Quality video Matt as always and very informative and I like the new format thank you. In regards to the bike, for me coming from a sportbike back ground I have to scratch my head with the decision of forward controls, why did they not go with a setup like the old XR1200X? I know the streetfighter is coming and that, thank god, has proper foot controls but I feel that this bike could have been more attractive to riders with mid controls at least. The only other issue I have is with price, it does seem to me to be about $3k more than it should be compared to similar bikes from other manufacturers. Still a great innovative move by H-D and I hope it sells well for them.
I appreciate the comment. The price is up there. You gotta remember you're paying for the quality of parts on this thing. The exhaust system, the wheels, brakes, front end. They have expensive stuff on here. I wish I would have commented on the foot controls more in the video. I always forget stuff. They really aren't that far forward but forward enough where it still doesn't have the benefit on mid controls. I feel like they did this to give people more leg room. To increase the lean angle they brought the pegs up. Even a semi-tall guy would be cramped with mids. It's hard to balance everything.
I had the FXDR for two years now, put 12000 km on it. SE stage I, Sundowner seat, mid controls, small risers made specifically for its clip ons & some looks accessories like axle nut covers & fender delete & so on … & for me, its simply the greatest Softail ever made.
People will hammer on Harley for all kinds of things and that is why ALL of us have a choice in which motorcycle we ride. I am glad that Harly is diversifying and offering the buyer a choice and it is a choice. Choose your ride, enjoy your ride and if at all possible, respect others for the choices they make. Great video Matt and as always...honest.
Flame James Buy what you want to buy. I’m not a typical Harley guy but I love mine! Harley definitely has kind of a new generation going. More guys in full face helmets and putting performance parts on there bikes and riding them like they mean it. Less chrome, flip flops, leather and beer cans.
@Flame James you're right! I have a BMW K1300S which is like a Sport bike and a 1998 Rode Glide. When I'm on my Harley I get waved at by practically everyone. Totally different story when I'm on my BMW, if I wave to a dude on a Harley Davidson I'm lucky to get even a head nod. I'm to the point now where I just dont wave anymore. My feelings aren't hurt or nothin but it is true what you guys are sayin.
This is the review I've been waiting for !! Really appreciate the new rating system. Also appreciate that you took a Fat Bob and Low Rider with you. The drone footage added a nice touch, allowing us to get a good feel for the road you were testing on. I've only seen one other ride/review of the FXDR in the curves. Your canyon roads look similar to my daily rides up here on top of the Cascades. I found your comparisons / differences with the FXDR and the Fat Bob very enlightening. In my opinion. this is the best ride/review of the FXDR to date. Thank you.
I got to test ride one today and I must say, it's a serious BEAST! It was an hour long test ride through some amazing mountain roads lined with beautiful trees with their leaves changing color in the fall. I did find the riding position a little weird at first, with the low bars and forward controls, but I got used to it quickly. This bike is truly a "10" in performance and a real blast to ride. Totally love it. I agree 100% with your review. AWESOME!!!
I'm living in Quebec Canada. There's a dealership in the town of St-Jerome (about 40 mins north of Montreal). They're very generous about offering test rides and the roads are just spectacular. I also tested a Fat Boy 114 and a Breakout 114. My honest favorite was the Breakout. It had the best riding position, the killer 114, and the beautiful, classic/clean looks of true Harley chopper. If I were to buy one, it would be the Breakout 114 hands-down. ;)
Finally, I’ve been waiting on you to review this one forever man! I’ve watched other reviews but don’t feel I have a definitive review until I’ve got your input. I appreciate you guys!
I personally hate the looks of it, but I am glad that they went for it. I'm the type that would rather see a company go aggressive on styling and see who loves/hates it.
Matt your videos are great we all know it. But This video is awesome, you push to the limit to high end. I wish I was in LA shooting your videos. Best channel about Harley-Davidson! Keep up the great work!
I'm sure there's a small percentage of not-so-bright people who give a thumbs-down to these videos because they don't like the particular bike - not because of the quality of the video per se. Keep up the excellent work, Matt!
I don't think I can judge this bike until I sit on one. I've heard it is more comfortable than it looks, and the looks have actually grown on me. I love that Loch Ness Monster looking air cleaner... that thing crawled out of a swamp somewhere. I can't wait to test ride one! Still love my '09 Low Rider, no plans to unload that machine. Another great vid brother
Great video Matt! I bought mine a month ago, and pretty much everything you stated is spot on. One thing to add is that the Clip ons are adjustable. I am 5'7" and rotated them back about an inch, much more comfortable. Keep em coming!
Wow killer scenery and the drone views are 10...format for reviews is really good .. Matt the SoCal tourism board should hire you, Cool video of the canyon!! The gloves what brand and do they come in black ??
Bought one today, will take delivery next week, with aftermarket plate holder (for that clean wheel look) Vance and hines Grenade exhaust, traded up from a Lowrider S.. guys this bike in person looks way better than in videos and pics.. reminds me of Judge Dredd's bike.. just damn right badass
Matt, the best review of the bike I have seen. You have taken your review to the next level with the drone shots. Dig your format too with the ratings, different rider reviews, and locations of the review. Would have been nice to hear the bike at idle - your other reviews have include at idle sound. Well done mate!
