I think the Road King and Road King Special are the best bikes in the touring line. I really enjoy my RKS. They are so nimble and having the lighter front end vs the fairing bikes makes a big difference. Ride safe and all the best in 2022. 👍👊🇺🇸
Another point regarding fairing bikes with infotainment is technology immediately gives away the age of the bike. Harley’s without all the gadgetry stay timeless, albeit better resale value, too.
2021 RKS blacked out. I’m 6’4”, 260, feels like bike custom built for me! Handlebars perfect, power fantastic. Added Corbin snake skin seat, 16”dark smoked windshield, and slip ons. You hit my style dead on, no frills, no electronics, me and my bike ! Ride what you love , weather a fully equipped touring, basically a two wheeled convertible, or bare bones , teeth rattlin custom, it’s why we ride! Cars are transportation, our bikes are for life! Ride safe brothers and sisters!
Road King Special for the win . Biased. I have a 2022 Road King Special. Looks cooler than the classic .. I'm only 5'7 tall ..had my bars adjusted at the dealer but I have to fully extend my arms still. I got used to it quick. I have ride my Rode King Special 2 months and 2,000 miles with no windshield and no helmet. done 110mph many times, despite smacking a lot of bugs in the face here in Maine I love it. I got the 2022 in "cosmic green" I call it Army Green and black. Turns heads like crazy. Everyone asks me if it's "factory color" yes. 2022 has the dark green and black.
The Road King Special - loosen the handlebar clamp and rotate the bars back toward you slightly. Not a big deal. Personally, I'd swap them out for a set of Lucky Dave's Lucky 13 T-bars.
@@thehdguy378 I disagree. I just purchased a 2021 Road King Special and completed a 3,000+ mile ride of South Dakota with the stock bars. Only issue I felt was a tad low for my liking.
Throw a woods cam and a different header pipe on one of those bikes and those numbers will be a lot better ;) my 107 with an aftermarket cam and pipes makes the same HP but significantly more torque than the Gen 1 stage 4 kit.
Great video. I have the 2021 standard great bike, the only issue I have with it is the factory exhaust. Plan on replacing header pipes for a true 2into2..
Price difference is the special is 4-5k more. The special has an inch shorter suspension stock so a bit less travel. And the stock seat sits a bit lower than the standard due to that.
Great video review 👌. Especially the part where you demonstrated how stable the bike is without grabbing the handlebars . I’m going to test drive Harleys for the first time in my life once the weather improves here in Germany , but I’m 5 ft 11 and 180 lbs . I’m a bit intimidated to buy the Road King as my first bike but let’s see after the test drive . What I like about your videos is that it’s straight to the point unlike other some videos where they’re putting on a show .
You’ll be fine on it as a first bike. It’s intimidating because it’s a large bike but the center of gravity is so low it pretty much rides itself after 10 mph. Don’t over think it. You’ll be fine! And thank you. I’m still fine tuning the videos but I’m getting some positive feedback so far. Thanks for watching!
Your shifting skills are very good which makes a huge difference in acceleration times. 4.6 to 60 and 4.4 30 to 70 are great numbers for a total weight of close to a thousand pounds (bike, rider and fluids). I own an '04 Fat Boy and love it but, the Road King is in the near future. Thanks for the review.
Did you leave all that stuff out in the open in your car? If you did, it was screaming at every scumbag that walked by “hey, please take me!” Anyway, I just bought a ‘21 Heritage Classic, but wish I’d gotten the Road King …and everyone is looking at you because you keep blowing the horn at them.
I’m going to be honest I’m not sure what you’re referring to on the leaving stuff in my car but I’m sure it’s relevant to the video. I’m usually not far from my truck if I leave stuff in there.
hi from italy here ...i wanna ask u (or other guys here oc ;:D ) the difference in maneuverability is just about handlebar or think u the 18" front wheel is better then 19" and if the answer is yes ...can i change frontwheel in special and put 18" i just ask because i do not like chrome ...or i spend enough of time for clean the chrome for others bike :D i hope u can understand what i mean :) tnx
Can you tell me what helmet you're wearing. I'm thinking of switching to a full face but I don't want one that feels like I'm wearing a house on my head
This is a Shoei GT AIR 2. I just upgraded to an RF-1400 from Shoei. I highly recommend this helmet. It breathes, it’s light, it’s very comfortable after about 300 miles of riding with it (be patient, they need to be broken in).
