles, wheel spokes came loose and odds and ends vibrating loose lol. I still love her though. But to be honest if I had to do a cross country ride I would have to think about it long and hard.
I had to use a towing service by a local owner. The driver told me that 90% of all of his bike towing are HD. Electrical and mechanical. Small amount would be tire related. That is a main reason for me to own Honda GW. No if's and but's !!!!!!
I've always been a huge Brit bike enthusiast and never had much of a thing for Harleys. But I've ridden a few and the one thing that is truly delightful is the ultra low rpm grunt. I love that easy relaxed feel of the motor just burbling along without a care.
I actually had good luck with my AMF H-D's , 71 FX and 77 FLH , people trash AMF , but truth is , if AMF had not invested in H-D , they would have gone under .. My two EVO Tour Glides you ask ?? The 84 went 225000 trouble free miles in four years , only re ringed the pistons , and the 88 went 342000 miles , one top end re build , my 08 Road Glide was a good bike but could never get it sorted in the handling department , so I traded it in March 11 for a 11 RGU , just turned 75000 last week , fixing to go in and check the cam tensioners and repalce the cam bearings and lifters ... Cops here got rid of the HD's a few years ago and got Vics , wasnt long after they got them that Vic went under ..
To correct you, Honda is the best motorcycle seller world wide. And other countries use BMW, Honda, and Kawasaki as police bikes due to their performance and reliability.
Exactly I live in the UK and currently own my fifth harley I love harleys and would not entertain anything else in my book the only bike is a Harley but in the UK we pay a premium to own one worth every penny my only regret is not being born in America God bless America best regards from the UK
@@alanlevesque7180 I would love too but I am retired now and my dream was one day to visit America I have been for a very long time an American in my heart thank you for your kind reply God bless you my friend God bless America regards Alan.
Back about 1979, a Harley sales guy at Laidlaw’s in LA area, expressing aggravation about government bureaucracy, told me that police agencies had to purchase bikes at lowest bid, and Kawasakis were about $200 cheaper. Fair enough, but they couldn’t take into account the fact that when taken out of service the Harleys sold for $2,000 more than Kawasakis, because a different agency handled it.
I really want a Harley, either the road king or the ultra limited. I’m riding the Springfield now by Indian and over 45000 km later this bike is unreal riding and reliability. I love the Harley “coolness” though and popularity. Might ride another season with my Springfield then may make the switch and hope I’m not disappointed because I’m happy now but can’t get rid of the thought of finally owning a Harley. Test rides don’t really tell the tale. It was after about 5k km that I realized what an amazing cruiser my Springfield is. Comments from HD riders would help - thanks 🙏
I rode every Indian model while making the Ride Like a Pro on Your Indian video. They are fine motorcycles no doubt. Their low speed maneuverability is not as good as the Harley touring models. That is a concern for me, but may not be for others. That fact, and the fact that Indians dealer network is not nearly as large as Harleys dealer network, and the way Polaris shut down Victory with no warning despite the fact that they had billions invested in Victory, makes me Leary enough to not buy an Indian in the near future since they could shut down production on that brand as well, should profits fall.
The BMW R1200 is used exclusively in Hawaii and I can tell you it is a Motor Officer’s dream! Fast, nimble as a Minx chasing a rabbit, very rider friendly!
Tupelo had them for a bit now, the Harley didnt hang around for them after 5 years. The BMW they got are quick but they can get them around a bit easier I guess.
When I have been fortunate to travel, in places like Europe or Asia the motorbikes I see used by cops are the BMW's (Europe) and a metric version when in Asia.
H-D maybe the police bike of choice in the U.S. but Italy, France, and the UK are using the Yamaha FJR1300P and a BMW R1200RT-P models. Even the last CHiPs movie used BMW's. I've seen Yamaha Tenere's used by the forest service for emergency response work. LAPD now has Zero electric bikes which are used mainly for traffic control services. I don't believe H-D has a lock on police work around the world.
They may not have a lock on the police market around the world but the fact that other country's around the world use them when they can have other police bikes at half the price, ya gotta wonder.
@@motorman857 Our EMS unit has an ATV and we tried an ADV bike. It was discontinued because the insurance was almost as much as an ambulance. It worked fine for getting out to rural and farm areas ahead of the unit. Insurance and training costs appear to limit the utilization of 2 wheeled first response applications.
@@motorman857 Yep... you point exactly your mistake. It's pretty common were you live to think that planet starts at Atlantiс and finish at Pacific ocean. Well... it's not. And HD are very... I mean VERY local brand (including police versions). You are great trainer but... (by the way sorry for my English, it's better than your Russian or Kazakh anyway) you close minded a bit. It's ok.
I love motorcycle stability systems, I just bought a 20 Low Rider S and I wish it was available on that model. I ride a 2016 R1 on road racing track days, on that bike it's adjustable and it's so good that you can more or less dial in how far the rear tire will step out in a corner under hard acceleration and you can grab a handful of the throttle after the apex without getting into massive trouble. The rear tire will just drift out a little and stay right there. If you wan't it to step out more, you can dial back the TC. If you want to prevent it from stepping out at all, you can do that. That bike's stability system is so good that it has anti-lift on the front wheel, where you can more or less keep the front tire pegged to the ground OR dial in how high you want it to stop lifting after it lifts off the pavement. Kind of bummed I couldn't get in on my LRS.
How could anyone disagree with ya. You were speaking from your experience. Anyone who has to ride a motorcycle for 12hr days and has driven different bikes should know which ones works better for them. Thumbs up!
Thanks for the video, sir! I just bought a 2019 Heritage softail with the 114, and I absolutely love it! I rode Yamaha and Hondas for 30 years and finally stepped it up. Nothing like a Harley, my friend!
My first bike was an 08 nightster sporty i put over 65k on it no issues, just bought a 2016 street glide special in spring of 2019 with 423 miles on it. Put on just over 10k no problems yet... wishing winter was over here in Minnesota! Great video thank you.
Jerry your tips and tricks habe helped me become a actual rider instead of a danger to myself and others!! I have just been watching and trying to stay in the friction zone and rear brake trick and i can now somewhat slow speed manouver. Thank you for all you do brother you have tought me just through your simple videos on how to ride properly and turn and uturn properly and im still learning. I would have came to your classes but i live in Vancouver canada anyways thanks man keep up the good work jerry!!!!
Been riding a 2007 Street Glide for about 40 k and have had few problems with mine as long as I keep spending a couple thousand a year on maintenance. It is the most comfortable 2 up mc on the market and I look cool riding it.
Honestly I feel as if he is underestimating the Goldwing in terms of maneuverability. Or to say Honda's can't hold up as well for police cruisers when STs aren't completely uncommon police bikes and often have nearly 100k miles or more.
Thanks Jerry, nice guy putting out a riding video when it's 28 degrees out and blowing snow squalls in Ontario. I walked back to the shed and peeked at my Ultra, but that's about it for the next 5 months. Fabulous bike, great talk, keep them coming - for at least the next 5 months :)
I've owned harley and goldwings I've been a biker over 50 years give me a goldwing anytime over a harley. Nothing but expensive problems with the harley. The goldwings I've owned have been 100% reliable a rolls Royce compared to a tractor.
I do respect the Haeley,but I own a 2004 Honda VTX 1800.With over 300,85 thousand miles on it,and with an 8 ply cargo back tire,it is very reliable,super comfy,and extremely fast.Harley is good and I love and respect them,but I am sticking with Honda,which will out last a Harley.You ate a very good teacher and good man Mr. Jerry,and I love your Ride like a pro teachings.GOD ess you and your family,and business.
I have never thought about the extreme duty a MotoCop Bike goes thru. Just the other day I watch a beard and bikes video where they bought two used up police bikes and thrashed them. I was shocked at how durable they were and how good they were off road. Yeah that’s right, they took them off road. With street tires no less. I guarantee the ability of the police bike off road will blow your mind. The traction they were getting with street tires off road was nothing less than amazing. Harley is the classic Police bike, but I remember seeing some Kawasaki back in the day…wasn’t the show CHIPS with Kawasakis?
