It has always been the FX series for me. I rode my '75 FXE for 24 years. I do have to say I am a big fan of the new Sportster S and that new engine. No need to throw thousands at it to make it fast. It comes that way from the factory.
They’re just not that different They’re all heavy to the touch, slow to respond. They’re also supremely comfortable and a joy to ride and intoxicating to listen to, to feel, and to experience. Been riding since 1965...bought my first Harley in 2022. It’s a whole new world.
Thank you for this video. Simply looking for my first Harley, I came to the same conclusion about these similarities within families. It took a bit of hunting to recognise what the changes in rake and the subsequent differences in trail meant for handling, and in which way an alteration of rake and subsequent trail affected handling and feel when riding in a straight line and when cornering. I noticed you did not mention trail. To mention rake change is probably enough at the level of noticeable difference and it maybe gets a bit tech'y to get into trail. Wheel size, ground clearance, standard or inverted forks and riding position each has its effect. I have friends that have ridden Harley for twenty years who frowned a little, while listening with interest as we discussed exactly these points which now are content in this vid. Thanks again for bringing it into the light of day.
My evo dresser. Ran real strong after some stage 2 and port & polish. 30 years of fun. 2nd place M8 114 Heritage Softail with the same treatment as the Evo. Good lord! I love my Harley's.
Harley-Davidson motorcycles are kind of like your children.You love them all the same,but often for different reasons.So my favorite motorcycles are the ones I have,a 1974 XLH-Sportster and a 2006 FXDL Lowrider,my daughter has a 2001 XLC 883 Sportster,we love them,we enjoy them very much.And we are blessed to have a very good Harley-Davidson mechanic for a friend.Enjoyed the explanation of the Models and their different characteristics
I’ve ridden a lot of motorcycles, but I’ve only ever owned 2 Harleys, and I still have both. My first one is an ‘03 FatBoy FLSTFI that I purchased from a buddy. Number 2 is an ‘15 11:29 Ultra Limited that I purchased new. Different bikes for different purposes. I just need more time to ride them.
'09 Sportster 1200 Custom, 4.5G tank, 21" narrow front tire, stage 1, and 12.5" Progressive 412 shocks. I got quick-detach everything so I can tour it up or bob it down in minutes. Love it.
I wanted a 2021 FXLRS (Low Rider S) and had been eyeing one for months. Had to wait around for my local dealer to get one in stock. As fate would have it, they got a 21 FXFBS on the truck at the same time. I went out on my test ride with the Low Rider S and I immediately knew it wasn't for me. I felt uncomfortable and cramped. Made it back to the dealer and man, I was sad. The salesman suggested I take out the FXFBS. Immediately it fit like a glove. The slightly forward controls made all the difference for me. It felt more precise than than FXLRS. FXFBS had the suspension, rake, and 114 with dual discs. Long story short, take the guys advice. Ride them all and make your decision based on the totality of it all, not just looks.
Well, I didn’t have the benefit of your advice, GixxerFoo, when I bought my 2006 FXDWGI last year about Christmas time. To make matters even worse I bought it off the internet and did this after not riding or paying much attention to bikes for nearly 30 years. It soon became apparent to me that the bike wasn’t a slalom racer when I took it into its first corner, but after a summer of riding I wouldn’t trade it for anything. It was dumb luck on my part to get an 88 TC that already had the hydraulic cam chain tighteners, 6 speed tranny, and many other items that I’ve come to appreciate. I bought the bike because it reminds me of a friend’s old Wide Glide with an Evo and another friend’s SoftTail Custom. It looked like what I wanted so I bought it sight unseen and got extremely lucky. I learned to understand and finally like the way it handles and it’s good for riding the distances this old body is up for (although I could probably make a few more miles on a touring bike). Thanks GixxerFoo, you’ve managed to teach me a lot in the past year and I’m looking forward to learning more from you in the next.
I had a Vetter frame mounted, faring on my 750F...radio and speakers. And now I have a Streetglide Batwing..on my Ultra...The steering on the Glide is so effortless I have to practice making small corrections again. I prefer the Street glide for the increased side view area.
I have 3 Harley's at the moment, 2009 Rocker C, 2014 Dyna Wide Glide and 2021 Street Glide, i could not pick which one is my favourite because they all have their own personality and purpose and i love riding all 3 of them
Even different handlebars can change the handling of a bike. My 13 FXDWG stock handlebars handled like crap till I changed them to 8” mini-apes. Now she handles like a dream!
Great video Gixx, I'm glad that not everyone loves Road King's the way I do. If they were all riding the same bike, that would be boring. See you next time!!
Happy New Year GF...I'm in the process of adding a fairing, saddlebags, and tour pack to my 98 FLSTC. All total around $3,000. I hope it's worth it but when it's not bagged out I still have my solo setup to cruise on...till next year
That's a solid investment in that bike, you won't regret it once you're running down the road! Some people will ask why put that kinda money into a 98, well 3K down on a new one and you still your 27K!
My first bike was a 2003 harley duece soft tail 100th anniversary, i still have it and have loved it so far, definitely a nice cruiser with lots of torque
@GixxerFoo yeah I love the classy look of the soft tail, they feel heavy at first but its actually quicker than I expected, perfect long distance bikes
Early Dyna Lowriders and Wide Glide share the same frame with 32 degree rake. The FXD, FXDS, FXDX, FXDXT and FXDP all have 28 degree rake. This is true up to 2005.