Great review Matt - u guys ride fast & hard - I’ll ride with Ya All any day! So why does that Stage 1 SE upgrade get rid of the stock air intake ???? Seems to me it would provide more power but SE uses that old school designed intake. I have a 19 SGS and I really like the stock intake’s front-opening design to ram air into the engine.
Great new review format Matt. Trying to choose my first bike after being out of the MC world for 10 years so please go back through the range adopting this format!!👍🏻
Good video. Liked hearing the feedback from the other guys to give a well rounded opinion on the bike. The new review format is a bit long but definitely helps out having that grading scale
Awesome review matt i like the fact you compared it to the Fat Bob as well for handling love the fact you took it into the canyons as well but we can always count on your reviews being good and strait thanks again i am a fan of the new FXDR as well.
I'm a Harley (had five over the last 50 years) owner and a sport bike owner (Had three or four over the last 50 years)...It's Harley's higher price attempt at a "sport bike" and your comment about "...they have expensive stuff on here..." is inaccurate, the majority of "sport bikes" out there have better equipment as standard equipment....it's not bad bike, but not good either. The mill is the best part about it...it will be successful!! Best used as a drag bike with a plethora of afermarket add ons....great video though brother!! Keep'em comin'!!
zulu the majority of sport bikes out there aren't running anything better than showa front and rear. A decent number are now running big piston forks, and super high end stuff runs ohlins electronic adjustable stuff. But that's mostly reserved for the limited edition or more exclusive trim of the liter bikes, like the r1m. Or they are running showas new BFF. And those bikes are usually 17k plus msrp. Take a good look at the switch gear on those bikes, or the edges around the fairings, or the welds, and you will see that pretty much nothing compares to a Harley in fit and finish. Its expensive, don't get me wrong. But it's a quality piece. Except the plastic fenderguard, but you should rip that off anyways. And also the plastic deluxe turn signals. I have no idea why those are on there.
I purchased a new 19 FXDRS in 2020. 22,500 miles on it now. I can say this bike is soooo much fun. Not one thing I dislike other than rotors. I wanted to upgrade the brakes to Brembo. My salesman laughed and said Brembo is on the FXDRS. Why the HD name? I called HD corporate and they said yes, the deal was Brembo will make the calipers but HD said their name must be on them. Just saying. The braking is perfect. The stock rotors suck. Warp when they get warm. Upgraded to best rotors I could find for $900 I drag race it now. Competition against R1’s, H2’s and 600cc bored out bikes.
Another great video, lots of information but no unnecessary fluff. Having just bought a 2018 FXBRS I have no regrets about not waiting for this although it looks fantastic in red. Do you plan to update your other videos (just the descriptions of course) with the numbering system? Keep up the excellent work on the videos, Matt.
I left a comment a number of months ago that I wanted to add this to my collection. I did. If you know what this bike is meant to be it’s awesome - would never take it on a long trip. It’s an around town bike that looks amazing, loud, and in your face. It’s all attitude and is the most uncomfortable Harley out there, but I love it!
New format is great Matt! Giving the ratings and comparing to other bikes helps round out the analysis. Great job as always but with some extra progress in your process.
Some of those shots are movie quality 🤘🏻 love the rating system implementation. The FXDR114 is still growing on me, gonna have to take one for a spin before I make judgement.
I test rode the FXDR a week ago and I liked it more than I thought I would. Even the riding position was better than expected. The stage 4 version of it in your video looked amazing. Like with so many people, my complain is the high price. In Europe it sells for around €32k which is like $37k and that is a whole lotta money for a bike that you can do so little with and it isn't even all that great performance wise when you really compare it to other bikes that are actually performance oriented. On top of that, I really didn't feel THAT much bigger power compared to my stage 1 Dyna Street Bob with the 103ci engine.
Thanks for the comment. The power over the street bob is definitely there. I've ridden both bikes a lot. You have to really get on the throttle on both to tell a difference. Casual riding, you won't tell much.
You weren´t the first but you are definitely the best with this review my friend. There is a documentary feel to the editing and commenting, brilliant team you´ve put thogether. Congratulations. I am on of the butthurt people that kind f turned my back into HD when they Dyna was gone but who knows, when you are the best at whatever you do people eventually embrace it, and right now this new generation of air cooled engines loor pretty nice. Lets just hope HD goes a little bit more blue collar again because otherwise you might become the Pagani or Koenigsegg of motorcycles.
I threw a leg over the FXDR at my local dealer today and it feels light... really light. I'm impressed with the feel. I'm sure that the low center of gravity helps there. The intake is huge and makes the reach to the rear brake a bit funky. The comment on the wide rear tires, I used to feel that way until a Suzuki M109 kept up with a group of us on ZZR1200s in the twist around Coloma CA about a decade ago The guy made it look easy and I'd imagine the FXDR would be just as capable, but with a better power plant. . Like Andrew mentioned, the lean angles aren't hampered. I'm calling it the Bat Bike, at least the rear reminds me of the movie bike. A lady at the dealership didn't like the rear turn signals and brake light. I told her not to worry, aftermarket will take care of that.