@@bbaker777 ya i always get a good laugh from vid like this,,, ppl always trying to compare everything to the fastest,,, like a Cadillac should be as fast and handle like a corvette haahah
I have a 22 road king special I was thinking on a trade on a 22 low rider s should I have my head checked Lol. I guess I want be both worlds but I can only be on one or other comments appreciated!
Keep the Road King! Make a few adjustments and you’ll be very happy. Fight the urge to want something new and accessorize your Road King to your riding style. Fairing, suspension, bars, whatever it is. You have a great motorcycle.
@@thehdguy378 I did just what you said I came off a 21 lowrider missed the handling. So I put on some Holins screaming eagle rear suspension. Worth every cent I can rip this bike threw The corner’s now some 12 inch factory 47s some adjustable lever’s put Krause ERG ONE floor boards pulled them back one inch feels more like a mid control now. I absolutely love the king. The suspension upgrade was the best upgrade I ever did to any bike. Getting the shorty shifter and break levers just put the order in today. By Thrashin. Was thinking on a Krause riser set up to do the Holins adjustable front suspension. But front is not to bad so on the fence about doing that. So happy I decided to try some suspension it’s worth all the money and then some it’s 2 bikes in one now with it being all adjustable. 1 click can stiff it up for more aggressive riding or 1 click back for more plush highway riding. 👍 if thinking about that new Holins screaming eagle shock I would recommend it highly. 1 out of 10 it’s a 100x the bike it was.
Work for the customer. You won’t get rich, but it can be a good source of income if you create a following. You do that by taking care of your customer and genuinely caring about them. Good luck!
Appreciate the review, how's the suspension on the standard Road King, I seem to feel every bump on the street glide, how's the Road Glide? Seems it should be a bit more plush.
It definitely is. Test ride one then come back and tell me what you think. I actually don't care for the looks yet it will be my next bike . I love the ride.
Does the Road Glide have an adjustable shock on the left side? I test rode both of the glide specials and thought that the ride was stiff compared to the stock road king.
@@eugeniustheodidactus8890 On the Road Glide the preload is set on left rear shock like the rest of touring frame models. The stiffer ride you noticed is probably due to two things. The Road King Special, Street Glide, Street Glide Special, Road Glide Special and Electra Glide Standard use a shorter 12" shock with less travel (2.1" iirc) vs. the 3" of travel of the 13" long shock used on the Road King FLHR and iirc the Road Glide Limited. No matter which length shock you have, it's important to have the preload set correctly for the weight of the rider(s) and any cargo they be carrying.
@@johncallahan3573 Thank you! I also wonder if the low profile tires transfer a slight bit more road vibration which can add to the stiffer-ride feeling.
@@eugeniustheodidactus8890 the preload mint have been set a little higher for your weight all stock rear suspension on touring bikes. One side is a shock. Other side is a Shock absorber. Switch them out for any set of shocks would be a night and day difference! I put the Holins screaming eagle adjustable. Harley just came out this year with them and they are worth every cent. And then some.
I think you start very well but then you lost it. Nothing about the comfort regarding the changes. Is there not a shorter shock observer in the back? Different seats? Different wheels? Less comfort?
I bought a Heritage 2021 114. After watching this video I want a RK special. I feel like the bars on my Heritage pull me forward. Wonder if they’re the same bars? Great video btw.👍🏻
The king is the best Harley in the. Touring lineup it’s times less. You look at street glide or road glide and know about what year it is. And the extra weight omg the king is so nimble you can really rip it threw the turns and around town and long trips best bike for all around.
hmm, shopping for my next ride, here is the curse of big harleys, people only want to look , photo, film the curb side of the bikes because the left side tends to be underwhelming.. first thing I notice of the special is the wind and looks like the ride is rougher. I'm one that doesnt like the blacked-out look too.