I'm a classic example. My first Harley coming from 30 years of sports bikes was a Rocker C. I bought it for the looks. Only later to find out they're not the most comfortable Harley to ride. So the only way was up from there. I added a Sportster 72 to the stable a couple of years ago handles different! This year I added a 2015 Street Glide to the collection also. Different handling again. All bikes have their place and their abilities are used for what they were made for.
I still have my 2009 Rocker C, love the look of that bike but agree when it was stock it wasn't all that comfortable, more of an around town bar hop. Several years back i replaced the shocks (front & back), in the back i did a an air ride and the front put in some progressives and that thing is so comfortable now, its not my main ride, mostly used as a show and shine entry, i have a 2014 Wide Glide and a 2021 Street Glide also but if im headed out on a ride for maybe a couple hours only then i will take the Rocker C, it gets a lot of attention
My 92 flstf and 08 flstsb are equally fast but its how they get there. My evo is lighter and spins up faster, my 96ci has more tq and better gearing. And even though they're both softies, the ergos feel completely different.
@@GixxerFoo Metzler Marathon Ultra. After a hundred mile ride, I started carving and leaning over and suddenly the grip inspired more speed and leaning. The old tires were 4/32 on the rear and 2/32 on the front before tread bars prior to change. They are also quiet which was not something I ever considered.
My favorite H-D model is the FXR! I've had a Spotster, Electraglide, a Fatboy, a Heritage and an Ultra Classic but my favorite is my FXR! I always assumed that all the models shared the same model frame just the bolt on stuff was different like the front forks and tired and rear suspension. You could take a Heritage bolt on a Springer front end and have a Softail Springer! A Streetglide and a Roadglide share the same frame except for the bolt on stuff.
The FXR was designed by Eric Buell, some didn’t like it because of the triangular frame section much like the Japanese bikes. I was 18 when I road a brand new 87 FXRC, my friends dad owned the HD Dealer. I bought a new 90 FXRS at 21, then a 94 FXLR. It’s the best riding/handling bike Harley ever made, can’t believe they are calling a softail a LowRider.
What model is that gray and black bike at 8:56? It checks all the boxes with an understated simplicity. It's that a factory package or has it been customized? Thanks in advace to Gixxer or anyone else.
Road Glide is what I currently own. I can only say touring bikes are my favorite I've owned everything but a soft tail. Touring bikes just do most things better.
Great video and right on the money. Curent bikes are 2014 Softail Slim and 2020 Road King. Both have different purposes. The nice thing about the HD aftermarket, you can tune out the less favorable characteristic with some upgrade. Example would be switching the lowered shocks of the Slim for the Heritage Softail. Got another inch or so of ground clearance, changing the handling of the bike substantially. Happy New Year Gixxerfoo!
I had 883c and cousin 1200c both with 21in skinny front tires, my brother had '13 1200c with fat short front tire and I didn't like its handling at all......now I got Wide Glide 96ci with 21in skinny front and it handles smooth and easy, and when I put a 150 on rear it got even better......and my brother wants it
My vrod cvo has a liquid cooled engine and a 1250 cc engine with high revs, it red lines at 9000 rpm’s as compared to the touring which red lines at 5000 rpm’s I’ve done the quarter mile in 8.063 seconds at a speed of 142 miles per hour
Absolutely, you can put a 4.5 Sportster tank on any Sportster of the same style years. You'll likely need to get another seat that's made for the 4.5 tank though and you might have to move your rear seat bracket to another bolt hole in the fender.
My mom's got a custom 2020 Lowrider S with 131ci and the clam shell fairing, almost exactly like the Lowrider ST. That thing handles Ike a sport bike, even with the 14 inch rise mtx bars. I have a 2015 Sportster xl1200x 48 and yes I hate highway riding and would take a twisty country road everytime it's possible lol. Love the info and contemt......keep it up man
My favorite model is the Dyna Sport. But I still bought my 2002 FXDL coarse it had a crazy engine. I managed to lower the weight to 2633kg wet, and changed to Stainless spoke wheels 17" rear and 19" front for better handling. Still, it will never be a sportsbike. But with that 107hp and 263kg i haven't seen anyone from my HD mates pass me, thou they trie, again and again. Not from the traffic lights and not in the twisties. Dyna's are fun.
I love my mostly unique Harley ... Tri-Glide Ultra. 😂😂 I loved my 2013 Road Glide over the Street Glide. Both were totally different than my old 2006 Fatboy.
That's a great suggestion! There's been a lot of improvement on the Fat Boy with the M8. It's still the same bike but not exactly, give me a few weeks and l'll make a video on it!
Thanks for the info. Just sold my heavy Road King ,looking for something lighter due to several injuries and getting up there in age. Love riding the mountains of Utah , be more fun on a lighter bike .
I am approaching 7 decades, have had Road Kings, Ultras, Road Glide and Softail. Love them all and still have a few of them. Now have a Pan America. Light fast super handling and reasonable comfort. Big smile after every ride. Try one!
Try a heritage softail. You won't be disappointed. There slightly lighter and sits lower to the ground. I love my heritage over a touring bike with a smoother ride.
