It doesn't matter what you ride, just ride and enjoy. I'm 62 years old, retired, and I could care less what people think of my bike (Versys 650). It works for me, and that's all that matters.
I ride a Road King because I like the bike and it works well two up with the wife. I don’t fit in with the lifestyle though. No loud pipes, half helmets, or skulls for me. I’ve tried to get to know some of the other Harley riders but I just don’t have much in common with most of them.
Interesting. I also ride a Road King and love this motorcycle. The quintessential motorcycle, IMO. Although I confess to loving almost all motorcycles. I don't care about the HD "lifestyle" either, and find the typical dealership practices repulsive. Always full face helmet and proper riding gear for me. I have no interest in "fitting in" with the HOGs.
This is like listening to my friend go on about the sensibility of his Honda Accord while looking down his nose at my Chevy Corvette. I have a Ducati 1098 Streetfighter and Harley dyna 103 twin cam. I still like wearing my #69 Ducati jacket as much as I like putting on that black leather skull jacket. Sometimes riding is more than just riding, culture adds to that experience otherwise you wouldn't find so much joy in making this video. "Everyone Dies, Not Everyone Lives." Ride Everything!
I have a Harley and have ridden them for 44 years. I enjoy the feeling I get when I ride my bike and don’t give a crap about the ‘mystique’ and all the rest.
Pirate bikes, and pirate wear is not my thing either. I own an RE Himalayan, a Honda NC700X (DCT model), and a BMW G310GS. I enjoy them all for different reasons. Cheers!
Every style of bike has its style of attire I don't care what anyone says. If you spend any time on the road it's glaringly obvious. That being said I just love motorcycles and I love the motorcycle community. Great people out there. Keep the shiny side up bud!
You get it, exactly! I’ve been around the block a few times since starting on two wheels in 1972. Had many brands over the years . Led and set up tours out west etc. Today it’s peaceful scenic solo rides on my 2022 klr650 . Does everything I need. No longer hitting the dirt trails, but love the dirt and gravel back roads. Can hit the highway if there isn’t an option. Soon to be lowered a couple inches. No need for all that ground clearance. Simple to work on and parts are easy to get. Basically find what works, then make it fit your needs, not someone else’s perspective. Great video!
Well stated about peoples' points of view on life and their neighbors. As for Harleys: When someone asks me why I don't ride a Harley, I reply "I can't afford to go that slow."
I'm a 73 year old that has been riding since I was 15. I have owned various brands of bikes and always come back to Hondas, mostly because I tend to by bikes in need of a lot of attention and parts are available for a lot longer because of the number of bikes made. 750 seems to be the size I like the best. I don't like the attitude that SOME Harley riders have that buying a HD Should be the ultimate goal. I always marvel at the attitude of the newer riders that have HD's that think there bikes are better. Like I said I have been riding since I was 15.
Superb! I own a 2023 Vespa GTS 300 and ride with a Harley group. Accepted and we all have fun. At 74 I beat to my own drum and have peace in my heart. Excellent video.
I am 29, only been riding for about 4 years now but I've owned three HD motorcycles and recently my wife has acquired her first bike, a 2007 Honda VT750. I definitely feel your concerns on some of the "Harley Baggage" that comes with the brand, the gatekeeping and attitude behind the brand from the older generation of HD riders is pretty cringy to me. Also, I've never bought any of my HDs from a dealer, they've all been private sale purchases. I personally can't stand the HD dealers. My gear, at a minimum when I ride, is jeans, over the ankle boots, closed face helmet, gloves, and a long or short sleeve shirt. I learned to ride in Florida where helmet laws aren't a thing, and it frankly amazes me how many people out there would ride without a helmet at 80+ MPH. I wave at anyone on two wheels, and love anything with two wheels. When recommending a first motorcycle to anyone I know, I never suggest HD, simply for the high cost of entry. I always recommend any of the big Japanese companies. I've always loved Goldwings and will definitely own one someday. Great video!
I’ve worked at the HD plant in York for the last 6 1/2 years, in a professional capacity. I currently own a BMW K1600B, and when I began working there, I was riding a 2018 Suz M109R. I can completely relate to your opinion on this matter. Though HD does put out a decent product, and I understand the attraction, it’s never been my cup of tea. I’m asked constantly how it is that a 25% employee discount wouldn’t motivate me to buy a motorcycle that I am proud to say, is built with the utmost quality in mind. I ride because I enjoy it, and not to fit in to any type of click. I know what I like, and I know what bikes I would get the most enjoyment out of.
I ride a 2017 CVO Limited in full ATGATT - about 12,000 miles a year. (Not retired.Have a college degree and a thirty-plus year career. Read academic books across a range of topics in my spare time.) Never been to a rally. Never ridden with more than one other rider. Mostly tour solo. Don't have a single tattoo. Don't smoke or drink alcohol - never have. Before buying my first Harley, a 2017 Road King, a wise friend said, "If it is the motorcycle you enjoy riding, don't let others' perceptions and judgement change your decision." It was the best motorcycle advice I've ever received. To each their own.
I’m 33 and have owned several motorcycles, yet no Harley. It’s always been a value problem for me. There are just so many bikes that offer better performance and better technology for less money. Also I’ve not owned anything air cooled since I had a mini bike when I was a kid and it feels weird having to worry about my bike over heating if it idles too long in traffic.
You say no one should care about your opinions, but, I find them to be well thought out, informative and entertaining. I do believe that we are about the same age, a time span that provides a plethora of experiences and knowledge that should be shared with others. I applaud the exceptional content of your videos and look forward to each new one. Thanks.
Hey Craig, I agree!! You dance to your OWN beat and not someone elses!! Here is something I don't do-- keeping up with the Jones!! It is just me and mother nature!! It's not how many breath you take, but how many breath that take you away!! She takes my breath away!! I love mother nature beauty!! I'm in awe with mother nature!! We are all connected to EVERYONE and EVERYTHING!! Humans wants to think we are disconnected!! That so far from the truth!! Live with mother nature!! When we pass, we will be with mother nature for a longtime!! Lol!! Love everyone and everything!!! We were given 1 shot, experiences all that mother nature has!! Keep up the great work Craig!!
I'm an owner of a 07 HD Ultra Classic and I could not agree with you more. It's not about the motorcycle brand but about the love of riding in the open air. Thank you for your message. I'm now a new subscriber to your channel. God Bless.
I ride a Goldwing 1800 and my 3 riding buddies all ride HD. We have a ridden many miles and been in about 15 states together. There is no baggage between us because they arent in to all that as HD owners/riders. Love your content!!
Fair points. IMO Harleys are akin to old muscle cars, and they evoke the same feelings in me. A 1967 Camaro excites me more than a new model. I also find that most people who dislike Harleys have never ridden them. I went to a Harley demo day with a 24 year old who is a big fan of Honda. He was surprised how much he liked riding the Harleys, and was shocked at how nimble the touring models were.
We came off a Kawasaki street bike moved over to the adventure bike craze. We bought a bmw gs adventure and that took about a year before the wife said enough is enough of being uncomfortable . A weird twist of fate brought us to a HD dealership where I test rode a roadglide . The wife was with me and said I relaxed and became one with the bike on the test ride . She had never said anything like that before . So now we ride a Harley in a helmet optional state with all our safety gear. Fish out of water but I’m a motorcyclist not a biker. At a least I have comfort in knowing HD dealerships are everywhere if I need them.
A business customer I met with a passion for bikes when from a GoldWing to a Harley Touring bike, and he thought it was the better bike for him and his wife. Can't say they don't make good bikes. I cannot see myself ever considering one, mostly from an image and technology point. Plenty of others to take my interest and money.