9 1/2 I changed mine out to 12 factory 47s I was thinking trading for a 22 lowrider s what you think should I keep the road king special I can’t make my mind up want best bother worlds I guess
Just replaced the stock 20" windshield with a *Clock Werks 19.5" flared windshield* which gets rid of the helmet buffeting but I am stuck looking through it more than not. I am 6'. Not sure if the 16.5" flared windshield will throw the air high enough to keep from buffeting. Also, the Clock Werks windshield is 3" wider than stock, and it feels a bit like a billboard at 75 mph. _( I exaggerate a bit.)_ It definitely exerts a downward force on the front wheel as advertised.
I think the Road King and Road King Special are the best bikes in the touring line. I really enjoy my RKS. They are so nimble and having the lighter front end vs the fairing bikes makes a big difference. Ride safe and all the best in 2022. 👍👊🇺🇸
The definitely have a special place in the lineup.
U bet for the money absolutely
Another point regarding fairing bikes with infotainment is technology immediately gives away the age of the bike. Harley’s without all the gadgetry stay timeless, albeit better resale value, too.
2021 RKS blacked out. I’m 6’4”, 260, feels like bike custom built for me! Handlebars perfect, power fantastic. Added Corbin snake skin seat, 16”dark smoked windshield, and slip ons. You hit my style dead on, no frills, no electronics, me and my bike ! Ride what you love , weather a fully equipped touring, basically a two wheeled convertible, or bare bones , teeth rattlin custom, it’s why we ride! Cars are transportation, our bikes are for life!
Ride safe brothers and sisters!
I'm 6'2" and am still in the shopping around phase but heavily leaning towards the RKS. What size handlebars do you use? Just stock?
@@jimmiller82 the stock are perfect for me. I’m one of the lucky few. I am very comfortable as they came.
Road King, Still the king. 👑
Love the road king!
Road King Special for the win . Biased. I have a 2022 Road King Special. Looks cooler than the classic .. I'm only 5'7 tall ..had my bars adjusted at the dealer but I have to fully extend my arms still. I got used to it quick. I have ride my Rode King Special 2 months and 2,000 miles with no windshield and no helmet. done 110mph many times, despite smacking a lot of bugs in the face here in Maine I love it. I got the 2022 in "cosmic green" I call it Army Green and black. Turns heads like crazy. Everyone asks me if it's "factory color" yes. 2022 has the dark green and black.
I love the Road king standard
It’s a great motorcycle! A classic!
Me2
The Road King Special - loosen the handlebar clamp and rotate the bars back toward you slightly. Not a big deal. Personally, I'd swap them out for a set of Lucky Dave's Lucky 13 T-bars.
It’s a little more difficult than that. The angle of the bars is annoying. It doesn’t follow the natural bend of your arms.
@@thehdguy378 I disagree. I just purchased a 2021 Road King Special and completed a 3,000+ mile ride of South Dakota with the stock bars. Only issue I felt was a tad low for my liking.
Drink a beer, trow stuff at other cars. Do you have a responable adult looking after you??
No
"Tempus fugit, memento mori". Time files, remember death. KEEP YOU HANDS ON THE BARS SON!
Carpe diem!!
Great review from a guy who obviously knows his bikes.
Throw a woods cam and a different header pipe on one of those bikes and those numbers will be a lot better ;) my 107 with an aftermarket cam and pipes makes the same HP but significantly more torque than the Gen 1 stage 4 kit.
Yeah the Woods cams are pretty stout. Got a buddy here that runs one on his Low Rider S and it’s insane.
I need a Road King!!
You are right on for the RK standard. That is why I love it.