Before I got my first Harley (a 1989 FXRS Low Rider) in 2003, I always thought that most Harley parts were interchangeable, at least among similar models. Boy was I wrong. H-D probably has more parts proliferation than Honda. Yes their bikes may all look alike, and all based on the same basic design, but parts vary widely between similar models. A few parts were the same over decades, but a lot of them changed slightly from year to year. I have a 2006 Sportster 1200L, which has cast wheels, a 19" in the front. Yet the fender was designed for a 21" wheel. I decided I wanted to put a 21" wheel on it. Since the 2004-2006 1200C had a 21" front wheel, I thought one of those would just bolt on. I was wrong. The whole front end is different. The forks and brake are different. I also thought about replacing the big wide 4.5 gallon gas tank with a peanut style tank. Again I thought this would just be a bolt on deal. But I found out that no Harley peanut tank will fit a 2004-2006 Sportster that came with the 4.5 gallon tank. Same thing with accessories. Most are very model and year specific. While they may look the same, H-D made many small changes from year to year.
You can't even order one from the factory now. JP cycles and Dennis Kirk both have aftermarket oil tanks in stock. I can't vouch for their quality, but they're reasonably priced. Edit: oops, sorry, I just looked and JP cycles and Dennis Kirk don't have them in stock anymore.
@@alanjones4358 That's exactly the problem. I've found countless dealers who offer replicas but not even one of them has them in stock. Thank you for your help.
What an absurd statement! Harley Davidson has made so many different types of motorcycles it’s amazing. Like comparing the performance of a stock 70 model V.W. Bug to a 70 Hemi Superbird with all the options. ABSOLUTELY no comparison whatsoever. I’ve rode Harley Davidson bikes off and on for about 50 years. Like this guy is reporting, a Dyna Low Rider may look sorta like a Sportster as far as size and weight, but I have Never been on sportster that came close to the speed out of the hole or in the long run with my 03 100 year anniversary Lowrider, and I even broke in a new 883 sportster when they first came out. Sportsters are not a bad bike, but I really loved my Lowrider. The last bike I rode was a new 2019 Street Glide, too heavy for me compared to the Lowrider. The museum in Milwaukee is a must see, it’s an all weekend visit type experience to really appreciate the history of the company. 📕
My friend, Tripp Nobles could outrun every bike in our 125 bike fleet on an FXDWG on the two Vegas infield courses. It actually handles much better than you describe. Especially with some Gold Valve Emulators and a good set of shocks. Of course Tripp is a National Champion road and drag racer.
Thank you so much for all the content you put out. I'm a newbie motorcycle rider, and I've set my eyes on the 2014-2016 Sportster 48 as my first Harley Davidson. While the looks are a substantial factor, I also factor in a myriad of things. I believe the post-2016 era started to see a decline engine-wise across a wide range of models. I also want a 48 that comes with its wire wheels, not a fan of the new wheels that come installed 2016 upwards. I also would like an EFI, as I tend to think it's much more solid all-around and it's worry-free when you got to store the bike away for an extended period of time.
I’ve had 6 over the years, 2 RoadGlides, 1 VRod, 1 Low Rider S, an ElectraGlide & now a Road King(just got it Friday. I loved the RG handling but I got better wind protection w the EG, did not like the VR(horrible suspension and the motor wasn’t what I like in a Harley, no torque down low). The LR S was freakin awesome all around but can’t go anywhere on it. Really love the RG so far… I’ll shake her down this season( ‘05 w 3200 miles!😊). They have their food and bad points and they’ve all been reliable for me. Your mileage may vary… 👍🏼
I've only rode a 87 sportster, my experience has been with other Japanese bikes. There good but harley has a lot going for it. I can make a Harley what I want, parts are all over at least here. Also I've had trouble getting some parts for older metric bikes. I honestly want to go back to a little bigger Harley. I would live to ride the bigger ones though before I buy something
Road King is just a dressed down version, I showed them back to back conveying they are the same motorcycle just without the fairing and stereo basically!
Tire pressure can change the way a bike rides.. I’m with the others.. every, individual, bike has its own personality.. like women.. one can be smokin hot and give you ALL KINDS of fits, while another can be a BIG GIRL and just a soft smooth ride, no issues
100% agree 👍 cept that if I were to buy another Harley, it would have to be used, and I think I would go with an Evo Dyna WideGlide (FXDWG). I have 2 2002 FXDWG'S 88 & 95 ci and just miss the sound of the old bikes. I also have a 2019 Triglide 114 with 2800 miles on it, and didn't even know, that the M8 had 4 spark plugs...2 of which, you need to remove the 6 gallon fuel tank to get to. And they can keep those frame mounted fairings, that's just wrong IMHO 😑 Seriously, great video, you are so right ✅️
Harley Davidson has done a good job over the past 35 years keeping the same frame, engine, transmission, etc, and just changing how it looks. It's no difference from what the automotive industry does right? Right.
It used to be in the old days Sportster Parts would fit all year Sportsters and big twins Parts would fit all your big twins. Then Harley started making their bikes like the Japanese where this seat won't fit with this oil tank and this gas tank won't fit with this seat yada yada yada. Needless complication for nothing.
That's no joke, it's got where even the Sportster parts 2014 and up won't cross over onto anything 2011 to 2013. Of course nothing 2011 to present fits Sportsters 2010 and earlier, same thing with the big twin models too now.