I’ve owned motorcycles from nearly every manufacturer. I recently purchased a 2024 Harley Davidson Road Glide. The bike it replaced was a 2023 Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer. I bought the Triumph in no small part to your video series on the same bike. The Triumph replaced a 2019 Honda Goldwing. The Goldwing, while arguably the best touring platform I’ve ever owned (just ahead of my 2013 HD Ultra Limited), didn’t stir my soul. I didn’t feel connected to the bike and in many ways it was more of a mode of transportation than motorcycle. The Tiger gave me back a lot of that passion for riding, but unfortunately it was never comfortable to me as a touring platform. My return to Harley Davidson on this 2024 Road Glide feels like coming home in a sense. It fulfills the passion that I had missed with the Goldwing, but maintained the touring prowess of that machine. The technology surpasses that of the Tiger and the comfort in touring is leaps and bounds beyond that bike. I don’t subscribe to the group think when it comes to branding and heritage of a manufacturer. As for gear, the majority of everything I own is made by Klim. While there are many HD owners still out there that subscribe to the mindset you described, I think that group is aging out and being replaced with owners like me. I enjoy your videos and always look forward to new releases. I tend to watch even when the subject matter doesn’t interest me as I feel a kinship with you and the way you look at life. Keep up the good work and enjoy the ride… oh, and keep squeezing your lemon. 😉
Same reasons for me. I test rode a Harley back in 2007 along with BMW R and K bikes and a few others, and the Harley was the most expensive, had the least performance and handling, and shook like a wet dog at almost any speed, but particularly at idle. I literally couldn’t identify the make/model of cars behind me while waiting at a stop light. The only advantage Harley had was the best stock seats of the bunch and, of course, the best dealer network by far. However, everything else was inferior. I went with the K1200LT, which I still own, as it was smooth, powerful, comfortable, had great brakes and handling, the best storage ever on a motorcycle with cam latches that close like a bank vault. At the time, nothing else came close, not even the Gold Wing. I’d like to buy a newer bike for touring, but sadly nothing today exceeds my 18 year old BMW. The new BMWs and even the Gold Wing downsized enough to make long distance touring less comfortable and convenient. I keep hoping for another bike comparable to the LT, but I doubt I will ever see one as it appears that few couples travel long distance anymore so all of the touring bikes have been optimized for the solo rider.
After 2 LT’s I wanted to go smaller because of age. Went to a BMW demo ride the only bike available was K1600gtl,dang it worked only better.. Now downsizing to a Burgman. Go figure, but still bugs in my teath
@ The GTL is great for a solo rider, but not so hot for a passenger. Yes, at 64 I’d like a lighter bike also, but not much available for two-up long distance touring.
GTL eats tires long distance touring is an issue. Another issue no is dealers- less all the time. For the first time I am actually considering Harley just for the dealer network.
@ Yes, that is a challenge also. I rode from PA to Alaska and back on my LT on one set of tires. i don’t think a GTL two-up and loaded could pull that off. Yes, dealer network is another issue. When I bought my LT, the nearest dealer was 110 miles away. That dealer went out of business a few years after I bought my bike there, probably due to the idiot they had for a service manager. My nearest BMW dealer now is 140 miles away. I do my own maintenance and repairs so that isn’t such a big deal, well at least it wasn’t until a few years ago when BMW decided owners should not work on their own bikes and no longer makes service manuals available to owners. That was the final straw for me with BMW. However, I would buy a Gold Wing before buying a Harley.
Nashville-TN. Agree LOTS. A biker since a kid I've owned many bikes over the decades. All of them are cool in their own way yet never owned an HD as it wasn't my gig. Or mindset. Many buddies owned HD as it was their gig. IMO riding a motorcycle is therapeutic freedom. Those who have not ridden will never understand that side of life. Escaped Kalifornia 2021 now in Tennessee. Different crowd. Lotsa bikes & awesome roads. Lots of riding to do in my retirement. Cheers!
I've only been riding for 3 years. Im 55. I don't care what others think of my Suzuki boulevard650. I ride because i love it and help clear my head of depression and anxiety. I want a larger bike but can not afford it right now. I've met jerky rides who laugh at my bike. Harley, BMW, sport bike and sport touring guys. Also, I met guys in each owner group who just encouraged me to ride and improve my skills. In this community, you can't make blanket statements. There are jerks in every group, and there are great, helpful people in every group. I have learned that i like to ride by myself. I'm not brand loyal either.
I have not owned a HD primarily for the reasons you have listed, but as I age, brands and baggage don’t matter as much as comfort and safety do. I wish more manufacturers would offer a Silver Package of options for us in our 60s. I mean a power assisted center stand, blind spot monitors in rear view mirrors, reverse gear, and well engineered crash guards, and cushy seats. Of course, a loud horn that inattentive drivers in their SUVs can hear can also be a lifesaver.
I've been riding close to 50 years. Ride what you want and have fun. I just got a 24 Pan America HD for adventure riding and camping. The younger sales person said to me, most riders your age don't buy a sports bike. Well I'm not going to be doing wheelies or going a 140 mph anytime soon. I want it for adventure and camping. Taking my time and enjoying the ride. So far I have really enjoyed the Pan America.
Former longtime Harley rider here . Until I got on a BMW this Spring, I just didn't know any better :-)) I think the same holds true for a great many Harley riders. . . they were taught, or always felt, that Harley was the way to go . . so when they were in market to buy - here wasn't any reason or need to even look into other brands - - they went straight to the Harley dealtership. And the Harley subculture is a powerful draw - - be a rebel, a renegade, an 'outlaw' (small 'o') wear some leather. . . get a tat or 2 . . . etc. And as we know, helmets are frowned upon in the Harley subculture . . . espececially full helmets. Some Harley riders wear full helmets (and the number is increasing) , but it's still a small minority. With my BMW 1250RT I wear a modular Shoei everytme I get on the bike, long sleeve jacket, etc . . . The BMW is smoother, quieter, more comfortable, nimbler, as well as faster, than any Harley I previously owned. Those Harley days were fun - - but then again, I didn't know any better.
Love your videos. In my 37th year of riding. Don’t care what others think. Nice to have choices of brands and styles of riding. We are all out there doing our thing and that’s what freedom is supposed to be. Got the same hiviz Darien jacket! Keep up the good work! I feel you, brother. ✌🏿
I did two vlogs in recent days, one about five things I dislike about Harley Davidsons and the one about five things I like. I get people not liking Harley’s but I do. Ride safe…
I have a road king, It's all stock except for Ohlins, mustang seat and lower handlebars, I hate noise, I'm not a pirate., I'm not anyones brutha except the ones my mom and dad had, I mostly ride alone, I set the cruise control and ride, it's a dream on freeways, about 2600rpm at 70 mph. The weight of it is nice not being blown around. I have owned over 45 bikes in my life. The road King is my first Harley. Not adjusting valves, lubing a chain or blowing up up a pumpkin on a bmw is is nice. (happened twice). I don't know why I but every time I ride the big pig it makes me happy. Something soothing about it chugging along and it's extremely comfortable, take the windshield off around town and it feels like a different bike. One reason I bought it is that I can actually see a real live motor, not a bunch of plastic, tubes and hoses. Never once thought about "heritage" I just liked it because it looks like an old Buick with chrome. I don't care what anyone rides, they're all fun, I ride a monkey, ruckus, dr650, z650, gs1100, ct125, klr250........
I love your outlook, Craig. I’ve ridden Honda Goldwings for decades. These days I ride a 2015 Goldwing and a 2020 Road Glide Limited (HD). I love them both and I love meeting everyone else who appreciates motorcycles, of any kind. I find most motorcyclists are friendly no matter what they ride, once I get to know them for a few minutes.
Great video and content! Everyone is allowed to have their own opinions… But, the FACT is: Kawasaki is the greatest motorcycle manufacturer in the world! Full stop! And the cool thing is, I’m not being opinionated at all. Oh yeah, and my Honda Africa Twin may be proving me wrong… Keep riding, keep sharing!
