Girls bike got that title from retiring Baby Boomers in the 90's, convincing others that they'll regret buying the 883. These people were usually drunk, trying to impress others how their 'big Twins are the best and a need to exaggerate the size of their male member. 73 here, been on bikes since 66, rode small Hondas to Road Kings and everything in between. My current and last bike is my 2004 883
Out of my small stable of bikes my 883 is probably my favorite , its obnoxiously loud, and pretty much doesn't do anything well, but every time I jump on it I have a great time.
Ah mate, this made me smile a lot! I'm 47, not had a bike for 12 years and I came very close to buying a Bonnie 1200 in July. My friend and neighbour has a HD 1200 Sportster Iron and he convinced me to take it out for a test drive as like you, I had never ridden one or even considered one before. All he said was "There's nothing else like it". I came back grinning from ear to ear and I was lucky enough to find a mint 1200 Sportster 48 for my first Harley. I've never been so happy to own a bike before and I've had Ducati's, Honda's, Nortons etc. I'm absolutely smitten and I have also made a ton of new Harley riding friends in the community. Thanks for the video and I really hope that you get yourself one soon.😁
I’m glad the video made you smile. To be fair, the Bonnie 1200 is a fantastic bike as well. Both have character, just different kinds. I’m really coming to realize I love just about all motorcycles.
What a wonderful day to wake up and see Bugmoto on a motorcycle sharing the adventure of discovery on so many fronts! I appreciate your content. Ride safely and bring more adventures. Peace.
From your grunts and groans as you went over those rough roads, sounds like you discovered another necessary task of Harley ownership - upgrading the suspension.
Nice to see a video without all the Harley haters spouting nonsense! I’ve had over 30 bikes, first Cruiser was a 2004 Triumph America, but my current bike is my all time fav, Harley Road King :)
I’m glad the folks who tend to hang around this channel just tend to like motorcycles, regardless of who makes them. That’s how I feel. I love just about every bike I’ve ridden, or even seen.
Being an old moto X rider i never used to like em either especially when i was younger i just thought they were to bulky and slow but the later models are light years ahead of the older models and are way more reliable these days so yeah i rode one and fell in love myself and because im at that age now where i just like to cruise so i bought it 👍
I've owned cruisers by Kawasaki, Triumph, and HD. Recently, I took the plunge and got a touring HD (Road Glide) and I'll never ride another bike again. I love it on both short rides and long multi-day trips. Integrated GPS/maps, speakers - a real joy!
@@louismarino5448 It does everything well except having a reverse gear to get that heavy bike out of a parking space, but that is what the passenger is for I guess. 🙂
My '07 Sportster was my favorite bike ever. Cheap, never leaked or had problems, and I had it set up just right for me. I'm 6'2" and it was super comfortable all set up well under 10 grand. Nobody ever called it a girl's bike, not that I would've been insulted anyway. I loved that bike and I wish I still had it. I rode my Softail yesterday for Thanksgiving and i like her a lot too. Todays Harleys are smoother than expected, and less problematic than the reputation suggests. Thanks for a great video!
Yes, once the EVO engine came out, they became pretty realiable. (My 1979 Sporty always "marked its spot" when I parked it somewhere, all the AMF era Harleys were known for that though.)
@@tanys9339 Nah, I sold it years ago when I was moving and had to downsize to only one bike. It was a beautiful looking bike. It was the XLS (Roadster) 2 tone paint with gold Harley logo and pinstriping on it. The bikes from that era may not have been reliable but they sure were beautiful.
❤Thanks for sharing your thoughts and impressions. You are a funny guy, and I needed the laugh. Return to 1987, our local shop was a HD/Honda dealer unusual even back then. Just ended a test ride on a shadow 700, nice bike! Was thinking about going home and sleeping on it. The shop owner encouraged me before I left, to test ride an XL883. $3995. This is where I was having a lot of those same thoughts that you had, but my mind was made up. Bought it the next day, sold it 6 yr. later. But HD was in my blood, 4 big twins later I am still riding them.
Awesome video. I own a Royal Enfield Bullet but have also been tempted by the Harleys. I sat on a used one in a dealership and got to turn it on and feel/listen to the rumble. I’ve not forgotten it and have had my eye on used Sportsters ever since. 😂
Back when I started riding motorcycles (mid 80s), my favorite type was dualsport motorcycles. I got into so much trouble riding into places that I shouldn't have (dualsport bikes are unstoppable), and then I started to notice the spots' bikes (Ninjas, VFRs, Hurricanes and GSXR's) and I was in love with all of them. Harleys, on the other hand, I couldn't have cared less. Cruisers, in general, just weren't my thing. Then, when I was about 35, I tried an 883, and I bought it (it was an 03 hundred anniversary ed). That Sporter was awesome in Back roads and city streets, but on the highway, it shook like a paintshaker 😂 my hands and feet would go numb in about 30 minutes or so. One day, I went to one of the local Harley dealers, and they were having a demo day, and let me tell you, the big Harley twins are so much more refined than the sporters, way smoother and they just feel amazing 😊. Harleys have a je ne sais quoi about them that unless you ride one, you can not understand. My favorite Harley so far was the Softail Slim (the stock seat sucks), but I just love the looks and how that bike made me feel when I was riding it. I regret trading it in for another Harley a street glide (don't get me wrong the street glide it's an amazing bike), but I live in Texas and in the summer the batwing fairing of the street glide blocks the wind so much that it becomes unbearable. Check with your local Harley dealer because in the springtime, most of them have demo day, its a great way to try a bunch of them for free 😉. I have owned 3 Harleys so far, and I'm looking forward to my 4th (once things get better, cuz cheap they are not 😢).
I loved this! I am a Canadian who just started riding a little KTM Duke 390. However, I visited a friend in Tucson last year and it was my first time on the back of a bike in a long time and it was a first time on a Harley. We went up Mount Lemmon. What a cool experience. Love your videos!
Great video! Good on ya for giving Harley a try! Not nearly as bad as some people try and make you think. Sportsters are a bunch of fun! The biggest problem i see is when people hop on a Harley and expect it to be something it's not.