This is great review Matt!!! Each of your videos is getting better and better. Better video shots , sound is improving too :) and idea of going to breathtaking canyon is what I enjoy the most!!! The new FXDR is not my cup of coffee but I admire Harley Davidson for going outside of the box and for creating new trends and not following the trends :) Keep up good work and if you can , for your sake , keep a bit greater distance from vehicles ahead of you, Bless .
I just saw this video, yea I know, two years after it came out. I’m an old man, cut me some slack. Really enjoyed this video. My question is what would this bike be like with the 131 stage 4 engine in it, seems like it’s tailor made for that!! Great video Matt.
I love the look of it but when I test rode it I felt like it was way too small for me for long rides and I'm shorter than you. I'm 6'3" ended up getting a 19' Street Glide Special. You and John have the best vids in youtube!!!
As for non modification aspect. Now there are many options in the aftermarket world. 1 that I really like, can change seat and rear fender and change the look completely.
The new format is great. Makes it easier to see how the bike fits in the lineup. One suggestion for future videos. It would be nice to compare some of the HDs to other competitors like indian. Show off the good/bad.
At around the 19 minute mark you talked about modifications you would do and not do......what about that Vrod type plastic at the front down tubes around the oil cooler......do they serve a purpose, or are they for styling? Would you remove it?
The stage 4 bike looks 10X better with its modifications IMHO. Curious as to what has been the most comfortable bike you have ridden over the years being taller than most?
Thanks for the great video Matt! However, Photos and video does not do the bike justice, you must see it in person and take a test ride if you can. Parked my road glide next to one, and watched as the owner rode off, this bike looks KILLER. Raked front handles great probably by using the same principle as the tourers, maybe Matt can find out if the triple trees have some rake in them. Gives a stable straight line ride yet turns in quick for the twisties. Definitely to fill the void of the broad and fight the Diavel and other “Powercruisers” I think Harley did a fantastic job for what the bike is designed for.
Great video Matt. Only one suggestion, you should give a total score at the end of each review and create a table for comparison between all the different bikes. Just to give you and example of what I'm trying to say, look for Doug DeMuro in TH-cam and watch one of his reviews so you can get an idea about his scoring system that is very similar to the one you are actually doing. Hope it can help.
Excellent video Matt!! You have leveled your production skills to a new territory over the years that most people cannot replicate. I really enjoyed the parts where you sat down with us to talk... This bike has actually grown on me but I am having a difficult time getting past the price point Harley established. If I were to buy a new bike, it would be hard to justify the money for this.
I got to ride one last Saturday at the local HD open house. Have to agree with you, this thing flies down the road. The riding position is not ideal for long distance rides. But for riding twisty roads it's perfect.
Great video Matt. After watching your videos over the past year, I'm pretty sure you would never buy this bike, but you did point out some nice features about it that someone may like or be looking for which was cool. Personally, I hate the look and same with the fat bob. I bought my 2018 Breakout last year after watching your review. I did also test road the fat bob. I would have bought it from you, but I'm in the Lake Tahoe area. The Breakout is a great bike and I did get the Harley bags which you recommended in your review. This was my first bike btw. I road when I was a teen 30 years ago though. So far, I've put 8,000 miles on the breakout and had to replace my tires at 6500 due to the fact I travel through the mountains so much. I do want to get the road glide special though and somewhat wish I got that. Thanks again for your videos!
I live on the other side of the country and will probably buy my next one from Laidlaw, fly out and ride back taking the scenic route. Sounds like you are ready for something you can put several miles on in a day and the touring line is made just for that. Ride Safe.
Solid review as always Matt; when I test rode the FXDR114 at the throttle slave show I was actually surprised how well it handles despite the 240 rear tire (which I think looks awesome); I did however experienced some degree of lower back pain but that all went away when you twist that throttle. Keep up the good work sir, have a good one and ride safe
I've had a couple people say they had lower back pain. I didn't really feel that. The bars do make you lean really far forward. Good thing this isn't a sport bike seating position. Then people would really be hurting.
Great bike, excellent review. The handlebar fairing would be useful for comfort, cutting down wind blast. Shame you can't fit a touring one pack. Love the bars instrument area. Barricuda silver with orange and black accents would be my pick.
Cool bike..the local HD in my area got some in..must be insanely fast. Also Matt I notice you wear a simpson helmet. Do you like it? Pros and cons? Would appreciate any feedback. Thx.
Great review as always mate and one that i have been waiting for. And the new review setup is more enhanced, especially with your opinion based numerical grading system, which is comprehensive yet simple to understand. I hated this bike when i first saw it but it's growing on me. I do think, however, that it will attract those who are fans of the vrod. Personally, I think i get the Breakout 114, as it is closer to a traditional HD.