After 30 years and 11 Harleys, I just bought my first Goldwing DCT non-tour. Wow. What a dream bike. It just got to the point where riding my Harley made me miserable after a couple hours. I had to change.
I agree with everything you said Craig. I've had 4 Goldwings and never a Harley and I have survived fine. I used to ride a Harley at work for 6 years. The bike spent more time in the repair shop than under my ass. It shook so bad my hands went numb on longer rides. I think they're over rated but some models do look beautiful.
I couldn't agree more. I've had somewhere in the neighborhood of 25 motorcycles over 40 years, and not one has ever been a Harley. I've had friends who did, and what I saw was they became better mechanics, while I was trying to become a better rider.
Ride what works best for YOU. That’s all that matters. Honestly, just going by the product, think HD has lost a ton of sales based on folks perspective of a ‘Harley Rider’. Every single one I’ve ever met have been solid folks. My ‘16 SGS is the most absolutely comfortable bike I’ve ever ridden, after spending the obligatory $3k+ to make it ‘fit’ me. I run 10-12k miles per year. Wouldn’t change a thing. Absolutely, to each their own. But don’t be afraid of a HD based on a biased perception of the ‘culture’. IMHO, of course. 👍
Well said Craig, I started on my dirt bike at 10 years old, been street riding from 16-61, and never was into Harley’s (cruisers) or the lifestyle “non-gear”. I have ridden Plenty of Harley’s and I get the cruiser thing, just chilling out, enjoying a leisurely ride, but that’s just not me, I want to be engaged in the corners, I want to come into the twisties, and ride, hitting that apex, hammering out of the apex…. to feel that perfect corner exit….corner entry, downshifting, setting up the entrance…..braking, etc. I love riding in that 75% zone on the street. Everyone should do a track day, (they are awesome). If I want to sit back and relax all day (cruiser) I would at home in my easy chair. Hoping to do my first Alaska ride in 2025. Ride on.
Motorcycling is awesome - to your point - it's playtime. I have ridden sport bikes (younger me), a 1250 GSA (when we had dinner in Duluth, MN on your 60-60 ride), and now I'm back on a Harley. I do like the rumble, the weight of the bike, all the things. But I loved the GSA, too and could certainly see having an adventure bike again. It's the closest thing to flying without leaving the ground (someone said) and I will always love the viceral feeling. Hope to ride with you someday, Craig!
It was great to meet you in Duluth and I too hope we get to ride together some day. Of course what each of rides is not important. This video is not about what anyone rides, it is about how we treat each other, when we disagree.
Very diplomatically put. I have had a similar experience with brands and endorse your perspective on this. That said after having been a Honda, Victory, BMW fan for years I did try a couple of Harley CVO products. You are correct that Harley seems a bit stubborn regarding change and technological innovations, certain tends to lag several years behind brands such as BMW. I have enjoyed what ever two wheeled product I have owned at various times during my journey. Now as an older retired rider I even tried modification of a Goldwing into a California Sidecar Trike. I just prefer the two wheeled mode far above any other. After sampling most I have settled into a confirmed BMW GS family proponent as its superb handling qualities most fit my riding style. Everyone seems to find enjoyment in what ever they ride and that is definitely the most important goal!!!! (with safety being a close second)
Great video Craig. I appreciate having the courage to express your mind. You are transmitting a positive message, but oh boy you picked a sensitive topic. I leave with your message of: “change your outlook, change the world”. Can’t agree more. You keep squeezing your lemon. Keep going.
If I had space for 3-4 bikes I’d probably have a HD, but I’m limited to 2 and I just haven’t been able to justify one yet. I rode a Pan America and I loved it! And the CVO Road Glide ST looks sweet, buts that’s $43k, ouch.
I was a M8 softail SportGlide owner. A test ride on a BMW R1250 RT changed me. So much comfort and enjoyment, seems they've thought of most everything.
except how to keep them running or how to fix them, had an rt, they bought it back under 1000 miles, 8 months in the shop out of the 9 months I owned it. your mileage may vary, I loved it, they just couldn't fix it.
As long as you ride… there is no need to worry, bikers respect bikers…speed, adventure, cruiser… the fact that you are on two wheels is enough. I own a Harley and I am really happy, it suits me… now I would like to try and own may other brands, it’s just that I don’t want to be accumulating bikes and having the constant thought of wanting something… but I am sure it would be nice. Ride safe and don’t buy into the stereotypes… just ride.
My regular riding buddy is all in on Harley. He and his wife are never seen without branded attire. I ride a K1600GT with hi vis Klim. We're both retired and if the day looks good, one of us will call the other and suggest lunch. Soup, a sandwich and 300 km later, we're rolling back into town. So we're at a diner an hour out of town and there are three other groups of riders at the place. There's me and 12 or so Harleys. When a comment was made about my machine, I replied "well, someone has the be the rebel." Strangely that crowd failed to see the humour.
I don't follow the pack and I've had problems with every Harley I've owned. Graduated to Victory's about 10 years ago and have never had a problem since. I'll never go back and at 80, ride several times a day.
I am 62 and i started riding when i was 17. I have had several bikes over those years. One Yamaha, several Honda’s and now Harley Davidson. There are things i loved about every one of them. I think each of us should find a bike we love and ride it until we find the next one we love. The group is ride with is pretty cool in that they do not care what kind of bike people ride, as long as they ride. Yes we are a Harley owners group but we accept any rider on any bike. BUT, they are very opinionated on the political side and that is ruining the experience for me. Just ride and leave politics out of it. I believe in letting people be people, i don’t care if they are black, brown, yellow, green, gay, sr=traight, man or woman. I only care that’s the people is associate with are kind and respect others and fine diversity interesting. Ride your ride Sir, enjoy the wind and road, you earned my respect.
I think the reason not to own a Harley is if there isn’t a bike in their lineup that you like. That said, I own a 2012 HD Road King that I just completed a 5,100 mile road trip from New Hampshire to California on. I’m an ATGATT full-face helmet wearing person. Though I do wear a HD branded jacket, it’s modern abrasion resistant fabric with full armor. I’ve never been made to feel out of place by other riders who choose to wear less protection. I would describe myself as liberal AF, but it’s never come up in a discussion with other riders. I don’t give a care about how long the Motor Company has been around other than a casual interest in motorcycle history. The culture is fine, but I’m not a rally party person. I’d rather ride. It can be gratifying when people see a HD and say, “Nice bike,” but internally I think, “I just paid for it, I didn’t build it.” As for brand loyalty, I just like bike. I’m always admiring other bikes and covet bikes of other brands. But when it comes to cruisers, it comes down to style. Every other v-twin cruiser maker tries to ape HD’s style, so why not just go with the original? I think a main turn off is price, which is a legitimate complaint. Harleys new are too damn expensive. They don’t have a low cost entry bike. Even the Nightster is too expensive. But I feel if you really want to get into something you love and can at least afford it, price shouldn’t be a problem. iPhones are overpriced, but I wouldn’t ever suffer the cheaper alternatives.
I guess I am not your "typical Harley rider". I ride several bikes, one of which is a 2003 XLH883 Sportster. To me, the stock Sportster is as little a cruiser as is possible and that is how I like it. I love its virtually maintenance free design and great reliability and nearly standard bike layout. .
At the tender age of 78 just bought a 2004 Harley Screamin Eagle I guess cause I have always liked this model. It's gonna sit in my garage as garage art. I may sit on it and go vroom vroom occasionally. Most of your comments hit the nail on the head and but for internet dribble I would never know or care....LOL!
I agree with 99% of your points (I still like shorts and jeans). However you hit the nail on the head, “live and let live”. I also ride a Vision because it’s the right bike for me and there’s no culture attached to it. Great video!