If I had something like this I might still be riding a Harley today. I should have gotten a Heritage Classic instead of a Slim S. The 110 engine was hotter than Hell. It didn't handle very well and the suspension was horrible. I moved on to Moto Guzzi and Triumph.
I really don’t feel the difference between the road/street glide. I think it’s way over quoted. I think those bikes are just looks. The softails have far more minor differences adding to major differences in feel.
This goes for any bikes in general...interplay, dynamics n feel all quite different...had multiple British, Italian and Jap of same models, none came close in overall "personality"
If you ever have tried to change the wheels on your Harley, thinking "Oh gee, this will be simple! It came with spoke wheels and mags, so switching between the two will be simple!" WRONG. Fork width, disc diameter, spacers, hub width, dual disc compatibility, center bore and rim size...DAMMIT. How can it be this fucking hard just to swap wheels?! '91 FXRS, btw...
I love your videos and I learn a lot. I wish you would use a wireless though like a Rode W-II. Your videos would be much better. I'm an audio expert. Yeah a real one. What you talk about is important and needs to come across better. Direct energy into the mic will clean up the ambient reverb nicely.
How come you never mention Schaeffer's xp or just Schaeffer's oil to me its the best oil hands down and it's been around a long time but not to many people no about it
I’m a Harley tech of 25 years and it’s nice that Harley’s don’t change much especially when it comes to hunting parts in the Biden economy/supply chain.
My Road Glide is my favorite close to my old Shovel Fxr. I love the way they both feel on the road. Never thought I'd ever own a RG but there you go. Give it a go. All the best brother and Happy New Year from NZ 🇳🇿
Yep yep you are right they can't even upgrade the kickstand on in bikes and a whole lot of Harley-Davidson riders I have heard that they complained about the kickstands 300 years old and can't even upgrade a kickstand🤣🤣 and the turn signal🤣
Harley has been making the same motorcycle for decades, with minor differences and marketing to the same V-twin market. Why the hell don't they have an 800cc single on a classic frame? Or, a reasonable starter bike for beginners? Changing the color and adding extra lights does not create a new motorcycle. I have two Harleys now, but would buy a big single or a light weight bike, with a low center of gravity, semi sport bike in a minute! Their market is drying up and they seem to have no where to go... I am reminded of the original Model-T Ford. You could get it in any color you want as long as it was black! With Harley, you can get any engine you want as long as it is a V-Twin.
What is your favorite Harley-Davidson model??
Softail Low rider s or m8 street glide
Dyna wide glide best looking Harley Davidson ever! Just my opinion ✌️
It has always been the FX series for me. I rode my '75 FXE for 24 years. I do have to say I am a big fan of the new Sportster S and that new engine. No need to throw thousands at it to make it fast. It comes that way from the factory.
UL 74 flathead HAPPY TRAILS
Vrod
I've been riding a very long time. I've owned several Harley Davidson motorcycles and each had its own personality and soul. Happy New Year to all.
Sam here. I loved my low rider but love love my vrod
Amen brother!
Harley's are all the same for sure. They are all SLOW AF with shitty suspension, brakes and handling.
Aaand there’s the hater who can’t help himself
@@gasman6922 yeah wonder why he watches harley vids?
Love my 1984 FLHS. Shovelheads forever. 52 yrs riding still going.
78 FLHS here!
They’re just not that different
They’re all heavy to the touch, slow to respond.
They’re also supremely comfortable and a joy to ride and intoxicating to listen to, to feel, and to experience.
Been riding since 1965...bought my first Harley in 2022.
It’s a whole new world.
Had to adjust a lot of my riding coming from a CB, but it’s worth everything on my 48
If you're coming from a cb to a Harley than I guess they do feel a little slow to respond 😁
Been a sport/dirt bike guy my entire life and just grabbed my dream Harley. 17' FXDLS (Low Rider S - Last of the Dyna) love it!
Thank you for this video. Simply looking for my first Harley, I came to the same conclusion about these similarities within families. It took a bit of hunting to recognise what the changes in rake and the subsequent differences in trail meant for handling, and in which way an alteration of rake and subsequent trail affected handling and feel when riding in a straight line and when cornering. I noticed you did not mention trail. To mention rake change is probably enough at the level of noticeable difference and it maybe gets a bit tech'y to get into trail. Wheel size, ground clearance, standard or inverted forks and riding position each has its effect. I have friends that have ridden Harley for twenty years who frowned a little, while listening with interest as we discussed exactly these points which now are content in this vid. Thanks again for bringing it into the light of day.
My evo dresser. Ran real strong after some stage 2 and port & polish. 30 years of fun. 2nd place M8 114 Heritage Softail with the same treatment as the Evo. Good lord! I love my Harley's.
I love my Softail Deluxe. All the chrome, white walls, spoked wheels and very low seat height. It is the closest thing to a time machine for me.
Love my Deluxe too ❤🔥🙋🏻♂️
Can't fake love ✌
Harley-Davidson motorcycles are kind of like your children.You love them all the same,but often for different reasons.So my favorite motorcycles are the ones I have,a 1974 XLH-Sportster and a 2006 FXDL Lowrider,my daughter has a 2001 XLC 883 Sportster,we love them,we enjoy them very much.And we are blessed to have a very good Harley-Davidson mechanic for a friend.Enjoyed the explanation of the Models and their different characteristics
I’ve ridden a lot of motorcycles, but I’ve only ever owned 2 Harleys, and I still have both. My first one is an ‘03 FatBoy FLSTFI that I purchased from a buddy. Number 2 is an ‘15 11:29 Ultra Limited that I purchased new. Different bikes for different purposes. I just need more time to ride them.