In one of your recent videos you said they were discontinuing this model next year, just curious do you think a CVO treatmeant would save this model. It seems like a good bike and I can see the appeal as a former Vrod owner (streetglider now).
My favorite softail. Wish I could ride one. Of course the one I want was only a one year production. How many were produced in total? There's only one here in Alaska I'm aware of. Some lucky bastard has it down in Kenai. Damn.
Like the areial footage guys, makes a nice intro to the video.An interesting model not my cup of tea, being British but as one of the comments below looking forward to seeing some cool custom shop work takes place, remove plastic for carbon fibre would be a start. The air intake is a must go looks like a lunch box.
@Matt Laidlaw do you know if a person had the fab skills could a different rear fender be installed? Similar to the fat bob, or lowrider? To achieve a little lower but more space
Great production values on the video. Very professionally shot and produced. Re: the bike itself, it is just too expensive for what it is. It looks like a lot of fun to ride but it seems too impractical. It is not really a tourer, you can get a fast sport bike for less, etc.
Hi Matt, great videos you have. Very good and informative reviews! I like the looks and the idea of this bike. Would like to see it on a dyna chassis (or something else other than softail). I drive a XR1200x with Vance & Hines track pipes myself, don't think this bike can beat that. Love the looks though!
Very informative review as usual from Matt. I've ridden this bike a few weeks ago and the only thing I found not suitable for me was the forward riding position and fat pipe that interfered with my 5'7" height. Gr8 bike, start with a stage 1 or 2 and no more than a stage 3 due to reliability issues with engine at stage 4, it will surely surprise you even more....love it.
I think that's the whole reason why Blockhead is getting one. Speaking of mods hey Mat, do you think the fuel tank from the Fxdr would fit in a breakout?
Harley's one and only key selling point is cool factor, and at least IMO they succeed. Fit and finish? Dude... They have thick paint but unless you're meticulous about upkeep that thick paint can't hide the rust on every fastener and non painted surface. Customer service? That's an HD weak point...
sqd8r the fxdr handles the best of those three so I'd pick it. But the vrod does have more top end power so that's a factor to consider. The FXDR has way more torque though.
Quality video Matt as always and very informative and I like the new format thank you. In regards to the bike, for me coming from a sportbike back ground I have to scratch my head with the decision of forward controls, why did they not go with a setup like the old XR1200X? I know the streetfighter is coming and that, thank god, has proper foot controls but I feel that this bike could have been more attractive to riders with mid controls at least. The only other issue I have is with price, it does seem to me to be about $3k more than it should be compared to similar bikes from other manufacturers. Still a great innovative move by H-D and I hope it sells well for them.
I appreciate the comment. The price is up there. You gotta remember you're paying for the quality of parts on this thing. The exhaust system, the wheels, brakes, front end. They have expensive stuff on here. I wish I would have commented on the foot controls more in the video. I always forget stuff. They really aren't that far forward but forward enough where it still doesn't have the benefit on mid controls. I feel like they did this to give people more leg room. To increase the lean angle they brought the pegs up. Even a semi-tall guy would be cramped with mids. It's hard to balance everything.
I had the FXDR for two years now, put 12000 km on it. SE stage I, Sundowner seat, mid controls, small risers made specifically for its clip ons & some looks accessories like axle nut covers & fender delete & so on … & for me, its simply the greatest Softail ever made.
People will hammer on Harley for all kinds of things and that is why ALL of us have a choice in which motorcycle we ride. I am glad that Harly is diversifying and offering the buyer a choice and it is a choice. Choose your ride, enjoy your ride and if at all possible, respect others for the choices they make. Great video Matt and as always...honest.
Agreed, and thank you !
Flame James This is very uncharacteristic on Harley Riders.
Flame James where do you ride ?!?!?!
Flame James Buy what you want to buy. I’m not a typical Harley guy but I love mine! Harley definitely has kind of a new generation going. More guys in full face helmets and putting performance parts on there bikes and riding them like they mean it. Less chrome, flip flops, leather and beer cans.
@Flame James you're right! I have a BMW K1300S which is like a Sport bike and a 1998 Rode Glide. When I'm on my Harley I get waved at by practically everyone. Totally different story when I'm on my BMW, if I wave to a dude on a Harley Davidson I'm lucky to get even a head nod. I'm to the point now where I just dont wave anymore. My feelings aren't hurt or nothin but it is true what you guys are sayin.
Different rider perspectives and the comparison to the Fat Bob added to the value of the review. Well done.
This is the review I've been waiting for !! Really appreciate the new rating system. Also appreciate that you took a Fat Bob and Low Rider with you. The drone footage added a nice touch, allowing us to get a good feel for the road you were testing on. I've only seen one other ride/review of the FXDR in the curves. Your canyon roads look similar to my daily rides up here on top of the Cascades. I found your comparisons / differences with the FXDR and the Fat Bob very enlightening. In my opinion. this is the best ride/review of the FXDR to date. Thank you.
I got to test ride one today and I must say, it's a serious BEAST! It was an hour long test ride through some amazing mountain roads lined with beautiful trees with their leaves changing color in the fall. I did find the riding position a little weird at first, with the low bars and forward controls, but I got used to it quickly. This bike is truly a "10" in performance and a real blast to ride. Totally love it. I agree 100% with your review. AWESOME!!!