Great video. I have the 2021 standard great bike, the only issue I have with it is the factory exhaust. Plan on replacing header pipes for a true 2into2..
the special looks like a Springfield a road king for me will always be the classic or standard model
Agreed! There’s a market for the special and I’d ride the hell out of it. I just love the classic.
is there a difference between the Seats? is there a difference between the Suspencion? do they have the same seat hight? is there a Price difference?
Price difference is the special is 4-5k more. The special has an inch shorter suspension stock so a bit less travel. And the stock seat sits a bit lower than the standard due to that.
Put your shield down! Or some eye protection. Bugs happen and can really mess up your day.
It’s happened before. I’ll be fine!
Great video review 👌. Especially the part where you demonstrated how stable the bike is without grabbing the handlebars . I’m going to test drive Harleys for the first time in my life once the weather improves here in Germany , but I’m 5 ft 11 and 180 lbs . I’m a bit intimidated to buy the Road King as my first bike but let’s see after the test drive . What I like about your videos is that it’s straight to the point unlike other some videos where they’re putting on a show .
You’ll be fine on it as a first bike. It’s intimidating because it’s a large bike but the center of gravity is so low it pretty much rides itself after 10 mph. Don’t over think it. You’ll be fine! And thank you. I’m still fine tuning the videos but I’m getting some positive feedback so far. Thanks for watching!
@@thehdguy378 taking your advise and going to jump on the Road King this week in Cologne , Germany . 👏
Don't be intimidated, I'm 5 ft 6 and 148 lbs. I had one of those, you won't regret.
@@jordipi7652 thanks ! That is super helpful for me to know . I can’t wait for my test drive appointment this Friday .
@@pranavchadha2447 Enjoy and tell us how it went.
How soon will you do a ride and review on the Electra Glide Standard I’m inter in that motorcycle
I’ll add it to the list. Once we get one I’ll do a review. It could be a couple of months unfortunately!
Wow I’m happy I’m first. Gotta love the Road Kings. They are a very versatile bike.
If you ain’t first you’re last bro thanks for supporting🤙 it’s the King 👑 for a reason!
Your shifting skills are very good which makes a huge difference in acceleration times.
4.6 to 60 and 4.4 30 to 70 are great numbers for a total weight of close to a thousand pounds (bike, rider and fluids).
I own an '04 Fat Boy and love it but, the Road King is in the near future.
Thanks for the review.
What Shoei helmet model is that?
Did test ride today. Getting the special.
I am changing bars, and putting a windshield on. Pulled up your video and got a chuckle.
Great minds think alike. Congrats on your new Harley!
What bars did you choose?
Did you leave all that stuff out in the open in your car? If you did, it was screaming at every scumbag that walked by “hey, please take me!” Anyway, I just bought a ‘21 Heritage Classic, but wish I’d gotten the Road King …and everyone is looking at you because you keep blowing the horn at them.
I’m going to be honest I’m not sure what you’re referring to on the leaving stuff in my car but I’m sure it’s relevant to the video. I’m usually not far from my truck if I leave stuff in there.
Everyone hates the windshield placement
I’m 5’9”
2019 FLHR
RK STANDARD! The best one
I have a 2020RKS with a 131 Engine.the only thing I don’t like is they don’t hold there value at all no matter how much money you spend on them,
hi from italy here ...i wanna ask u (or other guys here oc ;:D ) the difference in maneuverability is just about handlebar or think u the 18" front wheel is better then 19"
and if the answer is yes ...can i change frontwheel in special and put 18" i just ask because i do not like chrome ...or i spend enough of time for clean the chrome for others bike :D
i hope u can understand what i mean :)
tnx
Wish I could help, but I have no experience with the 19" front wheel.
So you can turn the traction control off completely?
Yes. Hold down the traction control button on the left side.
At 5:50 it looks like the wind buffeting is making scrambled eggs out of your brain.
Already scrambled.
Can you tell me what helmet you're wearing. I'm thinking of switching to a full face but I don't want one that feels like I'm wearing a house on my head
This is a Shoei GT AIR 2. I just upgraded to an RF-1400 from Shoei. I highly recommend this helmet. It breathes, it’s light, it’s very comfortable after about 300 miles of riding with it (be patient, they need to be broken in).
