2013 Harley 'Night Rod Special' Test-ride and Impressions
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 17 พ.ย. 2012
- This video was produced by my original channel name XXXDEADHEAD. Want to hold me to the thoughts and opinions reflected? I am sure you do, but those thoughts and opinions have adapted to the present day - constant evolution as I refuse to stop learning and adapting to the world around me. - The Adventures of X The following video was made when I called myself XXXDEADHEAD. This was a persona character that allowed me to voice thoughts from a perspective unique to the name. All thoughts and considerations in this video are simply reflections in the rear view mirror, faded to obscurity by the distance of time. Thoughts change, so tune into my recent videos to see where I am at today! The Adventures of X 2020
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So, today I found myself at the Progressive International Motorcycle Show in San Mateo, California. I had limited time and a limited number of bikes to check out! Can-Am, Yamaha, and Harley... so I decided to stay true to my brand and check out some bikes that I normally would not have given the time of day.... Wow, I was surprised to have such a great time!
I appreciae an honest review of the vrod from you! Replacing the tips and slamming the vrod in mid to upper powerband range is where its at! The vrod gets a lot of negative comments without people ever riding one. The vrod truly holds it own! To bad that HD is discontinuing the vrod due to their image that they are trying to save! and yet the revolution engine is their most powerful and reliable engine! I will never waiver from my 06 vrsca! Peace
Michael Aguirre very welcome!
XXXDEADHEAD I forgot to tell you that I have posted a video of my vrod warming up with my Samson pipes. At least you can hear the difference from stock! Peace
There is no sixth gear on a V Rod? 💀🤭
Thanks man... I am using a cheapo lav mic that is stuffed into my cheekpad. As soon as I get a better set up I will do a full guide. It is an OLM LAV mic that is less than $25, one that I picked after hours and hours of research to match up to the needs of the GoPro. I do not use a windscreen so that I get better pickup from the cheekpad.... not that there is any wind in the cheekpad to begin with :)
Thanks for this vid XXXDeadhead! I've been trying to garner more information about this bike, and your video filled all the blanks!
welcome! Sorry for such a late response! :)
I own a 2008 NRS. The Vance & Hines Competition exhaust sounds AMAZING on these bikes!
I just picked up my V-Rod 10th anniversary edition last Thursday. Here in Saudi there's not that many about.. Nice power band, Porsche designed engine could need some after market pipes to compliment it. Very pleased so far. Keep up the good work on the uploads mate.. Cheers
Ouch! I am sorry about your luck there my friend... I also hope you get back on the road asap! I think it would be awesome to cruise the streets and countryside of Italy on a Harley such as this!
Haha, I totally realized that after I posted the video up... which unfortunately was too late. What would you do to the back fender?
you need one off these now xxx
my first impressions of mine were quite shocking and much more than I expected
Haha would love one
Congrats! You have yourself one hell of a bike!
Thanks my friend - and I bet you are having a great time getting to 'know' your bike... are there any good twisties to ride in Saudi?
Thanks for the Vid I am test driving this Monday and I am looking at this or the vrod muscle
Thank you very much Jake!
How did you find the reach to the forward mounted pegs ?? I have sat on one though never actually rode it but I have a 29 inch inside leg and it seemed a stretch ?
I got a 2012 NRS and wouldn't recommend as a first bike. They're a beautiful bike totally impractical. There is NO storage space just enough space under the seat for a pair of thin gloves and my legal in (UK) licence plate. It's well behaved, easy to ride and quite powerful. I've just traded in a 98 v-max so I know what a bad bike is. As a beginner bike it is easy to ride but heavy for all of your slow manoeuvres. Also the sixth Gerard thing made me smile. If only dude that would cut down my fue
Nice! I'm surprised at how quiet it is, too!
Yeah, new pipes sound awesome on the vrod! Heard a set of Vance and Hines on a nightrod the other day and it sounded sick!
I love the sound of Vance and Hines... hoping to get their two into one or short shots down the road.
The V-rod is very comfortable so that short of a ride should be no problem, I usually take whole day trips on mine and very seldom feel the need to stop from discomfort.
I like the sound of it. Actually sounds like it has more power over the "traditional" HD pipes.
Nice Video !
Greatings from Munich-Germany
I just today (9-13-13) picked up my new Night Rod and my response to it was very similar to your's. I traded in an '01 88ci Deuce and I'll miss all that torque but the NR sports about 125 hp and that'll keep me happy. The NR requires CONSIDERABLY more throttle at take off due to the lack of said torque but that's something I've quickly adjusted to. I've already got my "chicken strips" down to about an inch and I'm sure they'll shrink more in the days ahead.