Hey man- I’m a triumph guy too and I couldn’t agree with you more. Try new bikes, y’all! For all their weirdness, Harleys can be great- I THOUGHT THAT WAS TUCSON! I rented a Harley fxdr there (sort of a production drag bike) with a 1917cc engine in it and a 2-1 exhaust. It was absurd, and so much fun!! We called it the Macho Man Randy Savage Special. My wife rented a Z900 RS- coo bike. I swear I idled up Mt. Lemmon in 3rd gear on that Harley. 130lbs of torque!!! It burned a hole in my jeans, but it was worth it. Next time you’re in Tucson, see if you can find it on Twisted Road or riders share- SO WORTH IT.
It is excellent to try new and different things, that's what makes great memories. We don't remember the usual day after day life, it's the unusual that creates bookmarks in the story of our life.
What a great video. I love your style, sense of humour etc. Thanks for sharing with us (a new Harley low rider s owner). Also just think, if you came to appreciate that machine being the low end underpowered, imagine what you’ll feel on the larger and comfier models. Try them! Love to hear your thoughts :)
I gave an Iron 883 a shot yesterday for the very first time on a Harley too at age 64. I had always never considered them. Things I liked: super low seat height, I'm 5'6". The sound, glorious! The pull and speed! Things I didn't like: The seating position, my back was bent like a banana, after 20 minutes I was done. The vibration through the foot pegs! I guess Harleys are made for much taller people, and probably another model would be more suitable for my size. And I passed a couple other HD riders, it seems they don't wave to each other either (C;
I have a bucket list. I like your channel, and also, the idea of "before it's too late." I rode my cousin's 45 cu.in. Harley Chopper in 1968ish. On the back of a hardtail is a perfect place for a kid to be bitten by the Harley Motorcycle Bug. 10 years back I test drove an 883 owned by a retired ballerina and dance instructor... Yes! The clutch slipped, and it felt underpowered as I was used to my 72 Honda 750. But now, a free, albeit dead, 700cc Virago waits to be a runner in my Garage, just 20 feet away... before it's too late. That'll be my TH-cam offering/adventure in 2025. Then! Sportsters do come in a 1200cc model. And... I'm still just a young pup at 71. I love a bright future! I looked at a little of your background as is my habit before I upgrade to "all posts" on the little bell icon. Hoping to use the name Bug in addressing you in future comments if that's ok. Thanks! Great videos! Sam Hatman
Great review Bug! Glad you liked my Sporty. Loved your commentary. As you know, it is my first Harley in over 50 years of riding, and I am glad I traded my Honda XR650L for it. You may have spent more time on it than I did, at the time of the video. I now appreciate the Vance & Hines not-so "quiet" baffles and the 6.5% taller gearing Ron and I installed right before your rental. They make the bike slightly more civilized without sacrificing any of the character we both appreciate. On your next visit to Tucson, you may want to check out my 3-wheeled leaning vehicle, Yamaha Niken GT. Nobody has ever rented it in over 2 years of being listed. If it's not on your bucket list yet, it should be.
Mr Bug, I was smiling the whole video. My neighbor has two HDs and was planning on selling his 883 Sportster. Pretty sure i have convinced both he and his girlfriend to get her trained and licensed, then get her on the Sporty so my wife and I can take them on rides/trips ... all four of us, each on their own. I downloaded the video to him. Oh, I noticed you could not resist blipping the throttle ... you are hooked! Ned in SC
My very limited Harley experiences sort of echo yours -- the bike looks like my childhood perception of a motorcycle, something hypnotic about the sound of the engine at idle, and being "transformed" into a Harley rider. But as I get older my desire for lighter and more nimble machines has removed any desire for a Harley. But irrational thoughts of needs persist. Like dreaming of an Indian Scout. Or an H&K - MR556A1. Or another Filson flannel shirt. Things I think about that I do not need... Is there a Trike or sidecar hack on your bucket list?
The answer seems obvious to me, plan a ride out for a few days, hire one for the duration and throw a bag over the back. Give it back once you've created memories and don't take on the downsides of ownership whilst you mainly ride your existing bike(s). I might do it too, fly over to States, hire one for a couple of weeks or three, go a to be and fly home. Wouldn't want to own or ride a Harley in the UK, fish out of water and all that. But to ride one stateside ... yup, I'd do that.
Being here in the States, I know that people definitely make renting (hiring) Harleys on holiday. Met a group of Irish people who did exactly that with a trailer and a campervan. They were here in Southern California where there are a number of popular and iconic routes. Strongly recommend.
I like HD, I had a softail Lowrider for a couple of years. I almost went full HD touring until I saw the Goldwing. These days I’m going smaller and lighter with my Triumph Tiger 900 and my T120. New HD’s are far too expensive IMHO. I can’t say I’m gone forever, from an HD, but it will have to be a good deal on a preowned one at this point.
Whatever you decide to ride is a good time, honestly as long as it’s on two wheels. Go get yourself a Moto Guzzi and have a ride and you’re pretty much get the same V-twin feeling but it’s got a lot of different styling going on and character is there as well
Harley's do make you smile, I've owned two, which means yes, I did miss the first one so tried them again. A 1986 and 2000 softail, one with 18 inch apes which I do love and have had on many of my bikes. Sadly the Harleys just cost me to much to maintain, never found them as reliable as I wanted so eventually ended up with a 2019 Moto Guzzi V7 another bike with so much character. If money was no object would I have another...yes.
I wish there was a Moto Guzzi dealer near me, there are none in Massachusetts anymore. There used to be several and back in the late 1980s. Back then I was debating between the Moto Guzzi Lemans or the BMW K75s. (ended up with the Beemer since the Guzzi had increased $1K over night due to the devaluation of the US dollar, so got the BMW before that increased its price.)
My Harley’s don’t cost anymore to maintain than my Japanese bikes. Maybe if you take it to a dealer it might, find a good independent mechanic. Reliability? Never even had 1 breakdown.
