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I did not expect it to look that good with the fairing and the saddle bags off... It's a really good looking bike, probably my new favourite from their line-up
Everybody is welcome to their opinion. I purchased A 2019 Sport Glide form my trusty dealer at OLD FORT H-D in FSM. I have owned 3 H-Ds' in the past and loved them all. The Sport Glide is exactly why I came back to H-D. By the way those "Mantis" wheels are in my humble opinion absolutely beautiful !!!!!
Bought one in March of 2019. It is now July and I've put almost 9000 miles on it in these 5 mos. Just got back from a cross country trip (Louisiana to Los Angeles), and I can say without a doubt that I absolutely love this bike. She's a keeper, does everything with style and ease. I did add the luggage rack and sissy bar/passenger pad from Harley. Did my 5000 mile service (6000 miles) at Huntington Beach Harley and she ran better than ever after that. This bike has it all for me. I think Harley nailed it with this one!!
@@garycarpenter7104 i live in Baton Rouge but have camped at all the best State Parks in Louisiana. They are all fun but I'm partial to Chicot, Grand Isle and Fountainbleau State parks. You'll see lots of critters if you camp in Louisiana, and the food will be better than almost anywhere in the US!
I just bought one. The most fun I’ve had on a motorcycle in a long time. Already started with some mods. It does have a slight sport bike feel (I know it’s not). Handles really well. Really puts a smile on my face each time I’ve ridden it. Ride safe
Very cool you have Andrew riding on a second bike, that added camera perspective is awesome. You can really get a sense of the ergonomics on the bike, just when you thought your reviews couldn't get any better....😉
Bloody Harley! Here I am pretty well set on the Road king, and they decide to release this great looking model.As soon as the sport glide arrives at our local dealer in Australia, I will be taking her for a ride. Kindly thank Andrew for his perspective on the bike, and as usual, another great review. Ride safe brother.
Seriously in agreement.. split between a RK Special and Indian Springfield, then this thing comes along. It's got every functional part between the (my) two choices with less weight and a better price to boot. Security, performance, and utility.. I'm a dash torn.. good luck to the both of us!
Thanks Matt for doing a thorough and clear review. It's really great to see the bike going through it's paces and getting clarity on all of it's features, love it! I called my local dealer here at Plymouth in the UK and ordered one the next day after watching this. I eagerly await delivery on March 1st 2018. The dealer asked if I'd seen the bike at a show and I said no, I watched it on your TH-cam channel :)
Thorough review! Word on the Street from a number of Australian Journalists that the Sport Glide is H-D's best release yet! I'm yet to ride one myself but I'm very keen. Cheers, from the Aussie Bikers team.
Just bought a 2020 last month. This video really helped me make my decision six months ago. Love the vibe at your dealership. When I had to fly out to LA for work I stopped by but you were closing on a deal and I was on a time crunch so I didn't do the nerdy sit and wait just to say "omg Matt I love your vids be my friend" lol
Matt, I enjoy your reviews. Thanks for the detail. Traded in my 2016 Iron 883 for the new Sport Glide. Halfway through my demo I didn't want to get back on my Sportster. Lol Even though it's heavier than the 883 it's, in my opinion, more agile. The 107 is awesome and the ride is smooth. Loving it.
I have a Sportglide for about 6 months , what I like about this bike is its look , always shining like a star in the sunny rides, especially when riding in a group. Not only my opinion but my friends in the chapter. Despite its higher cost 💵, it worth it . Sportglide perform good in long rides due to big storage space and fuel capacity ⛽️ .❤️
so after watching this video 5 months ago and waiting to see what HD would do for 2019 with this bike, I HAVE JUST PURCHASED THE 2019 Midnight Blue model from my dealer in the UK. So Matt thanks again for doing what you do here. Best regards from the UK
Wish you guys were closer, I love your reviews and I would definitely buy from you. For some odd reason none of the Harley dealerships in my area has a Sport Glide in stock. Tons of Road and Street Glides but not one Sport Glide. I guess they figure they don't sell as well as the Sport Glide. But I love that bike. The wheels and everything about it is Great. I already got approved by Harley Davidson Financing. Just need to find a dealer that has a Sport Glide in stock. Keep up the Good work!
This is what's confusing me. I keep hearing Harley is in trouble, sales down and so forth but I cant find a sport glide in stock nowhere! If they need to sell bikes, how come there not on the showroom floors everywhere?
mwclark7 currently they’re in trouble Bc of the pandemic. Their dealers aren’t seeing many customers Bc of it. But Harley is now in the process of revamping their business model to attract more younger and newer riders to their brand when the pandemic starts to see a decline. I hope they succeed, I’ve never ridden a bike before but I want my first to be a HD, thinking about getting one of the Softail chasis ones since they’re more of the Jack of All trade chasis
Matt, thanks for taking the time to put these reviews together. I did a demo day at Savannah, GA HD last year when the M8 was introduced. As a former Fat Boy owner, I was looking to purchase a new one. With the M8 not available in the Softail last year I decided to wait and see if the M8 would be in the Softail for 18. Then HD blew the world up with the new Softail. So, back to Demo day this year. I had zeroed in on the Fat Bob 114 as my choice. But several day before Demo day HD let the Sport Glide out of the barn, more confusion. So, off to Demo day with a list of bikes to ride. I wanted to ride the three different rakes to feel the handling difference. The bikes I ended up riding were; Breakout 114, Street Glided107(for reference), Fat Bob 114, Fat Boy 114 and Slim. The Sport Glide was not available as a demo. This is a great way to do a comparison. First, the new Softail frame is a HOME RUN!! It doesn't matter what bike it's in. I will say that the Fat Bob 114 is one bad ass big bike. It's a ton of fun with the 114, with the Stage 4 upgrade......... YEA HA!!! So, while I'm waiting for one of my rides, I'm talking to one of the Savannah HD employees and she tells me that they have a Sport Glide in the showroom that I could test ride. So off I went, and what a ride I had. Inverted forks, less sprung weight, great handling, saw this on the Fat Bob. OK, the fairing is a small, will the bigger wind screen help? That's what the aftermarket is for. Any way, now do I wait for the 114 Sport Glide? One thing I did test on the Sport Glide, it was not a group ride, was adjusting the shock. It is very easy to adjust and could work for different riding conditions. Matt, here is a suggestion, doing a video about shock adjustment would be interesting. Anyway, thanks again for all the great info you post. Grip it and rip it!