I have owned a lot of bikes in my lifetime. (40+) I had never owned HD till 2012 when I bought a new RG Ultra, rode it for 6 years. I then sold it and went back to the others. Too much baggage as you said…
This video breaks down into two parts. The motorcycle part and the cultural part. Yes, there is a bit of an overlap but to me, it is small. I got back into motorcycling after I became an empty nester. I rented almost every model of Harley trying to decide which one I’d buy. What I learned was the cruiser/bagger bike was bad for my low back, that I would never be able to tour like I planned. I bought the first bike I test rode that had a neutral riding position, a 2010 BMW RT, it just fit. Although, one brother has an FJR 1300 and after riding his I can say had I ridden that first I’d probably own one of those! On my second RT now and have done about 60k miles touring North America. Now, pardon me, I have a meeting with my brothers about our trips for 2025. Ride safe everyone!
I watched a few of your videos and found them very uplifting so I’m really surprised to hear your hatred for H-D. I have been riding for 49 years and prefer Harley’s but that doesn’t make me a bad guy like haters make us sound like. I don’t care for all the modern tech and don’t need it. I just like to crush miles and my road king does it. Ride safe my friend.
I’ve owned the Harley. My dad had Harleys. Hell I think my son-in-law has 12. We all took a ride back in May. I have a CF Moto 800 ibex T Chinese oh no lol. I really enjoy your content brother. Enjoy the ride. God bless you !!!
Great analogy. I too don't give a shit what other people think. I ride a 2021 Can Am Spyder RT Limited. My feeling is that it feels more secure. Had 2 BMWs 1 Honda 1 Suzuki Intruder before this Spyder. No matter what you ride, it's wind therapy.
Your best upload yet mate! Wise words indeed. I once owned an old Road King and really enjoyed the ride but could never get along with the whole HD scene. Nothing wrong with the bikes though. They offer a unique riding experience. Ultimately though it doesn't matter what you ride.... only where you ride it to.
I have always liked Harleys and hoped some day to buy one. Always expensive so I keep riding mostly old Hondas. I do like my Harley T-shirts. My main ride now is a GL1200 with 100,000 miles on it.
62yo, riding 50 years.I currently have an ‘05 RoadKing and a ‘18 BMW R1200GSA… I’ve had some of everything. I’d still like to few more for the stable before I retire
Great commentary in these most “interesting” of times, and also on the brand discussion…your thoughts and adventures are a good mental escape from the day to day for me and entertaining due to your realism in the approach to each topic. Plus motivational to get my arse on the bike for a ride! Keep ‘em coming!
Love this! Couldn’t agree more! To me, riding a motorcycle is just that, riding a motorcycle! Who gives a shit about all the baggage that some riders want. The world needs more people like you! There’s too much fear and negativity being promoted in the world lately! We need more positivity and inspiration like you’re promoting! Appreciate you sharing this!
I've never been interested in cruisers or Harleys but now that I'm getting older I'd like to try a Harley before my riding days are done. Cultural baggage isn't a concern with any bike. Get on it and ride.
I’ve owed Hondas in the past but I do love my Harley street glide. I ride with a group of friends that all ride different brand bikes. I really don’t care what someone rides just get out and ride. It’s about what feels good to you who cares what you ride.
It doesn't matter what you ride. It only matters that you ride. I've been riding since 1970. I've ridden everything from Can Am, Yamaha, Honda, HD. . . In the end I ended with my Victory's. Powerful, comfortable, reliable and easy to maintain. No muss, no fuss. No constant breakdowns, just riding. That's why I ride alone and keep to myself. Simple, I mind my business and expect others to do the same. I truly don't give a hoot about what you ride. You're not riding for me. That's my job.
As with most of the comments I agree with your comments and love the second line “and why you shouldn’t care “ 😂 I also had a tiger 1200 XRT but traded it for A Pan America. Also called the Dirt Glide or a “Hardly” Davidson. I also have zero brand loyalty. Best fit for me wins. 😄
For years I said I would never own a Harley. I started riding about 7 1/2 years ago a few months before turning 52. For about 6 years, I lusted over a Triumph Street Triple and finally got one. After a few years of fast riding, I thought I needed a cruiser. So I looked around and saw a Harley Sport Glide in white that caught my attention. I did a test ride and liked it. Ended up buying it 3 1/2 years ago. I still have my Triumph. Then I wanted to try an adventure bike. So in February, I ended up buying a Triumph Tiger 850 Sport to “dip my toes in the water”. I like the feeling of riding it. So now I have 3 bikes with different styles of riding. All the bikes give me a different feeling while riding them. My theory is similar to yours…. Ride what you want that gives you the feeling of freedom. Who cares what others think.
I have an FXDL TC88 from 10/98. It's right for me but I wouldn't recommend it to anyone. Love the one you're with, if it makes you happy it's right for you. Along the way I've considered a 1995 thunderbird and a 1988 vfr750 but I'm on my third Harley since 1988. I'd like a Vincent silver shadow but those ducks haven't lined up. A Ducati 999 would look better than my dining table. Happy days from sunny Devon. Good luck with your channel and please keep bringing us views from wherever you find yourself.
Great message Craig. Going to look at a KLR650 tomorrow. Been on a Concours 14 for about 6 years and a Suzuki Boulevard before that. I'm looking to hit some dirt and the Concours just isn't meant for that!
100% 🤘 Your best work Craig...Love it. I'm 62 now and facing a crossroads. Since April '22 the injuries have piled up. Just a new challenge. Thanks for sharing.😁
I read you loud and clear, Craig. I am going to be 70 in a few months. I don't fit on Harley's period. I sold my Victory Vision last year, nice motorcycle but not well suited for off pavement riding which we have a lot of in South Dakota. I ended up with a BMW R1200 GSA. It is much lighter, great for the lower back, fast as all get out when you need it and just plain fun. It does everything I want or need very well. No, I don't go to Starbucks or worry about fitting into some culture and never did. I just really like riding the bike!
I live in Kentucky and almost everyone here is on a Harley bagger like some kind of cult. I recently went on a ride with 10 other guys on my Moto Guzzi. I was the only one not on a Harley, they didn't care but it kind of bothered me. Another problem i have with Harley riders is that they like to stop at a bar and drink a few and play Keno more than riding. I love all motorcycles but would like to see more variety.
My chief concern is if I do need service there is a dealer within reasonable distance to take care of me without going miles and miles to find a franchised dealer that can provide needed service.
Motorcycle choice has many variables, and is similar to choosing a truck, camera, saxophone, or make of electric guitar. Whatever nurtures your soul most is the best choice. While living in SoCA in the 80's and 90's I loved and only rode Japanese 750cc/1100cc sport bikes. I did buy a 1987 Harley Electra Glide Sport but sold it after a few weeks; the vibration while riding on the 405 freeway and the lack of power was simply not my idea of what a motorcycle should be. After moving to remote CO in 1994 my sport bike days transformed into riding KTM 350cc/500cc enduro bikes. Now at 73, I prefer riding my KTM 1090R to enjoy the incredible 2 lane roads and easier off-road adventures all within a few miles from my garage. I began riding on a Yamaha 80cc trail bike at 15, and since then, motorcycles have provided endless amounts of ecstasy and adventure. Similar to the size and shape of a woman, all of us have individual needs and desires in a motorcycle, so there is no correct choice. Enjoy whatever works best for you. Great video, thanks for sharing!
Liked and subscribed. Notice how the people who say they don’t care also made it a point to tell you they own a Harley and inadvertently told you off. You are 100% spot on across the board from Harley Davidson and politics to cross country riding and being on the road as long as humanly possible. My wife would lose her mind if I stayed on the road for 60 days. For now she can tolerate at the most a couple weeks. I’ll spoon feed her longer trips in the coming years.