Yay for fun--love trying out different bikes. Still waiting to try any Ducati, a GB500, a Rune, AJP, some of the more insane street-rockets--and on and on. Wish it were easier to test-ride, 'cause mostly you have to buy to try...
When I see you on the Harley, it reminds me of the 1969 TV series "Then came Bronson" where he just travels around the country. I think that TV show really got me interested in motorcycles even before the movie "Easy Rider".
re: Harley's being a rough riding, bucket of bolts. I must admit the 1979 (AMF) Harley Sportster that I owned, fell into that description but I loved it (as a 2nd bike that is.) It certainly was a love/hate relationship. (Worked on the bike for about the same amount of time you rode it.)
Harleys aren't really a thing in the UK. I mean, I ride all year round, and I can't remember the last time I saw a Harley. But, I've just passed 60 and I have this urge to try one...
I test rode a Buell Ulysses at Honda Hoot #14 in 2007. I remember riding it on the freeway and thinking my brain was going to vibrate out. I bought an FJR-1300 instead, which I still have.
To get the real Harley experience ride one in hot weather. My Dyna Lowrider really gets cooking at a stop light anytime over a hundred degrees. Sounds like the 883 is a lot more brutal as far as vibration goes; even though at idle a Dyna looks like the engine is going to shake itself out of the frame at speed it's pretty smooth. Probably about as quick as the Lowrider though because of the lesser weight. I don't drink and ride so I'm probably missing that whole 'brother' experience though.
Victory rider here. I have a Honda Shadow and a Triumph as well. Enjoy getting out on the Vic since it is very similar to the HD’s. Especially satisfying since it is somewhat unique and not everyone can have one, unlike the HD.
That’s why they call that model a bar hopper! Give a Road King a ride! If you think older riders go for Harleys, try Sturgis sometime. Lots of silver hairs on Harleys!
Awesome man! I daily ride my Lowrider ST and love it, I think it is a bit more refined and smooth than the evo sportsters so it’s been a great commuter and awesome on long trips. Even though I own the Lowrider and love it, I still poke fun at Harley because of the stigmas and culture around it lol. Happy to see you trying out new bikes and traveling, loving your channel so far. Ride safe!
The real problem I have with Harley is the dealership's sales staff. They think they are doing you a favor to sell you one over MSRP. (One dealership wouldn't even tell me the price of the bike, only how much monthly payments would be when I wanted to buy it cash.....when I told them that, they told me I had to come back another day and talk to the finance manager.)
I want to do this, but with a Ducati Monster. I've not been much of a Harley fan, but I will say the Sportster seems to boil down the essence of what the company has always been at its core - or at least should be. If you can strip away all the edifice and Sons of Anarchy crap and just have a nice cruiser, I think the Sportster is it. In fact, I saved a 2004 Harley Sportster Roadster in Facebook Marketplace a few days ago. Watching this probably doesn't help me.
I test rode a Hypermotard awhile ago, that engine was so loud, sounded like it was low on oil, put off a lot of heat also, couldn’t wait to get off of it. I’ll stick to my Road King thank you. The Sportster is too small for most men imho
I currently have the Vulcan 900 Classic and it's great. Very comfortable especially with the floorboards which I swore I'd hate but absolutely love. (I do wish it had a 6th gear for better highway speeds though.)
@@bdagnoloNice. I have the original year (2006). As I'm in my mid 70s now, the weight at slow speeds is starting to bother me more so I'm looking at new lighter bikes, but can't find anything as nice as the Vulcan.
You're from PDX and that particular Sporty can be duplicated for about $3500 locally if you just keep an eye pealed. And that is the perfect bike for guys our age. Got my eye on one myself ;^)
I had the Tiger 660 sport and absolutely loved it... until I rode the Harley Pan America. I finally understood the appeal of Harleys and traded the Tiger for the Pan Am haha. It's a beast and so much fun to ride. I haven't had it in the dirt yet, but definitely will once the weather gets warm again.
Too funny! You picked the smallest, most least comfortable of Harleys for your first ride on an HD? My first bike was a Kawasaki 450 something until the day my sister-in-law laughed at me as I pulled into the driveway. She told me I looked like a trained bear on a bicycle. No lie, the very next morning I walked into a Harley dealer and I never looked back. Have ridden various HD models over the past 35 years or so and currently own a CVO Ultra Limited that I've put over 80,000 miles on. (You definitely don't lose the feeling in your feet from vibration.) And then last year the wife and I rented a BMW1200GS and rode all the way around Ireland. The BMW is definitely a good bike for narrow, formerly Roman cart path Irish roads, but for comfort it doesn't come anywhere near the HD CVO. For HD purposes, especially at your age, I highly recommend one with a counter-balanced engine like the Heritage Softail. No vibration anywhere, reasonably priced, and with plenty of space to take you across country or to circumvent the North American continent. Take one for a spin at your nearest HD dealer. Lucky for HD owners, there's a dealer definitely near you on this continent anywhere. And by the way, if you didn't notice, you got some admiring looks when you pulled up to some of those first stoplights. Welcome to the family of HD!
It’s not a girls bike, it is an intro to Harley bike. I have an ‘03 Ultra Classic. I have Harley’s for 45 years now. Glad you’re having fun brother. 😊 I live in Tucson. Now you know why we ride Harley’s!!! Get on a larger bike like a Harley Low Rider, much more comfortable. I am 64
1st Harley. 2013 wide Glide. 2nd is 2020 street Glide special. Absolutely love it. Gonna ride the shit out of it. Then rebuild. Let's go. Cool video. Hope you try other Harley's. Ride your ride ❤
Lovely! 👍👍 Go rent a Softail Deluxe or Heritage. Comfy seat and floorboards + detachable windshield. Then put a three-quarter helmet on, and you might never ever look back. From down the coast by the sea in California ~ Ride Forever! 🦅
Hi from Sweden Bug, just found your channel & and subbed. Im back on 2,s after a very long break & started a channel for the fun of it. I love all bikes, but I am more a cruiser guy, so enjoyed the vid cheers
Regardless of the subject of the video, I was drawn to this man's approach, which was fun and far from what is prevalent on TH-cam. Greetings for you from Saudi Arabia, and I would like you to tell me if you use a filter to photograph to make it appear in a nice brown color?