Mike Todd Hi , could you please compare the seating position between FatBoy and SportGlide , i have tryed FatBoy but the SportGlide is still unavaliable in my country.. It seems to me after watching videos and photos that it is almost the same seating position ? Is that correct ? I'm 6ft1 and FatBoy fits perfect .. could you please tell your opinion on that ? Thanks
I like it. I thought this was exactly what was missing from the launch, and I've commented about it. I think that it should have dual front discs and mid controls, to be truly called "sport". Nice bags and stance. I love the wheels.
Glad to see you release a video on this bike so soon after it's release. I think this will help you on your quest for 100,000 subscribers. I like this bike, but don't love it. I do like that it has the 5 gallon tank. The bags are nice in that they are functional, but not a fan of the look. I'd love them if they were painted the same color as the bike. The fairing looks good, but not exactly functional.
Your videos are awesome man! Thanks for taking the time to dive deep with these reviews! I’ve wanted one of these since they came out and this review just confirmed it for me.
I really like this bike. I’m going to test drive one next week. Do you get the pegs to scrape at all? I wonder if you could add floorboards to it? Also I like the different camera angles, your editing skills are progressing nicely.
Hey Matt, just wanted to thank you again for your honesty and integrity, when making these videos. I finally pulled the trigger on a 115th Anniversary Ultra Limited. I was all over the board making a selection until I thoroughly watched and listed to your videos, then went out and took advantage of a HD demo truck. I'll be addressing our HOG Chapter soon about my trade-in and buying experience, and I am going to shout out your videos to our members. God Bless.
I rode this bike today. I am 6 foot and the bike fits me rather nice. I rode the bike by chance it was never my favorite but i love the way rode. It has lots power and perfectly agile. As a dyna owner I must admit this one handles waaaay better.
I would bet this is going to be a popular, top seller. You get a lower priced model that can be stripped down for everyday short commutes, in town riding and then add fairing plus bags for those longer rides. Looks great both ways. If Harley was able to color match the bags like the fairing, then this would truly be a top seller for sure in my opinion. Now after viewing your videos and noticing the roads out there; if you and your experienced staff mention how great the suspension is then I would tend to believe you. Again, I think this model is going to be very popular.
I just saw the new Sport Glide the other day, and I have to say that vids & pics don't really capture how good looking this bike is in person. It especially looks good without the saddle bags and the bikini batwing (bikini-wing?). Frankly, with the 5 gallon tank and 2-into-1 pipes, it looks even better than the Breakout (IMO). I do agree with you on the new wheels; the Breakout's Gasser or Turbine style wheels in 18" & 16" would've been a better choice. As always, thanks for the info and your review.
Hi Matt, again a very good summary and sure for me a good decision-making aid. Actually, the bike has everything you could wish for. Clear look without fairing and saddlebags, functional with the accessories. But, as we say in Bavaria, not dog and not cat. Nevertheless, a nice bike. I will try in january and see how the good one feels. I would like to remark, if I lived in your area, I would buy a Harley Davidson from you in the shop. Why? Well, your reports are objective, even critical, which benefits the credibility, and very detailed. One wishes such a consultation as a customer. The eternal "everything is great, everything is great" sounds often set. Anyway, keep it up, you've got a growing fan base here too. So ... sorry for many words today, but I wanted to say that for a while. Best regards from Bavaria sends you and all bikers with you, Alex.
Just traded my FB for the 20 SG in Performance Orange and love it! Agree about the fairing but I'm happy with the wind protection. I also ordered a Klock Werks Flare shield to balance the form and maybe get some more function as well. The bike is rock solid and love the bags, cruise and ABS. My wife loves the passenger setup, we did add a Sundowner seat w/backrest and luggage rack for our soft large bag for grocery shopping. Being that we haven't owned four wheels in years this gives us a ton more options. Nice video brother! .......Ride hard or stay home😎
Excellent review guys. Love the honest pro and cons. Refreshing to see a fresh opinion (Andrew) . I am a Dyna guy and excited to ride one of these soon. Like the flexibility , loaded up its good for long rides, strip it down and sweet for local bar hopping. Love the Speedo! Finally HD realizes us old guys need better visuals . Thx again Guys
Aahh.. YEAH! A new favorite! This is the one. So cool looking, so versatile with the detachable stuff. Wheels are awesome and I know I sound like a HD poster boy here but this is a great "do it all" bike. That new fairing looked a little ridiculous at first glance but it has grown on me. The detachability is a great plus and the bike looks so cool, low and sleek with the bags off for city ripping. Forward controls, fairing and cruise control gives all the highway goodies and that revolver-knob for the easy access of adjustability on the go. One wonders only how much the five and a half inch fairing would do? As for the video... Man, you really have stepped up your game. All my wishes has come true. Already great reviews have gone even better. Now we all can see how the bikes look with different people of different stature on them plus different opinions as well as all your facts and info. Clearly THE best place for Harley reviews! Keep em´coming sir!
I have a fat bob 114 and bought a sport glide today. After 100 miles I really like it. I like the 30 degree rake more than the 28 so far. Your road tests are great. Keep the reviews coming.
Thanks Matt ! another honest review . I’ve got RGS and I’m contemplating picking up one of these as a “ round town “ bike .., not pushing as much weight around
Was going to buy a Fat Bob, bought a new Sport Glide after watching this video - lol. Awesome all around bike. Has more room for passenger than Fat Bob plus you get two panniers bags included. The 107 has plenty of power. The bags do not rattle or flutter at all. At least on the 2020 model. The dealers seem to sell them quickly, especially if they are not vivid black. My first Harley and very pleased with it.
Thanks for the great review. This is the first bike from the 2018 line up I'm excited about! Agreed about the fairing and wheels, but they said they used a wind tunnel to achieve an optimum shape for the fairing, maybe the 5 1/2" windshield will be a lot better, or maybe someone will come up with a bigger fairing for it soon. The wheel design could be better but I'm happy they aren't brown like the low rider s. I like how the headlight is round. All the lights are LED's. It still looks like a Harley. The bags and fairing can come off or on easily. Your going to sell a lot of these. I am going to be on one by spring. Thanks again for all your videos.