Haha cool! two more to come!
when u rode this bike did u notice any rattling sound coming from the front area of the bike. i just bought mine and the first time i rode it, there;s this weird sound coming form the front area of the bike, its like a rattling sound. is this normal? or should i just go visit my dealership and let them check it out?
in case you havent gotten an answer, that noise is normal. i had mine checked out because i heard it after the 3rd day of buying mine.
XXXDeadhead
Do you have any thoughts on forward vs. mid controls for the Night Rods? How has the riding position changed from 2013-2015?
Thanks for the video. Last couple years I've been humming and hawing about getting a bike. I have zero road experience and very limited dirt bike experience. But this bike caught my eye a few years ago, and now, I'm in a position where I can get one with no issues. At the dealer today and even the salesperson was skeptical about how good an idea it would be for this to be my first bike. Something to think about
You will know best if you are able to handle it as a first bike... Yes, there are 'better' first bikes, but this one would be manageable for sure. Just take it step by step and ride your own ride.
would you recommend this bike to someone who knows nothing about motorcycles cause im looking at getting one
Very good!
How did the weight of the bike feel compared to your iron? I'm actually debating which one i wanna get.
That would make sense HoaryRider, the engine sound was unique. Very cool if they had Porsche make their engine for them.
Very nice... Thanks
anytime!
I found you! A Bay Area motovlogger. Finally.
Welcome Munich-Germany!!!
I have a question.
My father owns a Muscle, i think is the same. I´am about to get my own i was thinking in the Iron instead of buying him his muscle because in the city i have the sensation of too heavy and a little unpractical for daily use on Mexican streets, on traffic and splitting. What do you think? Thanks.
I am about the same height... I felt fine on the bike... It was odd at first, but I got used to the front mounted pegs quick and could easily see feeling natural with them after a few weeks... Im sure it would be the same switching from forward pegs to mid pegs... height should not be an issue.
Understandable, regardless great video!!
How does this compare to the sportster? Did you have the 800 or 1200?
Somebody else said it doesn't as well... for me it felt like it... but I think what was making me think it had a 6th gear was that the red line level is much higher than my sportster
Looks like a nice ride. V-Rod is a lot of bike for a starter.
This is my dream bike, except in metallic black with the orange racing stripes. As far as bang for your buck what would you rate it 1-10? Also i know you mentioned it briefly but as far as for a first time biker would you recommend the bike? Lastly, is the power on it good for a starter, along with power for when more experienced? Thanks for the review, i'm always happy to see a v-rod special video.
Wow, this surprises me, totally felt like a 6th gear. If not, then I do not see much reason for it to need a 6th gear.... Ride a sportster for awhile and you will never feel like your bike needs a 6th again! I was impressed with the power range in each gear, felt like you could take it to 60mph in 1st gear.
How about doing a test ride of the vrod muscle and see wat u think about that one mate.
Ahh, very true... all in all I had a great time with that bike... Not sure it is the one for me though... I am looking for more of a touring bike... something with legs and some saddle bags. I am contemplating turning my bike into a easy-to-remove bagger... I would love to be able to ride another 1k trip and know that the bike is not going to kick my ass.
I have the sportster 883 with 1200 bore kit. I personally love both bikes.... though in my opinion, I would suggest that the Sportster is a better bargain in that it has a great look, is more modifiable with inexpensive mods all around, and has a bit more of the 'connected to the road feel (bumpy?)' which gives it a more raw feeling. However, this bike is sexy and I would love to have one in my garage!
Yeah, I had the beastly beautiful black with the orange striped model. V&H and one or two other companies make great 2:1 setups for the DX that make this monster roar. The maintenance was too simple: oil change, filter change, air in tires, gas in tank, done! Ride it like you stole it.
How tall are you if you don't mind me asking? I'm 6'3'' and finding a bike that fits can be hard. Any input would be much appreciated.
I would, it is not too much of a bike by any means for a first time rider... However, be sure to take the MSF course, watch Twist of the Wrist II or read the book a little, and sit on the bike until you know your ready to turn it on :) You will be fine, just take it step by step and feel confident in your ability, but not too confident! :)
I love this bike but Im thinking of getting a iron 883 as a first bike this year then 2 years later get a v-rod and keep both
can you lane split at those speeds? I just went through motorcycle school and they told us you can lane split but only if the speed is 30 miles an hour OR below. Didn't seam like you were going that slow so is it allowed to split lanes at 30m/h and above? thanks!