Thanks man. An hour long test ride? Dang, where did you get that opportunity?
I'm living in Quebec Canada. There's a dealership in the town of St-Jerome (about 40 mins north of Montreal). They're very generous about offering test rides and the roads are just spectacular. I also tested a Fat Boy 114 and a Breakout 114. My honest favorite was the Breakout. It had the best riding position, the killer 114, and the beautiful, classic/clean looks of true Harley chopper. If I were to buy one, it would be the Breakout 114 hands-down. ;)
I've watched this video twice, now. I cannot get the smile off my face. I love this bike.
Finally, I’ve been waiting on you to review this one forever man! I’ve watched other reviews but don’t feel I have a definitive review until I’ve got your input. I appreciate you guys!
I have been waiting for your in-depth review on the new FXDR and you absolutely delivered.
Thank you ! Glad you enjoyed
Awesome camera work. Really enjoyed the overhead views of the Fatbob and the FXDR chasing each other.
I think in a few years this will be the bike people want. like the old FXR it will take time for people to realize how good this bike is
I personally hate the looks of it, but I am glad that they went for it. I'm the type that would rather see a company go aggressive on styling and see who loves/hates it.
Matt your videos are great we all know it. But This video is awesome, you push to the limit to high end. I wish I was in LA shooting your videos. Best channel about Harley-Davidson! Keep up the great work!
This is one your absolute best videos. The bikes, the ride, the filming. A+.
Thanks!
Thanks man
I'm sure there's a small percentage of not-so-bright people who give a thumbs-down to these videos because they don't like the particular bike - not because of the quality of the video per se. Keep up the excellent work, Matt!
I don't think I can judge this bike until I sit on one. I've heard it is more comfortable than it looks, and the looks have actually grown on me. I love that Loch Ness Monster looking air cleaner... that thing crawled out of a swamp somewhere. I can't wait to test ride one! Still love my '09 Low Rider, no plans to unload that machine. Another great vid brother
Thank you. Good description of the air intake. Haha.
Great video Matt! I bought mine a month ago, and pretty much everything you stated is spot on. One thing to add is that the Clip ons are adjustable. I am 5'7" and rotated them back about an inch, much more comfortable. Keep em coming!
Wow killer scenery and the drone views are 10...format for reviews is really good .. Matt the SoCal tourism board should hire you,
Cool video of the canyon!!
The gloves what brand and do they come in black ??
Thanks Aggie, The gloves are Roland sands. Yes, I think they come in Black
Matt Laidlaw thank you and found them
Bought one today, will take delivery next week, with aftermarket plate holder (for that clean wheel look) Vance and hines Grenade exhaust, traded up from a Lowrider S.. guys this bike in person looks way better than in videos and pics.. reminds me of Judge Dredd's bike.. just damn right badass
I love mine man. What plate holder they go with? want to move/eliminate the current one.
Matt, the best review of the bike I have seen. You have taken your review to the next level with the drone shots. Dig your format too with the ratings, different rider reviews, and locations of the review. Would have been nice to hear the bike at idle - your other reviews have include at idle sound. Well done mate!
Was wondering why it took Matt so much time to propose his review of the FXDR, but wow! that was worth the wait!
Great review Matt - u guys ride fast & hard - I’ll ride with Ya All any day! So why does that Stage 1 SE upgrade get rid of the stock air intake ???? Seems to me it would provide more power but SE uses that old school designed intake. I have a 19 SGS and I really like the stock intake’s front-opening design to ram air into the engine.
Great new review format Matt. Trying to choose my first bike after being out of the MC world for 10 years so please go back through the range adopting this format!!👍🏻
Good video. Liked hearing the feedback from the other guys to give a well rounded opinion on the bike. The new review format is a bit long but definitely helps out having that grading scale
Awesome review matt i like the fact you compared it to the Fat Bob as well for handling love the fact you took it into the canyons as well but we can always count on your reviews being good and strait thanks again i am a fan of the new FXDR as well.
Love the new rating system fantastic great day for a test ride beautiful weather thank you for the video Matt take care
I'm a Harley (had five over the last 50 years) owner and a sport bike owner (Had three or four over the last 50 years)...It's Harley's higher price attempt at a "sport bike" and your comment about "...they have expensive stuff on here..." is inaccurate, the majority of "sport bikes" out there have better equipment as standard equipment....it's not bad bike, but not good either. The mill is the best part about it...it will be successful!! Best used as a drag bike with a plethora of afermarket add ons....great video though brother!! Keep'em comin'!!
zulu the majority of sport bikes out there aren't running anything better than showa front and rear. A decent number are now running big piston forks, and super high end stuff runs ohlins electronic adjustable stuff. But that's mostly reserved for the limited edition or more exclusive trim of the liter bikes, like the r1m. Or they are running showas new BFF. And those bikes are usually 17k plus msrp.