FXR style fairing will be made for this bikes... It will happen. I agreed 100% with you that HD should have done it themselves. With current technology and finishes. And this was the model for that.
Hi Matt. Thx again. Great review. Was at my local HD dealer today in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada and mentioned your reviews and they said yeah they get a lot of good feedback on your reviews.
Hey Matt love your reviews. I just purchased the 2018 sport glide up here in Calgary Alberta, why is the derby cover smaller in diameter than say the road glide, I have a custom derby, from my previous road glide 103 and it won’t fit the sport glide.🙁
I thought I knew exactly which bike I was gonna get once I returned to the states (2018 Fatboy) from being stationed overseas and now this! Harley is continuing to make it harder for me, haha. I’m also a little jealous that it gets even cruise control for a great price and the Fatboy doesn’t. Anyways, Great Review Matt. Liked the fact that you got clips of the bike being ridden - continue that! - Rob
My dream bike, please Harley bring it back to America in 2025! Please, I want a brand new Sport Glide! This is probably the best Softail you've put out in a while and you take it out of American market!? What the heck man!! Please bring it back to America!
Hey Matt great video as usual you've got a a great balance. You always give the info that's necessary and always interesting to watch without all the fluff of these vids that are trying to entertain you! Anyway the end result for me was I just bought a 2019 leftover Sport Glide and I love it! If you had time for a little advice I wanted a little more sound out of the exhaust and was going to put the Rinehart slip-ons on but the HD tuner doesn't have a setting for those is there one that you would recommend using also wondered if you thought the Screaming Eagle slip on was significantly better? Hope you're doing well out there in Cali in the midst of all the craziness and want to say again how much I appreciate your Channel!!
Matt, your channel and reviews are great. I have been looking to move from a sport bike to a HD. Your videos and reviews have been extremely helpful. Very well put together and the editing is great. Keep up the good work.
how funny... when I first saw that bike I also thought "Why didn't they put the old FXRT type fairing on that bike? what a huge miss, but then I guess its meant to be more like your brother Scott's FXR convertible. Lets hope HD will put out a "Sport Touring" model with a permanently mounted FXRT type fairing in the future. I like the clam shell type saddle bags, but I noticed they are not symmetrical, the right bag is smaller, so it doesn't hit the muffler. So I guess you cant really modify the exhaust too much or it may look silly from behind, and HD couldn't really lower the muffler cuz I guess it would decrease the lean angle. I saw the optional 5 inch windscreen, but that's still not going to do much on the freeway. I think its a nice concept, but as I suggested in your Street Bob review, Id like to see a new Low Rider with some soft bags and a T-Sport fairing and tall wind screen like on David's Low Rider S. I think it would actually be a more comfortable bike than this, although the locking bags on the sport glide are nice.
Damnit, I never noticed the bag difference. Bike ruined lol. I would think going straight back from the lower point of the exhaust up front would still give clearance for the bag and not change the lean angle any.
Oh man, this looks like my new runner up choice. Fatboy is still number 1, but this looks great without the fairing. I was wondering though, the engine guard kit for the softails, do you know roughly how much lean angle it'd reduce?
Matt, thank you for this video; I am going to look at a 2018 FLSB tomorrow with a desire to purchase, and your information has been very helpful. Nice to have some info before reaching for the wallet! Appreciated.
Dude the old fairings looked like shit! This one looks so much slicker. Buy the older one if you want. It’s just a piece of plastic. “Member the old fairing? I membeer... it was keeewwl”
Thanks! It's almost like I have to see your review of a bike as a last rites to liking it! LOL Now I just need to get down and test one, I may have a new favorite. Cool new formats as well, I hope you keep switching up your guest.
First impressions weren’t good in my opinion. But after riding the bike it totally changed! Change the wheels, bars and exhaust and completely change the look! #convinced. Great HONEST review!
While I like many Harley models (I ride metric), I had really been thinking about two HD bikes, a used Fat Boy, or a Heritage Softail, if I didn't go with a Star Raider Raven (a bike I love)...then this! Man, If I go w HD, this is the bike. Gorgeous.
I'm not a HOG fan, but this bike looks like what a modern Japanese metric bike should be. They quit this genre a long time ago. Congrats Harley! You've got something here I like.
I'd peel off those bags until needed and strap on that mini fairing and you've got a bad ass cruiser right there, even looks nice bare bones. Thanks for the look Matt.
Awesome, it's a Touring cruiser for young, sporty men. I wonder whether those bags can be attached to other Softail models ( such as Fatbob, Slim, Breakout...) or not?
Thanks for the great video. I would like a little more info on how it compares to the new Low rider as far as handling. Also, how extended are the foot controls? Too far for a shorter rider? I'm 5'6"
Love your channel and reviews, but I just can't get on board with the new Softails. This one specifically is even more mind melting for me. You said it best, Matt. "Knew they would be releasing the Tour Glide and got my hopes up, and when I saw it was a little let down." Well, I was a lot let down. The thing looks EXACTLY like the Yamaha Raider. Then there's the price tag on it. C'mon Harley! WTF?!?!?!
Great review! The bike looks great stripped down! I ride a 17 Road King and a 16 Breakout. The RK is my daily and the Breakout is for bar hopping therefore I do see the point of the Sport Glide, one bike, two purposes. Having said that I feel pretty confident the RK would outperform the Sport Glide as a touring bike since it's a 17 - read M8 engine, new touring chassis/suspension etc. Tough call...if I was only going to have one bike, this might be the way to go...Thanks Matt!
I have looked at a lot of your vids and I think " Yes that's the one," and then check out another and think " Maybe this one is for me," but for some reason I always drift back to the Sport Glide. It calls to me in a way the others do not. I like the versatility of loading it up for touring or stripping it back down for suburban brawling. Give me a Stage 1 Sport Glide with a King Tour pack and a larger windscreen and I would be a very happy Aussie.