Craig, thank you for this video and all of your others. I just wanted to mention that not everyone who doesn't 100% agree with a given opinion is driven by anger and fear. I think that attitude may be a bit of projection. People attributing 'fear' to the reason why people have differing perspectives and opinions are often the same people wear seat belts and full gear. Is it 'fear' that causes them to make those choices? Obviously not ... that would be a stupid assumption. It works both ways. What I do care about as a motorcyclist is the increase in cars on the road with no license, no registration, no insurance, and the ever increasing numbers of people driving across the centerline into my lane while distracted with phones or other technology.
Loved my 95 Sportster, wish still had. Loving my 96 Fatboy and 99 Roadking. Fun factor is huge for me. Have had excellent dependability and reliability. Have enjoyed numerous 1200 mile trips over years. Some tours much longer. See ya on road.
As a touring rider, HD doesn’t make a quality long distance tourer. I want water cooled, shaft drive, smooth engine, reliability, and quiet. I agree that everyone should ride what they want, and I don’t care what other people think of my ride.
I rode a '93 electra glide up for years and long before "baggers" were a thing. It was a very practical bike for touring. Never let me down and could easily work on it myself. Never quite fit in with Harley crowd though and as time went on the misfit became more noticeable. I'd sure get interesting looks when I'd show for a ride in a red Darien Aerostich and a hi-vis full faced helmet. Eventually, the draw to ride dirt and gravel pushed me towards a different bike and brand. Anyways, couldn't agree more; do your own thing and enjoy the gift of motorcycling. Thanks for the vid. - Mark
In my 35 years of riding, my impressions of Harley riders are that a lot (certainly not all) of them tend to be a bit elitist. They truly believe HD defines motorcycling. To be fair, and probably equally as polarizing, I've found the same thing in the adventure bike community with GS riders. A few months ago, while I was on my Tiger 1200 at a gas station, a GS rider asked why I didn't buy a BMW. Uh....because I like the one I'm riding more(?) He couldn't seem to wrap his head around that. 🤷♂️
I've only had three motorcycles in my life. An old gold wing that I learned to ride on, but never registered, A Honda shadow that saw as much dirt as pavement and now a ten year old honda nc700x. The first was just given to me for free and the other two just worked out to be good deals. Thinking back, all I ever really wanted was a small dual sport. Maybe one day.
True words. I DO love the 1974 Sportster, I bought when I was 19 (for a TON of money, considering the price of Honda's and such), and still own that nasty little time machine. I also love the Night Train that I got back in '08 and, in my 70'th year, will probably be my last bike. I've also got to confess a love for old-school choppers, but know that it's just the remnants of the 17 year-old still swimming around in my head. Thankfully, I never fell into the "Harley Ego Moat", surviving my youthful idiocy to ALWAYS choose good riding gear over costumes when I'm on one of these things...even to the point of being insulted by an assortment of females who, over the years, challenged my riding abilities because I wouldn't let them on my bikes without similar protection. Thankfully, there was never a spill that put the gear into use, but it was there. And, of course, I've suffered through my fair share of lectures, delivered in that biker drawl (that's slowly disappearing these days), about the evils of AMF bikes, even though they were the ones that kept Harley on life support 'till its employees could save their company. This is not to say that I didn't greatly enjoy the talking-to my bud Vince received on a trek up though the Rockies. He was checking the spark plugs on his Honda for fouling when some guy, replete in his Harley regalia warned him, "Yeh, ye gots to be car'ful 'o ridin 'dees bikes at high altitudes....makie'm run lean and dey jist burn up". At camp, I had great fun in repeating the lecture (what are friends for, anyway?) Life is short...ride the bike you love. Thank you for your video.
Hi from Uk great vid I have a harley which i love dearly but also have a T7 both are not that young but nor am i love them both as they are at opposite ends of the biker spectrum in the end just enjoy what you ride and ride often enjoy your choice of bike and please niver criticise a rider for enjoying there choice everybike is special in its own because it brings freedon in its own way ride free guys
Well said. Life would be so boring if we all looked the same thing. I had a Harley and i have a Triumph. Both bikes were different in so many ways . As long as we respect each and every biker. who cares what they ride, the choice is there's
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It doesn't matter what you ride, just ride and enjoy. I'm 62 years old, retired, and I could care less what people think of my bike (Versys 650). It works for me, and that's all that matters.
The correct term is "couldn't care less" ...
I miss my previous bike, a Versys 650. I might go back to it for next one!
Awesome bikes!
Well the versys 650 is one of the best bikes made.
Well said sir I’ve had Harley,Honda,Indian,and currently a Kawasaki and I have never cared what people ride or judged .ride what works for you
You hit the nail on the head about everything. I ride a big Harley and a goldwing. Just do what you like and have fun and be safe.
Me too 😊
Just be a good person. Just be kind to each other. Good times to follow.
I ride a Road King because I like the bike and it works well two up with the wife. I don’t fit in with the lifestyle though. No loud pipes, half helmets, or skulls for me. I’ve tried to get to know some of the other Harley riders but I just don’t have much in common with most of them.
Interesting. I also ride a Road King and love this motorcycle. The quintessential motorcycle, IMO. Although I confess to loving almost all motorcycles. I don't care about the HD "lifestyle" either, and find the typical dealership practices repulsive. Always full face helmet and proper riding gear for me. I have no interest in "fitting in" with the HOGs.
This is like listening to my friend go on about the sensibility of his Honda Accord while looking down his nose at my Chevy Corvette.
I have a Ducati 1098 Streetfighter and Harley dyna 103 twin cam. I still like wearing my #69 Ducati jacket as much as I like putting on that black leather skull jacket. Sometimes riding is more than just riding, culture adds to that experience otherwise you wouldn't find so much joy in making this video.
"Everyone Dies, Not Everyone Lives." Ride Everything!
I was a Harley rider until I tried a Goldwing, fell in love with the 1800 Goldwing and never looked back.
You should look back when changing lanes or passing. Could save your life.
@@robertrich4756 Never looked back at Harley motorcycles.
I have a Harley and have ridden them for 44 years. I enjoy the feeling I get when I ride my bike and don’t give a crap about the ‘mystique’ and all the rest.
Pirate bikes, and pirate wear is not my thing either. I own an RE Himalayan, a Honda NC700X (DCT model), and a BMW G310GS. I enjoy them all for different reasons.
Cheers!
Every style of bike has its style of attire I don't care what anyone says. If you spend any time on the road it's glaringly obvious. That being said I just love motorcycles and I love the motorcycle community. Great people out there. Keep the shiny side up bud!
You get it, exactly! I’ve been around the block a few times since starting on two wheels in 1972. Had many brands over the years . Led and set up tours out west etc. Today it’s peaceful scenic solo rides on my 2022 klr650 . Does everything I need. No longer hitting the dirt trails, but love the dirt and gravel back roads. Can hit the highway if there isn’t an option. Soon to be lowered a couple inches. No need for all that ground clearance. Simple to work on and parts are easy to get. Basically find what works, then make it fit your needs, not someone else’s perspective. Great video!
Well stated about peoples' points of view on life and their neighbors. As for Harleys: When someone asks me why I don't ride a Harley, I reply "I can't afford to go that slow."
Bwahahaha. Yeah, the HD baggage. You summed it up nicely Craig.
I'm a 73 year old that has been riding since I was 15. I have owned various brands of bikes and always come back to Hondas, mostly because I tend to by bikes in need of a lot of attention and parts are available for a lot longer because of the number of bikes made. 750 seems to be the size I like the best. I don't like the attitude that SOME Harley riders have that buying a HD Should be the ultimate goal. I always marvel at the attitude of the newer riders that have HD's that think there bikes are better. Like I said I have been riding since I was 15.