I don’t understand the obsession with windshields. The wind feels great and windshields look hideous 100% of the time. Just my opinion.
I agree windshields don’t look good. But if you’re putting down miles it’s necessary. Wind fatigue is real.
They do help a lot on long rides. The wind get to you over a long trip.
On the RK standard can you get abs but no rdrs?
I have ABS and the RDRS on my 2022 RK standard.
0- 60 hahaha,,, its a HD not a rice rocket,, its not a gsxr 1300 ya know ,, cruiser,,, say it haahah
Seriously. It weighs 800 plus pounds but it's got 1,800cc's. That' all you need to know. The guy is doing a 0-60 on a Road King. So funny.
@@bbaker777 ya i always get a good laugh from vid like this,,, ppl always trying to compare everything to the fastest,,, like a Cadillac should be as fast and handle like a corvette haahah
A bit closed minded thinking there isn’t a single person out there curious what it would do 0-60 don’t you think?
What’s the point of going bigger and bigger year over year without knowing the measurable difference?
@@thehdguy378 to sell more to suckers that fall for their BS haahah
I have a 22 road king special I was thinking on a trade on a 22 low rider s should I have my head checked Lol. I guess I want be both worlds but I can only be on one or other comments appreciated!
Keep the Road King! Make a few adjustments and you’ll be very happy. Fight the urge to want something new and accessorize your Road King to your riding style. Fairing, suspension, bars, whatever it is. You have a great motorcycle.
@@thehdguy378 I did just what you said I came off a 21 lowrider missed the handling. So I put on some Holins screaming eagle rear suspension. Worth every cent I can rip this bike threw The corner’s now some 12 inch factory 47s some adjustable lever’s put Krause ERG ONE floor boards pulled them back one inch feels more like a mid control now. I absolutely love the king. The suspension upgrade was the best upgrade I ever did to any bike. Getting the shorty shifter and break levers just put the order in today. By Thrashin. Was thinking on a Krause riser set up to do the Holins adjustable front suspension. But front is not to bad so on the fence about doing that. So happy I decided to try some suspension it’s worth all the money and then some it’s 2 bikes in one now with it being all adjustable. 1 click can stiff it up for more aggressive riding or 1 click back for more plush highway riding. 👍 if thinking about that new Holins screaming eagle shock I would recommend it highly. 1 out of 10 it’s a 100x the bike it was.
Are you in Bedford? Looks like you're on Harwood going east. If you are say hello to Terry Purdom if he still hangs out there. Take Care.
He’s still here. I’ll tell him you said hello. What’s your name?
@@thehdguy378 It's been too long and he didn't know me by name. I'll just have to drop by and he'll see my ugly mug and know. :0)
I’m thinking about going to slang some harleys. Anything Tips or things you wish you knew before you started?
Work for the customer. You won’t get rich, but it can be a good source of income if you create a following. You do that by taking care of your customer and genuinely caring about them. Good luck!
Appreciate the review, how's the suspension on the standard Road King, I seem to feel every bump on the street glide, how's the Road Glide? Seems it should be a bit more plush.
It definitely is. Test ride one then come back and tell me what you think. I actually don't care for the looks yet it will be my next bike . I love the ride.
Does the Road Glide have an adjustable shock on the left side? I test rode both of the glide specials and thought that the ride was stiff compared to the stock road king.
@@eugeniustheodidactus8890 On the Road Glide the preload is set on left rear shock like the rest of touring frame models. The stiffer ride you noticed is probably due to two things. The Road King Special, Street Glide, Street Glide Special, Road Glide Special and Electra Glide Standard use a shorter 12" shock with less travel (2.1" iirc) vs. the 3" of travel of the 13" long shock used on the Road King FLHR and iirc the Road Glide Limited. No matter which length shock you have, it's important to have the preload set correctly for the weight of the rider(s) and any cargo they be carrying.
