Wanted one ever since I was a kid and watched "Then Came Bronson" on television. Settled for rice burners all my life because that's what I could afford. Had to wait till I was old and retired, but in 2020, I went to the local dealer determined to come home with a Harley Davidson, and that's exactly what I did. Didn't really care what I had to pay for it.
Everything you said summed up the ones that get Harley Davidson nicely, my 1999 FXDX will see me out as I own it, maintain it and love that connection to it that is part of my life, the saying whatever makes you happy applies here.
it might still be worth some money when I decide to sell it. They are available used, lots and lots of them, and being 6' 5" with forward pegs and some risers with pull back, they actually fit this tall guy. Mid controls are miserable. It's the whole reason you see Adventure bike riders standing so much, their legs cramp up with mids.
I hear you man, I'm with you, probably the only thing I love is my fatboy, maybe we should ride together; which brings me back to yesterday.......My friend sent me a whats 'cause he wanted to ride (he also rides a harley) so I said hell yeah man!....told this to the bitch sent her a whats......minutes later she calls me and says hey what's going on? I replied, nothing I'm just hurrying up...bam! the bitch just hanged up!.....I did not call her back just said, well well fuck it! fuck it bitch! you just can go to hell! I'm going to kick some ass down the road with my buddy!
@@johnengland8619 Things of beauty, grace and speed are usually referred to in the feminine gender, so I refer to my bike as a she or her. Minus the speed part of course. She does not have a name although that is a good idea 💡
For me it’s the sound of the engine and the low center of gravity that produces an awesome ride. The Harley V Twin engine is an industrial design masterpiece.
2 years ago I finally bought my first Harley at the age of 43. I’ve dreamt of having one my entire life. The feeling I had of staring at that HD badge sitting in my own garage is unmatched. I live 30 minutes from the York PA plant where my 2019 Heritage was built and I’ve toured the place several times. No other motorcycle I’ve owned has provided the lasting feeling my HD has.
That’s how it felt when I got my Sportster running recently. I’m not a materialistic man by any means, but I can’t lie about how proud I was to finally own a Harley that I might be able to ride here soon. New tire, brakes and wiring and I should be ready to piss off my neighbors every morning.
When I started riding they were the only big bike around. My Grandpa rode a Harley before WW1, my dad had one when I was born. I got one when I returned from the Army
In a nut shell, here's my story. In '83 purchased a Honda V45. I put 300k miles on it. It was extremely reliable. Then I purchased a '98 Harley Dyna. Put 100k on the first engine, 68k on the rebuild engine. Now I have a '84 FXR I bought as a basket case but have since brought it back to life. There is just something about an HD that causes me to never return to a Metric bike. Metrics are fast, reliable, and nice riding bikes but i'll stick to my HD. HD Old School !!
I've owned all kinds of bikes but switched to HD back in 78 and won't be buying anything else from here on (I don't think). The thing I love about HD is the feeling of riding one. Between the vibration, power, and the raw sound of a HD is what keeps me on one. You just can't get those things from anything else IMO. Not only that but as you said you can make them anything you want and do it yourself. Let's say you're tired of your narrow glide sporty, you can change it to a wide glide, or a big old touring glide front end in less then a weekend without any problems. And over the winter you can make your bike recognizable to what it was. You just can't beat them. Later
I bought my first Harley in the seventies and still have it. But I can see a day in the future when I go to a lighter bike than my ultra classic. The years have been catching up to me.
From the UK I was so impressed to see so many 'ordinary' Americans riding Harley-Davidsons to a bar near my son's home in Indiana. Pleasant, rounded, social individuals who express themselves- in some small part- through their choice of motorcycle. And why not ? Despite many disappointments I remain a Triumph man- though oddly my favourite is the Triumph America !
My first street bike, in 1981, was a 71' 750 Bonneville. I loved it and wish I didn't have to sell it. From there it's been all Harleys. A 41' Knucklehead that I would still have if it weren't stolen in 93'. A 72' XLCH Sportster and a 2000 Heritage, both that I still have. I learned with the Bonneville, never sell a motorcycle you like.
U.K. as well, I bought a Triumph America brand new in 2003 ..... still own it! It keeps my 2007 Dyna company in the garage, both similar bikes but different in many ways. I bought the Dyna as a project that had sat for years following the previous elderly owners demise with the intentions of selling it once I'd completed it. Rode it to the MOT station, within 5 minutes I knew I'd never sell it! I love both of those bikes, I'm 66 now and they'll be my rides until my time is up! Ride safe.
I had a Triumph T140 V Bonneville in the UK, P reg I believe which would have been a 1975/ 76.. I'm American but lived 50 years in the UK ( long story ) in America now . I think my Triumph was mistreated ( i wasn't the original owner, and because the early Triumphs you practically had to be a mechanic which i didn't have the knowledge i do now ,because even though it was a good looking bike it was actually the biggest POS I've EVER owned . And that's in 47 and counting years of being in the saddle. .😎🏴🇺🇲
I always wanted a Harley-Davidson but could never afford one until a coworker of mine offered me a 2003 FXDL at a reasonable price. Now that I have it, I actually like it better than my 2000 V-Star 1100 Custom.
I’m 64 semi retired and have been on a HD since 1979. I currently work at. HD dealership in San Antonio, Tx as a parts department associate. The HD culture is awesome. The bikes the people are what I wake up to and live for everyday.
I have had a 1980 Sportster, and still ride a 1983 FXWG. I bought my FXWG while stationed on USS Midway VA-115 1981-83. Picked up Portland Motosports when transferred. Saved money buying it that way.
I’m 63 and a few months ago purchased my first HD, a 2004 Fatboy. I love this bike. I cannot describe the exhilaration riding this amazing machine. Dreamt of owning a Fatboy after watching the Terminator in 91.🇦🇺
My grandfather rode a Harley in the war, my Dad rode a Harley up to 4 years ago when he turned 90, I’m riding my Dyna Street Bob and Harley Triglide and my son riding his Street Bob. 4 generations.
Being that Harley is local (HQ is about 25 minutes from me) it's basically law that every biker owns at least one!!!! As someone who owns a 2011 dyna street bob AND a "modern naked" bike (2020 Kawasaki z900) the best analogy is it's like having both a 70's muscle car and a Lambo in the garage. The Kawasaki out performs the Harley in every aspect of riding but my dyna still to this day has that cool badass factor that metric bikes don't live up too!!!
I grew up around shovelheads. Dad used to pick me up from school on his . There was things I liked about Harleys before I knew the proper names . Drag bars ,drag pipes, the engine and then big 5 gallon tanks . Outlaws do things their way and we all know that but I was just another that experienced the way they are . No fashion on main and no cops as pals . Dirty dressed and damn glad about that 💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼( i was a kid so i didnt get dirty ,then)
I'm an old timer and a Detroit gearhead. I grew up with Triumphs and Harleys, and I just like them. If I were younger, I would probably be more into sport bikes, but I like comfort these days.