My first Harley was a new 1988 883 hugger. Couldn't live with the tank range. Now have a 1999 FXDL that I still think of as new. Things are different on a Harley. Terrible image quality short of it on my channel.
วันที่ผ่านมา +1
😢Hey Bug, discovered your channel a few weeks ago and have now watched all your videos from the beginning. I've had this feeling from early on that you would end up being a Harley guy one day. I started street riding 30 years ago on an old Honda CM400 and am now on my fourth bike, and 3rd Harley, as I moved from the Honda to a Sportster, then a Dyna, and now a Road King. My guess now is that, if you get a Sportster, you'll love it as I did but it won't be too long before you're eyeballing a Harley cruiser or bagger. Anyway, I'll be watching with interest to find out, lol. I'm in Portland, btw. Hit me up if you want to meet up for a ride sometime.
Yup. The Superlow is the smallest, lowest, least powered (50 hp) Harley. Low profile tires (rough riding), lowered, bare minimum suspension travel (rough riding), and a low profile seat (rough riding). But in doing so, it allows 5 foot tall people to ride a bike with both feet flat on the ground. Any other model Harley you ride will have at least 50% more power and probably twice the suspension travel. Just go to a Harley dealer and they will let you test ride any bike you want.
Nice sound and good video , I ride a Can-am ryker and modified to sound like a real bike and it does , that is fun and love it , Need to put ear plug on long trip. My riding partner as an Harley and great for town , long trip not as much, maybe a road glide but that a bit big and $$. ( ps love the merlin cloth line , got a few of these jacket) Riding in Arizona for a few days that is on my bucket list I travel the area by car , but that would be a good adventure Alain & Yellow
I know you bought the scrambler, what’s the other bike you bought. Riding a Harley is a unique experience for sure. Next time may l suggest a more refined and possibly more comfortable 883 iron. Next bike you should try is an ADV bike and also a comfortable sport or sport touring bike
I get it. My twins are not Harley yet Brit / German & all 60 yrs old. I don’t need a weather report or fuel consumption read out. I need the sound of any old twin
You need to ride a Harley Touring machine. Ride Route 66. I believe you are close by. Then you will get it. Try it. Don’t tell your wife I told you to do it 😂 I know what the conclusion will be and it won’t be cheap 🤣😂 👍🏻🇨🇦
I like them all. Harleys, Japanese, European (Moto Guzzi owner), India, British, All of them. The only motorbikes I don't like are the rockets. HD made a lot of improvements from the old 1960's and 1970's. One of which was they learned that a motorcycle actually needs a front brake. I remember riding a 1960's Sportster and grabbing the front brake lever and bottoming it to the throttle. Even so the bike barely slowed down at all. My friend who was a Harley dude said that was normal. And we won't talk about the old suspension or lack there of.
I rented a Harley one weekend to ride with some harley guys who basically just ran from one bar to another as fast as they could. After riding Hondas and Yamaha roadbikes for years, that Harley felt like a lumberwagon. Worst trip I ever had on a bike. Like Ford and Chevy, I don't even consider them anymore.
Which Harley, what year, how many miles? I’ve owned manyYamaha’s Raider, Warrior, Honda’s CB1100, Fury., CTX 1300. My 24 Road King is as smooth, fast and handles just as good if not better.
Girls bike got that title from retiring Baby Boomers in the 90's, convincing others that they'll regret buying the 883. These people were usually drunk, trying to impress others how their 'big Twins are the best and a need to exaggerate the size of their male member. 73 here, been on bikes since 66, rode small Hondas to Road Kings and everything in between. My current and last bike is my 2004 883
Sometimes character is everything, it's the total experience that spec sheets never reveal.
100% agree.
There isn’t a Harley rider out there who after seeing your post, wasn’t smiling and agreeing with just about everything you said……and felt.
Good onya.
Out of my small stable of bikes my 883 is probably my favorite , its obnoxiously loud, and pretty much doesn't do anything well, but every time I jump on it I have a great time.
Ah mate, this made me smile a lot! I'm 47, not had a bike for 12 years and I came very close to buying a Bonnie 1200 in July. My friend and neighbour has a HD 1200 Sportster Iron and he convinced me to take it out for a test drive as like you, I had never ridden one or even considered one before. All he said was "There's nothing else like it". I came back grinning from ear to ear and I was lucky enough to find a mint 1200 Sportster 48 for my first Harley. I've never been so happy to own a bike before and I've had Ducati's, Honda's, Nortons etc. I'm absolutely smitten and I have also made a ton of new Harley riding friends in the community. Thanks for the video and I really hope that you get yourself one soon.😁
Cheers mate!
I’m glad the video made you smile. To be fair, the Bonnie 1200 is a fantastic bike as well. Both have character, just different kinds. I’m really coming to realize I love just about all motorcycles.
Can I get a tonic water? I’m here to kick some ass.. 😂😂
What a wonderful day to wake up and see Bugmoto on a motorcycle sharing the adventure of discovery on so many fronts! I appreciate your content. Ride safely and bring more adventures. Peace.
From your grunts and groans as you went over those rough roads, sounds like you discovered another necessary task of Harley ownership - upgrading the suspension.
Nice to see a video without all the Harley haters spouting nonsense! I’ve had over 30 bikes, first Cruiser was a 2004 Triumph America, but my current bike is my all time fav, Harley Road King :)
I’m glad the folks who tend to hang around this channel just tend to like motorcycles, regardless of who makes them. That’s how I feel. I love just about every bike I’ve ridden, or even seen.
Being an old moto X rider i never used to like em either especially when i was younger i just thought they were to bulky and slow but the later models are light years ahead of the older models and are way more reliable these days so yeah i rode one and fell in love myself and because im at that age now where i just like to cruise so i bought it 👍
I've owned cruisers by Kawasaki, Triumph, and HD. Recently, I took the plunge and got a touring HD (Road Glide) and I'll never ride another bike again. I love it on both short rides and long multi-day trips. Integrated GPS/maps, speakers - a real joy!