I've owned a police Road King, a Street Glide, and I'm currently a Road Glide. Love them all! Each one has been my favorite.
'09 Sportster 1200 Custom, 4.5G tank, 21" narrow front tire, stage 1, and 12.5" Progressive 412 shocks. I got quick-detach everything so I can tour it up or bob it down in minutes. Love it.
I wanted a 2021 FXLRS (Low Rider S) and had been eyeing one for months. Had to wait around for my local dealer to get one in stock. As fate would have it, they got a 21 FXFBS on the truck at the same time. I went out on my test ride with the Low Rider S and I immediately knew it wasn't for me. I felt uncomfortable and cramped. Made it back to the dealer and man, I was sad. The salesman suggested I take out the FXFBS. Immediately it fit like a glove. The slightly forward controls made all the difference for me. It felt more precise than than FXLRS. FXFBS had the suspension, rake, and 114 with dual discs. Long story short, take the guys advice. Ride them all and make your decision based on the totality of it all, not just looks.
Well, I didn’t have the benefit of your advice, GixxerFoo, when I bought my 2006 FXDWGI last year about Christmas time. To make matters even worse I bought it off the internet and did this after not riding or paying much attention to bikes for nearly 30 years. It soon became apparent to me that the bike wasn’t a slalom racer when I took it into its first corner, but after a summer of riding I wouldn’t trade it for anything. It was dumb luck on my part to get an 88 TC that already had the hydraulic cam chain tighteners, 6 speed tranny, and many other items that I’ve come to appreciate. I bought the bike because it reminds me of a friend’s old Wide Glide with an Evo and another friend’s SoftTail Custom. It looked like what I wanted so I bought it sight unseen and got extremely lucky. I learned to understand and finally like the way it handles and it’s good for riding the distances this old body is up for (although I could probably make a few more miles on a touring bike). Thanks GixxerFoo, you’ve managed to teach me a lot in the past year and I’m looking forward to learning more from you in the next.
I had a Vetter frame mounted, faring on my 750F...radio and speakers. And now I have a Streetglide Batwing..on my Ultra...The steering on the Glide is so effortless I have to practice making small corrections again. I prefer the Street glide for the increased side view area.
Digging the new recording spot. Looking great
I miss that old shelf.....
Thank you, I appreciate it!
Me too, me too...
I have 3 Harley's at the moment, 2009 Rocker C, 2014 Dyna Wide Glide and 2021 Street Glide, i could not pick which one is my favourite because they all have their own personality and purpose and i love riding all 3 of them
Even different handlebars can change the handling of a bike. My 13 FXDWG stock handlebars handled like crap till I changed them to 8” mini-apes. Now she handles like a dream!
Great video Gixx, I'm glad that not everyone loves Road King's the way I do. If they were all riding the same bike, that would be boring. See you next time!!
Happy New Year GF...I'm in the process of adding a fairing, saddlebags, and tour pack to my 98 FLSTC. All total around $3,000. I hope it's worth it but when it's not bagged out I still have my solo setup to cruise on...till next year
That's a solid investment in that bike, you won't regret it once you're running down the road! Some people will ask why put that kinda money into a 98, well 3K down on a new one and you still your 27K!
My first bike was a 2003 harley duece soft tail 100th anniversary, i still have it and have loved it so far, definitely a nice cruiser with lots of torque
They are awesome bikes, I honestly find those older softails the most comfortable cruisers out there.
@GixxerFoo yeah I love the classy look of the soft tail, they feel heavy at first but its actually quicker than I expected, perfect long distance bikes
I rode a couple of mid 70's sportsters back in the day and last year I bought a 1997 Fatboy which I love.
Early Dyna Lowriders and Wide Glide share the same frame with 32 degree rake. The FXD, FXDS, FXDX, FXDXT and FXDP all have 28 degree rake. This is true up to 2005.
I'm a classic example. My first Harley coming from 30 years of sports bikes was a Rocker C. I bought it for the looks. Only later to find out they're not the most comfortable Harley to ride. So the only way was up from there. I added a Sportster 72 to the stable a couple of years ago handles different! This year I added a 2015 Street Glide to the collection also. Different handling again. All bikes have their place and their abilities are used for what they were made for.
I still have my 2009 Rocker C, love the look of that bike but agree when it was stock it wasn't all that comfortable, more of an around town bar hop. Several years back i replaced the shocks (front & back), in the back i did a an air ride and the front put in some progressives and that thing is so comfortable now, its not my main ride, mostly used as a show and shine entry, i have a 2014 Wide Glide and a 2021 Street Glide also but if im headed out on a ride for maybe a couple hours only then i will take the Rocker C, it gets a lot of attention
My 92 flstf and 08 flstsb are equally fast but its how they get there. My evo is lighter and spins up faster, my 96ci has more tq and better gearing. And even though they're both softies, the ergos feel completely different.