I love mine. But I will say. I want a stage 2 on mine. Bike has loads of power below 75 mph. But if I need to pass someone on the interstate. I want to feel like I'm gona get thrown off the back. And at 75mph. If I pin it open, I dont feel that
Whats up Matt thanx for the vlog, like i said one day i will visit Laidlaws ,California,bucket list etc...could be a bike for me when i can not ride the heavy stuff.Only gripe for me is when 2 up the passanger would have to have a different seat footpegs etc.
This bike could easily be a club style replacement for the dyna, so much potential here. Fat t bars, black out the wheels, bigger fairing or taller glass shield, 2-1 bassani pipe and step up seat.
I agree with you about the fairing . The old FXRT was on my short list for Harley ' s I would have liked to buy back in the day . Otherwise a good bike and worth considering , thanks .
Hi Matt, thank you for all the videos and thorough information! I am troubled though regarding the stock passenger seat which has to be replaced immediately, as it fails to provide even the minimum level of comfort and sense of stability to the unfortunate passenger. Why do the MoCo keep failing at that? All Softails come with terrible stock passenger pillions. Especially in the cases of Sport Glide and Heritage models, one should be ready to hit the road with a passenger, not having to spend additional money to alter the look of the bike or find a solution from external makers and providers (because currently only the Sundowner seat is available to the Sport Glide owners). In addition, the bike was launched a couple of years ago, don't anyone in the MoCo listen to the complaints & reviews from the customer base? It is very disappointing to experience poor quality in crucial points from a brand that claims to be premium and has a high price tag compared to other brands that have solved such issues without going bankrupt. Is cost saving from putting foam instead of gel or other stuffing to the seats that will save the company??
Bravo Matt, I've been looking forward to this and you've delivered. I wished for some more on-road shots to get a feel for the size but I can't really complain as you've provided as many as can be expected. Do you think the mini fairing would fit a touring chassis (road king special) to achieve a hybrid? This bike's utility on the RKS platform is the concept I've had in mind since the RKS was released. Capable on longer rides with passenger, some wind deflection and full size bags. Keep it up Master Laidlaw. Your videos are priority on my watch list.
The bike does have potential. Id have to put a bigger fairing on it more of a t sport style. Add some T bars , and diff pipe and that thing would be sweet. I think if I was going to get a new soft tail model id get the low rider and add the bags and fairing. For now ill just keep ripping my 2016 fxdls tsport! will have my dyna till i die , but not ruling out the newer models in the furure! thanks again matt Laidlaw for making the best videos on the planet! keep them coming
Another great and informative review Mr Matt, I am curious if Harley will offer a windshield for this bike for those that like this style over a Heritage and want more wind deflection, your thoughts? 👍👍👍
So Andrew was comparing his 2017 Street Glide Special to this Sport Glide... are the new (2019/20) street glides and sport glides now the same suspension? Or is the Sport Glide still a better/smoother way to go? I've only rode a Sportster (too jarring) and a Fat Bob (good slow but didn't get to take it out on the freeway). Thanks for any help choosing!
Hi Matt, love your reviews! Torn between this and FatBoy! By the way im 5'8 175lb. Which one is a better fit bike for me? Ps. I live in Glendale CA. So expect me at laidlaw anyday now!
Between the Sport Glide and Heritage whats your choice for all around bike in softail class ? I think the Sport Glide has the look, like you said more modern. Heritage old style look, has Floor Boards, more wind protection. Could get use to the look.
I agree, they missed big time with boy going with a bigger fairing, and would have been nice to have mounted the gauges on the fair like the street glide, just something compact. They remind me of a switchback which a good used one can be found for 10k or so
Just curious whether the fairing is mounted on the forks in such a way that if you wanted to change the bars it wouldn't affect whether or not you could still mount the fairing?
Hey Guys thanks for watching and supporting my channel. I always try to answer all comments and questions but sometimes that's impossible. Please checkout my Patreon Page to Support my Harley-Davidson content Creation and become part of that community where I can answer all questions. www.patreon.com/mattlaidlaw
Matt Laidlaw, out of all the 2018 Soft tails you test rode, which one would you say it's your favorite and why?
Matt Laidlaw, by the way Merry Christmas!
Matt can you be reached at your location number? I need you advice and recommendation dude. The sport glide may replace my FXR.
I did not expect it to look that good with the fairing and the saddle bags off... It's a really good looking bike, probably my new favourite from their line-up
Everybody is welcome to their opinion. I purchased A 2019 Sport Glide form my trusty dealer at OLD FORT H-D in FSM. I have owned 3 H-Ds' in the past and loved them all. The Sport Glide is exactly why I came back to H-D. By the way those "Mantis" wheels are in my humble opinion absolutely beautiful !!!!!
Great bike. I’m sure you’ll enjoy.
The wheels just aren’t my personal favorite but everyone has their own taste. Enjoy.
@@MattLaidlaw . No problem, Matt, It is personal preference. i think you are a fair person.
I like the wheels too...
Bought one in March of 2019. It is now July and I've put almost 9000 miles on it in these 5 mos. Just got back from a cross country trip (Louisiana to Los Angeles), and I can say without a doubt that I absolutely love this bike. She's a keeper, does everything with style and ease. I did add the luggage rack and sissy bar/passenger pad from Harley. Did my 5000 mile service (6000 miles) at Huntington Beach Harley and she ran better than ever after that. This bike has it all for me. I think Harley nailed it with this one!!
Sounds like you had a wonderful trip.Where did you go in Lausianna I'm thinking of moving there when I get back to the states.
@@garycarpenter7104 i live in Baton Rouge but have camped at all the best State Parks in Louisiana. They are all fun but I'm partial to Chicot, Grand Isle and Fountainbleau State parks. You'll see lots of critters if you camp in Louisiana, and the food will be better than almost anywhere in the US!
For touring with a full face helmet this fairing seems perfect; pressure off the chest and clean air for the head. Sweet!
motomuso yep it’s exactly what I love about mine, no buffering and clean air but some chest relief
This bike in person is even better looking (34yr age). I'm 5'7 and felt very comfortable on it.