Superb! I own a 2023 Vespa GTS 300 and ride with a Harley group. Accepted and we all have fun. At 74 I beat to my own drum and have peace in my heart. Excellent video.
I am 29, only been riding for about 4 years now but I've owned three HD motorcycles and recently my wife has acquired her first bike, a 2007 Honda VT750. I definitely feel your concerns on some of the "Harley Baggage" that comes with the brand, the gatekeeping and attitude behind the brand from the older generation of HD riders is pretty cringy to me. Also, I've never bought any of my HDs from a dealer, they've all been private sale purchases. I personally can't stand the HD dealers.
My gear, at a minimum when I ride, is jeans, over the ankle boots, closed face helmet, gloves, and a long or short sleeve shirt. I learned to ride in Florida where helmet laws aren't a thing, and it frankly amazes me how many people out there would ride without a helmet at 80+ MPH.
I wave at anyone on two wheels, and love anything with two wheels. When recommending a first motorcycle to anyone I know, I never suggest HD, simply for the high cost of entry. I always recommend any of the big Japanese companies. I've always loved Goldwings and will definitely own one someday. Great video!
I’ve worked at the HD plant in York for the last 6 1/2 years, in a professional capacity. I currently own a BMW K1600B, and when I began working there, I was riding a 2018 Suz M109R. I can completely relate to your opinion on this matter. Though HD does put out a decent product, and I understand the attraction, it’s never been my cup of tea. I’m asked constantly how it is that a 25% employee discount wouldn’t motivate me to buy a motorcycle that I am proud to say, is built with the utmost quality in mind. I ride because I enjoy it, and not to fit in to any type of click. I know what I like, and I know what bikes I would get the most enjoyment out of.
Ride metric ....except for Triumph .I sold it for $75 and a ride home . I gave the driver $75 and the title when her dropped me off at home .
You can ride the bike and not buy the baggage. The two don't have to go together. That's the thing about Harleys. They are easily customizable.
I ride a 2017 CVO Limited in full ATGATT - about 12,000 miles a year. (Not retired.Have a college degree and a thirty-plus year career. Read academic books across a range of topics in my spare time.) Never been to a rally. Never ridden with more than one other rider. Mostly tour solo. Don't have a single tattoo. Don't smoke or drink alcohol - never have. Before buying my first Harley, a 2017 Road King, a wise friend said, "If it is the motorcycle you enjoy riding, don't let others' perceptions and judgement change your decision." It was the best motorcycle advice I've ever received. To each their own.
I’m 33 and have owned several motorcycles, yet no Harley. It’s always been a value problem for me. There are just so many bikes that offer better performance and better technology for less money. Also I’ve not owned anything air cooled since I had a mini bike when I was a kid and it feels weird having to worry about my bike over heating if it idles too long in traffic.
You say no one should care about your opinions, but, I find them to be well thought out, informative and entertaining. I do believe that we are about the same age, a time span that provides a plethora of experiences and knowledge that should be shared with others.
I applaud the exceptional content of your videos and look forward to each new one.
Thanks.
Hey Craig, I agree!! You dance to your OWN beat and not someone elses!! Here is something I don't do-- keeping up with the Jones!! It is just me and mother nature!! It's not how many breath you take, but how many breath that take you away!! She takes my breath away!! I love mother nature beauty!! I'm in awe with mother nature!! We are all connected to EVERYONE and EVERYTHING!! Humans wants to think we are disconnected!! That so far from the truth!! Live with mother nature!! When we pass, we will be with mother nature for a longtime!! Lol!! Love everyone and everything!!! We were given 1 shot, experiences all that mother nature has!! Keep up the great work Craig!!
Agree! These days most people are not content to keep up with the Joneses. They want be the Joneses😂
Well thought out and delivered sir. Ride whatever you like and leave others be.
I'm an owner of a 07 HD Ultra Classic and I could not agree with you more. It's not about the motorcycle brand but about the love of riding in the open air. Thank you for your message. I'm now a new subscriber to your channel. God Bless.
I ride a Goldwing 1800 and my 3 riding buddies all ride HD. We have a ridden many miles and been in about 15 states together. There is no baggage between us because they arent in to all that as HD owners/riders. Love your content!!
Fair points. IMO Harleys are akin to old muscle cars, and they evoke the same feelings in me. A 1967 Camaro excites me more than a new model. I also find that most people who dislike Harleys have never ridden them. I went to a Harley demo day with a 24 year old who is a big fan of Honda. He was surprised how much he liked riding the Harleys, and was shocked at how nimble the touring models were.
We came off a Kawasaki street bike moved over to the adventure bike craze. We bought a bmw gs adventure and that took about a year before the wife said enough is enough of being uncomfortable . A weird twist of fate brought us to a HD dealership where I test rode a roadglide . The wife was with me and said I relaxed and became one with the bike on the test ride . She had never said anything like that before . So now we ride a Harley in a helmet optional state with all our safety gear. Fish out of water but I’m a motorcyclist not a biker. At a least I have comfort in knowing HD dealerships are everywhere if I need them.
A business customer I met with a passion for bikes when from a GoldWing to a Harley Touring bike, and he thought it was the better bike for him and his wife. Can't say they don't make good bikes. I cannot see myself ever considering one, mostly from an image and technology point. Plenty of others to take my interest and money.
I’ve owned motorcycles from nearly every manufacturer. I recently purchased a 2024 Harley Davidson Road Glide. The bike it replaced was a 2023 Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer. I bought the Triumph in no small part to your video series on the same bike. The Triumph replaced a 2019 Honda Goldwing. The Goldwing, while arguably the best touring platform I’ve ever owned (just ahead of my 2013 HD Ultra Limited), didn’t stir my soul. I didn’t feel connected to the bike and in many ways it was more of a mode of transportation than motorcycle.
The Tiger gave me back a lot of that passion for riding, but unfortunately it was never comfortable to me as a touring platform. My return to Harley Davidson on this 2024 Road Glide feels like coming home in a sense. It fulfills the passion that I had missed with the Goldwing, but maintained the touring prowess of that machine. The technology surpasses that of the Tiger and the comfort in touring is leaps and bounds beyond that bike.
I don’t subscribe to the group think when it comes to branding and heritage of a manufacturer. As for gear, the majority of everything I own is made by Klim. While there are many HD owners still out there that subscribe to the mindset you described, I think that group is aging out and being replaced with owners like me.
I enjoy your videos and always look forward to new releases. I tend to watch even when the subject matter doesn’t interest me as I feel a kinship with you and the way you look at life. Keep up the good work and enjoy the ride… oh, and keep squeezing your lemon. 😉
Same reasons for me. I test rode a Harley back in 2007 along with BMW R and K bikes and a few others, and the Harley was the most expensive, had the least performance and handling, and shook like a wet dog at almost any speed, but particularly at idle. I literally couldn’t identify the make/model of cars behind me while waiting at a stop light. The only advantage Harley had was the best stock seats of the bunch and, of course, the best dealer network by far. However, everything else was inferior. I went with the K1200LT, which I still own, as it was smooth, powerful, comfortable, had great brakes and handling, the best storage ever on a motorcycle with cam latches that close like a bank vault. At the time, nothing else came close, not even the Gold Wing.
I’d like to buy a newer bike for touring, but sadly nothing today exceeds my 18 year old BMW. The new BMWs and even the Gold Wing downsized enough to make long distance touring less comfortable and convenient. I keep hoping for another bike comparable to the LT, but I doubt I will ever see one as it appears that few couples travel long distance anymore so all of the touring bikes have been optimized for the solo rider.
After 2 LT’s I wanted to go smaller because of age. Went to a BMW demo ride the only bike available was K1600gtl,dang it worked only better..
Now downsizing to a Burgman. Go figure, but still bugs in my teath
@ The GTL is great for a solo rider, but not so hot for a passenger. Yes, at 64 I’d like a lighter bike also, but not much available for two-up long distance touring.