I've owned and ridden Yamaha, Kawasaki, and Hondas, they were all great bikes, but there was just something about Harleys that always made me want to try one. The fit and finish, everything from the paint, to the switch housings, to the motor finish, everything on a Harley just feels like its better quality. And then there's the ride, to sound, the torque, the comfort. My Harley's have given me more smiles per mile than any of my Japanese bikes ever did. I can honestly say after I switched to riding a Harley back in 2006, I don't think I would be happy going back to a metric cruiser.
I own a 2003 Road King Classic, 100-Year Anniversary Edition, with the Screaming Eagle engine upgrade from an 88 V-Twin to a 95. The fast producing torque and sound is exhilarating. My Road King with its original anniversary Two-Tone Sterling Silver and Vivid Black paint colors stands out. The commemorative medallions seen throughout this classic ride's sculpted design adds to its nostalgia, mystique ,and exclusivity. The Road King is among the most elegant, stylish and archetypical Harley-Davidson motorcycles ever produced and forever etched in HD's rich history of motorcycle designs. Road King stands supreme and has no equal. The Road King is the personification of a Harley Davidson icon. Those select riders who own one are indeed privileged.
Putting power to the ground, in this context means efficiency I'd suggest. Are Harleys more efficient? Most likey with chain primary and final. Just don't try to compare that efficiency by doing a top gear roll on against that shaft drive VTX/Goldwing/Vulcan etc. Then power to the ground will mean something else entirely.
I first started riding on the road when I was 18 and I'll be turning 60 in a few months. And every bike that I owned was a metric bike until about 10 years ago when a friend of mine said to take his electra glide out for a rip. When I got onto the highway the first thing I thought was " what the f have I been riding all those years ". The next day I was at the local dealership and I bought the first of my and my wife's 4 harleydavidsons. Like you said until you ride one, you just don't know. And there is no turning back.
Good video. I paid off my bike a few years ago and started to think of a new bike. Then it hit me. I swapped out the suspension front and rear with Legends and had an S&S big bore kit installed.
My Great grandfather had a Harley Davidson with a side car. My Grand mother would ride in tandem while my Great grandmother and Great aunt rode in the side car. He would take the side car off and go hill climbing with it. He did that until he got hurt and My Great Grandmother put an end to it. That's why I got a Harley Davidson. And they're beautiful. Sound bad ass. Chicks dig them.
What you are describing about Harley design, took place many years ago. Now it is the history of HD that people love. The designs have not changed drastically over the years (some models have), but the main elements of this American Icon endure. The chopper element has also contributed to the Harley mystique. I bought my 1999 Harley Softail new, and very few parts that are on it now are original.
bought my ultraclassic new in 05. havent had it but a month still putting on the break in miles. Wife and I riding north on I-5 approaching our exit, a tour bus loaded with Japanese tourist was passing one lane out. I happened to look over, the entire load of tourist had thier cameras and noses plastered into the windows all pointing snaping pictures. i could read thier lips all saying and pointing in unison. "HARLEY DAVIDSON"
Another cool video! I've owned 25 new bike since 2000. I've owned 7 new $$$$ Ducatis and 7 new Harleys $$$$. For me it's the classic look, solid build, and they haven't gone too modern. I love the rumble and the ride even if they're not the perfect motorcycle. McDonald's isn't a burger by any stretch but no burger taste like it (over a billion served). I believe there isn't any Harley Davidson that has a contender . Making it smoother, faster, or whatever changes the bike as you have eluded to in your video. I have gone full circle and will be a die hard HD guy until they mess up a perfect bike for me.
I bought a brand new 1998 XL1200S out of curiosity after being a dirt bike guy. $11,000 in 1998, with many accessorized chrome bits and bobs on a vivid black base. It is still fantastic to sit in the garage and look at the bike, it is a piece of art. But I only have less than 10k miles on the bike after 25 years. Resale value is crap. Glad I still like the way it looks, because I can’t stand to ride it and hate to sell it for such a small price (worth what, $3k?). I’m the wrong type or person for a Harley.
The custom project ideas in my mind makes me pay more and more extra money to chase what I want to put on my H-D. I trust that my motorcycle represents me. And my bike is what I want others to see.
Only time I didnt ride a Harley was taking my test in the 80s. Back then in the UK, we could only ride up to a 125cc on L plates. After the test, the skies the limit. So I got me a 1988 1200cc Harley Evo Sportster. So loved that bike. But my ideal was the older 30s/40s/50s styles. But I'm no mechanic, so gonna Mock-up my current '09 sporty 883 into a 1936 EL lookalike. Why not?🤷🏼♀️
Here's my explanation; A Harley Davidson motorcycle, exudes a certain character, or "presence," that is something hard to describe. Also, for me, my love of vintage engines goes way back to early piston engine Radials. Basically, a H.D. V-Twin is like two cylinders off of a Radial Engine. From the cylinders sharing one common connecting rod journal, to the fork and blade style connecting rod, both pistons sharing a common axis. This basic design has remained largely unchanged since the beginning of the last century.
Have 2004 Dyna low rider with 75,000 miles on it and its Twin Cam is still at 95 % performance.Personality is priceless ,like riders no 2 motorcycles should be identical.Shes paid for,one of a kind and altered to my demands. My ride all the way.
My grandpa had one about 1917. Even my dad wanted one but life was family first for him. I alway thought a roadbike said Harley Davidson so ive owned 4.
At 50 years old, I have only owned a Harley for for 10 years. In 2013 I bought a 2009 Road King and I love it. I own a Harley because as a child I dreamed about owning a Harley. That’s it. Not marketing and not styling, just to fulfil a childhood dream. It now is what I believe is stage 2 with exhaust, intake, cams, and a tuner. The sound and the feel of my bike is on point with the bikes that I seen and dreamed of as a child and I have no intention of getting rid of it. As mentioned in the video, if anything goes wrong I can buy a new engine or drivetrain, or any part that I want to change for style , performance or feel. He ain’t that old but I love my old boy. Just a simple Harley.