My first bike was a 02 Honda shadow ace. Fantastic bike to learn on. I still have it and still enjoy it for cruising around town. Very cool that the shadows were used by police departments. Great video as always.
Ever have an ADV go through one of your courses? I feel like they would be an excellent choice for a police bike in certain parts of the country. Sits up high for excellent visibility, capable on- or off-road, designed for carrying heavy loads (so no issues with over-stressing the suspension with the cop gear), and made for long hauls and simple maintenance in case they break down in BF, Egypt (that's a real city, right?).
Ya know it’s interesting seeing the evolution of the motor cop , I have a photo of two motor cops only wearing their police hat 👮♀️ while riding. How they went too a half helmet and now a 3/4 helmet. I knew a chip motor cop in the 80’s. I use ta dig those leather boots up to the knees !!!- Palm Springs went from Harley’s to bmw. I believe it was because of a heat (desert heat ) issue . Thanks for the ride and the education sir ; 🤠✊✊✊❤️👍🏻🙏🏻👌👋🏻
Any bike is reliable as you make it but let me describe my 1989 fltcu. It’s got 73000 miles and the brakes are shot but it stops where you want and the engine has vacuum leaks and bad gaskets but never fails to start and go whatever speed you need and give good economy too...of course I am addressing all the issue that it may give me 73000 more miles!
Maybe so, but they also didn't want to compete with themselves. It's just not a good business model. Victory was certainly gaining a foothold in the motorcycle industry, but the Indian name has been around forever. Are they the same company they used to be? No, they definitely are not. But the name is what people are buying. The choice was simple, purely from an economic standpoint.
Ya we'll alot of departments have dropped Harley over the last few years in favor of import bikes because of the cost of maintenance. We now use BMW in my city.
Love your videos Jerry. I'm the proud owner of a retired FLHTP (birch white/vivid black). It was love at first sight. I took the RLAP class last year with your trainers in Michigan City, IN. That was an amazing class. Great guys to learn from. Best investment someone could make in their rider skills and safety.
Great video Jerry. I like the way you shared about Goldwing being in a different category, because they are not crusier, I have one with 153,000 miles on it, not police work though. Your wife, she makes it look effortless. Proper technique and practice is the key. Please keep your videos coming.
I have a friend in Clearwater that is a retired orthopedic surgeon told us that actually the tripod stance, where you lean forward with some weight on the handlebars are the best way to ride for your back, because it relieves some of the shock that your back takes when you ride especially a Harley. It's been my experience that a Harleys just shake and beat you to death. The police version of harleys may be different.
Your friend is right. I ride a 1978 Moto Guzzi Le Mans with clip ons and my forearms take the shock and weight. People say it looks uncomfortable but it’s not.
I do appreciate the tips you give here and other videos'. My only problem is that I have two stuffed shoulders, now both have been replaced, and I live down under in Australia. Yeh, I can still learn the 3 rules you teach but the only main prob I have left, I'm not real sure my shoulders will stand up to the extra weight of a dresser. An FXDWG, maybe a Road King, and maybe a Fat Bob, set up to my liking of course for the last 3 bikes. I've had mainly Wide Glides, Evo's, and a Full dresser, (Sold the Dresser and went back to a Wide Glide). It's still a great course to have and teaching myself those 3 main techniques, I'm sure my riding the 3 bikes that I mentioned, I'm going to get it down to being second nature. Thanks heaps for all your tips and tricks. and maybe, only maybe, If I can talk one of my mates into letting me test ride his dresser for a few days I'd like to throw that around like your wife does. I'm 5' 7" so with the right seat, it will all come together, Cheers, Teddy.
I'd suggest a 2018 or later Heritage if your concerned about weight. They have a very low seat height, are easy to handle and very capable for long distance riding.
Great discussion! Thank you 😊. That’s my favorite ride area. When you came to Shoal line off of 595 how come you did not take a left on shoal line and make the ride out to bayport and pine island??? Thanks for your videos
Noop, the Suzuki Hayabusa 1340cc is the best bike engine. Talked to a older guy some while ago who always was shaking even if he was sitting down and resting. Asked why and he answered, that damn Harley. 😊 (A joke). Regards from Scandinavia and thanks for Greta.
If you look at actual repair statistics instead of anecdotes from Harley buffs...Yamaha has the best repair rate, with Honda a close second. Harleys are almost 3 times as likely to suffer a break down (BMWs aren't much better). All of the Japanese bikes are much more reliable than a Harley. If you want a Harley you get a Harley. Just make sure you have the patience and money to fix it. Or just don't ride it much like most Harley riders.
I wanta say I'm so offend, comparing Honda to Harley, not offended at all. Honda CBR500r is my first bike, I'm told a 40 year old shouldnt be getting a sports bike for their first, then they see me setting up right like a cruiser doing things ppl on cruisers cant do around here. Love my weak sports bike for my first bike, cruisers just didnt fit me or feel right setting on them
Yes I've owned a 2008 Triumph T100 and a 2014 Bonneville. Both were great mid size bikes and lots of fun to ride on short trips. I've also ridden the Rocket. I didn't like that one very much.
I own a 2018 Triumph Bobber Black...it has ride-by-wire, abs, traction control, riding modes, cruise control, dual front Brembo brakes, liquid cool...and it's under $15K out the door...try to get the specs for a Harley and it'll cost north of $20K.
@@motorman857 I guess you didn't even look up what a Bobber means...it's solo seat kind of motorcycle..Harley has many solo seat motorcycles as well (low rider S for example)...same style, but HD Low Rider S is over $20K out the door.
No. I understand that Indian has no intentions of entering the police market though. I have ridden Yamaha's and Kawasaki's water cooled touring bikes a few years ago which are similar to Indians new design.
Thanks Jerry, with all the current Harley bashing going on this month it makes me feel a little better, not that I was too down about it. Heck, I have a flippin' Harley! Is that a low-profile seat? Have you ever seen police use Love Jugs or a similar product to give the engine extra cooling? Do they work? Great vid.
How Dare You! 2004 Goldwing with 204k miles. HD and Honda...both good bikes...HD seems to attract the good look'in women. Not so with the GW. Hence, the price premium for HD
Agreed! Your clutch and rear brake are your friend for those low speed maneuvers. Stay off that front brake unless your handlebars are straight and look where you want the bike to go. It really works.
Double thumbs up, Carlos! Have a blast riding and be safe! Number one tip I can give for the actual road are give others lots of space and look several seconds ahead. I’ve been riding several years and I still now and then find the high school parking lot and work on my turning and braking for a few minutes! Have fun!
Harley Police Bikes are fine for city work, but for high speed highway use the BMW or Hondas are the ticket. The last time I checked the ST1300 is still in the Honda M/C line up as current model. They haven't changed it except for color for years. I had an 2005 ST for years the best all around bike I ever owned and I have had bunch including three Harleys.
I've owned both Harley and Honda Sorry my preference is defiantly a Honda. now that Harley is made in Indonesia that is a game changer. Plenty of miles on my Honda and at least my model was made in Ohio, but unfortunately they closed the factory there
Harley makes some 500cc and 750cc bikes in other parts of the world to avoid the tariffs but every Harley sold in the U.S. is made in the U.S. including the 750 and 500cc models.
I actually live in Ohio and have Honda vtx1800, made in Ohio. I have a Harley dresser but keep the vtx for quick rides. That was the model along with the goldwing built in Ohio. The vtx line was dropped when they moved the goldwing production back to Japan and closed the plant.
@@russellrogers3260 yep love the shaft drive on my VTX. I talked to a cooperate head at the plant before they closed she told me that they were paying plant employees union auto worker wages but Harley paid less than auto worker wages thus move it back over seas
I have to say that your videos are really pleasant to watch. love the straight talk, no BS. Also where did you get that windshield and would you recommend it?