Take a good look at the switch gear on those bikes, or the edges around the fairings, or the welds, and you will see that pretty much nothing compares to a Harley in fit and finish.
Its expensive, don't get me wrong. But it's a quality piece.
Except the plastic fenderguard, but you should rip that off anyways. And also the plastic deluxe turn signals. I have no idea why those are on there.
Highway 39
I use to ride that all the time when I lived in So Cal. You guys ride hard on those Harleys nice to see, great video.
Great review Matt! Nice having the Fat Bob comparison. The rating system is great.
Thanks for the feedback
I purchased a new 19 FXDRS in 2020. 22,500 miles on it now. I can say this bike is soooo much fun. Not one thing I dislike other than rotors.
I wanted to upgrade the brakes to Brembo. My salesman laughed and said Brembo is on the FXDRS. Why the HD name? I called HD corporate and they said yes, the deal was Brembo will make the calipers but HD said their name must be on them. Just saying. The braking is perfect. The stock rotors suck. Warp when they get warm. Upgraded to best rotors I could find for $900
I drag race it now. Competition against R1’s, H2’s and 600cc bored out bikes.
Love the format Matt, puts a lot of elements in perspective, especially for the Harley faithful! Nice job.
Thank you! And thanks for watching.
always fun and informative
Another great video, lots of information but no unnecessary fluff. Having just bought a 2018 FXBRS I have no regrets about not waiting for this although it looks fantastic in red. Do you plan to update your other videos (just the descriptions of course) with the numbering system? Keep up the excellent work on the videos, Matt.
Great review format. Really covers the bases. But a 4 is a little generous for touring! No bags, no luggage rack. Looking forward to more reviews.
Great vid Matt, the drone shots are super 👍 Looks like the FXDR does what it's designed to do very well.
FXDR - I think I'm in love.
I left a comment a number of months ago that I wanted to add this to my collection. I did. If you know what this bike is meant to be it’s awesome - would never take it on a long trip. It’s an around town bike that looks amazing, loud, and in your face. It’s all attitude and is the most uncomfortable Harley out there, but I love it!
Sounds like you know the bike well. It’s a bit of an anomaly. Cool bike but unfortunately no one asked for it.
Im so glad someone did a real comparison of the Fat Bob and FXDR. Those are the two bikes i am choosing between when i trade in January.
New format is great Matt! Giving the ratings and comparing to other bikes helps round out the analysis. Great job as always but with some extra progress in your process.
Some of those shots are movie quality 🤘🏻 love the rating system implementation. The FXDR114 is still growing on me, gonna have to take one for a spin before I make judgement.
I test rode the FXDR a week ago and I liked it more than I thought I would. Even the riding position was better than expected. The stage 4 version of it in your video looked amazing. Like with so many people, my complain is the high price. In Europe it sells for around €32k which is like $37k and that is a whole lotta money for a bike that you can do so little with and it isn't even all that great performance wise when you really compare it to other bikes that are actually performance oriented. On top of that, I really didn't feel THAT much bigger power compared to my stage 1 Dyna Street Bob with the 103ci engine.
Thanks for the comment. The power over the street bob is definitely there. I've ridden both bikes a lot. You have to really get on the throttle on both to tell a difference. Casual riding, you won't tell much.
You weren´t the first but you are definitely the best with this review my friend. There is a documentary feel to the editing and commenting, brilliant team you´ve put thogether. Congratulations. I am on of the butthurt people that kind f turned my back into HD when they Dyna was gone but who knows, when you are the best at whatever you do people eventually embrace it, and right now this new generation of air cooled engines loor pretty nice. Lets just hope HD goes a little bit more blue collar again because otherwise you might become the Pagani or Koenigsegg of motorcycles.
I threw a leg over the FXDR at my local dealer today and it feels light... really light. I'm impressed with the feel. I'm sure that the low center of gravity helps there.
The intake is huge and makes the reach to the rear brake a bit funky.
The comment on the wide rear tires, I used to feel that way until a Suzuki M109 kept up with a group of us on ZZR1200s in the twist around Coloma CA about a decade ago The guy made it look easy and I'd imagine the FXDR would be just as capable, but with a better power plant. . Like Andrew mentioned, the lean angles aren't hampered. I'm calling it the Bat Bike, at least the rear reminds me of the movie bike.
A lady at the dealership didn't like the rear turn signals and brake light. I told her not to worry, aftermarket will take care of that.
Love what you do Matt! Keep up the great work! Much Respect from the East Coast! 💪⚡⚡
Thank you sir. I send the West Coast love your way.
Matt Laidlaw Many Thanks Brother! 👍
Thanks for the video and all the effort that went into it. FXDR is awesome.
This is great review Matt!!! Each of your videos is getting better and better. Better video shots , sound is improving too :) and idea of going to breathtaking canyon is what I enjoy the most!!! The new FXDR is not my cup of coffee but I admire Harley Davidson for going outside of the box and for creating new trends and not following the trends :) Keep up good work and if you can , for your sake , keep a bit greater distance from vehicles ahead of you, Bless .
Thank you! I spent way too much time on this video but I think it turned out pretty good. Thanks for watching.