Rode my first Harley when I was 13 yrs old 1971 sportster 1000cc bought my first harley at 45 yrs old .lm 65 4 Harleys later. I'm Hooked on B17 Flyjng Fortress of ww2 . It's the feel of the ride and being in control lol
Yes, you are right, going down the road.... After 30 miles only Harleys still make you grin and smile, yes other bikes are better performers but nailing that "soul connection" is really what Harley has done... After hours on the road, nail that throttle see the rpms from 2k to 5k,definitely you are smiling no doubt about it.... 😅
I own three Harley Davidsons. I bought all three of them used. Low miles, but all over 10 years old, and all carbureted. I do my own service and repairs. About the only modifications I have done are paint and more chrome. Lots of chrome. I like them for three reasons. Looks, sound (all three have aftermarket exhausts) and the feel (the Harley "shake") I think I got very good deals on all on=f them, and didn't pay "extra money". Harley Davidson hasn't done so well in the looks department lately. There is only one look. Flat black X 1000. Everything they make is flat black. I recently had my 2006 Sportster 1200L repainted. I painted the tank medium blue (non metallic) and the fenders a creme color. I replaced the black side covers with chrome. It looks like it came right out of the '50s. As for the engines, Harley Davison has already gone way to far with their engines. The EVO was the high point for Harley Davidson engines. It's all been downhill from there. I don't even consider the M8 to be a Harley engine. It is far more Japanese than Harley. I mean counterbalancers??? Really??? Shaft drive actually works very well. My fourth bike is a 1997 Kawasaki Vulcan 750. I bought it new in early '98. It has a shaft drive. It also now has 118,000 miles on it and no problems with the shaft drive. It will easily top 100 mph. My 1200 Sportster will beat it off the line, but it will soon catch up. It will run side by side with the Sportster, with just over half the displacement. The problem with it isn't performance. It just doesn't have the look, sound, and feel of the Sportster. If my Sportster will keep up with a Hyundai Accent, I'm happy with it. It's about enjoying the ride, not speed and power. If that is what is most important to you, Japan, inc. will be happy to sell you a crotch rocket that can exceed 200 mph. The rebuildability of Harley engines ended with the EVO. The Twin Cam and M8 are built like Japanese bikes. Trying to rebuild them costs more than a new engine. They were designed to be disposable. Back in the mid '90s I actually wanted to be part of the H-D scene. I was young back then, but also poor. I tried to buy a new '95 Sportster 883, which had an MSRP of around $5200. Not even close. They wanted almost twice that much, and it would take 6 months to get it. That's when I decided I wanted nothing to do with the H-D brand. I still liked the bikes, but not the company. To this day I have never bought anything with H-D on it except the bikes. And one of them has been repainted, and I chose to leave off the Harley Davidson emblems. I find it really interesting how for decades the Japanese manufacturers tried to copy Harley Davidson, with varying degrees of success. But now the tables have turned, and now Harley Davidson is copying the Japanese brands. And the Japanese manufacturers don't really make Harley copies anymore. One thing they do seem to have in common is that everything they make is FLAT BLACK.
HD has been building and selling motorcycles in America since 1903! They have generations of riders that have owned and ridden Harleys, and some have never owned anything else! They are a true American icon! There's truly nothing else like them in so many ways. If you want a Harley, then nothing else will do.
Maybe its the nostalga? The fact that so many MCs ride Harleys. But there is certainly a status that comes when you ride a Harley. Expensive? Yes, but after buying the first one it got easier to buy others. I have no regrets. Good presentation.
It’s like what you said once you get on one, then the light goes on you know and it’s never going to be replaced in my mind by any other type of motorcycle
For me it's 100% the sound and feel. My 96 sporty feels raw, sounds awesome, and it's like going back in time. I love it. My 94 Shadow is very smooth and modern, but it just doesn't have the personality that the Harley does.
I love the black Dyna Sport that you have pictured. Why do manufacturers mess with perfection? Honda made the Valkyrie and the VTX 1800. Now they make the Monkey. Yamaha made the Warrior. Thats gone, too. I’d love to have a Dyna Sport type bike with the new frame and M-8 motor.
I personally think HD should look into a small supercharger to add power and maintain Harley sound. Turbo will mute. Makes more sense to me than adding displacement until they reach 200cu inch.
I never had my own bike until I turned 62 in 2015. I first bought a 1984 Suzuki Intruder 800 which I really liked, kind of a 'factory chopper' as a guy once told me. Then I bought a 1986Yamaha Venture 1200 A larger heavier bike. Then I bought my 1992 Sportster 883. Funny you mentioned "If I have to explain it you wouldn't understand." After i bought my 1992 Sportster 3 years ago a buddy I ride with who'd always been enamored with the 1982 Suzuki GS 1100'S wanted to sit on it, Sure I said, I told him go ahead and fire it up. I was surprised to hear him when He did start it. Something like, "Yeah! I love to sound and the feel of the bars when it's running!" I'll turn 70 this week and I still have my Sportster!
It’s HD or nothing! Been a dream since I was a little kid. Here I am 41 years old and the dream is a reality. I am living a fkn dream every time I ride it. I love my damn Road Glide more than almost everything in the world
I have been around a MC all of my life Dad was in a MC. I got my frist Harley in 1982 I was 17. My frist love is Harley Davidson 1967 XLH Sportster I still ride today
@@GixxerFoo Yes I do I have rebuild the Engine 3 time and have over 100,000 Miles of smiled on it. Yes I ride my 2013 Classic but still like to ride my old XLH Sportster
Even though I should be dead from a accident on my new Harley I still bought anyone,Harley means American made,ect. Nothing better going from the 88 to Milwaukee 8 the horsepower improvement is awesome,but ya you nailed this video!
I own three, a full bagger (flhtci) (xlf 1000 roadster sportster, Dyna low rider. Have had many good bikes, yes, non Harlys, but I love almost all rides.
I've always liked the way a Harley Davidson looks and sounds. I own a 2013 Road Glide Custom and a 2023 Sportster S. Both are amazing bikes. Do i prefer the Road Glide over the Sportster S?... Not really, I feel like I can have the best of both worlds. Brand new Harley with its new RevMax is a blast to ride. My older Twin Cam is very "mechanical" but it's an experience I enjoy. Would I own a different brand of bike? Nah, probably not. They offer enough models to choose from should I decide to change up my riding style that I can find another Harley easily.
I’m no fan of the M8, BUT the one thing that I really struggle with on the new softails is the swingarm. The old softails had that look of a rigid. That new angle might work better, but it irritates me.
I have had other bikes, and in my opinion, nothing compares to the feel of a Harley Davidson. Almost bought a newer Indian, but too hi tech for me. Twin cam, Evo, shovel, is where I will stay.
You cruise a Softail Milwaukee 8 107 or 114 stock motor, reasonable speeds, where your helmet isn;t a Bobble head in the wind, and 55 to 60 mpg is possible. You'll never see that on a BMW R18 Bagger or Classic. Maybe 45 to 47, under the exact same conditions. Shaft drives are very inefficient, with today's gas prices here in CA. $6 a gallon for premium 91
Only problem with the fans is I live in Las Vegas & all the fans are going to do it blow already hot air onto the heads, cylinders etc., or am I wrong? I did put the Ultra Cool Oil Cooler on my HD Heritage Classic Softail. Since it's cold now in Las Vegas I haven't seen the fans kick on yet, but we'll see as it gets warmer. Thanks for your educational videos with regard to Harley's & keep up the good work....
I was just in Vegas back in December... I was in for a real shock being my first time stepping out of the airport into the dry desert air being from Oklahoma!
Without that big thumping air cooled 117 engine in mine there is no way I would have a harley parked next to my other way better handling , way more powerful non harley bikes. Its just something special to ride when in the mood for chilled cruizin.
I consider myself to be an enthusiast, not a biker. I'm not into riding 5 miles to a bar to then drink and ride. I don't dress like a biker. I don't really like to ride in groups. I don't enjoy biker events, or really crowds in general. I don't do long distances. I have only 3 friends that ride. And I'm a white collar professional. I don't fit in. I guess I have the bike because I like it. It's mostly a point A to point A machine for me. I'll ride 45 minutes and I'm good.