Harley charges a more than premium price for an alleged premium product with known cost cutting measures (twin cam with pressed cranks and cheap pressed in bearings as just one example) and expect the consumer to remedy the know defects at their expense. I find that disingenuous and slightly unethical. I love their sound, but will spend 1/2 as much for a more reliable product with higher manufacturing standards.
I had a 2001 Goldwing for 9 years and switched to a Harley Ultra. First ride out I was shocked at how much better the Harley handled in and around town. Both are really good on the highway of course but the Harley handled like a sport bike in town, in parking lots etc. All of my riding is two up - at least for the last 48 years!
I find this video very interesting. I own a couple of old Hondas (1995 vt1100c2 and 1996 gl1500a). When I look at the new Hondas I just don't see the same build quality. The new revision of the GL1800 (the one with the double wishbone suspension) has plastics that seem poorly fit, and that I suspect would give up the ghost long before the plastic cracks off of my classic Goldwing. It's a real shame, considering the technology that's underneath that shoddy feeling bodywork. The previous GL1800 might be worth trading the 1500 in on, but not the newest one. Just go to a dealer and open up some of the doors on the fairings. See how loose they feel on their hinges. It's horrible. And Honda's modern cruisers are like a joke without a punchline. I blame the Fury. Specifically that model. Since Honda released that Mountain Dew bottle on wheels, it's as if they abandoned metal altogether. As someone who is familiar with the cost of Honda plastic ($200 for a simple battery cover, for example) I cringe at how much of a new Honda cruiser won't attract a magnet.
@@lawnranger3432 The fairing is garbage. I mentioned that specifically. Things like the fuel door and the fairing storage compartments all feel significantly better on the 2017 and previous than on the 2018 and newer. Look at the vents, too. Again, a significant downgrade on the newer years. "I can only laugh when people talk of the cheap plastic on a motorcycle when our high dollar cars and pickups a full of plastic." Yeah, I didn't laugh when I learned what the cost of a damn battery cover was for my 95 Ace. $200 for a stupid bowl with three standard, generic tabs welded in. And that thing didn't move and wiggle like the fairing parts on a 2019 GL1800. Besides, this statement does nothing to address the fact that the plastic seems a significant downgrade from the plastic that was used 20 years ago. Even if it did, the fact that it's used on pickup trucks and cars is moot. Would you suggest that steering wheels belong on bikes too because cars have them? This argument is invalid. The Goldwing weighs in at between 787 and 842lbs, depending on how it's equipped. Road Glide is 855. (Both figures are for wet weight). That means a real difference of only 68lbs, for a material that is much more durable from the start, isn't as prone to cracking or getting brittle due to temperature or age, and is easier to care for. My GL1500 has a curb weight of 886.3 lbs, making so that going modern means going lighter whether I pick the Harley or the Honda. There are several things that would change my mind. If the plastics on the fairing of the new goldwing felt as solid as they did on the 17 and previous, I'd agree that on a touring bike, plastic is acceptable. Cheapening the quality never is. If Honda didn't want a damn fortune when the plastic eventually, inevitably wears out, I'd be more okay with it. If the plastic Goldwing didn't cost as much as the metal Road Glide, I'd like the goldwing better. The most fair thing I can say about the 2018+ Goldwing is that the parts that are impressive are all covered by the parts that are off-putting.
@@lawnranger3432 "so you opened a couple compartments on the Gen 6 Gold Wing and you have determine the fairing is garbage." Yeah, when they seem to flop around on their hinges, and feel less solid than the gen 5, I'm not going to decide that "Because this feels bad it must be good." So yeah, loose, poor quality doors made me conclude poor quality. Big shock, I know. The fact that they felt less solid than the gen 5 compartment covers certainly didn't lead me to conclude that they must be more solid. "What vents are you talking about on the gen 6?" This floppy thing on top of the dash. pictures.topspeed.com/IMG/jpg/201711/2018-honda-gold-wing-tour-5.jpg It's more of a deflector, really, but it's built like a child's toy. I've seen more than one at a dealership that simply won't stay in position. "The 2019 same HDRG Ultra weighs 939 pounds. Your weight remark is incorrect." I invite you to visit www.harley-davidson.com/us/en/motorcycles/road-glide/detailed-specs-and-pricing.html and scroll down to dimensions. Did I ever say the ultra? No. No I did not. If you wish to break out a calculator, you will notice that I was comparing the Road Glide without tourpack to Goldwing without tourpack. So you say I was right about the Goldwing's weight. Harley Davidson says I was right about the Road Glide's weight.... What is it that you're saying I don't know? Seems to me I have both halves of this equation. Okay, to be fair the base model to cadillac model weight differential is a bit higher in Harley's case. 932lbs for the Limited, according to their spec sheets. "The thickness of a material absolutely by no mean represents durability or longevity." No, it is one of many factors. Tensile strength, ductility, density, and temperature and uv stability all play a part. Funny that you didn't even think to mention all of those when you were being all condescending. Of particular interest is the interaction between UV and polymers. No mention of that from you. Strange that I would be the one to bring that up when I don't know what it is and think that thickness is all there is, now isn't it? "One of the major goals of Honda when they designed the gen 6 Wing was to save weight, which they accomplished. I do not recall HD ever having that goal." So, Honda did something that HD didn't try to do. Okay. So what? That's a dumb argument. "Go ahead and ride the RG, than ride that GW. The GW feels like it should be 250 pounds lighted than the HD" I ride big bikes because I don't care. "This is due to a well engineered product designed for the 21st century vs one essentially from the mid 20th century." Fit and finish are not the same as engineering. I even acknowledged that in every post I made here. I'll say it again. It's a real shame, considering the technology that's underneath that shoddy feeling bodywork. The most fair thing I can say about the 2018+ Goldwing is that the parts that are impressive are all covered by the parts that are off-putting. See, I copy/pasted from my previous responses there. "You felt $200 was excess for a cover on a 25 year old bike, your probably right. Welcome to reality." Yeah. That puts people off to a brand. That makes people decide things like, say, not having an entire vehicle clad in the same shit that we can agree is overpriced is a benefit. WeLcOmE tO rEaLiTy "the new Wing is a night and day improvement compared to the 1500. Quality, the gen 6 is better in more less everyway than the gen 4 1500." Meh, I'd take a Gen 5 over either, if not for the fact that I already own the 1500. Look, the latest iteration has some impressive engineering underneath it. In my mind, it is a 2 wheeled example of why the idea of "coachbuilding" should have never gone to the wayside. The body of the bike just bothers me to no end. I'm sure in some time some custom builder can come up with something really awesome to drape on the backbone of the new wing. In factory form, though, the bodywork takes so much away from the bike. It is undeniably just as big of a step backward in fit and finish as it is a step forward in engineering.
I wouldn't own the 2018 Goldwing cause I don't like it. Weight of the bikes, I used the lightest of each, using the manufacturer's specifications. I did say that the top end of each there is more variation. Those were real numbers. And yes, the body is the exact reason I wouldn't buy a gen6. The parts you interact with, that you feel, that you look at every time you approach your bike matter. Part of my problem with the gen6 is that I know Honda can do more with it. I just feel like with some tighter tolerances it would be a better bike. Plus, for a company that charges more than 1.5x everyone else for their plastic components, I'm going to be VERY leery if those components don't feel absolutely perfect. And that's what happened. the 6g stopped so shy of perfection, and it's on what is arguably the easiest part. As for the BMW, I would have to sit on a k1600 to judge that model specifically. My experience with BMW in the showroom is that most of them feel a bit tall. But, the build quality was definitely there. If I would find a BMW that seemed like a good ergonomic fit for me, I'd certainly consider it. And, I owe you an apology. Things were starting to get a bit heated. I should have been a bit more mellow about it. Keep the rubber side down.
Honda is an engine company and they make the most reliable engines I've ever owned. Having said that, I prefer Harley motorcycles over any brand. Nothing compares to a Harley in terms of enjoyment when riding. They're friggin expensive though. I just got a '20 Low Rider S, but the most fun per dollar has to be the post '06 1200 Sportster.