I couldn't agree more. It does everything, and does everything well.
@@louismarino5448 It does everything well except having a reverse gear to get that heavy bike out of a parking space, but that is what the passenger is for I guess. 🙂
My '07 Sportster was my favorite bike ever. Cheap, never leaked or had problems, and I had it set up just right for me. I'm 6'2" and it was super comfortable all set up well under 10 grand.
Nobody ever called it a girl's bike, not that I would've been insulted anyway.
I loved that bike and I wish I still had it. I rode my Softail yesterday for Thanksgiving and i like her a lot too. Todays Harleys are smoother than expected, and less problematic than the reputation suggests.
Thanks for a great video!
Yes, once the EVO engine came out, they became pretty realiable. (My 1979 Sporty always "marked its spot" when I parked it somewhere, all the AMF era Harleys were known for that though.)
@pcthayer I hope you still have the AMF leaks and all! They have to be getting rare out there.
@@tanys9339 Nah, I sold it years ago when I was moving and had to downsize to only one bike. It was a beautiful looking bike. It was the XLS (Roadster) 2 tone paint with gold Harley logo and pinstriping on it. The bikes from that era may not have been reliable but they sure were beautiful.
@pcthayer Agreed! Beautiful bikes for sure.
❤Thanks for sharing your thoughts and impressions. You are a funny guy, and I needed the laugh. Return to 1987, our local shop was a HD/Honda dealer unusual even back then. Just ended a test ride on a shadow 700, nice bike! Was thinking about going home and sleeping on it. The shop owner encouraged me before I left, to test ride an XL883. $3995. This is where I was having a lot of those same thoughts that you had, but my mind was made up. Bought it the next day, sold it 6 yr. later. But HD was in my blood, 4 big twins later I am still riding them.
I appreciate your understated wisdom.
Awesome video. I own a Royal Enfield Bullet but have also been tempted by the Harleys. I sat on a used one in a dealership and got to turn it on and feel/listen to the rumble. I’ve not forgotten it and have had my eye on used Sportsters ever since. 😂
Back when I started riding motorcycles (mid 80s), my favorite type was dualsport motorcycles. I got into so much trouble riding into places that I shouldn't have (dualsport bikes are unstoppable), and then I started to notice the spots' bikes (Ninjas, VFRs, Hurricanes and GSXR's) and I was in love with all of them. Harleys, on the other hand, I couldn't have cared less. Cruisers, in general, just weren't my thing. Then, when I was about 35, I tried an 883, and I bought it (it was an 03 hundred anniversary ed). That Sporter was awesome in Back roads and city streets, but on the highway, it shook like a paintshaker 😂 my hands and feet would go numb in about 30 minutes or so. One day, I went to one of the local Harley dealers, and they were having a demo day, and let me tell you, the big Harley twins are so much more refined than the sporters, way smoother and they just feel amazing 😊. Harleys have a je ne sais quoi about them that unless you ride one, you can not understand. My favorite Harley so far was the Softail Slim (the stock seat sucks), but I just love the looks and how that bike made me feel when I was riding it. I regret trading it in for another Harley a street glide (don't get me wrong the street glide it's an amazing bike), but I live in Texas and in the summer the batwing fairing of the street glide blocks the wind so much that it becomes unbearable. Check with your local Harley dealer because in the springtime, most of them have demo day, its a great way to try a bunch of them for free 😉. I have owned 3 Harleys so far, and I'm looking forward to my 4th (once things get better, cuz cheap they are not 😢).
I’m 65 now and I just put a deposit on one this afternoon. A 2008 Sportster 1200 . Thanks for the video…..
That’s great! Hope you love it.
I loved this! I am a Canadian who just started riding a little KTM Duke 390. However, I visited a friend in Tucson last year and it was my first time on the back of a bike in a long time and it was a first time on a Harley. We went up Mount Lemmon. What a cool experience. Love your videos!
Great video! Good on ya for giving Harley a try! Not nearly as bad as some people try and make you think. Sportsters are a bunch of fun! The biggest problem i see is when people hop on a Harley and expect it to be something it's not.
Hey man- I’m a triumph guy too and I couldn’t agree with you more. Try new bikes, y’all!
For all their weirdness, Harleys can be great- I THOUGHT THAT WAS TUCSON! I rented a Harley fxdr there (sort of a production drag bike) with a 1917cc engine in it and a 2-1 exhaust. It was absurd, and so much fun!! We called it the Macho Man Randy Savage Special. My wife rented a Z900 RS- coo bike. I swear I idled up Mt. Lemmon in 3rd gear on that Harley. 130lbs of torque!!! It burned a hole in my jeans, but it was worth it. Next time you’re in Tucson, see if you can find it on Twisted Road or riders share- SO WORTH IT.
Not knowing the words to Born To Be Wild, was the funniest part 😂
It is excellent to try new and different things, that's what makes great memories.
We don't remember the usual day after day life, it's the unusual that creates bookmarks in the story of our life.
What a great video. I love your style, sense of humour etc. Thanks for sharing with us (a new Harley low rider s owner). Also just think, if you came to appreciate that machine being the low end underpowered, imagine what you’ll feel on the larger and comfier models. Try them! Love to hear your thoughts :)
come north and ride Apache Trail ❤
I gave an Iron 883 a shot yesterday for the very first time on a Harley too at age 64. I had always never considered them. Things I liked: super low seat height, I'm 5'6". The sound, glorious!
The pull and speed! Things I didn't like: The seating position, my back was bent like a banana,
after 20 minutes I was done. The vibration through the foot pegs! I guess Harleys are made for
much taller people, and probably another model would be more suitable for my size. And I passed a couple other HD riders, it seems they don't wave to each other either (C;
I did notice some back pain early on. Thankfully I got used to the position.