I dont ride my Evo Fatboy or TC Road King becuse of the power or performance. If i wanted a powerful cruiser id buy a Rocket III and if i wanted a powerful touring bike id buy a Goldwing. I dont love my Harleys becuse of power or performance, Here in Europe they are kinda unique and i love the old school rawness about them. My Fatboy might cough an oil sludge on my right knee from the carb and rattle my teeth loose but bloody hell i love that bike. I highly doubt i will ever buy a new Harley tho
They look good, sound good and have the history and dependability going for them and if they were a little less expensive there would be a whole lot more on the on the road.
i am in between the two worlds ( harley -metrics ) ,not an american so nostalgia goes out the window ,i own a harley(2008 fxstb nightrain ) just for the feel of it ,i own a metric (suzuki s83 bulevard ) because the cost of living with one is next to nothing.
How come only old geezers own Harleys? If there as wonderfully awesome as Gixxer says why aren't the young guys buying them? Affordability? With the way people shop on monthly payments only and dealerships willing to stretch a loan out for 30 years you'd think the young spry men would be clamouring to get some American/Chinese/Mexican (and other global components) Thunder.
I own two ultra classic’s right now and I’ve owned everything from a panhead to a 883 sportster. I’ve also owned many other bikes. Harley’s are pretty much about sound, feel and looks, everything else goes to the foreign bikes like performance, reliability and even road control. And if it wasn’t for aftermarket parts I believe Harley would go under because they are awful at standing behind their bikes after about seven years.
I was in the USN 3x half way around the world. In any country even if they spoke no English I would say Harley Davidson they would always smile and hold up a finger #1. Here in America we own something that the world envy's . Tina Turner's song simply the best better than all the rest!!!! H.D. American Iron.
I call it - Soul . I’ve had metric bikes as well, faster ,sure. Smoother ,yes , cheaper ,less expensive certainly! But you just RIDE them . A Harley is much more than just a ride, it moves you!
Welll I do have an 07 Street Glide that's I put the stage II 103 kit in it & honestly wish I'd gone ahead and went with the stage 4 but I've got a habit of hopping things up too much and then they're not as streetable say, if you want to travel access the country and that gets to my next point about those doggy ferren brands with the power robbing driveshaft. In 98 when I was told I would have to wait a year for a new Fatboy & then except whatever color came in if it wasn't what I ordered or I would go back to the end of the line & they laughed about it so I went & got a different kind of Fatboy, an American made from 98% American made, not imported, parts & even though it was really fast off the showroom floor I now have a Magna Supercharger on it & it's really a big tire roaster now. One thing I'll add though, is I wouldn't go on a long trip with it because if something happened to it it would be almost impossible to get any help with it even from a Honda Dealer because there hasn't been one screw, nut, or bolt that hasn't been turned on my Valkyrie. Kinda wish I'd put all of that money into a Boss Hoss now because that's something that ya can run to O'Reilly's & get at least half of the parts for and most anything else overnighted to ya while you wait in the motel.
Harleys are mainly built for foolish men usually with this overwhelming lack of self esteem. I am more than positive that by the time they figure out that they spent three times the amount of money than the bike is worth and they still have to put ten thousand more dollars in modifications to "make it their own" that they will still have some indignant thinking that this is the right bike for them. More power to them. There is very little that is "American " about the Harley name or product in today's global market. It's not just about the money for me, its more about the attitude or the Harley riders and dealership people. There is this attitude of arrogance that they are somehow better/entitled. I enjoy going into a Harley dealership every once in awhile just to have a look around and reaffirm that I don't want to be part of these people or anything that they represent. Which is probably a good decision because they wouldn't me anyways. It's kinda like visiting a church where I feel judgements from every direction. I just want anybody on 2 wheels to enjoy the journey and please be careful and safe. Don't wait for the other person to make the wrong decision for you.
I sure wish they would get back to that. I saw a Suzuki cruiser the other day, not a bad looking bike but not a Harley either. It looked stamped rather than crafted.
Not built for everyone...ain't that the truth. They haven't built a bike for anyone over 6'3 in many yrs. I'm 390 pounds, 6'7 and on my 07 heritage I still look to big!
Here's an old and worn expression that makes Harley hater heads explode every time I use it. "If you understand no explanation is necessary, if you don't no explanation is possible" It's not a lie or a fairy tale, either you get it or you don't. You"ll never convince those that hate them to like them and you'll never convince those of us that love them to hate them.Trying to do either is a loosing battle.
My 2022 road glide limited is my 6th Harley. I started out on Japanese motorcycles. The Suzuki intruder 700 are in some of my fondest memories of motorcycling. Not that I did a bunch of long rides on that bike but it was a fun bike with a lower center of gravity and it cornered well compared to bikes I owned before it. I hear a lot of back and forth of brand loyalty. I always tell people that unless I bought you your motorcycle, what you ride is none of my business. There’s times I’ve threatened to go back to a Japanese bike….. and then I find myself in a Harley dealer getting raped again😂. Guess I like it? 😢
Been riding Harley-Davidson since his 1982 a 1954 FL and 1978 and a half FLH and a 2012 FLHTCI I I wouldn't even consider riding anything else you ain't got a Harley you ain't got shit
I’ve owned a lot of Japanese bikes. Still own a Suzuki for commuting, but they just don’t have a soul. It’s just a machine built by a machine. My Harley’s were built by people. “Mostly“ Americans. A Honda may run just fine for 200k miles, but ultimately. It will end up in the junk yard. 100 years from now. My Road king, and my fxr will still be alive.
What makes you pay the extra money for a Harley-Davidson?
Wanted one ever since I was a kid and watched "Then Came Bronson" on television. Settled for rice burners all my life because that's what I could afford. Had to wait till I was old and retired, but in 2020, I went to the local dealer determined to come home with a Harley Davidson, and that's exactly what I did. Didn't really care what I had to pay for it.
If I didn't have a strong desire to constantly tinker and add stuff I could have settled for a Vmax back in 1985. I would have saved a fortune.....
Everything you said summed up the ones that get Harley Davidson nicely, my 1999 FXDX will see me out as I own it, maintain it and love that connection to it that is part of my life, the saying whatever makes you happy applies here.
it might still be worth some money when I decide to sell it. They are available used, lots and lots of them, and being 6' 5" with forward pegs and some risers with pull back, they actually fit this tall guy. Mid controls are miserable. It's the whole reason you see Adventure bike riders standing so much, their legs cramp up with mids.
All of the things mentioned.
My 98 Harley is the only thing in my life I actually love.
I hear you man, I'm with you, probably the only thing I love is my fatboy, maybe we should ride together; which brings me back to yesterday.......My friend sent me a whats 'cause he wanted to ride (he also rides a harley) so I said hell yeah man!....told this to the bitch sent her a whats......minutes later she calls me and says hey what's going on? I replied, nothing I'm just hurrying up...bam! the bitch just hanged up!.....I did not call her back just said, well well fuck it! fuck it bitch! you just can go to hell! I'm going to kick some ass down the road with my buddy!
Amen brother.. my 05 is a bitch but she's mine and I ❤️ her
You love an inanimate object? Does it have a name and preferred pronoun?