Did I fall asleep and wake up in a world where Goldwings do not exist?
I own both, a Honda Transalp and a FLHP Harley. The Honda is a pain in the ass to work on, I love my HD, easy to service and no problems. Only made 1000 km on my Honda this year because of electronic problems but 10000 km on my HD.
I have always owned Hondas I think they are superior over Harley having one Harley was enough not to buy another one they sound good but they are clumsy underpowered for their size and weight that's just my opinion the only thing they got going for them they look nice but I prefer performance and reliability and now the Cruisers look just as nice as the Harley's
It's great that you found a bike for your needs. A google search and a few studies later, Harley consistently shows a failure rate more than double the Japanese companies. Your experience is somewhat unique in the overall picture of brand reliability.
The google search showed a comparison of Honda Ace Tourers used as police motor's as compared to Harley Davidsons? Ya got a link?
@@motorman857 the tests were just company rankings as a whole.. not specific models
@@kenlittle5706 Yea. My test was on specific models as I stated in the video.
You pretty much have to change a lot of Harley to make them dependable. Many goldwings go 300.000 miles with out a motor failure Harley 100.000 I have one of each. I do like the seating position better on a Harley.
The biggest problem with Harley reliability is the owner that “makes it their own” with engine modifications that add heat to an air cooled bike. I went stage 4 on my last bike and ruined it for anything but a bar hopper. I left my 2017 Road Glide Ultra bone stock and it is bulletproof. It has 50k miles and I haven’t spent one dime on repairs - just normal maintenance and comfort items.
I'm with you. The more you screw around with the motor the more trouble you'll have.
And, they perform the same mods (as l did) to augment the hp and torque of their motorcycle. All of which, as you stated, no doubt affects the long term reliability of said motorcycles...
If you want touring comfort for long haul go for HD. If performance is a going concern opt for sport tourers such as Yamaha FJR, Kawasaki Concours or BMW K1600...
@@bertadelaudebri7179 Exactly. And thank God for all the choices the consumer has. Is this a great country, or what!
I’m keeping my FXDR stock. The bike on Stock form looks the beans 👍🇺🇸, and has enough Power for anything I Need. 👍
Emil George wrong! I bought a brand new 2018 Road King Special and since it was new I kept an eye on fluids through the break in period and guess what? At 480 miles on the clock my transmission fluid wasn’t showing on the dipstick. Guess where it went? Into the primary! 11 ounces had transferred to the primary. Took it to the dealer and they just changed all the fluids again to make sure they were at proper level. Told me to bring it back again after 1000 miles. At 500 additional miles which put the bike at 980 miles at this point, guess what the transmission was empty again. The dealer picked up the bike from my home and took several days for the to look at it. Guess what? Still they didn’t fix it. Just changed fluids again and said they’re waiting to hear back from the MOCO on what a fix would be. I kept getting the run around for months. So I finally got rid of it. Mine wasn’t a fluke, went on the Harley Davidson forums and there was a lot of people experiencing the same problem and other oil dumping problems. Harley’s bandaid fix now for this is drilling a hole to make a vent in either the primary or the transmission. Guess what the 2019 bikes are still having the problem. Not everyone of them but enough of them to stop people from buying new bikes. No wonder Harley sales have gone down and Indian sales have gone up! I don’t like the looks of Indian so I bought a 2019 goldwing tour dct. The goldwing is faster, lighter handles unbelievably well. I like Harley for there looks, fit and finish, but that doesn’t help me since I like to put down a lot of miles. Harley touring bikes are just becoming bar hoppers now.
In my relatively short time riding , compared to the geezer crowd that has been around a while, Harley"s reputation for being unreliable stemmed from the chopper movement? Seems that Harley, Honda, etc.. are pretty damn good these days. Ride what you like. I'm not a brand snob.
It was when Harley was owned by AMF that they were at their worst. AMF Harleys suffered from terrible reliability at a time when the Japanese bikes were just starting to come into their own, and that nearly killed the brand.
especially when they switch to unleaded gas here in the US and Harley had a problem with bad valve seats for a few years...
@ So you say. Surely you have proof?
Hal McAdams hahalol
@ Another America hating Harley basher, how boring.
I'm from Brazil and I have to clarify that our police dont use Harley. You can search for ROCAM (that's our 2 wheels police) and verify the different models that are used here.
Keep up with the awesome videos.
I owns 2 Honda’s a VTX 1800 and a CB1100 and they are absolutely bullet proof. Having said that Harley’s are pretty sweet. Would love to have one of the newer Heritage Softails. I rented one and they are very comfortable and nimble.
quomofo1 I rode 70s and 80s cb750 and 900 ur right I ran a hundred thousand miles on them with no problems and they still ran like new.i ride 09 rk now and love it also.
The new softails ride like metrics now, and with the 114, pretty sweet...
You can purchase a lightly used VTX 1800 for less than half what you would pay for a similar used Harley
I have no issues with Harley bikes, but I can only speak to Honda reliability. 2005 VTX 1800R no repairs in 150K miles. Fact is, I have never had any repairs on any Honda or Kawasaki I've owned over the last 49 years.
I love my vtx 1800s it's a 2002 never uses oil will run 140 mph never had a repair 51,000
I always wanted a HD road king, back then (2001) you had to order one and wait a year or so to get it. When dealer called that bike is in, wife and kids went all together to get it, I was exited to see it, long wait was over, I was the owner of a beautiful, black RK with aftermarket slip-ons. Life was good at first, it was amazing, powerful, handled well, did I say, it looked great? After 4k miles, while parked in the garage, there was a small puddle of oil underneath it (brought back dreadful AMF harleys to mind). I took it to the dealer, they said it had a bad seal between primary and starter if I recall right, it was fixed under warranty and all was good again till 10k miles, same thing. Dealer fixed it again under warranty but at 20k (after warranty expired) and on a long trip, same leak in the same spot. This time it cost me $350 to fix it. Motor also burned quite a bit of oil, 2.5 quarts in 5k miles seemed to be the norm for my bike. I was very disappointed in HD and problems I had. After the trip, bike was sold, bought a Honda ST and NEVER looked back. Honda never leaked or burned any oil between oil changes. It came with a 3 year unlimited warranty plus for $400 I got additional 4 years factory warranty, that's 7 years, unlimited mileage warranty, how good was that? In that seven years I did 130k miles and NEVER had to use warranty, EVER. Is this reliable enough, I'd say so.
I'm still riding my ST today, great, great bikes, reliability, quality, plenty fast and great for touring.
I'm sure there are thousands of stories like your. As I said in the video, my experience with Honda Ace tourers used in police duty was pretty bad. All 3 were using a quart of oil every 300 miles and they spent more time in the shop than on the road. I've owned 18 Harleys and 5 Honda's since 1998 and never had a problem with any of them.
I have been owned few of H-D touring bikes. I do like H-D police bikes. Not only comes with very comfortable seat, bikes does equipped with “FAN ASSIST” oil cooler (riders can purchase through P/A) and also heated grips (started 2019 model) as standard. Most importantly 2020 police bikes FLHR and FLHTP equipping RDRS at no additional cost. I just ordered my self a brand new 2020 FLHTP. I can not wait.
Ride safe 👍🏼
Not sure if you remember David out at the garage or not, but he’s still riding one of the old Honda’s to work everyday from Dade City! Looks like hell, but he still runs it! Now that we got rid of the motor unit and the Victory motorcycles we had, David is the closest thing to a motor deputy!
I live in Holland, and own a 30 year old police Harley from Texas. Its still going strong, and I love it. 👍
Harley dealers refuse to service anything made before 2000!
Geo Airday I know Berts Black Widow HD in Port Charlotte, FL works on all Harleys, yes even the old ones 👍. Must depend on dealer, but yes I have heard most will not work on older harleys which is stupid imo.
I think the state police where i live use BMW, but the city of Detroit just went to Harley. The local dealership i use had 50 police Harleys they were getting ready to go into service. Pretty cool.