I have a bucket list. I like your channel, and also, the idea of "before it's too late." I rode my cousin's 45 cu.in. Harley Chopper in 1968ish. On the back of a hardtail is a perfect place for a kid to be bitten by the Harley Motorcycle Bug. 10 years back I test drove an 883 owned by a retired ballerina and dance instructor... Yes! The clutch slipped, and it felt underpowered as I was used to my 72 Honda 750. But now, a free, albeit dead, 700cc Virago waits to be a runner in my Garage, just 20 feet away... before it's too late. That'll be my TH-cam offering/adventure in 2025. Then! Sportsters do come in a 1200cc model. And... I'm still just a young pup at 71. I love a bright future! I looked at a little of your background as is my habit before I upgrade to "all posts" on the little bell icon. Hoping to use the name Bug in addressing you in future comments if that's ok. Thanks! Great videos! Sam Hatman
Of course! Thanks for coming by.
Great review Bug! Glad you liked my Sporty. Loved your commentary. As you know, it is my first Harley in over 50 years of riding, and I am glad I traded my Honda XR650L for it. You may have spent more time on it than I did, at the time of the video. I now appreciate the Vance & Hines not-so "quiet" baffles and the 6.5% taller gearing Ron and I installed right before your rental. They make the bike slightly more civilized without sacrificing any of the character we both appreciate. On your next visit to Tucson, you may want to check out my 3-wheeled leaning vehicle, Yamaha Niken GT. Nobody has ever rented it in over 2 years of being listed. If it's not on your bucket list yet, it should be.
Hmmm. That could make for a fun Sunday…
Now your living, Sportster’s are great bikes my first Harley was a Sportster I still love the sportster to this day 😊
Mr Bug, I was smiling the whole video. My neighbor has two HDs and was planning on selling his 883 Sportster. Pretty sure i have convinced both he and his girlfriend to get her trained and licensed, then get her on the Sporty so my wife and I can take them on rides/trips ... all four of us, each on their own. I downloaded the video to him.
Oh, I noticed you could not resist blipping the throttle ... you are hooked!
Ned in SC
I absolutely could not resist!
My very limited Harley experiences sort of echo yours -- the bike looks like my childhood perception of a motorcycle, something hypnotic about the sound of the engine at idle, and being "transformed" into a Harley rider. But as I get older my desire for lighter and more nimble machines has removed any desire for a Harley.
But irrational thoughts of needs persist. Like dreaming of an Indian Scout. Or an H&K - MR556A1. Or another Filson flannel shirt. Things I think about that I do not need...
Is there a Trike or sidecar hack on your bucket list?
I don’t think I’d ever try a sidecar. Something about it doesn’t do it for me. However, I would love to try one of those three-wheel Spyder thingies…
The answer seems obvious to me, plan a ride out for a few days, hire one for the duration and throw a bag over the back. Give it back once you've created memories and don't take on the downsides of ownership whilst you mainly ride your existing bike(s). I might do it too, fly over to States, hire one for a couple of weeks or three, go a to be and fly home. Wouldn't want to own or ride a Harley in the UK, fish out of water and all that. But to ride one stateside ... yup, I'd do that.
Being here in the States, I know that people definitely make renting (hiring) Harleys on holiday. Met a group of Irish people who did exactly that with a trailer and a campervan. They were here in Southern California where there are a number of popular and iconic routes. Strongly recommend.
Come to Tucson and rent the same bike!
@mdostrom wouldn't I need a bagger? Not sure that's the one for 2-3 weeks of touring.
Nothing beats the “Potato potato potato” sound of an air cooled Harley on tickover
I was saying ‘potato potato potato’ all morning after I picked up the rental. drove my wife nuts.
Great video, I’ve been saying for years I’ll test ride a Harley, come spring I’ll make sure I do 👍
I like HD, I had a softail Lowrider for a couple of years. I almost went full HD touring until I saw the Goldwing. These days I’m going smaller and lighter with my Triumph Tiger 900 and my T120. New HD’s are far too expensive IMHO. I can’t say I’m gone forever, from an HD, but it will have to be a good deal on a preowned one at this point.
Whatever you decide to ride is a good time, honestly as long as it’s on two wheels. Go get yourself a Moto Guzzi and have a ride and you’re pretty much get the same V-twin feeling but it’s got a lot of different styling going on and character is there as well
Harley's do make you smile, I've owned two, which means yes, I did miss the first one so tried them again. A 1986 and 2000 softail, one with 18 inch apes which I do love and have had on many of my bikes. Sadly the Harleys just cost me to much to maintain, never found them as reliable as I wanted so eventually ended up with a 2019 Moto Guzzi V7 another bike with so much character. If money was no object would I have another...yes.
I rented a V7 earlier this year and predictably fell in love with it as well.
It's not hard fall in love with bikes with character is it 😂 probably why I have a 1965 BSA Bantam as well.
I wish there was a Moto Guzzi dealer near me, there are none in Massachusetts anymore. There used to be several and back in the late 1980s. Back then I was debating between the Moto Guzzi Lemans or the BMW K75s. (ended up with the Beemer since the Guzzi had increased $1K over night due to the devaluation of the US dollar, so got the BMW before that increased its price.)
My Harley’s don’t cost anymore to maintain than my Japanese bikes. Maybe if you take it to a dealer it might, find a good independent mechanic. Reliability? Never even had 1 breakdown.
@markmcanallen9662 I had a good friend who looked after them, but they were old and didn't like the British winters 😂
Yay for fun--love trying out different bikes. Still waiting to try any Ducati, a GB500, a Rune, AJP, some of the more insane street-rockets--and on and on. Wish it were easier to test-ride, 'cause mostly you have to buy to try...
When I see you on the Harley, it reminds me of the 1969 TV series "Then came Bronson" where he just travels around the country. I think that TV show really got me interested in motorcycles even before the movie "Easy Rider".
re: Harley's being a rough riding, bucket of bolts. I must admit the 1979 (AMF) Harley Sportster that I owned, fell into that description but I loved it (as a 2nd bike that is.) It certainly was a love/hate relationship. (Worked on the bike for about the same amount of time you rode it.)
Harleys aren't really a thing in the UK. I mean, I ride all year round, and I can't remember the last time I saw a Harley. But, I've just passed 60 and I have this urge to try one...
I felt exactly that way about harleys..... then, I rode a 1200 sportster.