@@johnengland8619 Things of beauty, grace and speed are usually referred to in the feminine gender, so I refer to my bike as a she or her. Minus the speed part of course. She does not have a name although that is a good idea 💡
Oh man that's sad
For me it’s the sound of the engine and the low center of gravity that produces an awesome ride. The Harley V Twin engine is an industrial design masterpiece.
"The Harley V Twin engine is an industrial design masterpiece" couldn't write it better
@@deckardvostok2203can't agree more, I have a WL flathead cylinder on a small pedestal in my living room and it's pretty awesome
2 years ago I finally bought my first Harley at the age of 43. I’ve dreamt of having one my entire life. The feeling I had of staring at that HD badge sitting in my own garage is unmatched. I live 30 minutes from the York PA plant where my 2019 Heritage was built and I’ve toured the place several times. No other motorcycle I’ve owned has provided the lasting feeling my HD has.
That’s how it felt when I got my Sportster running recently. I’m not a materialistic man by any means, but I can’t lie about how proud I was to finally own a Harley that I might be able to ride here soon. New tire, brakes and wiring and I should be ready to piss off my neighbors every morning.
When I started riding they were the only big bike around. My Grandpa rode a Harley before WW1, my dad had one when I was born. I got one when I returned from the Army
In a nut shell, here's my story. In '83 purchased a Honda V45. I put 300k miles on it. It was extremely reliable. Then I purchased a '98 Harley Dyna. Put 100k on the first engine, 68k on the rebuild engine. Now I have a '84 FXR I bought as a basket case but have since brought it back to life. There is just something about an HD that causes me to never return to a Metric bike. Metrics are fast, reliable, and nice riding bikes but i'll stick to my HD. HD Old School !!
I've owned all kinds of bikes but switched to HD back in 78 and won't be buying anything else from here on (I don't think). The thing I love about HD is the feeling of riding one. Between the vibration, power, and the raw sound of a HD is what keeps me on one. You just can't get those things from anything else IMO. Not only that but as you said you can make them anything you want and do it yourself. Let's say you're tired of your narrow glide sporty, you can change it to a wide glide, or a big old touring glide front end in less then a weekend without any problems. And over the winter you can make your bike recognizable to what it was. You just can't beat them. Later
I bought my first Harley in the seventies and still have it. But I can see a day in the future when I go to a lighter bike than my ultra classic. The years have been catching up to me.
From the UK I was so impressed to see so many 'ordinary' Americans riding Harley-Davidsons to a bar near my son's home in Indiana. Pleasant, rounded, social individuals who express themselves- in some small part- through their choice of motorcycle. And why not ? Despite many disappointments I remain a Triumph man- though oddly my favourite is the Triumph America !
I had a 2002 Bonneville America, damn good bike.
You can have more than one bike?
My first street bike, in 1981, was a 71' 750 Bonneville. I loved it and wish I didn't have to sell it.
From there it's been all Harleys. A 41' Knucklehead that I would still have if it weren't stolen in 93'. A 72' XLCH Sportster and a 2000 Heritage, both that I still have.
I learned with the Bonneville, never sell a motorcycle you like.
U.K. as well, I bought a Triumph America brand new in 2003 ..... still own it! It keeps my 2007 Dyna company in the garage, both similar bikes but different in many ways. I bought the Dyna as a project that had sat for years following the previous elderly owners demise with the intentions of selling it once I'd completed it. Rode it to the MOT station, within 5 minutes I knew I'd never sell it! I love both of those bikes, I'm 66 now and they'll be my rides until my time is up! Ride safe.
I had a Triumph T140 V Bonneville in the UK, P reg I believe which would have been a 1975/ 76.. I'm American but lived 50 years in the UK ( long story ) in America now . I think my Triumph was mistreated ( i wasn't the original owner, and because the early Triumphs you practically had to be a mechanic which i didn't have the knowledge i do now ,because even though it was a good looking bike it was actually the biggest POS I've EVER owned . And that's in 47 and counting years of being in the saddle. .😎🏴🇺🇲
I always wanted a Harley-Davidson but could never afford one until a coworker of mine offered me a 2003 FXDL at a reasonable price. Now that I have it, I actually like it better than my 2000 V-Star 1100 Custom.
I’m 64 semi retired and have been on a HD since 1979. I currently work at. HD dealership in San Antonio, Tx as a parts department associate. The HD culture is awesome. The bikes the people are what I wake up to and live for everyday.
I have had a 1980 Sportster, and still ride a 1983 FXWG. I bought my FXWG while stationed on USS Midway VA-115 1981-83. Picked up Portland Motosports when transferred. Saved money buying it that way.
I’m 63 and a few months ago purchased my first HD, a 2004 Fatboy.
I love this bike.
I cannot describe the exhilaration riding this amazing machine.
Dreamt of owning a Fatboy after watching the Terminator in 91.🇦🇺
My grandfather rode a Harley in the war, my Dad rode a Harley up to 4 years ago when he turned 90, I’m riding my Dyna Street Bob and Harley Triglide and my son riding his Street Bob. 4 generations.
Being that Harley is local (HQ is about 25 minutes from me) it's basically law that every biker owns at least one!!!! As someone who owns a 2011 dyna street bob AND a "modern naked" bike (2020 Kawasaki z900) the best analogy is it's like having both a 70's muscle car and a Lambo in the garage. The Kawasaki out performs the Harley in every aspect of riding but my dyna still to this day has that cool badass factor that metric bikes don't live up too!!!
I grew up around shovelheads. Dad used to pick me up from school on his . There was things I liked about Harleys before I knew the proper names . Drag bars ,drag pipes, the engine and then big 5 gallon tanks . Outlaws do things their way and we all know that but I was just another that experienced the way they are . No fashion on main and no cops as pals . Dirty dressed and damn glad about that 💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼( i was a kid so i didnt get dirty ,then)
I'm an old timer and a Detroit gearhead. I grew up with Triumphs and Harleys, and I just like them. If I were younger, I would probably be more into sport bikes, but I like comfort these days.
76 bonn since i was 18 , waiting for a back rotor ,, bike is chrome ,, 4 wives later and i still got her 😍🙏
I've owned and ridden Yamaha, Kawasaki, and Hondas, they were all great bikes, but there was just something about Harleys that always made me want to try one. The fit and finish, everything from the paint, to the switch housings, to the motor finish, everything on a Harley just feels like its better quality. And then there's the ride, to sound, the torque, the comfort. My Harley's have given me more smiles per mile than any of my Japanese bikes ever did. I can honestly say after I switched to riding a Harley back in 2006, I don't think I would be happy going back to a metric cruiser.
I will only own harleys because of the design and ability of mods
I own a 2003 Road King Classic, 100-Year Anniversary Edition, with the Screaming Eagle engine upgrade from an 88 V-Twin to a 95. The fast producing torque and sound is exhilarating.
My Road King with its original anniversary Two-Tone Sterling Silver and Vivid Black paint colors stands out. The commemorative medallions seen throughout this classic ride's sculpted design adds to its nostalgia, mystique ,and exclusivity.
The Road King is among the most elegant, stylish and archetypical Harley-Davidson motorcycles ever produced and forever etched in HD's rich history of motorcycle designs.