Wish I had my 1999 FXDX back. Getting rid of the scorcher 32's on my fat bob was money well spent
Really?! You didn't like the Michelins? What tire did you go with, I'm curious I might try a different set myself too.
@@GixxerFoo Metzler Marathon Ultra. After a hundred mile ride, I started carving and leaning over and suddenly the grip inspired more speed and leaning. The old tires were 4/32 on the rear and 2/32 on the front before tread bars prior to change. They are also quiet which was not something I ever considered.
Those hand movements of yours drive me nuts I don't know if I can even keep watching the videos lol
My favorite H-D model is the FXR! I've had a Spotster, Electraglide, a Fatboy, a Heritage and an Ultra Classic but my favorite is my FXR! I always assumed that all the models shared the same model frame just the bolt on stuff was different like the front forks and tired and rear suspension. You could take a Heritage bolt on a Springer front end and have a Softail Springer! A Streetglide and a Roadglide share the same frame except for the bolt on stuff.
I'm with you, I've got an ULTRA, Wide Glide and an FXRS in my stable. The FXR is the clear 🏆
You should ride the brand new soft tail frames. They are more rigid than the fxr and handle really good.
@@JNAMOTORSPORTS I have and understand physics, there's no way a Softail frame can handle like a touring frame.
The FXR was designed by Eric Buell, some didn’t like it because of the triangular frame section much like the Japanese bikes. I was 18 when I road a brand new 87 FXRC, my friends dad owned the HD Dealer. I bought a new 90 FXRS at 21, then a 94 FXLR. It’s the best riding/handling bike Harley ever made, can’t believe they are calling a softail a LowRider.
My neighbor just bought an ST we traded bikes one day out for riding an I just felt like I was riding my FXR ! FXRs RULE !
What model is that gray and black bike at 8:56? It checks all the boxes with an understated simplicity. It's that a factory package or has it been customized? Thanks in advace to Gixxer or anyone else.
great video and good points
1990 FLHS evo but a cool combo would be a shovel fxr
Road Glide is what I currently own. I can only say touring bikes are my favorite I've owned everything but a soft tail. Touring bikes just do most things better.
Great video and right on the money. Curent bikes are 2014 Softail Slim and 2020 Road King. Both have different purposes. The nice thing about the HD aftermarket, you can tune out the less favorable characteristic with some upgrade. Example would be switching the lowered shocks of the Slim for the Heritage Softail. Got another inch or so of ground clearance, changing the handling of the bike substantially. Happy New Year Gixxerfoo!
I had 883c and cousin 1200c both with 21in skinny front tires, my brother had '13 1200c with fat short front tire and I didn't like its handling at all......now I got Wide Glide 96ci with 21in skinny front and it handles smooth and easy, and when I put a 150 on rear it got even better......and my brother wants it
My vrod cvo has a liquid cooled engine and a 1250 cc engine with high revs, it red lines at 9000 rpm’s as compared to the touring which red lines at 5000 rpm’s I’ve done the quarter mile in 8.063 seconds at a speed of 142 miles per hour
Can a bigger gas tank be added to the Sportster?
Absolutely, you can put a 4.5 Sportster tank on any Sportster of the same style years. You'll likely need to get another seat that's made for the 4.5 tank though and you might have to move your rear seat bracket to another bolt hole in the fender.
@@GixxerFoo I like the Sportster line. Looks fun to ride.
Happy new year!
My mom's got a custom 2020 Lowrider S with 131ci and the clam shell fairing, almost exactly like the Lowrider ST. That thing handles Ike a sport bike, even with the 14 inch rise mtx bars. I have a 2015 Sportster xl1200x 48 and yes I hate highway riding and would take a twisty country road everytime it's possible lol. Love the info and contemt......keep it up man
My favorite model is the Dyna Sport. But I still bought my 2002 FXDL coarse it had a crazy engine.
I managed to lower the weight to 2633kg wet, and changed to Stainless spoke wheels 17" rear and 19" front for better handling.
Still, it will never be a sportsbike. But with that 107hp and 263kg i haven't seen anyone from my HD mates pass me, thou they trie, again and again.
Not from the traffic lights and not in the twisties. Dyna's are fun.
Can you please explain getting a softail to ride and handle
I love my mostly unique Harley ... Tri-Glide Ultra. 😂😂
I loved my 2013 Road Glide over the Street Glide. Both were totally different than my old 2006 Fatboy.
I've bought the 103 '15 fat bob on stage two by its looks and sounds, and I don't regret it. It's a beast and I try to tame HER...😁
You ever doing any coverage on the M8 fatboy. It's always evos, twin cams and dynas on this channel
That's a great suggestion! There's been a lot of improvement on the Fat Boy with the M8. It's still the same bike but not exactly, give me a few weeks and l'll make a video on it!
Thanks for the info. Just sold my heavy Road King ,looking for something lighter due to several injuries and getting up there in age. Love riding the mountains of Utah , be more fun on a lighter bike .
I am approaching 7 decades, have had Road Kings, Ultras, Road Glide and Softail. Love them all and still have a few of them. Now have a Pan America. Light fast super handling and reasonable comfort. Big smile after every ride. Try one!
Try a heritage softail. You won't be disappointed. There slightly lighter and sits lower to the ground. I love my heritage over a touring bike with a smoother ride.