Lots of potential on this bike. Thanks Matt.
I just saw this video, yea I know, two years after it came out. I’m an old man, cut me some slack. Really enjoyed this video. My question is what would this bike be like with the 131 stage 4 engine in it, seems like it’s tailor made for that!! Great video Matt.
Fantastic video, very informative without getting slow. Thanks for sharing.
I love the look of it but when I test rode it I felt like it was way too small for me for long rides and I'm shorter than you. I'm 6'3" ended up getting a 19' Street Glide Special. You and John have the best vids in youtube!!!
Great video Matt, new format also great mate. Keep up the good work. Cheers
Best review for this bike so far 👍
As for non modification aspect. Now there are many options in the aftermarket world. 1 that I really like, can change seat and rear fender and change the look completely.
Hell yea! Stoked about this! You need your own show on velocity or something Matt! Sick! Rad! 👍🏻👊🏻✊🏻
The new format is great. Makes it easier to see how the bike fits in the lineup. One suggestion for future videos. It would be nice to compare some of the HDs to other competitors like indian. Show off the good/bad.
Nice new format, great review!
Congrats, Matt.
Waiting for more.
Hello Matt. Very nice review. Looking forward to see the new 2019 roadster 1200 in one of your reviews. You guys are very good team.
Love the new format. Great production level!
I wanna see the whole 2019 lineup reviewed like this 👌👍✌️
I will do most of the line-up. Coming soon!
At around the 19 minute mark you talked about modifications you would do and not do......what about that Vrod type plastic at the front down tubes around the oil cooler......do they serve a purpose, or are they for styling? Would you remove it?
Great review, new format makes it interesting. Hope you will review the Heritage using the same format
The stage 4 bike looks 10X better with its modifications IMHO. Curious as to what has been the most comfortable bike you have ridden over the years being taller than most?
quality vid my man, was waiting for this one and gotta say it was well worth the wait
Thank you. Glad I didn’t disappoint.
Thanks for the great video Matt! However, Photos and video does not do the bike justice, you must see it in person and take a test ride if you can. Parked my road glide next to one, and watched as the owner rode off, this bike looks KILLER. Raked front handles great probably by using the same principle as the tourers, maybe Matt can find out if the triple trees have some rake in them. Gives a stable straight line ride yet turns in quick for the twisties. Definitely to fill the void of the broad and fight the Diavel and other “Powercruisers” I think Harley did a fantastic job for what the bike is designed for.
Hi Matt, cheers from Mexico.
I like the new format, congrats!!
Can you rate the fatbob 114 in the same 9 points as the fxdr?
Great video Matt. Only one suggestion, you should give a total score at the end of each review and create a table for comparison between all the different bikes. Just to give you and example of what I'm trying to say, look for Doug DeMuro in TH-cam and watch one of his reviews so you can get an idea about his scoring system that is very similar to the one you are actually doing. Hope it can help.
and btw! Can't wait for your next review on the 2019 FatBob. I love my 2018 FatBob Stage 3!!!
I like the format you use in this video. I'd like to see a comparison of the Roadster and Fat Bob, perhaps in your upcoming Fat Bob review?
Excellent video Matt!! You have leveled your production skills to a new territory over the years that most people cannot replicate. I really enjoyed the parts where you sat down with us to talk... This bike has actually grown on me but I am having a difficult time getting past the price point Harley established. If I were to buy a new bike, it would be hard to justify the money for this.
I got to ride one last Saturday at the local HD open house. Have to agree with you, this thing flies down the road. The riding position is not ideal for long distance rides. But for riding twisty roads it's perfect.
I had that clunk when putting my 2018 SG into 1st.....switched over to Amsoil and the clunk is gone! Great review Matt
Be good to see a test on the Stage 4 low rider that was on the vlog 👍👍😎
Great video Matt. After watching your videos over the past year, I'm pretty sure you would never buy this bike, but you did point out some nice features about it that someone may like or be looking for which was cool. Personally, I hate the look and same with the fat bob. I bought my 2018 Breakout last year after watching your review. I did also test road the fat bob. I would have bought it from you, but I'm in the Lake Tahoe area. The Breakout is a great bike and I did get the Harley bags which you recommended in your review. This was my first bike btw. I road when I was a teen 30 years ago though. So far, I've put 8,000 miles on the breakout and had to replace my tires at 6500 due to the fact I travel through the mountains so much. I do want to get the road glide special though and somewhat wish I got that. Thanks again for your videos!
I live on the other side of the country and will probably buy my next one from Laidlaw, fly out and ride back taking the scenic route. Sounds like you are ready for something you can put several miles on in a day and the touring line is made just for that. Ride Safe.
Reincarnated Rocker. Hope you enjoy making these videos as much as I enjoy watching them. Most excellent dude.
Yes! Thanks for watching
Solid review as always Matt; when I test rode the FXDR114 at the throttle slave show I was actually surprised how well it handles despite the 240 rear tire (which I think looks awesome); I did however experienced some degree of lower back pain but that all went away when you twist that throttle. Keep up the good work sir, have a good one and ride safe
I've had a couple people say they had lower back pain. I didn't really feel that. The bars do make you lean really far forward. Good thing this isn't a sport bike seating position. Then people would really be hurting.