Road King stands supreme and has no equal. The Road King is the personification of a Harley Davidson icon. Those select riders who own one are indeed privileged.
Putting power to the ground, in this context means efficiency I'd suggest. Are Harleys more efficient? Most likey with chain primary and final.
Just don't try to compare that efficiency by doing a top gear roll on against that shaft drive VTX/Goldwing/Vulcan etc.
Then power to the ground will mean something else entirely.
I first started riding on the road when I was 18 and I'll be turning 60 in a few months. And every bike that I owned was a metric bike until about 10 years ago when a friend of mine said to take his electra glide out for a rip. When I got onto the highway the first thing I thought was " what the f have I been riding all those years ". The next day I was at the local dealership and I bought the first of my and my wife's 4 harleydavidsons. Like you said until you ride one, you just don't know. And there is no turning back.
Not only is it the sound and feel, they just have that iconic look that every other brand tries for and just can't quite get.
Good video. I paid off my bike a few years ago and started to think of a new bike. Then it hit me. I swapped out the suspension front and rear with Legends and had an S&S big bore kit installed.
My Great grandfather had a Harley Davidson with a side car. My Grand mother would ride in tandem while my Great grandmother and Great aunt rode in the side car. He would take the side car off and go hill climbing with it. He did that until he got hurt and My Great Grandmother put an end to it. That's why I got a Harley Davidson. And they're beautiful. Sound bad ass. Chicks dig them.
What you are describing about Harley design, took place many years ago. Now it is the history of HD that people love. The designs have not changed drastically over the years (some models have), but the main elements of this American Icon endure. The chopper element has also contributed to the Harley mystique. I bought my 1999 Harley Softail new, and very few parts that are on it now are original.
bought my ultraclassic new in 05. havent had it but a month still putting on the break in miles. Wife and I riding north on I-5 approaching our exit, a tour bus loaded with Japanese tourist was passing one lane out. I happened to look over, the entire load of tourist had thier cameras and noses plastered into the windows all pointing snaping pictures. i could read thier lips all saying and pointing in unison. "HARLEY DAVIDSON"
Another cool video! I've owned 25 new bike since 2000. I've owned 7 new $$$$ Ducatis and 7 new Harleys $$$$. For me it's the classic look, solid build, and they haven't gone too modern. I love the rumble and the ride even if they're not the perfect motorcycle. McDonald's isn't a burger by any stretch but no burger taste like it (over a billion served). I believe there isn't any Harley Davidson that has a contender . Making it smoother, faster, or whatever changes the bike as you have eluded to in your video. I have gone full circle and will be a die hard HD guy until they mess up a perfect bike for me.
I bought a brand new 1998 XL1200S out of curiosity after being a dirt bike guy. $11,000 in 1998, with many accessorized chrome bits and bobs on a vivid black base. It is still fantastic to sit in the garage and look at the bike, it is a piece of art. But I only have less than 10k miles on the bike after 25 years. Resale value is crap. Glad I still like the way it looks, because I can’t stand to ride it and hate to sell it for such a small price (worth what, $3k?). I’m the wrong type or person for a Harley.
The custom project ideas in my mind makes me pay more and more extra money to chase what I want to put on my H-D. I trust that my motorcycle represents me. And my bike is what I want others to see.
Only time I didnt ride a Harley was taking my test in the 80s. Back then in the UK, we could only ride up to a 125cc on L plates. After the test, the skies the limit. So I got me a 1988 1200cc Harley Evo Sportster. So loved that bike. But my ideal was the older 30s/40s/50s styles. But I'm no mechanic, so gonna Mock-up my current '09 sporty 883 into a 1936 EL lookalike.
Why not?🤷🏼♀️
Sounds awesome
Here's my explanation; A Harley Davidson motorcycle, exudes a certain character, or "presence," that is something hard to describe.
Also, for me, my love of vintage engines goes way back to early piston engine Radials.
Basically, a H.D. V-Twin is like two cylinders off of a Radial Engine.
From the cylinders sharing one common connecting rod journal, to the fork and blade style connecting rod, both pistons sharing a common axis. This basic design has remained largely unchanged since the beginning of the last century.
I’ve ridden a wide variety bikes from slow to way too fast. When I’m on my Harley, I feel connected to the past. It feels real.
Every point you made was 💯 accurate. Not even the Indian (in my opinion) measures up.
Yes my first bike was 2012 roadKing and I turned it into a true touring machine with a hoppes fairing and entertainment system and tour pack
Have 2004 Dyna low rider with 75,000 miles on it and its Twin Cam is still at 95 % performance.Personality is priceless ,like riders no 2 motorcycles should be identical.Shes paid for,one of a kind and altered to my demands. My ride all the way.
My grandpa had one about 1917. Even my dad wanted one but life was family first for him. I alway thought a roadbike said Harley Davidson so ive owned 4.
@Gixerfoo. This video really did impress me. You were actually able to explain why people like me are wanting a Harley.
At 50 years old, I have only owned a Harley for for 10 years. In 2013 I bought a 2009 Road King and I love it. I own a Harley because as a child I dreamed about owning a Harley. That’s it. Not marketing and not styling, just to fulfil a childhood dream. It now is what I believe is stage 2 with exhaust, intake, cams, and a tuner. The sound and the feel of my bike is on point with the bikes that I seen and dreamed of as a child and I have no intention of getting rid of it. As mentioned in the video, if anything goes wrong I can buy a new engine or drivetrain, or any part that I want to change for style , performance or feel. He ain’t that old but I love my old boy. Just a simple Harley.
Rode my first Harley when I was 13 yrs old 1971 sportster 1000cc bought my first harley at 45 yrs old .lm 65 4 Harleys later. I'm Hooked on B17 Flyjng Fortress of ww2 . It's the feel of the ride and being in control lol
My 2018 lrs is my first Harley. They just feel alive. I still love my vtx, but for completely different reasons. I'll always have one now.
Yes, you are right, going down the road.... After 30 miles only Harleys still make you grin and smile, yes other bikes are better performers but nailing that "soul connection" is really what Harley has done... After hours on the road, nail that throttle see the rpms from 2k to 5k,definitely you are smiling no doubt about it.... 😅
I own three Harley Davidsons. I bought all three of them used. Low miles, but all over 10 years old, and all carbureted. I do my own service and repairs. About the only modifications I have done are paint and more chrome. Lots of chrome. I like them for three reasons. Looks, sound (all three have aftermarket exhausts) and the feel (the Harley "shake") I think I got very good deals on all on=f them, and didn't pay "extra money".
Harley Davidson hasn't done so well in the looks department lately. There is only one look. Flat black X 1000. Everything they make is flat black. I recently had my 2006 Sportster 1200L repainted. I painted the tank medium blue (non metallic) and the fenders a creme color. I replaced the black side covers with chrome. It looks like it came right out of the '50s. As for the engines, Harley Davison has already gone way to far with their engines. The EVO was the high point for Harley Davidson engines. It's all been downhill from there. I don't even consider the M8 to be a Harley engine. It is far more Japanese than Harley. I mean counterbalancers??? Really???