@@johncallahan3573 Thank you! I also wonder if the low profile tires transfer a slight bit more road vibration which can add to the stiffer-ride feeling.
@@eugeniustheodidactus8890 the preload mint have been set a little higher for your weight all stock rear suspension on touring bikes. One side is a shock. Other side is a Shock absorber. Switch them out for any set of shocks would be a night and day difference! I put the Holins screaming eagle adjustable. Harley just came out this year with them and they are worth every cent. And then some.
I think you start very well but then you lost it. Nothing about the comfort regarding the changes. Is there not a shorter shock observer in the back? Different seats? Different wheels? Less comfort?
The 2021’s did not come with shock observers. You might be confused with the 2018 models. That was the last year of the observer edition motorcycles.
@@thehdguy378 Sorry, you maybe right. But is the comfort the same?
I bought a Heritage 2021 114. After watching this video I want a RK special. I feel like the bars on my Heritage pull me forward. Wonder if they’re the same bars? Great video btw.👍🏻
Different bars. Change the bars out on the heritage. That’s a GREAT motorcycle!
U won't regret it br
I've noticed the same thing on my RKS about the bars. I'm 5 foot 9 and I'm leaning forward a bit. What bars would you swap them out for?
Same here...2021 RKS leaned forward just a bit. The angle that the bar ends are at isn't good either. Can't wait to switch to something different.
Just bought a 2022 RKS. Added t-bars at the dealer. Should be delivered within 2 weeks. I’ll let you know.
What app did you use to calculate your 0-60 time? Great Vid.
Rave box pro. It’s extremely accurate and easy to use.
It's good to be the 👑!
Road king standard is my favorite bike.
It’s definitely a classic. Fan favorite for sure!
The rk is the best deal for the money, get a blue tooth helmet listen 2 ur smartphone Spotify app. U saved tons of money 💰 🤑 💸
Road glide standard or roadking special if you had to choose one
Tough question but I enjoy the fairing and music so I’d go with the road glide.
The king is the best Harley in the. Touring lineup it’s times less. You look at street glide or road glide and know about what year it is. And the extra weight omg the king is so nimble you can really rip it threw the turns and around town and long trips best bike for all around.
hmm, shopping for my next ride, here is the curse of big harleys, people only want to look , photo, film the curb side of the bikes because the left side tends to be underwhelming.. first thing I notice of the special is the wind and looks like the ride is rougher. I'm one that doesnt like the blacked-out look too.
Lmao
Honks horn: "everyone is looking at this bike"
Get the stage 2 s&s 475 torque cam u will loose ur mind!
Missed the shorter suspension on the Special.
So my dealership tells me that the suspension on the special is the exact same thing as the stock road king, although my ass tells me different.
It is different.
What is the height of the stock handlebars on the Special?
I’m not certain currently. I’d guess 8”
Special 9 1/2 mini apes
9 1/2 I changed mine out to 12 factory 47s I was thinking trading for a 22 lowrider s what you think should I keep the road king special I can’t make my mind up want best bother worlds I guess
I have legends on my king,
stock shocks are junk.
Would definitely do the special in Snakes Venom or Deadwood Green.
Rk special with a windshield is optimal, i agree.
First thing I did was change my bars
It is super easy 2 do a 3 hole service on...
Harley Davidson's are made for cruising not hot rodding.
Tell that to the majority of Harley riders…
Some fangs help with the buffering
what color was the special?
Would you look at that! Just look at it
Im just a rk fan.
Just replaced the stock 20" windshield with a *Clock Werks 19.5" flared windshield* which gets rid of the helmet buffeting but I am stuck looking through it more than not. I am 6'. Not sure if the 16.5" flared windshield will throw the air high enough to keep from buffeting. Also, the Clock Werks windshield is 3" wider than stock, and it feels a bit like a billboard at 75 mph. _( I exaggerate a bit.)_ It definitely exerts a downward force on the front wheel as advertised.
shout out to thieves 😆😆
I hate thieves.