I just bought one. The most fun I’ve had on a motorcycle in a long time. Already started with some mods. It does have a slight sport bike feel (I know it’s not). Handles really well. Really puts a smile on my face each time I’ve ridden it. Ride safe
Very cool you have Andrew riding on a second bike, that added camera perspective is awesome. You can really get a sense of the ergonomics on the bike, just when you thought your reviews couldn't get any better....😉
Bloody Harley! Here I am pretty well set on the Road king, and they decide to release this great looking model.As soon as the sport glide arrives at our local dealer in Australia, I will be taking her for a ride. Kindly thank Andrew for his perspective on the bike, and as usual, another great review. Ride safe brother.
Seriously in agreement.. split between a RK Special and Indian Springfield, then this thing comes along. It's got every functional part between the (my) two choices with less weight and a better price to boot. Security, performance, and utility.. I'm a dash torn.. good luck to the both of us!
Get the Road king for touring comfort and the sportglide for riding hard and aggressive performance
Thanks Matt for doing a thorough and clear review. It's really great to see the bike going through it's paces and getting clarity on all of it's features, love it! I called my local dealer here at Plymouth in the UK and ordered one the next day after watching this. I eagerly await delivery on March 1st 2018. The dealer asked if I'd seen the bike at a show and I said no, I watched it on your TH-cam channel :)
Thorough review! Word on the Street from a number of Australian Journalists that the Sport Glide is H-D's best release yet! I'm yet to ride one myself but I'm very keen. Cheers, from the Aussie Bikers team.
Just bought a 2020 last month. This video really helped me make my decision six months ago. Love the vibe at your dealership. When I had to fly out to LA for work I stopped by but you were closing on a deal and I was on a time crunch so I didn't do the nerdy sit and wait just to say "omg Matt I love your vids be my friend" lol
Matt, I enjoy your reviews. Thanks for the detail. Traded in my 2016 Iron 883 for the new Sport Glide. Halfway through my demo I didn't want to get back on my Sportster. Lol Even though it's heavier than the 883 it's, in my opinion, more agile. The 107 is awesome and the ride is smooth. Loving it.
Yea. They are great handling bikes. You can ride them harder because the suspension is better. Enjoy my friend.
I am thinking of getting the Low Rider but the Sport Glide will make the decision a bit tougher.
Both Great Bikes
dheller777 2500 more for the sport glide. Not sure it's worth it
@@cuzimaluzer777 its 100% worth it.
I have a Sportglide for about 6 months , what I like about this bike is its look , always shining like a star in the sunny rides, especially when riding in a group. Not only my opinion but my friends in the chapter. Despite its higher cost 💵, it worth it . Sportglide perform good in long rides due to big storage space and fuel capacity ⛽️ .❤️
so after watching this video 5 months ago and waiting to see what HD would do for 2019 with this bike, I HAVE JUST PURCHASED THE 2019 Midnight Blue model from my dealer in the UK.
So Matt thanks again for doing what you do here. Best regards from the UK
That is it! My new bike , Spring of 2019.
I have owned TWO Sporty's, an FXDX and a Slim. Currently rolling my beloved BMW R1100S.
Wish you guys were closer, I love your reviews and I would definitely buy from you. For some odd reason none of the Harley dealerships in my area has a Sport Glide in stock. Tons of Road and Street Glides but not one Sport Glide. I guess they figure they don't sell as well as the Sport Glide. But I love that bike. The wheels and everything about it is Great. I already got approved by Harley Davidson Financing. Just need to find a dealer that has a Sport Glide in stock. Keep up the Good work!
This is what's confusing me. I keep hearing Harley is in trouble, sales down and so forth but I cant find a sport glide in stock nowhere! If they need to sell bikes, how come there not on the showroom floors everywhere?
mwclark7 currently they’re in trouble Bc of the pandemic. Their dealers aren’t seeing many customers Bc of it. But Harley is now in the process of revamping their business model to attract more younger and newer riders to their brand when the pandemic starts to see a decline. I hope they succeed, I’ve never ridden a bike before but I want my first to be a HD, thinking about getting one of the Softail chasis ones since they’re more of the Jack of All trade chasis
Matt, thanks for taking the time to put these reviews together. I did a demo day at Savannah, GA HD last year when the M8 was introduced. As a former Fat Boy owner, I was looking to purchase a new one. With the M8 not available in the Softail last year I decided to wait and see if the M8 would be in the Softail for 18. Then HD blew the world up with the new Softail. So, back to Demo day this year. I had zeroed in on the Fat Bob 114 as my choice. But several day before Demo day HD let the Sport Glide out of the barn, more confusion. So, off to Demo day with a list of bikes to ride. I wanted to ride the three different rakes to feel the handling difference. The bikes I ended up riding were; Breakout 114, Street Glided107(for reference), Fat Bob 114, Fat Boy 114 and Slim. The Sport Glide was not available as a demo. This is a great way to do a comparison. First, the new Softail frame is a HOME RUN!! It doesn't matter what bike it's in. I will say that the Fat Bob 114 is one bad ass big bike. It's a ton of fun with the 114, with the Stage 4 upgrade......... YEA HA!!! So, while I'm waiting for one of my rides, I'm talking to one of the Savannah HD employees and she tells me that they have a Sport Glide in the showroom that I could test ride. So off I went, and what a ride I had. Inverted forks, less sprung weight, great handling, saw this on the Fat Bob. OK, the fairing is a small, will the bigger wind screen help? That's what the aftermarket is for. Any way, now do I wait for the 114 Sport Glide? One thing I did test on the Sport Glide, it was not a group ride, was adjusting the shock. It is very easy to adjust and could work for different riding conditions. Matt, here is a suggestion, doing a video about shock adjustment would be interesting. Anyway, thanks again for all the great info you post. Grip it and rip it!
Mike Todd thanks for the comment. No don’t wait for a 114. The 107 is still very strong. I do plan on doing a video on the suspension in the future.
Mike Todd Hi , could you please compare the seating position between FatBoy and SportGlide , i have tryed FatBoy but the SportGlide is still unavaliable in my country.. It seems to me after watching videos and photos that it is almost the same seating position ? Is that correct ? I'm 6ft1 and FatBoy fits perfect .. could you please tell your opinion on that ? Thanks
I like it. I thought this was exactly what was missing from the launch, and I've commented about it. I think that it should have dual front discs and mid controls, to be truly called "sport". Nice bags and stance. I love the wheels.
People who rode it have said that, somehow, the sport glide braked better than the low rider s and fat bob...