GTL eats tires long distance touring is an issue. Another issue no is dealers- less all the time. For the first time I am actually considering Harley just for the dealer network.
@ Yes, that is a challenge also. I rode from PA to Alaska and back on my LT on one set of tires. i don’t think a GTL two-up and loaded could pull that off. Yes, dealer network is another issue. When I bought my LT, the nearest dealer was 110 miles away. That dealer went out of business a few years after I bought my bike there, probably due to the idiot they had for a service manager. My nearest BMW dealer now is 140 miles away. I do my own maintenance and repairs so that isn’t such a big deal, well at least it wasn’t until a few years ago when BMW decided owners should not work on their own bikes and no longer makes service manuals available to owners. That was the final straw for me with BMW. However, I would buy a Gold Wing before buying a Harley.
Nashville-TN. Agree LOTS. A biker since a kid I've owned many bikes over the decades. All of them are cool in their own way yet never owned an HD as it wasn't my gig. Or mindset. Many buddies owned HD as it was their gig. IMO riding a motorcycle is therapeutic freedom. Those who have not ridden will never understand that side of life. Escaped Kalifornia 2021 now in Tennessee. Different crowd. Lotsa bikes & awesome roads. Lots of riding to do in my retirement. Cheers!
I've only been riding for 3 years. Im 55. I don't care what others think of my Suzuki boulevard650. I ride because i love it and help clear my head of depression and anxiety. I want a larger bike but can not afford it right now. I've met jerky rides who laugh at my bike. Harley, BMW, sport bike and sport touring guys. Also, I met guys in each owner group who just encouraged me to ride and improve my skills. In this community, you can't make blanket statements. There are jerks in every group, and there are great, helpful people in every group. I have learned that i like to ride by myself. I'm not brand loyal either.
I have not owned a HD primarily for the reasons you have listed, but as I age, brands and baggage don’t matter as much as comfort and safety do.
I wish more manufacturers would offer a Silver Package of options for us in our 60s. I mean a power assisted center stand, blind spot monitors in rear view mirrors, reverse gear, and well engineered crash guards, and cushy seats. Of course, a loud horn that inattentive drivers in their SUVs can hear can also be a lifesaver.
I've been riding close to 50 years. Ride what you want and have fun. I just got a 24 Pan America HD for adventure riding and camping. The younger sales person said to me, most riders your age don't buy a sports bike. Well I'm not going to be doing wheelies or going a 140 mph anytime soon. I want it for adventure and camping. Taking my time and enjoying the ride. So far I have really enjoyed the Pan America.
Former longtime Harley rider here . Until I got on a BMW this Spring, I just didn't know any better :-)) I think the same holds true for a great many Harley riders. . . they were taught, or always felt, that Harley was the way to go . . so when they were in market to buy - here wasn't any reason or need to even look into other brands - - they went straight to the Harley dealtership. And the Harley subculture is a powerful draw - - be a rebel, a renegade, an 'outlaw' (small 'o') wear some leather. . . get a tat or 2 . . . etc. And as we know, helmets are frowned upon in the Harley subculture . . . espececially full helmets. Some Harley riders wear full helmets (and the number is increasing) , but it's still a small minority. With my BMW 1250RT I wear a modular Shoei everytme I get on the bike, long sleeve jacket, etc . . . The BMW is smoother, quieter, more comfortable, nimbler, as well as faster, than any Harley I previously owned. Those Harley days were fun - - but then again, I didn't know any better.
Love your videos. In my 37th year of riding. Don’t care what others think. Nice to have choices of brands and styles of riding. We are all out there doing our thing and that’s what freedom is supposed to be. Got the same hiviz Darien jacket! Keep up the good work! I feel you, brother. ✌🏿
I did two vlogs in recent days, one about five things I dislike about Harley Davidsons and the one about five things I like. I get people not liking Harley’s but I do. Ride safe…
i hated high school for the same reason, i never wanted to fit in with the in crowd, not about to go through that again.
I feel the exact way you do. Thank you for sharing.
I have a road king, It's all stock except for Ohlins, mustang seat and lower handlebars, I hate noise, I'm not a pirate., I'm not anyones brutha except the ones my mom and dad had, I mostly ride alone, I set the cruise control and ride, it's a dream on freeways, about 2600rpm at 70 mph. The weight of it is nice not being blown around. I have owned over 45 bikes in my life. The road King is my first Harley. Not adjusting valves, lubing a chain or blowing up up a pumpkin on a bmw is is nice. (happened twice). I don't know why I but every time I ride the big pig it makes me happy. Something soothing about it chugging along and it's extremely comfortable, take the windshield off around town and it feels like a different bike. One reason I bought it is that I can actually see a real live motor, not a bunch of plastic, tubes and hoses. Never once thought about "heritage" I just liked it because it looks like an old Buick with chrome. I don't care what anyone rides, they're all fun, I ride a monkey, ruckus, dr650, z650, gs1100, ct125, klr250........
I agree completely.
Not for 1 millisecond did I consider HD when buying my motorcycles.
I also like having something different.
I love your outlook, Craig. I’ve ridden Honda Goldwings for decades. These days I ride a 2015 Goldwing and a 2020 Road Glide Limited (HD). I love them both and I love meeting everyone else who appreciates motorcycles, of any kind. I find most motorcyclists are friendly no matter what they ride, once I get to know them for a few minutes.
Great video and content! Everyone is allowed to have their own opinions…
But, the FACT is:
Kawasaki is the greatest motorcycle manufacturer in the world!
Full stop!
And the cool thing is, I’m not being opinionated at all. Oh yeah, and my Honda Africa Twin may be proving me wrong…
Keep riding, keep sharing!
After 30 years and 11 Harleys, I just bought my first Goldwing DCT non-tour. Wow. What a dream bike. It just got to the point where riding my Harley made me miserable after a couple hours. I had to change.
I agree with everything you said Craig. I've had 4 Goldwings and never a Harley and I have survived fine. I used to ride a Harley at work for 6 years. The bike spent more time in the repair shop than under my ass. It shook so bad my hands went numb on longer rides. I think they're over rated but some models do look beautiful.
I couldn't agree more. I've had somewhere in the neighborhood of 25 motorcycles over 40 years, and not one has ever been a Harley. I've had friends who did, and what I saw was they became better mechanics, while I was trying to become a better rider.
Ride what works best for YOU. That’s all that matters.
Honestly, just going by the product, think HD has lost a ton of sales based on folks perspective of a ‘Harley Rider’. Every single one I’ve ever met have been solid folks.
My ‘16 SGS is the most absolutely comfortable bike I’ve ever ridden, after spending the obligatory $3k+ to make it ‘fit’ me.
I run 10-12k miles per year. Wouldn’t change a thing.
Absolutely, to each their own. But don’t be afraid of a HD based on a biased perception of the ‘culture’. IMHO, of course. 👍
Well said Craig, I started on my dirt bike at 10 years old, been street riding from 16-61, and never was into Harley’s (cruisers) or the lifestyle “non-gear”. I have ridden Plenty of Harley’s and I get the cruiser thing, just chilling out, enjoying a leisurely ride, but that’s just not me, I want to be engaged in the corners, I want to come into the twisties,
and ride, hitting that apex, hammering out of the apex…. to feel that perfect corner exit….corner entry, downshifting, setting up the entrance…..braking, etc. I love riding in that 75% zone on the street. Everyone should do a track day, (they are awesome). If I want to sit back and relax all day (cruiser) I would at home in my easy chair. Hoping to do my first Alaska ride in 2025. Ride on.