Excellent video. Metric bikes are great and cheaper too. But like you said Harley’s are the best heavy cruisers on the market today and better quality as well. I owned just as many metrics as Harley’s. The sound feel and quality are second to none.
They are both reliable if you do maintenance , cost to is the difference to me
I agree. We had both the Honda's and the Harleys serviced by the dealers every 3K miles. The Honda's were worn out by 30K of use in police service. Under normal civilian use the Honda would be just fine for many miles. But, over load them as we did and ride them hard, and they didn't fair very well. The Harley's are built like a tank and didn't have any problems in severe duty.
agreed...cost is what drove me away from Harley!
@@motorman857 .....mmm, not our experience....Honda the police bike of choice here for years until recently and kept to 100k miles/10 years. We run a fleet of 5 Honda's some now with 6-figure mileage. ...
@@johnmoylan7202 You have Honda Ace Tourers converted to police bikes?
Nobody use tourers. st1300 or vfr800
I think it's worth noting that the additional gear that those Hondas were saddled with probably put the motorcycle over or near the manufacturer recommended capacity. Most motorcycles don't allow much extra capacity.
well I'm a mechanic and I can tell you from history and experience Harleys are not reliable. Expensive doesn't mean reliable.
I have owned all brands and kind of bikes in my 40 plus years of riding. I currently own and ride a Harley. It is not brand new and just turned 40 thousand miles on it. I love my Harley and it is probably my favorite. That being said it is not the most reliable bike i have ever owned. I am 100 percent positive that Hondas in general are the most reliable with Yamaha. Suzuki and Kawasaki all coming in ahead in reliability. I am not that informed on the European bikes. All I know about them are they are expressive to fix and the parts are high and harder to find. The Harley has had its share of issues already. Top end rebuild due to leaking base gaskets, cam bearing had to be replaced at 33 thousand miles, wheel spokes came loose and odds and ends vibrating loose lol. I still love her though. But to be honest if I had to do a cross country ride I would have to think about it long and hard.
Team YAMAHA!
I have 70,000 miles on my Road King, still have the original drive belt and never have had any of the problems you mention.
@@JJosephS1I have 72,000 on my Honda ST, still have the original drive shaft, probably always will.
I had to use a towing service by a local owner. The driver told me that 90% of all of his bike towing are HD. Electrical and mechanical. Small amount would be tire related. That is a main reason for me to own Honda GW. No if's and but's !!!!!!
Sounds about right since about 90% of the bikes you see on the road are Harleys lol
@@brando81 What road? which roads? Roads to the dealer? Sure!!!!
I've always been a huge Brit bike enthusiast and never had much of a thing for Harleys. But I've ridden a few and the one thing that is truly delightful is the ultra low rpm grunt. I love that easy relaxed feel of the motor just burbling along without a care.
Yes and these have quite a nice seat too. Almost like sitting in some lazyboy or sth
I THOROUGHLY ENJOY THESE RIDE ALONG VIDEOS KEEP IT UP. IT IS MUCH EASIER TO SEE AND UNDERSTAND FROM A RIDER'S PERSPECTIVE.
I actually had good luck with my AMF H-D's , 71 FX and 77 FLH , people trash AMF , but truth is , if AMF had not invested in H-D , they would have gone under .. My two EVO Tour Glides you ask ?? The 84 went 225000 trouble free miles in four years , only re ringed the pistons , and the 88 went 342000 miles , one top end re build , my 08 Road Glide was a good bike but could never get it sorted in the handling department , so I traded it in March 11 for a 11 RGU , just turned 75000 last week , fixing to go in and check the cam tensioners and repalce the cam bearings and lifters ... Cops here got rid of the HD's a few years ago and got Vics , wasnt long after they got them that Vic went under ..
Thankyou for the review Jerry, I like your no BS approach .
To correct you, Honda is the best motorcycle seller world wide. And other countries use BMW, Honda, and Kawasaki as police bikes due to their performance and reliability.
yamaha?
@@magdavanthuis3924 Yeah, I forgot to add the FJR1300. Very reliable motorcycle with great performance.
Exactly I live in the UK and currently own my fifth harley I love harleys and would not entertain anything else in my book the only bike is a Harley but in the UK we pay a premium to own one worth every penny my only regret is not being born in America God bless America best regards from the UK
You can always move to the U.S.. You just have to come via Mexico and you can stay forever.
I have two British friends. They grew up together. One even lives in New Port Richey near Jerry. You can always move here.
@@alanlevesque7180 I would love too but I am retired now and my dream was one day to visit America I have been for a very long time an American in my heart thank you for your kind reply God bless you my friend God bless America regards Alan.
Don't feel bad, we Americans pay a premium for Harleys too.
Back about 1979, a Harley sales guy at Laidlaw’s in LA area, expressing aggravation about government bureaucracy, told me that police agencies had to purchase bikes at lowest bid, and Kawasakis were about $200 cheaper. Fair enough, but they couldn’t take into account the fact that when taken out of service the Harleys sold for $2,000 more than Kawasakis, because a different agency handled it.
Been riding many years. The #1 bike I see on the side of the Road broke down is Harley F..in Davidson.
That’s because there’s so many of them.
This guy is one of the best if not the best teacher out there! Definitely great attitude! Thanks for the tips!👍
I really want a Harley, either the road king or the ultra limited. I’m riding the Springfield now by Indian and over 45000 km later this bike is unreal riding and reliability. I love the Harley “coolness” though and popularity. Might ride another season with my Springfield then may make the switch and hope I’m not disappointed because I’m happy now but can’t get rid of the thought of finally owning a Harley. Test rides don’t really tell the tale. It was after about 5k km that I realized what an amazing cruiser my Springfield is. Comments from HD riders would help - thanks 🙏
I rode every Indian model while making the Ride Like a Pro on Your Indian video. They are fine motorcycles no doubt. Their low speed maneuverability is not as good as the Harley touring models. That is a concern for me, but may not be for others. That fact, and the fact that Indians dealer network is not nearly as large as Harleys dealer network, and the way Polaris shut down Victory with no warning despite the fact that they had billions invested in Victory, makes me Leary enough to not buy an Indian in the near future since they could shut down production on that brand as well, should profits fall.
@@motorman857 Thank you for your input Jerry :-)
The BMW R1200 is used exclusively in Hawaii and I can tell you it is a Motor Officer’s dream! Fast, nimble as a Minx chasing a rabbit, very rider friendly!
Tupelo had them for a bit now, the Harley didnt hang around for them after 5 years. The BMW they got are quick but they can get them around a bit easier I guess.
When I have been fortunate to travel, in places like Europe or Asia the motorbikes I see used by cops are the BMW's (Europe) and a metric version when in Asia.
H-D maybe the police bike of choice in the U.S. but Italy, France, and the UK are using the Yamaha FJR1300P and a BMW R1200RT-P models. Even the last CHiPs movie used BMW's. I've seen Yamaha Tenere's used by the forest service for emergency response work. LAPD now has Zero electric bikes which are used mainly for traffic control services. I don't believe H-D has a lock on police work around the world.
They may not have a lock on the police market around the world but the fact that other country's around the world use them when they can have other police bikes at half the price, ya gotta wonder.
@@motorman857 Our EMS unit has an ATV and we tried an ADV bike. It was discontinued because the insurance was almost as much as an ambulance. It worked fine for getting out to rural and farm areas ahead of the unit. Insurance and training costs appear to limit the utilization of 2 wheeled first response applications.
@@motorman857 No other country use HD. May be only occasionally by mistake.
@@antontimkin I was speaking of this planet. On planet earth, Harley police motors are used all over the world Your planet may be differ.
@@motorman857 Yep... you point exactly your mistake. It's pretty common were you live to think that planet starts at Atlantiс and finish at Pacific ocean. Well... it's not. And HD are very... I mean VERY local brand (including police versions). You are great trainer but... (by the way sorry for my English, it's better than your Russian or Kazakh anyway) you close minded a bit. It's ok.