That old Harley fairing looked like a washing machine on the old sport glide. At least this one has a little style
Glad to see you release a video on this bike so soon after it's release. I think this will help you on your quest for 100,000 subscribers.
I like this bike, but don't love it. I do like that it has the 5 gallon tank. The bags are nice in that they are functional, but not a fan of the look. I'd love them if they were painted the same color as the bike. The fairing looks good, but not exactly functional.
Your videos are awesome man! Thanks for taking the time to dive deep with these reviews! I’ve wanted one of these since they came out and this review just confirmed it for me.
I really like this bike. I’m going to test drive one next week. Do you get the pegs to scrape at all? I wonder if you could add floorboards to it? Also I like the different camera angles, your editing skills are progressing nicely.
Matt (CEO), I just sent my buddy Keith your video of the Sport Glide. I'm hoping that he likes it and pulls the trigger.
Hey Matt, just wanted to thank you again for your honesty and integrity, when making these videos. I finally pulled the trigger on a 115th Anniversary Ultra Limited. I was all over the board making a selection until I thoroughly watched and listed to your videos, then went out and took advantage of a HD demo truck. I'll be addressing our HOG Chapter soon about my trade-in and buying experience, and I am going to shout out your videos to our members. God Bless.
I rode this bike today. I am 6 foot and the bike fits me rather nice. I rode the bike by chance it was never my favorite but i love the way rode. It has lots power and perfectly agile. As a dyna owner I must admit this one handles waaaay better.
I would bet this is going to be a popular, top seller. You get a lower priced model that can be stripped down for everyday short commutes, in town riding and then add fairing plus bags for those longer rides. Looks great both ways. If Harley was able to color match the bags like the fairing, then this would truly be a top seller for sure in my opinion. Now after viewing your videos and noticing the roads out there; if you and your experienced staff mention how great the suspension is then I would tend to believe you. Again, I think this model is going to be very popular.
I just saw the new Sport Glide the other day, and I have to say that vids & pics don't really capture how good looking this bike is in person. It especially looks good without the saddle bags and the bikini batwing (bikini-wing?). Frankly, with the 5 gallon tank and 2-into-1 pipes, it looks even better than the Breakout (IMO). I do agree with you on the new wheels; the Breakout's Gasser or Turbine style wheels in 18" & 16" would've been a better choice.
As always, thanks for the info and your review.
Dario C. Cruz always good comments. Thank you.
We aim to please :-)
HA! I bet you just coined the term 'bikini batwing/bikini-wing'.
Hi Matt, again a very good summary and sure for me a good decision-making aid. Actually, the bike has everything you could wish for. Clear look without fairing and saddlebags, functional with the accessories. But, as we say in Bavaria, not dog and not cat. Nevertheless, a nice bike. I will try in january and see how the good one feels. I would like to remark, if I lived in your area, I would buy a Harley Davidson from you in the shop. Why? Well, your reports are objective, even critical, which benefits the credibility, and very detailed. One wishes such a consultation as a customer. The eternal "everything is great, everything is great" sounds often set. Anyway, keep it up, you've got a growing fan base here too. So ... sorry for many words today, but I wanted to say that for a while. Best regards from Bavaria sends you and all bikers with you, Alex.
Bavarikus Thanks Alex. I always appreciate your input.
Just traded my FB for the 20 SG in Performance Orange and love it! Agree about the fairing but I'm happy with the wind protection. I also ordered a Klock Werks Flare shield to balance the form and maybe get some more function
as well. The bike is rock solid and love the bags, cruise and ABS. My wife loves the passenger setup, we did add a Sundowner seat w/backrest and luggage rack for our soft large bag for grocery shopping. Being that we haven't owned four wheels in years this gives us a ton more options. Nice video brother! .......Ride hard or stay home😎
Did 500 miles on it already , love it after rod night
2:5020 /788
I have 600 on mine It's my favorite Harley so far.
How is it on the freeway?
Excellent review guys. Love the honest pro and cons. Refreshing to see a fresh opinion (Andrew) . I am a Dyna guy and excited to ride one of these soon. Like the flexibility , loaded up its good for long rides, strip it down and sweet for local bar hopping. Love the Speedo! Finally HD realizes us old guys need better visuals . Thx again Guys
This is it. Thanks H-D. Well done!
Aahh.. YEAH! A new favorite! This is the one. So cool looking, so versatile with the detachable stuff. Wheels are awesome and I know I sound like a HD poster boy here but this is a great "do it all" bike. That new fairing looked a little ridiculous at first glance but it has grown on me. The detachability is a great plus and the bike looks so cool, low and sleek with the bags off for city ripping. Forward controls, fairing and cruise control gives all the highway goodies and that revolver-knob for the easy access of adjustability on the go. One wonders only how much the five and a half inch fairing would do?
As for the video... Man, you really have stepped up your game. All my wishes has come true. Already great reviews have gone even better. Now we all can see how the bikes look with different people of different stature on them plus different opinions as well as all your facts and info. Clearly THE best place for Harley reviews!
Keep em´coming sir!
I have a fat bob 114 and bought a sport glide today. After 100 miles I really like it. I like the 30 degree rake more than the 28 so far. Your road tests are great. Keep the reviews coming.
Nice detailed review as usual Matt. Nice bike too for its purpose.
Thank You Matt , That review made my decision simple ,i shall be getting one,
Dennis Inglis enjoy.
Thanks Matt ! another honest review . I’ve got RGS and I’m contemplating picking up one of these as a “ round town “ bike .., not pushing as much weight around
Was going to buy a Fat Bob, bought a new Sport Glide after watching this video - lol. Awesome all around bike. Has more room for passenger than Fat Bob plus you get two panniers bags included. The 107 has plenty of power. The bags do not rattle or flutter at all. At least on the 2020 model. The dealers seem to sell them quickly, especially if they are not vivid black. My first Harley and very pleased with it.
Thanks for the great review. This is the first bike from the 2018 line up I'm excited about! Agreed about the fairing and wheels, but they said they used a wind tunnel to achieve an optimum shape for the fairing, maybe the 5 1/2" windshield will be a lot better, or maybe someone will come up with a bigger fairing for it soon. The wheel design could be better but I'm happy they aren't brown like the low rider s. I like how the headlight is round. All the lights are LED's. It still looks like a Harley. The bags and fairing can come off or on easily. Your going to sell a lot of these. I am going to be on one by spring. Thanks again for all your videos.