@@jeffuda3638traded my 07 EGC for an 09 Heritage(mostly highway miles) and find the Heritage a way more comfy for 500 mile days.
happy new year GIXX
Great video! Wishing Happy New Year!
Before I got my first Harley (a 1989 FXRS Low Rider) in 2003, I always thought that most Harley parts were interchangeable, at least among similar models. Boy was I wrong. H-D probably has more parts proliferation than Honda. Yes their bikes may all look alike, and all based on the same basic design, but parts vary widely between similar models. A few parts were the same over decades, but a lot of them changed slightly from year to year. I have a 2006 Sportster 1200L, which has cast wheels, a 19" in the front. Yet the fender was designed for a 21" wheel. I decided I wanted to put a 21" wheel on it. Since the 2004-2006 1200C had a 21" front wheel, I thought one of those would just bolt on. I was wrong. The whole front end is different. The forks and brake are different. I also thought about replacing the big wide 4.5 gallon gas tank with a peanut style tank. Again I thought this would just be a bolt on deal. But I found out that no Harley peanut tank will fit a 2004-2006 Sportster that came with the 4.5 gallon tank. Same thing with accessories. Most are very model and year specific. While they may look the same, H-D made many small changes from year to year.
Im searching my ass of to find a new horse shoe oil tank for my softail 01. Does somebody know a dealer who has that part in stock?
You can't even order one from the factory now. JP cycles and Dennis Kirk both have aftermarket oil tanks in stock. I can't vouch for their quality, but they're reasonably priced. Edit: oops, sorry, I just looked and JP cycles and Dennis Kirk don't have them in stock anymore.
@@alanjones4358 That's exactly the problem. I've found countless dealers who offer replicas but not even one of them has them in stock. Thank you for your help.
I have a 2012 dyna fat bob 103 love it
What an absurd statement! Harley Davidson has made so many different types of motorcycles it’s amazing. Like comparing the performance of a stock 70 model V.W. Bug to a 70 Hemi Superbird with all the options. ABSOLUTELY no comparison whatsoever. I’ve rode Harley Davidson bikes off and on for about 50 years. Like this guy is reporting, a Dyna Low Rider may look sorta like a Sportster as far as size and weight, but I have Never been on sportster that came close to the speed out of the hole or in the long run with my 03 100 year anniversary Lowrider, and I even broke in a new 883 sportster when they first came out. Sportsters are not a bad bike, but I really loved my Lowrider. The last bike I rode was a new 2019 Street Glide, too heavy for me compared to the Lowrider. The museum in Milwaukee is a must see, it’s an all weekend visit type experience to really appreciate the history of the company. 📕
My friend, Tripp Nobles could outrun every bike in our 125 bike fleet on an FXDWG on the two Vegas infield courses. It actually handles much better than you describe. Especially with some Gold Valve Emulators and a good set of shocks. Of course Tripp is a National Champion road and drag racer.
Nice one. Love my 883c sporty. Though wouldn't mind the heritage classic.
CVO SG BEST BIKE LOVE THE WAY IF RIDE...BATWING 4 LIFE 😄
Thank you so much for all the content you put out. I'm a newbie motorcycle rider, and I've set my eyes on the 2014-2016 Sportster 48 as my first Harley Davidson. While the looks are a substantial factor, I also factor in a myriad of things. I believe the post-2016 era started to see a decline engine-wise across a wide range of models. I also want a 48 that comes with its wire wheels, not a fan of the new wheels that come installed 2016 upwards. I also would like an EFI, as I tend to think it's much more solid all-around and it's worry-free when you got to store the bike away for an extended period of time.
My First Harley was a 1980 Sportster. Current ride is a 83 FXWG. I like simple things.
Can you burn 87octane in a 09 96ci twin cam Heritage? Have burn 87 in other bikes with no problem. 88s and 96s
I've had several Streetglides and Roadglides. I really cannot tell much difference in the bikes. Both are very comfortable bikes.
Road Glide Forever!!!!
Amen brother Road Glide for ever 🤙
I’ve had 6 over the years, 2 RoadGlides, 1 VRod, 1 Low Rider S, an ElectraGlide & now a Road King(just got it Friday. I loved the RG handling but I got better wind protection w the EG, did not like the VR(horrible suspension and the motor wasn’t what I like in a Harley, no torque down low). The LR S was freakin awesome all around but can’t go anywhere on it. Really love the RG so far… I’ll shake her down this season( ‘05 w 3200 miles!😊). They have their food and bad points and they’ve all been reliable for me. Your mileage may vary… 👍🏼
HD is the Glock of motorcycles. Very little diff from all the models. But hey…Perfection.
Yes Harleys have personalities ,I named my panhead Sybil !
You are absolutely right 👍🙏🇺🇸
I've only rode a 87 sportster, my experience has been with other Japanese bikes. There good but harley has a lot going for it. I can make a Harley what I want, parts are all over at least here. Also I've had trouble getting some parts for older metric bikes. I honestly want to go back to a little bigger Harley. I would live to ride the bigger ones though before I buy something
Good job ! You did show a picture of a Road King but did not mention it is same frame as street glide & road glide ! Anyway 5 stars for you ***** !
Road King is just a dressed down version, I showed them back to back conveying they are the same motorcycle just without the fairing and stereo basically!