I love motorcycle stability systems, I just bought a 20 Low Rider S and I wish it was available on that model. I ride a 2016 R1 on road racing track days, on that bike it's adjustable and it's so good that you can more or less dial in how far the rear tire will step out in a corner under hard acceleration and you can grab a handful of the throttle after the apex without getting into massive trouble. The rear tire will just drift out a little and stay right there. If you wan't it to step out more, you can dial back the TC. If you want to prevent it from stepping out at all, you can do that. That bike's stability system is so good that it has anti-lift on the front wheel, where you can more or less keep the front tire pegged to the ground OR dial in how high you want it to stop lifting after it lifts off the pavement. Kind of bummed I couldn't get in on my LRS.
How could anyone disagree with ya. You were speaking from your experience. Anyone who has to ride a motorcycle for 12hr days and has driven different bikes should know which ones works better for them. Thumbs up!
Some people live in their own reality. Those people avoid facts like the plague.
I love that stretch of road in Aripeka...rode it many times, and hopefully many more.
Me too. Car waiting after every turn.
if you like to ride you buy Honda if you like to be mechanic you buy Harley
you got it right, You know and speak the truth.
H/D leases the units to our city and maintains them then takes them back when they are totally baffed.
Harley earned its reputation for being unreliable before the Evo motor came out. Harley’s from the Evo on are very reliable, before that, not so much.
Wasup Fool some credit the Evo with saving the company.
Best pro Harley Video on the Internet
Thanks for the video, sir! I just bought a 2019 Heritage softail with the 114, and I absolutely love it! I rode Yamaha and Hondas for 30 years and finally stepped it up. Nothing like a Harley, my friend!
My first bike was an 08 nightster sporty i put over 65k on it no issues, just bought a 2016 street glide special in spring of 2019 with 423 miles on it. Put on just over 10k no problems yet... wishing winter was over here in Minnesota! Great video thank you.
Jerry your tips and tricks habe helped me become a actual rider instead of a danger to myself and others!! I have just been watching and trying to stay in the friction zone and rear brake trick and i can now somewhat slow speed manouver. Thank you for all you do brother you have tought me just through your simple videos on how to ride properly and turn and uturn properly and im still learning. I would have came to your classes but i live in Vancouver canada anyways thanks man keep up the good work jerry!!!!
Been riding a 2007 Street Glide for about 40 k and have had few problems with mine as long as I keep spending a couple thousand a year on maintenance. It is the most comfortable 2 up mc on the market and I look cool riding it.
as long as you spend 2K a year on maintenance.... lol!!!
Thank you for being such a straight shooter Motor Man. Some of us appreciate your experience. God bless you and Donna.
Yamaha FJR1300's are most commonly used by police in Australia
Honestly I feel as if he is underestimating the Goldwing in terms of maneuverability. Or to say Honda's can't hold up as well for police cruisers when STs aren't completely uncommon police bikes and often have nearly 100k miles or more.
Thanks Jerry, nice guy putting out a riding video when it's 28 degrees out and blowing snow squalls in Ontario. I walked back to the shed and peeked at my Ultra, but that's about it for the next 5 months. Fabulous bike, great talk, keep them coming - for at least the next 5 months :)
After this video I had to mow the lawn so....
Jerry ALWAYS has great Info , But ......We know its not possible at all ....with out the the direction of the awesome Camera Girl...✌
Really? I was thinking of replacing her with a selfie stick. Ya know, due to cut backs and all.
@@motorman857 Hoorayyyyyyyyy!!
Doc Donna. ✌
Edward VP "shhhh! You're talking again!"
Ya! There's 2 Harley motors in my town. 1 even has Screaming Eagle exhaust.
I've owned harley and goldwings I've been a biker over 50 years give me a goldwing anytime over a harley. Nothing but expensive problems with the harley. The goldwings I've owned have been 100% reliable a rolls Royce compared to a tractor.
I do respect the Haeley,but I own a 2004 Honda VTX 1800.With over 300,85 thousand miles on it,and with an 8 ply cargo back tire,it is very reliable,super comfy,and extremely fast.Harley is good and I love and respect them,but I am sticking with Honda,which will out last a Harley.You ate a very good teacher and good man Mr. Jerry,and I love your Ride like a pro teachings.GOD ess you and your family,and business.
I have never thought about the extreme duty a MotoCop Bike goes thru. Just the other day I watch a beard and bikes video where they bought two used up police bikes and thrashed them. I was shocked at how durable they were and how good they were off road. Yeah that’s right, they took them off road. With street tires no less. I guarantee the ability of the police bike off road will blow your mind. The traction they were getting with street tires off road was nothing less than amazing.
Harley is the classic Police bike, but I remember seeing some Kawasaki back in the day…wasn’t the show CHIPS with Kawasakis?
My first bike was a 02 Honda shadow ace. Fantastic bike to learn on. I still have it and still enjoy it for cruising around town. Very cool that the shadows were used by police departments.
Great video as always.
Thanks for sharing!
Ever have an ADV go through one of your courses? I feel like they would be an excellent choice for a police bike in certain parts of the country. Sits up high for excellent visibility, capable on- or off-road, designed for carrying heavy loads (so no issues with over-stressing the suspension with the cop gear), and made for long hauls and simple maintenance in case they break down in BF, Egypt (that's a real city, right?).
Several of his videos have had ADV bikes. I saw one with a V-Strom for sure.
Ya know it’s interesting seeing the evolution of the motor cop ,
I have a photo of two motor cops only wearing their police hat 👮♀️ while riding.
How they went too a half helmet and now a 3/4 helmet.
I knew a chip motor cop in the 80’s.
I use ta dig those leather boots up to the knees !!!-
Palm Springs went from Harley’s to bmw.
I believe it was because of a heat (desert heat ) issue .
Thanks for the ride and the education sir ;
🤠✊✊✊❤️👍🏻🙏🏻👌👋🏻
Any bike is reliable as you make it but let me describe my 1989 fltcu. It’s got 73000 miles and the brakes are shot but it stops where you want and the engine has vacuum leaks and bad gaskets but never fails to start and go whatever speed you need and give good economy too...of course I am addressing all the issue that it may give me 73000 more miles!
Your videos have been very helpful, the best out there. Thank you
What better way to be trained properly than from a motorman? A big thank you from California Jerry, your content is outstanding.
Thank Mr. Jerry, really enjoyed this, appreciate you.
You are very welcome
Too bad Polaris ditched the Victory brand. They were quickly chipping away at the HD police business.
Maybe so, but they also didn't want to compete with themselves. It's just not a good business model. Victory was certainly gaining a foothold in the motorcycle industry, but the Indian name has been around forever. Are they the same company they used to be? No, they definitely are not. But the name is what people are buying. The choice was simple, purely from an economic standpoint.
HD revealed their streetfighter bike. Looks good!
Made in India
Ya we'll alot of departments have dropped Harley over the last few years in favor of import bikes because of the cost of maintenance. We now use BMW in my city.
you are one smart guy ,, god be with you an you are spot on .. thanks for you service .
Love your videos Jerry. I'm the proud owner of a retired FLHTP (birch white/vivid black). It was love at first sight. I took the RLAP class last year with your trainers in Michigan City, IN. That was an amazing class. Great guys to learn from. Best investment someone could make in their rider skills and safety.
I can't argue with his conclusion. HD was making purpose built bikes and Honda wasn't.
However, for civ use only bikes, Honda beats HD pretty easily.
look at the neighbourhood, its so beautiful. living there would be an anti stress therapy
Great video Jerry. I like the way you shared about Goldwing being in a different category, because they are not crusier, I have one with 153,000 miles on it, not police work though. Your wife, she makes it look effortless. Proper technique and practice is the key. Please keep your videos coming.
Thanks, but I'm Jerry.
I had Mike on the brain, to funny Jerry
I have a friend in Clearwater that is a retired orthopedic surgeon told us that actually the tripod stance, where you lean forward with some weight on the handlebars are the best way to ride for your back, because it relieves some of the shock that your back takes when you ride especially a Harley. It's been my experience that a Harleys just shake and beat you to death. The police version of harleys may be different.