FXR style fairing will be made for this bikes... It will happen. I agreed 100% with you that HD should have done it themselves. With current technology and finishes. And this was the model for that.
That's an awesome looking bike man thanks for showing it off.
Hi Matt. Thx again. Great review. Was at my local HD dealer today in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada and mentioned your reviews and they said yeah they get a lot of good feedback on your reviews.
Shoot me later Matt, BUT, you are more informative and better than my local dealer! All the best from France.
Hey Matt love your reviews. I just purchased the 2018 sport glide up here in Calgary Alberta, why is the derby cover smaller in diameter than say the road glide, I have a custom derby, from my previous road glide 103 and it won’t fit the sport glide.🙁
Thanks for another great video Matt. I'm certainly considering this awesome bike..
I thought I knew exactly which bike I was gonna get once I returned to the states (2018 Fatboy) from being stationed overseas and now this! Harley is continuing to make it harder for me, haha. I’m also a little jealous that it gets even cruise control for a great price and the Fatboy doesn’t. Anyways, Great Review Matt. Liked the fact that you got clips of the bike being ridden - continue that! - Rob
Matt you are now putting attitude and oomph into your video intros. Love it😀. Keep up the great work man. Cheers from Australia 👍
Tony Duman haha.
My dream bike, please Harley bring it back to America in 2025! Please, I want a brand new Sport Glide! This is probably the best Softail you've put out in a while and you take it out of American market!? What the heck man!! Please bring it back to America!
Hey Matt great video as usual you've got a a great balance. You always give the info that's necessary and always interesting to watch without all the fluff of these vids that are trying to entertain you!
Anyway the end result for me was I just bought a 2019 leftover Sport Glide and I love it! If you had time for a little advice I wanted a little more sound out of the exhaust and was going to put the Rinehart slip-ons on but the HD tuner doesn't have a setting for those is there one that you would recommend using also wondered if you thought the Screaming Eagle slip on was significantly better? Hope you're doing well out there in Cali in the midst of all the craziness and want to say again how much I appreciate your Channel!!
Matt, your channel and reviews are great. I have been looking to move from a sport bike to a HD. Your videos and reviews have been extremely helpful. Very well put together and the editing is great. Keep up the good work.
19krpm Thank you for watching.
how funny... when I first saw that bike I also thought "Why didn't they put the old FXRT type fairing on that bike? what a huge miss, but then I guess its meant to be more like your brother Scott's FXR convertible. Lets hope HD will put out a "Sport Touring" model with a permanently mounted FXRT type fairing in the future. I like the clam shell type saddle bags, but I noticed they are not symmetrical, the right bag is smaller, so it doesn't hit the muffler. So I guess you cant really modify the exhaust too much or it may look silly from behind, and HD couldn't really lower the muffler cuz I guess it would decrease the lean angle. I saw the optional 5 inch windscreen, but that's still not going to do much on the freeway. I think its a nice concept, but as I suggested in your Street Bob review, Id like to see a new Low Rider with some soft bags and a T-Sport fairing and tall wind screen like on David's Low Rider S. I think it would actually be a more comfortable bike than this, although the locking bags on the sport glide are nice.
Damnit, I never noticed the bag difference. Bike ruined lol.
I would think going straight back from the lower point of the exhaust up front would still give clearance for the bag and not change the lean angle any.
Fantastic review - very balancesd and honest, including some of the things that aren't as good as they should be. Appreciate the video!
Oh man, this looks like my new runner up choice. Fatboy is still number 1, but this looks great without the fairing.
I was wondering though, the engine guard kit for the softails, do you know roughly how much lean angle it'd reduce?
Matt, thank you for this video; I am going to look at a 2018 FLSB tomorrow with a desire to purchase, and your information has been very helpful. Nice to have some info before reaching for the wallet! Appreciated.
I like the mantis rims. I wish they had a size for the street bob.
Hi we are Anup and Anuj live in India. we watch your videos we like it. videos are amezing. we like your work. we aprisiate it thank you
Dude the old fairings looked like shit! This one looks so much slicker. Buy the older one if you want. It’s just a piece of plastic.
“Member the old fairing? I membeer... it was keeewwl”
When My Low Rider S is paid off this is my next Harley Davidson!!
Thanks! It's almost like I have to see your review of a bike as a last rites to liking it! LOL Now I just need to get down and test one, I may have a new favorite. Cool new formats as well, I hope you keep switching up your guest.
First impressions weren’t good in my opinion. But after riding the bike it totally changed! Change the wheels, bars and exhaust and completely change the look! #convinced. Great HONEST review!
While I like many Harley models (I ride metric), I had really been thinking about two HD bikes, a used Fat Boy, or a Heritage Softail, if I didn't go with a Star Raider Raven (a bike I love)...then this! Man, If I go w HD, this is the bike. Gorgeous.
I'm not a HOG fan, but this bike looks like what a modern Japanese metric bike should be. They quit this genre a long time ago. Congrats Harley! You've got something here I like.
Ive got one and most people I come across think its a honda. makes me laugh. I love this bike.
Is the fairing on this bike interchangeable to some of the other new softtails? I'm wondering if it fits the Low Rider or Low Rider S
I'd peel off those bags until needed and strap on that mini fairing and you've got a bad ass cruiser right there, even looks nice bare bones. Thanks for the look Matt.
Another great review and another great bike. Looks good with or without the fairing and saddlebags.
Really awesome reviews, I’m really enjoying them.
I really like this bike and the wheels are awesome. A bit different.
Most helpful video I like your honest comments in your Videos keep up the good work regards form the UK
Awesome, it's a Touring cruiser for young, sporty men. I wonder whether those bags can be attached to other Softail models ( such as Fatbob, Slim, Breakout...) or not?
Great review Matt, as always. Cheers
Thanks for the great video. I would like a little more info on how it compares to the new Low rider as far as handling. Also, how extended are the foot controls? Too far for a shorter rider? I'm 5'6"
Philip Ruiz at 5’6’’ they will be a stretch for you.