Shaft drive actually works very well. My fourth bike is a 1997 Kawasaki Vulcan 750. I bought it new in early '98. It has a shaft drive. It also now has 118,000 miles on it and no problems with the shaft drive. It will easily top 100 mph. My 1200 Sportster will beat it off the line, but it will soon catch up. It will run side by side with the Sportster, with just over half the displacement. The problem with it isn't performance. It just doesn't have the look, sound, and feel of the Sportster. If my Sportster will keep up with a Hyundai Accent, I'm happy with it. It's about enjoying the ride, not speed and power. If that is what is most important to you, Japan, inc. will be happy to sell you a crotch rocket that can exceed 200 mph.
The rebuildability of Harley engines ended with the EVO. The Twin Cam and M8 are built like Japanese bikes. Trying to rebuild them costs more than a new engine. They were designed to be disposable.
Back in the mid '90s I actually wanted to be part of the H-D scene. I was young back then, but also poor. I tried to buy a new '95 Sportster 883, which had an MSRP of around $5200. Not even close. They wanted almost twice that much, and it would take 6 months to get it. That's when I decided I wanted nothing to do with the H-D brand. I still liked the bikes, but not the company. To this day I have never bought anything with H-D on it except the bikes. And one of them has been repainted, and I chose to leave off the Harley Davidson emblems.
I find it really interesting how for decades the Japanese manufacturers tried to copy Harley Davidson, with varying degrees of success. But now the tables have turned, and now Harley Davidson is copying the Japanese brands. And the Japanese manufacturers don't really make Harley copies anymore. One thing they do seem to have in common is that everything they make is FLAT BLACK.
HD has been building and selling motorcycles in America since 1903! They have generations of riders that have owned and ridden Harleys, and some have never owned anything else! They are a true American icon! There's truly nothing else like them in so many ways. If you want a Harley, then nothing else will do.
Maybe its the nostalga? The fact that so many MCs ride Harleys. But there is certainly a status that comes when you ride a Harley. Expensive? Yes, but after buying the first one it got easier to buy others. I have no regrets. Good presentation.
It’s like what you said once you get on one, then the light goes on you know and it’s never going to be replaced in my mind by any other type of motorcycle
Every time i watch a GixxerFoo video , I go straight to my garage and start messing with my Harley!!!!!
For me it's 100% the sound and feel. My 96 sporty feels raw, sounds awesome, and it's like going back in time. I love it. My 94 Shadow is very smooth and modern, but it just doesn't have the personality that the Harley does.
I love the black Dyna Sport that you have pictured. Why do manufacturers mess with perfection? Honda made the Valkyrie and the VTX 1800. Now they make the Monkey. Yamaha made the Warrior. Thats gone, too. I’d love to have a Dyna Sport type bike with the new frame and M-8 motor.
I bet this is going to be the title of their next quarterly earnings announcement too.
I personally think HD should look into a small supercharger to add power and maintain Harley sound. Turbo will mute. Makes more sense to me than adding displacement until they reach 200cu inch.
As someone who has many makes and models. Including Harleys and Goldwings. Everything you say. Is spot on.
I like how my Shovelhead parts manual is full of part numbers that apply from 1941 to 1984.
I 've been ridin Harleys since 1989... Many have asked me ; why a Harley? Well any motorcycle is a motorcycle but a Harley is Rock 'n' Roll.
I never had my own bike until I turned 62 in 2015. I first bought a 1984 Suzuki Intruder 800 which I really liked, kind of a 'factory chopper' as a guy once told me. Then I bought a 1986Yamaha Venture 1200 A larger heavier bike. Then I bought my 1992 Sportster 883. Funny you mentioned "If I have to explain it you wouldn't understand." After i bought my 1992 Sportster 3 years ago a buddy I ride with who'd always been enamored with the 1982 Suzuki GS 1100'S wanted to sit on it, Sure I said, I told him go ahead and fire it up. I was surprised to hear him when He did start it. Something like, "Yeah! I love to sound and the feel of the bars when it's running!" I'll turn 70 this week and I still have my Sportster!
It’s HD or nothing!
Been a dream since I was a little kid.
Here I am 41 years old and the dream is a reality. I am living a fkn dream every time I ride it.
I love my damn Road Glide more than almost everything in the world
I have been around a MC all of my life Dad was in a MC. I got my frist Harley in 1982 I was 17. My frist love is Harley Davidson 1967 XLH Sportster I still ride today
That's awesome you're still riding that 1967 model!
@@GixxerFoo Yes I do I have rebuild the Engine 3 time and have over 100,000 Miles of smiled on it. Yes I ride my 2013 Classic but still like to ride my old XLH Sportster
Even though I should be dead from a accident on my new Harley I still bought anyone,Harley means American made,ect. Nothing better going from the 88 to Milwaukee 8 the horsepower improvement is awesome,but ya you nailed this video!
I own three, a full bagger (flhtci) (xlf 1000 roadster sportster, Dyna low rider. Have had many good bikes, yes, non Harlys, but I love almost all rides.
I've always liked the way a Harley Davidson looks and sounds. I own a 2013 Road Glide Custom and a 2023 Sportster S. Both are amazing bikes. Do i prefer the Road Glide over the Sportster S?... Not really, I feel like I can have the best of both worlds. Brand new Harley with its new RevMax is a blast to ride. My older Twin Cam is very "mechanical" but it's an experience I enjoy. Would I own a different brand of bike? Nah, probably not. They offer enough models to choose from should I decide to change up my riding style that I can find another Harley easily.
I’m no fan of the M8, BUT the one thing that I really struggle with on the new softails is the swingarm. The old softails had that look of a rigid. That new angle might work better, but it irritates me.
I have had other bikes, and in my opinion, nothing compares to the feel of a Harley Davidson. Almost bought a newer Indian, but too hi tech for me. Twin cam, Evo, shovel, is where I will stay.
You cruise a Softail Milwaukee 8 107 or 114 stock motor, reasonable speeds, where your helmet isn;t a Bobble head in the wind, and 55 to 60 mpg is possible. You'll never see that on a BMW R18 Bagger or Classic. Maybe 45 to 47, under the exact same conditions. Shaft drives are very inefficient, with today's gas prices here in CA. $6 a gallon for premium 91
Only problem with the fans is I live in Las Vegas & all the fans are going to do it blow already hot air onto the heads, cylinders etc., or am I wrong? I did put the Ultra Cool Oil Cooler on my HD Heritage Classic Softail. Since it's cold now in Las Vegas I haven't seen the fans kick on yet, but we'll see as it gets warmer. Thanks for your educational videos with regard to Harley's & keep up the good work....
I was just in Vegas back in December... I was in for a real shock being my first time stepping out of the airport into the dry desert air being from Oklahoma!
Without that big thumping air cooled 117 engine in mine there is no way I would have a harley parked next to my other way better handling , way more powerful non harley bikes. Its just something special to ride when in the mood for chilled cruizin.
I consider myself to be an enthusiast, not a biker. I'm not into riding 5 miles to a bar to then drink and ride. I don't dress like a biker. I don't really like to ride in groups. I don't enjoy biker events, or really crowds in general. I don't do long distances. I have only 3 friends that ride. And I'm a white collar professional. I don't fit in. I guess I have the bike because I like it. It's mostly a point A to point A machine for me. I'll ride 45 minutes and I'm good.