Your friend is right. I ride a 1978 Moto Guzzi Le Mans with clip ons and my forearms take the shock and weight. People say it looks uncomfortable but it’s not.
Hi Jerry, enjoy your videos . The new HD are reliable but my first 1998 AMF HD not so much!
AMF was gone long before then.
as always I enjoy your video tips thank you
I do appreciate the tips you give here and other videos'. My only problem is that I have two stuffed shoulders, now both have been replaced, and I live down under in Australia. Yeh, I can still learn the 3 rules you teach but the only main prob I have left, I'm not real sure my shoulders will stand up to the extra weight of a dresser. An FXDWG, maybe a Road King, and maybe a Fat Bob, set up to my liking of course for the last 3 bikes. I've had mainly Wide Glides, Evo's, and a Full dresser, (Sold the Dresser and went back to a Wide Glide). It's still a great course to have and teaching myself those 3 main techniques, I'm sure my riding the 3 bikes that I mentioned, I'm going to get it down to being second nature. Thanks heaps for all your tips and tricks. and maybe, only maybe, If I can talk one of my mates into letting me test ride his dresser for a few days I'd like to throw that around like your wife does. I'm 5' 7" so with the right seat, it will all come together, Cheers, Teddy.
I'd suggest a 2018 or later Heritage if your concerned about weight. They have a very low seat height, are easy to handle and very capable for long distance riding.
Jerry, once again, great video. What do you think of the Twin Cooled Ultra Limited?
Great discussion! Thank you 😊. That’s my favorite ride area. When you came to Shoal line off of 595 how come you did not take a left on shoal line and make the ride out to bayport and pine island??? Thanks for your videos
Noop, the Suzuki Hayabusa 1340cc is the best bike engine. Talked to a older guy some while ago who always was shaking even if he was sitting down and resting. Asked why and he answered, that damn Harley. 😊 (A joke). Regards from Scandinavia and thanks for Greta.
If you look at actual repair statistics instead of anecdotes from Harley buffs...Yamaha has the best repair rate, with Honda a close second. Harleys are almost 3 times as likely to suffer a break down (BMWs aren't much better). All of the Japanese bikes are much more reliable than a Harley. If you want a Harley you get a Harley. Just make sure you have the patience and money to fix it. Or just don't ride it much like most Harley riders.
I wanta say I'm so offend, comparing Honda to Harley, not offended at all. Honda CBR500r is my first bike, I'm told a 40 year old shouldnt be getting a sports bike for their first, then they see me setting up right like a cruiser doing things ppl on cruisers cant do around here. Love my weak sports bike for my first bike, cruisers just didnt fit me or feel right setting on them
Hey Jerry, have you ever owned or rode a Triumph? And just in general how did you feel it compared to a Harley?
Yes I've owned a 2008 Triumph T100 and a 2014 Bonneville. Both were great mid size bikes and lots of fun to ride on short trips. I've also ridden the Rocket. I didn't like that one very much.
I own a 2018 Triumph Bobber Black...it has ride-by-wire, abs, traction control, riding modes, cruise control, dual front Brembo brakes, liquid cool...and it's under $15K out the door...try to get the specs for a Harley and it'll cost north of $20K.
@@rays8743 Try loading up that bike with a passenger and gear for a 1200 mile trip. Apples and oranges.
@@motorman857 I guess you didn't even look up what a Bobber means...it's solo seat kind of motorcycle..Harley has many solo seat motorcycles as well (low rider S for example)...same style, but HD Low Rider S is over $20K out the door.
@@rays8743 I know exactly what a Bobber is. I was around when they were in style. The Sportster is in the same class as you'r bike. Not the Low Rider.
Awesome videos! Thank you so much! 🙂
Wish they had show something like the MOTORMAN does in Australia
Have you test ridden the Indain Challenger yet????
No. I understand that Indian has no intentions of entering the police market though. I have ridden Yamaha's and Kawasaki's water cooled touring bikes a few years ago which are similar to Indians new design.
What type of windshield is that on the bike? Model, etc. I like it.
It's a Freedom Shield, www.freedomshields.net
If you do some basic internet searching, you'll actually find that BMW RT is the most common police motorcycle worldwide. Interesting.
Hi Jerry, what are you running in for oil/trans/primary lubrication in your 2020 police motorcycle? Any recommendations?
H.D. oil
Thanks Jerry, with all the current Harley bashing going on this month it makes me feel a little better, not that I was too down about it. Heck, I have a flippin' Harley! Is that a low-profile seat? Have you ever seen police use Love Jugs or a similar product to give the engine extra cooling? Do they work? Great vid.
The seat on this bike is from an Ultra Low model. I've never felt the need for extra cooling even here in Fl. in the summer.
How Dare You! 2004 Goldwing with 204k miles. HD and Honda...both good bikes...HD seems to attract the good look'in women. Not so with the GW. Hence, the price premium for HD
Just finished the first day of my msf course and we start the riding portion tomorrow... any tips?
Head and eyes, friction zone and rear brake to stabilize the bike while turning.
Agreed! Your clutch and rear brake are your friend for those low speed maneuvers. Stay off that front brake unless your handlebars are straight and look where you want the bike to go. It really works.
Thanks guy... I just passed the course today and had lots of fun!
Double thumbs up, Carlos! Have a blast riding and be safe! Number one tip I can give for the actual road are give others lots of space and look several seconds ahead. I’ve been riding several years and I still now and then find the high school parking lot and work on my turning and braking for a few minutes! Have fun!
Harley Police Bikes are fine for city work, but for high speed highway use the BMW or Hondas are the ticket. The last time I checked the ST1300 is still in the Honda M/C line up as current model. They haven't changed it except for color for years. I had an 2005 ST for years the best all around bike I ever owned and I have had bunch including three Harleys.
That's what I used to tell my ex wife!
"Honey you only have 4 inches to work
with so cut me some slack"!
I've owned both Harley and Honda Sorry my preference is defiantly a Honda. now that Harley is made in Indonesia that is a game changer. Plenty of miles on my Honda and at least my model was made in Ohio, but unfortunately they closed the factory there
Harley makes some 500cc and 750cc bikes in other parts of the world to avoid the tariffs but every Harley sold in the U.S. is made in the U.S. including the 750 and 500cc models.
@@motorman857 I stand corrected thanks Jerry
@@tshelby10 It's ok. For your penance, you'll have to get 2 more subscribers to my channel.
I actually live in Ohio and have Honda vtx1800, made in Ohio. I have a Harley dresser but keep the vtx for quick rides. That was the model along with the goldwing built in Ohio. The vtx line was dropped when they moved the goldwing production back to Japan and closed the plant.
@@russellrogers3260 yep love the shaft drive on my VTX. I talked to a cooperate head at the plant before they closed she told me that they were paying plant employees union auto worker wages but Harley paid less than auto worker wages thus move it back over seas
I have to say that your videos are really pleasant to watch. love the straight talk, no BS. Also where did you get that windshield and would you recommend it?
Love the windshield from Freedom Shields, here's their website, www.freedomshields.net Tell them I sent you, they give a discount.
Police riding anything else then a Harley just ain’t right
Don't watch the last CHiPs movie ... BMW's.
@@geneclarke2205 don't watch the original then either: Kawasaki. ...
@Bunnyshooter 223 www.latimes.com/business/autos/la-fi-hy-california-highway-patrol-harley-davidson-20140519-story.html
Harley charges a more than premium price for an alleged premium product with known cost cutting measures (twin cam with pressed cranks and cheap pressed in bearings as just one example) and expect the consumer to remedy the know defects at their expense. I find that disingenuous and slightly unethical. I love their sound, but will spend 1/2 as much for a more reliable product with higher manufacturing standards.
HARLEY RULES hahaha. good for u for taking the initiative to move the siren to the horn.
Honda has made its fair share of lemons
Our cops in my town ride road kings.
Dennis Morris the cops in my town ride bicycles.lol
There are no cops in my town...London.