Jesus was a Carpenter at the time there were no guidelines. Think the new guidelines are only a few years old. Not 100%, but think they are still just a safe zone that officers can still ticket if they feel it is unsafe.
Cool, only have a few more before I had to call it quits.
Great video.
Thank you
Hmmm... would not be idea for gas milage.... but you would feel great commuting.... lane splitting may be a bit tighter in Mexico than it is here... if that is the case then I would recommend a slimmer profile like the sportster.
Thanks, I actually called this one the v-rod when in fact it was the Night Rod Special... I actually like the look of this bike... but I think that it is not something I would pick (I like only a few of the sportsters and a few of the other models.... I did not have a lot of options or time, so I stayed with Harley models that I never really considered riding. I had a great time.
As far as l know all vrods are five speeds.Its kinda nice knowing though your not looking for a higher gear, like l had on accasions on my other Harleys
Do you know any harley's that have full automatic gear box
Haha, yeah I thought for sure it had a sixth gear! I do not think that this bike would be great for all beginners... but surely great for those that know what they are getting into and are capable of approaching this bike with the right attitude. As for luggage and amenities... well, I also do not have any of those things and I survive with a backpack just fine. Again, that all comes to what your intentions are.
Want to play , gotta pay. I finally got my nightrod and its worth every penny. They say you can pick them up cheap used, l wish mine was. But you can get into the older ones cheap and it would be money well spent. Its amazing how many are out there with low miles
Interesting that you picked (to me) the least attractive Harley model - even though the Night Rod looks pretty sweet. Looking forward to seeing what else you rode. Love a test ride video!
When did they start putting a 6th gear on V-Rods? I have a 2012 and I'm stuck with 5! Dammit!!!
Yeah, it did have a nice distinctive sound... It just needed to be a bit louder for ultimate effect.
If I find the time you got it!
Definitely have them check it out
What are peoples opinions on this bike I love how it looks, but I doubt it is something a first time rider should be riding. What would be a good first timer bike that looks like this maybe at least a little bit? Thanks for any help!
on my Iron sportster... the nightrod seat was cozy!
Haha nice! I have been considering a dark red pinstripe on my bike... saw it on one of the nightsters and got the nightrider (kit) vibe. I kind of rode this bike like I stole it :)
Did not read whatever I signed for them :) But, I would imagine it had a set route for insurance reasons and timely reasons for making sure everybody in line was able to ride. As for the windscreen... I really only know how to ride without one, so I can only compare to what I know... Next bike will have a windscreen, will give impressions :)
XXX I really appreciate the review on the Night Rod Special. I am a new rider and based on your review of this bike I have been interested in purchasing this type of bike. I have been following you for approximately 1 month. I enjoy watching your videos. Thanks for all your help.
Aaronjw24
Awesome! Nightster is a fun bike - just take it nice and slow with a bike like that as your first and you will be fine!
Yeah, and a different sound for a Harley too... I kind of liked the sound, just needed to be louder.
Man I died an went to heaven on that ride.
The rider says its nice running a six speed. The vrod is a five speed bike but you never fish for a higher gear and power delivery is smooth
I had to stay in their route to stay in good graces - It was a killer bike for sure, if I had one I would have definitely boosted up the exhaust - Some V&H :)
LOL - another bike show on the way... will do my best to remember the walkarounds!
Unfortunately not too many. Certainly nothing like in the U.S or back home in the U.K although I went out last weekend with a few other guys and found a decent coast road with something that may resemble "bends" haha.. also the alarm system failed to deactivate less than an hour after I collected it. HD tech came straight out apparently the receiver unit under the seat that detects the key fob is faulty. So the alarm is deactivated now until they can replace the unit.!!
Thanks for the review. I just test rode this at the same bike show (progressive) when it went through Phoenix, AZ (while ironically I live in the bay, haha). VERY awesome bike, though it's really high in the price range I'm looking at (like 7-13k), and it definitely worries me when speaking of lane splitting bay area traffic.. I think the night rod special starts off at 16.2. I fell absolutely in love with it - the power it makes, the way it makes it, wide power band, beautiful noise past half throttle or so. Gets up to about 100 rather easily in a 5th gear pull.
Though one thing that I have a problem with on HD's is foot peg / board scraping, but I found *NONE* of that on the night rod special. You see anything of that? You mentioned you have an Iron. I can't ride an Iron 10 feet without scraping a peg (it's literally like every damn 90* turn) but I had none of that with the Vrod and I chucked it into some corners hard. Thoughts on that aspect in particular? Especially with comparison to the Iron?