Great bike, excellent review. The handlebar fairing would be useful for comfort, cutting down wind blast. Shame you can't fit a touring one pack. Love the bars instrument area. Barricuda silver with orange and black accents would be my pick.
Have liked your past reviews very much. How might you compare it to the 2016 Night Rod Special. I own one.
Very upfront and honest review
Cool bike..the local HD in my area got some in..must be insanely fast. Also Matt I notice you wear a simpson helmet. Do you like it? Pros and cons? Would appreciate any feedback. Thx.
Great review as always mate and one that i have been waiting for. And the new review setup is more enhanced, especially with your opinion based numerical grading system, which is comprehensive yet simple to understand. I hated this bike when i first saw it but it's growing on me. I do think, however, that it will attract those who are fans of the vrod. Personally, I think i get the Breakout 114, as it is closer to a traditional HD.
In one of your recent videos you said they were discontinuing this model next year, just curious do you think a CVO treatmeant would save this model. It seems like a good bike and I can see the appeal as a former Vrod owner (streetglider now).
My favorite softail. Wish I could ride one. Of course the one I want was only a one year production. How many were produced in total? There's only one here in Alaska I'm aware of. Some lucky bastard has it down in Kenai. Damn.
Like the areial footage guys, makes a nice intro to the video.An interesting model not my cup of tea, being British but as one of the comments below looking forward to seeing some cool custom shop work takes place, remove plastic for carbon fibre would be a start.
The air intake is a must go looks like a lunch box.
Shame this is being discontinued. I really liked it and hoped it would’ve been around for awhile.
Awesome Vid thanks for the hard work Matt! Keep em coming!
Hi Matt do u own the whole Laidlaw Harley dealership??
@Matt Laidlaw do you know if a person had the fab skills could a different rear fender be installed? Similar to the fat bob, or lowrider? To achieve a little lower but more space
Great production values on the video. Very professionally shot and produced. Re: the bike itself, it is just too expensive for what it is. It looks like a lot of fun to ride but it seems too impractical. It is not really a tourer, you can get a fast sport bike for less, etc.
Hi Matt, great videos you have. Very good and informative reviews! I like the looks and the idea of this bike. Would like to see it on a dyna chassis (or something else other than softail). I drive a XR1200x with Vance & Hines track pipes myself, don't think this bike can beat that. Love the looks though!
Thanks man. The XR would definitely beat it in the twisties. In a drag race the FXDR might win.
I can't wait to see what comes of it when people start modifying them.
Very informative review as usual from Matt. I've ridden this bike a few weeks ago and the only thing I found not suitable for me was the forward riding position and fat pipe that interfered with my 5'7" height. Gr8 bike, start with a stage 1 or 2 and no more than a stage 3 due to reliability issues with engine at stage 4, it will surely surprise you even more....love it.
A Vrod lol
Dragan M The clip ons are adjustable... I brought mine back about 1" (I am 5'7") and fixed the riding position.
I think that's the whole reason why Blockhead is getting one. Speaking of mods hey Mat, do you think the fuel tank from the Fxdr would fit in a breakout?
Perhaps the best thing you can do is burn this rice shit.
Really like the new review style. 🤘🤘
Hey Matt, great video. Nice looking bike, sounds awesome and heavy on the cool factor. I'm glad they didn't put the little 3.5 gallon tank on it.
It's nice, but it's not $21k nice. There are far better bikes out there in the same price range.
Fit in finish, customer service, culture. It's not just the "power" that's sells harleys
@Steven Evans LOL
Mr. Borjas customer service? If you mean bending you over and not using lube then yea I guess... (and I’m a Harley guy) but this bike is a joke
Yea please tell me how charging $1400 for prep and freight on a year left over sportster marker down to $9500 is good customer service?
Harley's one and only key selling point is cool factor, and at least IMO they succeed.
Fit and finish? Dude... They have thick paint but unless you're meticulous about upkeep that thick paint can't hide the rust on every fastener and non painted surface.
Customer service? That's an HD weak point...
I like the all blacked out one.
Mick Mick thanks man, I do to ;)
Great video as normal. If not already asked, if you had to choose would you go (CVO) breakout, vrod (which variant) or this? If answered, apologies.
sqd8r the fxdr handles the best of those three so I'd pick it. But the vrod does have more top end power so that's a factor to consider. The FXDR has way more torque though.
Great video Matt
I'm confused. What's the difference between the FXDRS and the FXDR 114? Are they the same thing? Why two names then?
This bike becomes more and more popular
Matt, like your new rating system. Question, would you consider re- reviewing the 2018 Milwaukee-Eight bikes using your new rating system?
Yes, I'll be re-reviewing most of the touring and softails this year.
Will a regular fender and side panels fit on if you take of the horrible factory rear end?
Love the video! Love them all! Awesome intro btw
Excellent review Matt.