I had a 2001 Goldwing for 9 years and switched to a Harley Ultra. First ride out I was shocked at how much better the Harley handled in and around town. Both are really good on the highway of course but the Harley handled like a sport bike in town, in parking lots etc. All of my riding is two up - at least for the last 48 years!
I find this video very interesting. I own a couple of old Hondas (1995 vt1100c2 and 1996 gl1500a). When I look at the new Hondas I just don't see the same build quality. The new revision of the GL1800 (the one with the double wishbone suspension) has plastics that seem poorly fit, and that I suspect would give up the ghost long before the plastic cracks off of my classic Goldwing. It's a real shame, considering the technology that's underneath that shoddy feeling bodywork. The previous GL1800 might be worth trading the 1500 in on, but not the newest one. Just go to a dealer and open up some of the doors on the fairings. See how loose they feel on their hinges. It's horrible.
And Honda's modern cruisers are like a joke without a punchline. I blame the Fury. Specifically that model. Since Honda released that Mountain Dew bottle on wheels, it's as if they abandoned metal altogether. As someone who is familiar with the cost of Honda plastic ($200 for a simple battery cover, for example) I cringe at how much of a new Honda cruiser won't attract a magnet.
@@lawnranger3432 The fairing is garbage. I mentioned that specifically. Things like the fuel door and the fairing storage compartments all feel significantly better on the 2017 and previous than on the 2018 and newer. Look at the vents, too. Again, a significant downgrade on the newer years.
"I can only laugh when people talk of the cheap plastic on a motorcycle when our high dollar cars and pickups a full of plastic." Yeah, I didn't laugh when I learned what the cost of a damn battery cover was for my 95 Ace. $200 for a stupid bowl with three standard, generic tabs welded in. And that thing didn't move and wiggle like the fairing parts on a 2019 GL1800. Besides, this statement does nothing to address the fact that the plastic seems a significant downgrade from the plastic that was used 20 years ago. Even if it did, the fact that it's used on pickup trucks and cars is moot. Would you suggest that steering wheels belong on bikes too because cars have them? This argument is invalid.
The Goldwing weighs in at between 787 and 842lbs, depending on how it's equipped. Road Glide is 855. (Both figures are for wet weight). That means a real difference of only 68lbs, for a material that is much more durable from the start, isn't as prone to cracking or getting brittle due to temperature or age, and is easier to care for. My GL1500 has a curb weight of 886.3 lbs, making so that going modern means going lighter whether I pick the Harley or the Honda.
There are several things that would change my mind. If the plastics on the fairing of the new goldwing felt as solid as they did on the 17 and previous, I'd agree that on a touring bike, plastic is acceptable. Cheapening the quality never is.
If Honda didn't want a damn fortune when the plastic eventually, inevitably wears out, I'd be more okay with it.
If the plastic Goldwing didn't cost as much as the metal Road Glide, I'd like the goldwing better.
The most fair thing I can say about the 2018+ Goldwing is that the parts that are impressive are all covered by the parts that are off-putting.
@@lawnranger3432 "so you opened a couple compartments on the Gen 6 Gold Wing and you have determine the fairing is garbage." Yeah, when they seem to flop around on their hinges, and feel less solid than the gen 5, I'm not going to decide that "Because this feels bad it must be good." So yeah, loose, poor quality doors made me conclude poor quality. Big shock, I know. The fact that they felt less solid than the gen 5 compartment covers certainly didn't lead me to conclude that they must be more solid.
"What vents are you talking about on the gen 6?" This floppy thing on top of the dash. pictures.topspeed.com/IMG/jpg/201711/2018-honda-gold-wing-tour-5.jpg It's more of a deflector, really, but it's built like a child's toy. I've seen more than one at a dealership that simply won't stay in position.
"The 2019 same HDRG Ultra weighs 939 pounds. Your weight remark is incorrect." I invite you to visit www.harley-davidson.com/us/en/motorcycles/road-glide/detailed-specs-and-pricing.html and scroll down to dimensions. Did I ever say the ultra? No. No I did not. If you wish to break out a calculator, you will notice that I was comparing the Road Glide without tourpack to Goldwing without tourpack. So you say I was right about the Goldwing's weight. Harley Davidson says I was right about the Road Glide's weight.... What is it that you're saying I don't know? Seems to me I have both halves of this equation. Okay, to be fair the base model to cadillac model weight differential is a bit higher in Harley's case. 932lbs for the Limited, according to their spec sheets.
"The thickness of a material absolutely by no mean represents durability or longevity." No, it is one of many factors. Tensile strength, ductility, density, and temperature and uv stability all play a part. Funny that you didn't even think to mention all of those when you were being all condescending. Of particular interest is the interaction between UV and polymers. No mention of that from you. Strange that I would be the one to bring that up when I don't know what it is and think that thickness is all there is, now isn't it?
"One of the major goals of Honda when they designed the gen 6 Wing was to save weight, which they accomplished. I do not recall HD ever having that goal." So, Honda did something that HD didn't try to do. Okay. So what? That's a dumb argument.
"Go ahead and ride the RG, than ride that GW. The GW feels like it should be 250 pounds lighted than the HD" I ride big bikes because I don't care.
"This is due to a well engineered product designed for the 21st century vs one essentially from the mid 20th century." Fit and finish are not the same as engineering. I even acknowledged that in every post I made here. I'll say it again. It's a real shame, considering the technology that's underneath that shoddy feeling bodywork. The most fair thing I can say about the 2018+ Goldwing is that the parts that are impressive are all covered by the parts that are off-putting. See, I copy/pasted from my previous responses there.
"You felt $200 was excess for a cover on a 25 year old bike, your probably right. Welcome to reality." Yeah. That puts people off to a brand. That makes people decide things like, say, not having an entire vehicle clad in the same shit that we can agree is overpriced is a benefit. WeLcOmE tO rEaLiTy
"the new Wing is a night and day improvement compared to the 1500. Quality, the gen 6 is better in more less everyway than the gen 4 1500." Meh, I'd take a Gen 5 over either, if not for the fact that I already own the 1500.
Look, the latest iteration has some impressive engineering underneath it. In my mind, it is a 2 wheeled example of why the idea of "coachbuilding" should have never gone to the wayside. The body of the bike just bothers me to no end. I'm sure in some time some custom builder can come up with something really awesome to drape on the backbone of the new wing. In factory form, though, the bodywork takes so much away from the bike. It is undeniably just as big of a step backward in fit and finish as it is a step forward in engineering.
I wouldn't own the 2018 Goldwing cause I don't like it. Weight of the bikes, I used the lightest of each, using the manufacturer's specifications. I did say that the top end of each there is more variation. Those were real numbers.
And yes, the body is the exact reason I wouldn't buy a gen6. The parts you interact with, that you feel, that you look at every time you approach your bike matter. Part of my problem with the gen6 is that I know Honda can do more with it. I just feel like with some tighter tolerances it would be a better bike. Plus, for a company that charges more than 1.5x everyone else for their plastic components, I'm going to be VERY leery if those components don't feel absolutely perfect. And that's what happened. the 6g stopped so shy of perfection, and it's on what is arguably the easiest part.
As for the BMW, I would have to sit on a k1600 to judge that model specifically. My experience with BMW in the showroom is that most of them feel a bit tall. But, the build quality was definitely there. If I would find a BMW that seemed like a good ergonomic fit for me, I'd certainly consider it.
And, I owe you an apology. Things were starting to get a bit heated. I should have been a bit more mellow about it. Keep the rubber side down.
Honda is an engine company and they make the most reliable engines I've ever owned. Having said that, I prefer Harley motorcycles over any brand.
Nothing compares to a Harley in terms of enjoyment when riding. They're friggin expensive though. I just got a '20 Low Rider S, but the most fun per dollar has to be the post '06 1200 Sportster.
Off topic but what windshield are you running on this bike?
freedomshields.net I'm using the 9'' touring shield. Tell em I sent you and you'll get a discount.