I took off the feelers on my pegs and put 13 inch progressive shocks on - no more scrapes!
XXXDeadhead Yeah, I hear the 13's are the way to go with the sportsters. Progressive seems to be a popular choice. Some people also take the 13" RK shocks I think.
Stock front or did you put progressive springs + heavier weight oil up there?
Just the heavier oil - going to change out springs soon
Do you know how this would compare to the Livewire?
Paul O'Neal The Livewire is an all electric bike. It was only made as a concept it was never actually produced. It only went up to about 90 mph and on distance mod only made it about 50 miles. While the Vrod is Harley's sporty bike. The engine was actually produced by Porsche for this bike! Hope this helped!
At a stop it felt a little bit heavier... which it is around 100 lbs heavier... at speed it felt around the same weight...
@sgtjarrodrayner felt fine!
Sounds badass! Get it on video and shoot me the link man
that is weird you talking about a 6th gear but where I am this bike only have 5 is it possible you are mistaken or would harley really make vrod for certain countries with different gears that just does not make sense. If the website specs on this bike says only 5 gears.
I know ;( It felt like it had a 6th gear... at the time I thought it must have one... I thought only the sportsters had 5 gears.
Im glad I caught myself saying that and corrected it... was a really odd statement... but weird shit comes out when you vlog on autopilot.
Guess it only has 5 gears... but a high threshold range in each gear.
I was still waking up that day - totally forgot to do the walkaround :(
Hey I see your post about getting a 883 for your first bike then in 2 years getting something else... Well, I got an 883 Superlow as my first bike on August 17, 2013. I have put just under 1100 miles on it and I want a bigger bike! You may want to seriously consider just getting the bigger bike.
@ 2:40 you should have jumped on the highway to see what the DX can really do. I had an '08 DX and loved it (still do) even though I traded it in for a '11 Street Glide. I miss my first Harley. I did ride my DX cross country from San Diego to Virginia and back 7740 miles in 2009. I do not like the wheels and seat of the new DX but whatever. I did wish my DX had a 6th gear. I was always "reaching" for the 6th gear when at highways speeds. The DX NEEDS a loud pipe to make it sound like it looks.
How tall are you? Im 6 foot 3 and im worried its too small for me. Thinking of buying one
Think it will fit great while riding, but it does sit a bit low I think
jag har en night rod 2006 och är 185. det är skillnad på framflytten före och efter 2011 modellen har jag märkt när jag provsuttit. På min 06 så sitter jag guld men polaren som är 175cm når inte fram. då måste han sitta längst fram på sadeln å det är inte skönt.
+Lukas Gunnarsson I'm 6'3'' 230lbs and I am very comfortable on it. Long rides are a breeze.
My dad has a Fat Bob and a iron 883 he sends me videos of him. Hes the on that got me into Harley Davidson bike he also a Ducati lover to but likes Harleys a little more, says they are the best quality bikes and hold there value
Yeah, I am about 5'10" - you will be fine. Sit on one first though... and sit on it for like 20 minutes just to make sure you feel good.
So how do these events go? You just arrive and ride?? Just like that? I mean, normally in a motorcycle test drive, there's a dealership guy that goes with you.
Exactly - bring a helmet, wear basic gear, and sign your life away
XXXDeadhead Holy crap, that's AWESOME!! You mentioned it was the International Bike Show, is that it? Could you give me just a little bit more info so I can sweat my butt off looking for one? Thanks!
Arthur Sperotto
Progressive international motorcycle show - comes to my area every Oct/Dec
Correct me if i'm wrong, but i didn't think this bike had 6 gears....
Nice bike, but to quiet with stock pipes :) But 6 gears and ABS brakes are great!
Yeah, after test riding it I felt like I needed to upgrade my seat
Yeah, there's LOTS of them! But the 1250cc water cooled engine is not one of them. If you just HAVE to have that "classic HD sound" then stick with an air cooled Harley. I'd love to have a couple of them myself!
I was wrong... It felt like a 6th gear compared to my sportster :)
the classic HD sound you're refering too is caused by the older technology HD uses on all their bikes. they sound cool, but don't make a lot of power. the vrod uses newer technology allowing the engine to rev a lot higher and make more horsepower, but it loses that classic sound. you can put pipes on it, it will certainly sound better than the stock pipes, but if you're searching for that thumpidy thump thump, you'll be disappointed. it will sound more like a ducati or something.
let me have that bike!!! ^_^
The Vrod doesn't have a 6th gear. At least my 2013 night rod special doesn't.
Good review but l believe thats five speed
Git yer ass back down there and do that walkaround!!