Love your channel and reviews, but I just can't get on board with the new Softails. This one specifically is even more mind melting for me. You said it best, Matt. "Knew they would be releasing the Tour Glide and got my hopes up, and when I saw it was a little let down." Well, I was a lot let down. The thing looks EXACTLY like the Yamaha Raider. Then there's the price tag on it. C'mon Harley! WTF?!?!?!
Great review! The bike looks great stripped down! I ride a 17 Road King and a 16 Breakout. The RK is my daily and the Breakout is for bar hopping therefore I do see the point of the Sport Glide, one bike, two purposes. Having said that I feel pretty confident the RK would outperform the Sport Glide as a touring bike since it's a 17 - read M8 engine, new touring chassis/suspension etc. Tough call...if I was only going to have one bike, this might be the way to go...Thanks Matt!
I have looked at a lot of your vids and I think " Yes that's the one," and then check out another and think " Maybe this one is for me," but for some reason I always drift back to the Sport Glide. It calls to me in a way the others do not. I like the versatility of loading it up for touring or stripping it back down for suburban brawling.
Give me a Stage 1 Sport Glide with a King Tour pack and a larger windscreen and I would be a very happy Aussie.
I love mine. But I will say. I want a stage 2 on mine. Bike has loads of power below 75 mph. But if I need to pass someone on the interstate. I want to feel like I'm gona get thrown off the back. And at 75mph. If I pin it open, I dont feel that
Good looking bike. Especially stripped down. I bet the aftermarket for this bike will be nice.
Whats up Matt thanx for the vlog, like i said one day i will visit Laidlaws ,California,bucket list etc...could be a bike for me when i can not ride the heavy stuff.Only gripe for me is when 2 up the passanger would have to have a different seat footpegs etc.
This bike could easily be a club style replacement for the dyna, so much potential here. Fat t bars, black out the wheels, bigger fairing or taller glass shield, 2-1 bassani pipe and step up seat.
Yea. It has some really good potential. I’d Ike to see someone build one out.
looks so much nicer without the fairing. Glad it comes off so easily.
Awesome review as usual!
I agree with you about the fairing . The old FXRT was on my short list for Harley ' s I would have liked to buy back in the day . Otherwise a good bike and worth considering , thanks .
This one is gonna grow on me. I don't know if I like it yet.
Hi Matt, thank you for all the videos and thorough information! I am troubled though regarding the stock passenger seat which has to be replaced immediately, as it fails to provide even the minimum level of comfort and sense of stability to the unfortunate passenger.
Why do the MoCo keep failing at that? All Softails come with terrible stock passenger pillions. Especially in the cases of Sport Glide and Heritage models, one should be ready to hit the road with a passenger, not having to spend additional money to alter the look of the bike or find a solution from external makers and providers (because currently only the Sundowner seat is available to the Sport Glide owners).
In addition, the bike was launched a couple of years ago, don't anyone in the MoCo listen to the complaints & reviews from the customer base? It is very disappointing to experience poor quality in crucial points from a brand that claims to be premium and has a high price tag compared to other brands that have solved such issues without going bankrupt. Is cost saving from putting foam instead of gel or other stuffing to the seats that will save the company??
Bravo Matt, I've been looking forward to this and you've delivered. I wished for some more on-road shots to get a feel for the size but I can't really complain as you've provided as many as can be expected.
Do you think the mini fairing would fit a touring chassis (road king special) to achieve a hybrid? This bike's utility on the RKS platform is the concept I've had in mind since the RKS was released. Capable on longer rides with passenger, some wind deflection and full size bags.
Keep it up Master Laidlaw. Your videos are priority on my watch list.
The bike does have potential. Id have to put a bigger fairing on it more of a t sport style. Add some T bars , and diff pipe and that thing would be sweet. I think if I was going to get a new soft tail model id get the low rider and add the bags and fairing. For now ill just keep ripping my 2016 fxdls tsport! will have my dyna till i die , but not ruling out the newer models in the furure! thanks again matt Laidlaw for making the best videos on the planet! keep them coming
Thanks man. Yea, the FXDLS is a hard act to follow.
I like the sound of my Low Rider S fighting me to start after it’s been driven for awhile!!
Chad Martin LOL.
Yep, mine does that at the most embarrassing times.
Another great and informative review Mr Matt, I am curious if Harley will offer a windshield for this bike for those that like this style over a Heritage and want more wind deflection, your thoughts? 👍👍👍
Kenneth Reynolds Yeah, and if they don't someone else will. I'm sure it will be quick detach as well.
So Andrew was comparing his 2017 Street Glide Special to this Sport Glide... are the new (2019/20) street glides and sport glides now the same suspension? Or is the Sport Glide still a better/smoother way to go? I've only rode a Sportster (too jarring) and a Fat Bob (good slow but didn't get to take it out on the freeway). Thanks for any help choosing!
I am a low ride S owner, would like to know the original seat of the Sportglide fits my bike and is it good for long rides?
Is the gas tank larger than the Low Rider S. I like old Sports Glide fairing and mids.
Hi Matt, love your reviews! Torn between this and FatBoy! By the way im 5'8 175lb. Which one is a better fit bike for me?
Ps. I live in Glendale CA. So expect me at laidlaw anyday now!
Didn’t they make a Sportster low with windshield and bags?That was cool too!👍👍
Between the Sport Glide and Heritage whats your choice for all around bike in softail class ? I think the Sport Glide has the look, like you said more modern. Heritage old style look, has Floor Boards, more wind protection. Could get use to the look.
Do you know if these bags will be made available for other softail models? If not, any idea on how much to piece them together?
I agree, they missed big time with boy going with a bigger fairing, and would have been nice to have mounted the gauges on the fair like the street glide, just something compact. They remind me of a switchback which a good used one can be found for 10k or so
Nice bike. Great review. Got a friend who would love this bike.
Just curious whether the fairing is mounted on the forks in such a way that if you wanted to change the bars it wouldn't affect whether or not you could still mount the fairing?
The standard ABS & Cruise Control do you mean it comes with the bike or without the bike?
Is a dual exhaust available for that bike? Is there just a windsheild for that bike? Is there a solo seat available as well?