Tire pressure can change the way a bike rides.. I’m with the others.. every, individual, bike has its own personality.. like women.. one can be smokin hot and give you ALL KINDS of fits, while another can be a BIG GIRL and just a soft smooth ride, no issues
I think anyone that passes up this last Sportster will be wishing that they had It..
100% agree 👍 cept that if I were to buy another Harley, it would have to be used, and I think I would go with an Evo Dyna WideGlide (FXDWG). I have 2 2002 FXDWG'S 88 & 95 ci and just miss the sound of the old bikes. I also have a 2019 Triglide 114 with 2800 miles on it, and didn't even know, that the M8 had 4 spark plugs...2 of which, you need to remove the 6 gallon fuel tank to get to. And they can keep those frame mounted fairings, that's just wrong IMHO 😑
Seriously, great video, you are so right ✅️
Harley Davidson has done a good job over the past 35 years keeping the same frame, engine, transmission, etc, and just changing how it looks. It's no difference from what the automotive industry does right? Right.
Yes, my Dyna was different from my Road king and now my 2021 ElectraGlide Revival is different. Thats its for me😁🙏 thank you for your awesome videos!
It used to be in the old days Sportster Parts would fit all year Sportsters and big twins Parts would fit all your big twins. Then Harley started making their bikes like the Japanese where this seat won't fit with this oil tank and this gas tank won't fit with this seat yada yada yada. Needless complication for nothing.
That's no joke, it's got where even the Sportster parts 2014 and up won't cross over onto anything 2011 to 2013. Of course nothing 2011 to present fits Sportsters 2010 and earlier, same thing with the big twin models too now.
Happy New Year Gixx, from Nova Scotia, Canada 🇨🇦 🙏
If I had something like this I might still be riding a Harley today. I should have gotten a Heritage Classic instead of a Slim S. The 110 engine was hotter than Hell. It didn't handle very well and the suspension was horrible. I moved on to Moto Guzzi and Triumph.
If I have 2 honda civics, and the only difference is weight and personality, they're still both exactly the same car.
I don't blend in ! I stand out out with my pristine 1980 shovelhead, and I don't ride in flocks. I will never wear a HOG costume either.
Electra-glide classic
I really don’t feel the difference between the road/street glide. I think it’s way over quoted. I think those bikes are just looks.
The softails have far more minor differences adding to major differences in feel.
This goes for any bikes in general...interplay, dynamics n feel all quite different...had multiple British, Italian and Jap of same models, none came close in overall "personality"
Great info.
If you ever have tried to change the wheels on your Harley, thinking "Oh gee, this will be simple! It came with spoke wheels and mags, so switching between the two will be simple!" WRONG. Fork width, disc diameter, spacers, hub width, dual disc compatibility, center bore and rim size...DAMMIT. How can it be this fucking hard just to swap wheels?! '91 FXRS, btw...
I love your videos and I learn a lot. I wish you would use a wireless though like a Rode W-II. Your videos would be much better. I'm an audio expert. Yeah a real one. What you talk about is important and needs to come across better. Direct energy into the mic will clean up the ambient reverb nicely.
Awesome vlog
Except for the vrod, that had its own platform,
Riding a Harley doesn’t make you the fastest one on the street. But nothin rides like one.
With a Tourer just buy the base model and Stage 2 it in store. It'll smash a 114 for still probably less $
How come you never mention Schaeffer's xp or just Schaeffer's oil to me its the best oil hands down and it's been around a long time but not to many people no about it
I’m a Harley tech of 25 years and it’s nice that Harley’s don’t change much especially when it comes to hunting parts in the Biden economy/supply chain.
Good advice
Thanks brother
SPORTSTER4LIFE ☘️ ☘️ ☘️
My Road Glide is my favorite close to my old Shovel Fxr.
I love the way they both feel on the road.
Never thought I'd ever own a RG but there you go.
Give it a go.
All the best brother and Happy New Year from NZ 🇳🇿
There is NOTHING common between a
Shovelhead FXR and a Road Glide. 🤣
Why do harley videos have someone yelling into the camera? And the shredder music, what’s that about?
my 2005 FXSTBI Nightrain
I miss the shelf
Me too my friend, me too...
It’s the Harley Davidson paint company.
They are the only company that will change paint color and call it a “new” model.
They are but very different.
I like Harley’s and I get it
They just need to invest in brakes more and better suspension
Great bikes
Heritage Classic
I love my 883 idc how slow it is 😂
Those hands...
Yep yep you are right they can't even upgrade the kickstand on in bikes and a whole lot of Harley-Davidson riders I have heard that they complained about the kickstands 300 years old and can't even upgrade a kickstand🤣🤣 and the turn signal🤣
Interesting, no mention of the Pan America
LRS Dyna doesn’t have inverted forks….
Harley has been making the same motorcycle for decades, with minor differences and marketing to the same V-twin market. Why the hell don't they have an 800cc single on a classic frame? Or, a reasonable starter bike for beginners? Changing the color and adding extra lights does not create a new motorcycle. I have two Harleys now, but would buy a big single or a light weight bike, with a low center of gravity, semi sport bike in a minute! Their market is drying up and they seem to have no where to go... I am reminded of the original Model-T Ford. You could get it in any color you want as long as it was black! With Harley, you can get any engine you want as long as it is a V-Twin.
Eat ur rice.