That sportster is now my prefered ride.
I’ve had 5 Sportsters,FXR Low Rider ,Streetbob ,now have a 21 Heritage Classic.
I test rode a Buell Ulysses at Honda Hoot #14 in 2007. I remember riding it on the freeway and thinking my brain was going to vibrate out. I bought an FJR-1300 instead, which I still have.
To get the real Harley experience ride one in hot weather. My Dyna Lowrider really gets cooking at a stop light anytime over a hundred degrees. Sounds like the 883 is a lot more brutal as far as vibration goes; even though at idle a Dyna looks like the engine is going to shake itself out of the frame at speed it's pretty smooth. Probably about as quick as the Lowrider though because of the lesser weight.
I don't drink and ride so I'm probably missing that whole 'brother' experience though.
Victory rider here.
I have a Honda Shadow and a Triumph as well.
Enjoy getting out on the Vic since it is very similar to the HD’s. Especially satisfying since it is somewhat unique and not everyone can have one, unlike the HD.
Good post. And most respectively, the plural of cactus is cacti.
I thought so…
As an older traveler,I have never ridden amotorbike but I travel alone, by car ,most comfortably so,I thought I was crazy,thanks for the inspiration
That’s why they call that model a bar hopper! Give a Road King a ride! If you think older riders go for Harleys, try Sturgis sometime.
Lots of silver hairs on Harleys!
Awesome man! I daily ride my Lowrider ST and love it, I think it is a bit more refined and smooth than the evo sportsters so it’s been a great commuter and awesome on long trips. Even though I own the Lowrider and love it, I still poke fun at Harley because of the stigmas and culture around it lol. Happy to see you trying out new bikes and traveling, loving your channel so far. Ride safe!
The real problem I have with Harley is the dealership's sales staff. They think they are doing you a favor to sell you one over MSRP. (One dealership wouldn't even tell me the price of the bike, only how much monthly payments would be when I wanted to buy it cash.....when I told them that, they told me I had to come back another day and talk to the finance manager.)
@ I agree with that sentiment, I really didn’t enjoy my buying experience. Had to talk to them like a jerk just to get a straight answer about things
@@tomoates8568 The dealerships will be the downfall of the brand and not the bike itself.
I want to do this, but with a Ducati Monster. I've not been much of a Harley fan, but I will say the Sportster seems to boil down the essence of what the company has always been at its core - or at least should be. If you can strip away all the edifice and Sons of Anarchy crap and just have a nice cruiser, I think the Sportster is it. In fact, I saved a 2004 Harley Sportster Roadster in Facebook Marketplace a few days ago. Watching this probably doesn't help me.
I've never seen this Sons of Anarchy thing but I hear terrible things about it. :)
Man I want to rent a Streetfighter V4S- can’t find one to rent though! Lol. That is a hell of a bike.
@@BugMotoChannel same!!! 🙂
I test rode a Hypermotard awhile ago, that engine was so loud, sounded like it was low on oil, put off a lot of heat also, couldn’t wait to get off of it. I’ll stick to my Road King thank you. The Sportster is too small for most men imho
If you come back to AZ and Tucson again, head for Mt. Lemon. It’s amazing. You may like a “metric” cruiser like a Kawasaki Vulcan (no foot massage).
I currently have the Vulcan 900 Classic and it's great. Very comfortable especially with the floorboards which I swore I'd hate but absolutely love. (I do wish it had a 6th gear for better highway speeds though.)
@ cool. I’m riding the 900 Classic as well. What a great ride. 2021 model.
@@bdagnoloNice. I have the original year (2006). As I'm in my mid 70s now, the weight at slow speeds is starting to bother me more so I'm looking at new lighter bikes, but can't find anything as nice as the Vulcan.
You're from PDX and that particular Sporty can be duplicated for about $3500 locally if you just keep an eye pealed. And that is the perfect bike for guys our age. Got my eye on one myself ;^)
Hilarious commentary.
Thoroughly enjoyed that thanks!
I knew a guy in 1970,had a Triumph 750....he still has it! Awesosme bike
Now you know! 👍
I had the Tiger 660 sport and absolutely loved it... until I rode the Harley Pan America. I finally understood the appeal of Harleys and traded the Tiger for the Pan Am haha. It's a beast and so much fun to ride. I haven't had it in the dirt yet, but definitely will once the weather gets warm again.
Too funny! You picked the smallest, most least comfortable of Harleys for your first ride on an HD? My first bike was a Kawasaki 450 something until the day my sister-in-law laughed at me as I pulled into the driveway. She told me I looked like a trained bear on a bicycle. No lie, the very next morning I walked into a Harley dealer and I never looked back. Have ridden various HD models over the past 35 years or so and currently own a CVO Ultra Limited that I've put over 80,000 miles on. (You definitely don't lose the feeling in your feet from vibration.) And then last year the wife and I rented a BMW1200GS and rode all the way around Ireland. The BMW is definitely a good bike for narrow, formerly Roman cart path Irish roads, but for comfort it doesn't come anywhere near the HD CVO. For HD purposes, especially at your age, I highly recommend one with a counter-balanced engine like the Heritage Softail. No vibration anywhere, reasonably priced, and with plenty of space to take you across country or to circumvent the North American continent. Take one for a spin at your nearest HD dealer. Lucky for HD owners, there's a dealer definitely near you on this continent anywhere. And by the way, if you didn't notice, you got some admiring looks when you pulled up to some of those first stoplights. Welcome to the family of HD!
Ha! I didn’t notice that!
Young, foolish and happy!
I luv it!
You’ve found it!
Happiest of happy to you and yours m8!
So much to be thankful for.
Ride safe.
🛵🏁🎯
Cheers!
Doc
It’s not a girls bike, it is an intro to Harley bike. I have an ‘03 Ultra Classic. I have Harley’s for 45 years now. Glad you’re having fun brother. 😊 I live in Tucson. Now you know why we ride Harley’s!!! Get on a larger bike like a Harley Low Rider, much more comfortable. I am 64
1st Harley. 2013 wide Glide. 2nd is 2020 street Glide special. Absolutely love it. Gonna ride the shit out of it. Then rebuild. Let's go. Cool video. Hope you try other Harley's. Ride your ride ❤
Lovely! 👍👍
Go rent a Softail Deluxe or Heritage. Comfy seat and floorboards + detachable windshield. Then put a three-quarter helmet on, and you might never ever look back.