Harley keeps making the same kind of bike because that’s what people want. The v-rod is a cool bike , but it’s not traditional .
I dont ride my Evo Fatboy or TC Road King becuse of the power or performance. If i wanted a powerful cruiser id buy a Rocket III and if i wanted a powerful touring bike id buy a Goldwing. I dont love my Harleys becuse of power or performance, Here in Europe they are kinda unique and i love the old school rawness about them. My Fatboy might cough an oil sludge on my right knee from the carb and rattle my teeth loose but bloody hell i love that bike.
I highly doubt i will ever buy a new Harley tho
😎👍
Big thumbs up for the channel...
Actually, every new harley needs an airbox, not an air cleaner. Look at King of the Baggers bikes.
They look good, sound good and have the history and dependability going for them and if they were a little less expensive there would be a whole lot more on the on the road.
What model is that Dyna-looking beauty @ 11:08? I haven't memorized the H-D alphabet, but that thing ticks a LOT of my boxes.
i am in between the two worlds ( harley -metrics ) ,not an american so nostalgia goes out the window ,i own a harley(2008 fxstb nightrain ) just for the feel of it ,i own a metric (suzuki s83 bulevard ) because the cost of living with one is next to nothing.
I see a Harley as a rolling piece of mechanical artwork.
How come only old geezers own Harleys? If there as wonderfully awesome as Gixxer says why aren't the young guys buying them? Affordability? With the way people shop on monthly payments only and dealerships willing to stretch a loan out for 30 years you'd think the young spry men would be clamouring to get some American/Chinese/Mexican (and other global components) Thunder.
Same reason we love Guzzis….
For me its two main things , there beautiful pieces of rolling mechanical art and american made.
I own two ultra classic’s right now and I’ve owned everything from a panhead to a 883 sportster. I’ve also owned many other bikes. Harley’s are pretty much about sound, feel and looks, everything else goes to the foreign bikes like performance, reliability and even road control. And if it wasn’t for aftermarket parts I believe Harley would go under because they are awful at standing behind their bikes after about seven years.
I was in the USN 3x half way around the world. In any country even if they spoke no English I would say Harley Davidson they would always smile and hold up a finger #1. Here in America we own something that the world envy's . Tina Turner's song simply the best better than all the rest!!!! H.D. American Iron.
Great video man 👍👍
I call it - Soul . I’ve had metric bikes as well, faster ,sure. Smoother ,yes , cheaper ,less expensive certainly! But you just RIDE them . A Harley is much more than just a ride, it moves you!
Welll I do have an 07 Street Glide that's I put the stage II 103 kit in it & honestly wish I'd gone ahead and went with the stage 4 but I've got a habit of hopping things up too much and then they're not as streetable say, if you want to travel access the country and that gets to my next point about those doggy ferren brands with the power robbing driveshaft. In 98 when I was told I would have to wait a year for a new Fatboy & then except whatever color came in if it wasn't what I ordered or I would go back to the end of the line & they laughed about it so I went & got a different kind of Fatboy, an American made from 98% American made, not imported, parts & even though it was really fast off the showroom floor I now have a Magna Supercharger on it & it's really a big tire roaster now. One thing I'll add though, is I wouldn't go on a long trip with it because if something happened to it it would be almost impossible to get any help with it even from a Honda Dealer because there hasn't been one screw, nut, or bolt that hasn't been turned on my Valkyrie. Kinda wish I'd put all of that money into a Boss Hoss now because that's something that ya can run to O'Reilly's & get at least half of the parts for and most anything else overnighted to ya while you wait in the motel.
Got too many harley parts sitting around from my bikes over the years
I'd never keep the parts straight
Harleys are mainly built for foolish men usually with this overwhelming lack of self esteem. I am more than positive that by the time they figure out that they spent three times the amount of money than the bike is worth and they still have to put ten thousand more dollars in modifications to "make it their own" that they will still have some indignant thinking that this is the right bike for them. More power to them. There is very little that is "American " about the Harley name or product in today's global market. It's not just about the money for me, its more about the attitude or the Harley riders and dealership people. There is this attitude of arrogance that they are somehow better/entitled. I enjoy going into a Harley dealership every once in awhile just to have a look around and reaffirm that I don't want to be part of these people or anything that they represent. Which is probably a good decision because they wouldn't me anyways. It's kinda like visiting a church where I feel judgements from every direction. I just want anybody on 2 wheels to enjoy the journey and please be careful and safe. Don't wait for the other person to make the wrong decision for you.
Great video 🤘🏻💯, I absolutely agree..Harley-Davidson all the way , all the time , every day 💯🤘🏻
They are so much fun!
It has a hand made look like people put it together
I sure wish they would get back to that. I saw a Suzuki cruiser the other day, not a bad looking bike but not a Harley either. It looked stamped rather than crafted.
Not built for everyone...ain't that the truth. They haven't built a bike for anyone over 6'3 in many yrs.
I'm 390 pounds, 6'7 and on my 07 heritage I still look to big!
I run a 96 inch custom fxrt.and rode my fathers new ones back in the 80s. Come get me
Here's an old and worn expression that makes Harley hater heads explode every time I use it. "If you understand no explanation is necessary, if you don't no explanation is possible" It's not a lie or a fairy tale, either you get it or you don't. You"ll never convince those that hate them to like them and you'll never convince those of us that love them to hate them.Trying to do either is a loosing battle.
The only other bike that Ive ever owned that has as much soul as a Harley Davidson is Ducati.
You own one because you Want One [no other reason ]
Harley’s are non disposable. Like you said, you can just rebuild them and keep them forever.
The experience with HD is unlike other brands. The ride, the feel, the history.... not for everyone agreed, but still an incredible mc
My 2022 road glide limited is my 6th Harley. I started out on Japanese motorcycles. The Suzuki intruder 700 are in some of my fondest memories of motorcycling. Not that I did a bunch of long rides on that bike but it was a fun bike with a lower center of gravity and it cornered well compared to bikes I owned before it. I hear a lot of back and forth of brand loyalty. I always tell people that unless I bought you your motorcycle, what you ride is none of my business. There’s times I’ve threatened to go back to a Japanese bike….. and then I find myself in a Harley dealer getting raped again😂. Guess I like it? 😢
Been riding Harley-Davidson since his 1982 a 1954 FL and 1978 and a half FLH and a 2012 FLHTCI I I wouldn't even consider riding anything else you ain't got a Harley you ain't got shit
Weird…. My old Yamaha Road Star rides similar to my old Heritage
Amen to everything stated brother ✌🏼😎
I’ve owned a lot of Japanese bikes. Still own a Suzuki for commuting, but they just don’t have a soul. It’s just a machine built by a machine. My Harley’s were built by people. “Mostly“ Americans.
A Honda may run just fine for 200k miles, but ultimately. It will end up in the junk yard. 100 years from now. My Road king, and my fxr will still be alive.
It’s the heart and soul of America
Quality and noise.....Thats it.