From down the coast by the sea in California ~ Ride Forever! 🦅
Hi from Sweden Bug, just found your channel & and subbed. Im back on 2,s after a very long break & started a channel for the fun of it. I love all bikes, but I am more a cruiser guy, so enjoyed the vid cheers
Another great video! I got hooked on Harley in a similar experience 😎
Regardless of the subject of the video, I was drawn to this man's approach, which was fun and far from what is prevalent on TH-cam. Greetings for you from Saudi Arabia, and I would like you to tell me if you use a filter to photograph to make it appear in a nice brown color?
Thank you so much! I only use neutral density filters on my cameras, and do all color grading in DaVinci Resolve Studio.
My first Harley was a new 1988 883 hugger.
Couldn't live with the tank range.
Now have a 1999 FXDL that I still think of as new.
Things are different on a Harley.
Terrible image quality short of it on my channel.
😢Hey Bug, discovered your channel a few weeks ago and have now watched all your videos from the beginning. I've had this feeling from early on that you would end up being a Harley guy one day. I started street riding 30 years ago on an old Honda CM400 and am now on my fourth bike, and 3rd Harley, as I moved from the Honda to a Sportster, then a Dyna, and now a Road King. My guess now is that, if you get a Sportster, you'll love it as I did but it won't be too long before you're eyeballing a Harley cruiser or bagger. Anyway, I'll be watching with interest to find out, lol. I'm in Portland, btw. Hit me up if you want to meet up for a ride sometime.
Fantastic. I’m always looking for new folks to ride with.
I went from a Honda scooter to Dyna Street Bob and I am hooked I want a Street Glide now but I gotta save my pennies
Yup. The Superlow is the smallest, lowest, least powered (50 hp) Harley. Low profile tires (rough riding), lowered, bare minimum suspension travel (rough riding), and a low profile seat (rough riding). But in doing so, it allows 5 foot tall people to ride a bike with both feet flat on the ground. Any other model Harley you ride will have at least 50% more power and probably twice the suspension travel. Just go to a Harley dealer and they will let you test ride any bike you want.
Nice sound and good video , I ride a Can-am ryker and modified to sound like a real bike and it does , that is fun and love it , Need to put ear plug on long trip. My riding partner as an Harley and great for town , long trip not as much, maybe a road glide but that a bit big and $$. ( ps love the merlin cloth line , got a few of these jacket) Riding in Arizona for a few days that is on my bucket list
I travel the area by car , but that would be a good adventure Alain & Yellow
Need to try a big motor softail or cruiser. You may like it!
I know you bought the scrambler, what’s the other bike you bought. Riding a Harley is a unique experience for sure. Next time may l suggest a more refined and possibly more comfortable 883 iron. Next bike you should try is an ADV bike and also a comfortable sport or sport touring bike
My other bike is a Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro.
I went camping out many times on my Sportsters.
So see you on your new Harley soon? Lol
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
I get it. My twins are not Harley yet Brit / German & all 60 yrs old. I don’t need a weather report or fuel consumption read out. I need the sound of any old twin
Any bike is a good bike! But have you ever ridden a Triumph Thunderbird 1600? If you haven’t you should mate! Great video BTW👍
No but I’d absolutely love to.
@BugMotoChannel Mate, try the TBird if you get a chance. You will love it!
You're so fun!
No you are!
So if I go by on my Triumph you won't wave anymore?? Whatever!! 😂😂😂
If I’m on my Triumph I’ll wave. If I’m on a Harley I can’t feel my hands.
@BugMotoChannel 😂😂😂 fair enough!
Noon tomorrow? Hell, you can be halfway to Miami by then, bruh!!!!! They'll NEVER CATCH YA!!! 👹😈
Good stuff man ... Just wait until you ride a Touring Harley. For a more RAW feel, try out an early 2000's Dyna.
That billybike in easy rider is cool. But i stick with my triumph.
For the long straight roads of America they're probably okay but here in Crete Greece no way.😂
The Sportster is too small for most men 5’10” and up, try a Road King, it’s rubber mounted like a Sportster but more roomy imho
You need to ride a Harley Touring machine. Ride Route 66. I believe you are close by. Then you will get it. Try it. Don’t tell your wife I told you to do it 😂
I know what the conclusion will be and it won’t be cheap 🤣😂
👍🏻🇨🇦
Nice.
If you think a sportster is refined try a touring model like a road king
Not sure I’d call it refined, just more refined than I thought it would be.
Uh oh. He drank the Kool-aid
I like them all. Harleys, Japanese, European (Moto Guzzi owner), India, British, All of them. The only motorbikes I don't like are the rockets. HD made a lot of improvements from the old 1960's and 1970's. One of which was they learned that a motorcycle actually needs a front brake. I remember riding a 1960's Sportster and grabbing the front brake lever and bottoming it to the throttle. Even so the bike barely slowed down at all. My friend who was a Harley dude said that was normal. And we won't talk about the old suspension or lack there of.
So did you get a harley ?
Gimme a break. It’s only been a week. Check in with me on Friday. :)
@BugMotoChannel good copy chief!
Bruutthheeer…
Funny, but not unexpected.
Tattoo next Hog !.
I rented a Harley one weekend to ride with some harley guys who basically just ran from one bar to another as fast as they could. After riding Hondas and Yamaha roadbikes for years, that Harley felt like a lumberwagon. Worst trip I ever had on a bike. Like Ford and Chevy, I don't even consider them anymore.
Which Harley, what year, how many miles? I’ve owned manyYamaha’s Raider, Warrior, Honda’s CB1100, Fury., CTX 1300. My 24 Road King is as smooth, fast and handles just as good if not better.
Too bad about the stupid screen.
Get a 1200xlh and you won't need or want another bike