Motorcycling is awesome - to your point - it's playtime. I have ridden sport bikes (younger me), a 1250 GSA (when we had dinner in Duluth, MN on your 60-60 ride), and now I'm back on a Harley. I do like the rumble, the weight of the bike, all the things. But I loved the GSA, too and could certainly see having an adventure bike again. It's the closest thing to flying without leaving the ground (someone said) and I will always love the viceral feeling. Hope to ride with you someday, Craig!
It was great to meet you in Duluth and I too hope we get to ride together some day. Of course what each of rides is not important. This video is not about what anyone rides, it is about how we treat each other, when we disagree.
Very diplomatically put. I have had a similar experience with brands and endorse your perspective on this. That said after having been a Honda, Victory, BMW fan for years I did try a couple of Harley CVO products. You are correct that Harley seems a bit stubborn regarding change and technological innovations, certain tends to lag several years behind brands such as BMW. I have enjoyed what ever two wheeled product I have owned at various times during my journey. Now as an older retired rider I even tried modification of a Goldwing into a California Sidecar Trike. I just prefer the two wheeled mode far above any other. After sampling most I have settled into a confirmed BMW GS family proponent as its superb handling qualities most fit my riding style. Everyone seems to find enjoyment in what ever they ride and that is definitely the most important goal!!!! (with safety being a close second)
Great video Craig. I appreciate having the courage to express your mind. You are transmitting a positive message, but oh boy you picked a sensitive topic. I leave with your message of: “change your outlook, change the world”. Can’t agree more. You keep squeezing your lemon. Keep going.
If I had space for 3-4 bikes I’d probably have a HD, but I’m limited to 2 and I just haven’t been able to justify one yet. I rode a Pan America and I loved it! And the CVO Road Glide ST looks sweet, buts that’s $43k, ouch.
I was a M8 softail SportGlide owner. A test ride on a BMW R1250 RT changed me. So much comfort and enjoyment, seems they've thought of most everything.
except how to keep them running or how to fix them, had an rt, they bought it back under 1000 miles, 8 months in the shop out of the 9 months I owned it. your mileage may vary, I loved it, they just couldn't fix it.
Agree with you. Ride what works for YOU. Ridden Harleys, but found them too big and heavy for my size. Found the 500--750 sizes work best for ME.
As long as you ride… there is no need to worry, bikers respect bikers…speed, adventure, cruiser… the fact that you are on two wheels is enough. I own a Harley and I am really happy, it suits me… now I would like to try and own may other brands, it’s just that I don’t want to be accumulating bikes and having the constant thought of wanting something… but I am sure it would be nice. Ride safe and don’t buy into the stereotypes… just ride.
My regular riding buddy is all in on Harley. He and his wife are never seen without branded attire. I ride a K1600GT with hi vis Klim. We're both retired and if the day looks good, one of us will call the other and suggest lunch. Soup, a sandwich and 300 km later, we're rolling back into town. So we're at a diner an hour out of town and there are three other groups of riders at the place. There's me and 12 or so Harleys. When a comment was made about my machine, I replied "well, someone has the be the rebel." Strangely that crowd failed to see the humour.
I don't follow the pack and I've had problems with every Harley I've owned. Graduated to Victory's about 10 years ago and have never had a problem since. I'll never go back and at 80, ride several times a day.
I am 62 and i started riding when i was 17. I have had several bikes over those years. One Yamaha, several Honda’s and now Harley Davidson. There are things i loved about every one of them. I think each of us should find a bike we love and ride it until we find the next one we love. The group is ride with is pretty cool in that they do not care what kind of bike people ride, as long as they ride. Yes we are a Harley owners group but we accept any rider on any bike. BUT, they are very opinionated on the political side and that is ruining the experience for me. Just ride and leave politics out of it. I believe in letting people be people, i don’t care if they are black, brown, yellow, green, gay, sr=traight, man or woman. I only care that’s the people is associate with are kind and respect others and fine diversity interesting. Ride your ride Sir, enjoy the wind and road, you earned my respect.
I think the reason not to own a Harley is if there isn’t a bike in their lineup that you like. That said, I own a 2012 HD Road King that I just completed a 5,100 mile road trip from New Hampshire to California on. I’m an ATGATT full-face helmet wearing person. Though I do wear a HD branded jacket, it’s modern abrasion resistant fabric with full armor. I’ve never been made to feel out of place by other riders who choose to wear less protection.
I would describe myself as liberal AF, but it’s never come up in a discussion with other riders.
I don’t give a care about how long the Motor Company has been around other than a casual interest in motorcycle history.
The culture is fine, but I’m not a rally party person. I’d rather ride. It can be gratifying when people see a HD and say, “Nice bike,” but internally I think, “I just paid for it, I didn’t build it.”
As for brand loyalty, I just like bike. I’m always admiring other bikes and covet bikes of other brands. But when it comes to cruisers, it comes down to style. Every other v-twin cruiser maker tries to ape HD’s style, so why not just go with the original?
I think a main turn off is price, which is a legitimate complaint. Harleys new are too damn expensive. They don’t have a low cost entry bike. Even the Nightster is too expensive. But I feel if you really want to get into something you love and can at least afford it, price shouldn’t be a problem. iPhones are overpriced, but I wouldn’t ever suffer the cheaper alternatives.
Finally someone who makes sense on utube. Good to hear. Thanks
I guess I am not your "typical Harley rider". I ride several bikes, one of which is a 2003 XLH883 Sportster. To me, the stock Sportster is as little a cruiser as is possible and that is how I like it. I love its virtually maintenance free design and great reliability and nearly standard bike layout. .
At the tender age of 78 just bought a 2004 Harley Screamin Eagle I guess cause I have always liked this model. It's gonna sit in my garage as garage art. I may sit on it and go vroom vroom occasionally. Most of your comments hit the nail on the head and but for internet dribble I would never know or care....LOL!
Get yourself out on it and enjoy it - 78 is no age; the other day I just sold a house for a guy who was 102 and walked 6 miles a day
I agree with 99% of your points (I still like shorts and jeans). However you hit the nail on the head, “live and let live”. I also ride a Vision because it’s the right bike for me and there’s no culture attached to it. Great video!
I’m on my third Harley, fifth motorcycle, and I wholeheartedly agree with the baggage - love the bikes though.
I have owned a lot of bikes in my lifetime. (40+) I had never owned HD till 2012 when I bought a new RG Ultra, rode it for 6 years. I then sold it and went back to the others. Too much baggage as you said…
This video breaks down into two parts. The motorcycle part and the cultural part. Yes, there is a bit of an overlap but to me, it is small. I got back into motorcycling after I became an empty nester. I rented almost every model of Harley trying to decide which one I’d buy. What I learned was the cruiser/bagger bike was bad for my low back, that I would never be able to tour like I planned. I bought the first bike I test rode that had a neutral riding position, a 2010 BMW RT, it just fit. Although, one brother has an FJR 1300 and after riding his I can say had I ridden that first I’d probably own one of those! On my second RT now and have done about 60k miles touring North America. Now, pardon me, I have a meeting with my brothers about our trips for 2025. Ride safe everyone!
I watched a few of your videos and found them very uplifting so I’m really surprised to hear your hatred for H-D. I have been riding for 49 years and prefer Harley’s but that doesn’t make me a bad guy like haters make us sound like. I don’t care for all the modern tech and don’t need it. I just like to crush miles and my road king does it. Ride safe my friend.
I’ve owned the Harley. My dad had Harleys. Hell I think my son-in-law has 12. We all took a ride back in May. I have a CF Moto 800 ibex T Chinese oh no lol. I really enjoy your content brother. Enjoy the ride. God bless you !!!
Yes, yes & yes! Thank you! I agree with all of your points!
Great analogy. I too don't give a shit what other people think. I ride a 2021 Can Am Spyder RT Limited. My feeling is that it feels more secure. Had 2 BMWs 1 Honda 1 Suzuki Intruder before this Spyder. No matter what you ride, it's wind therapy.
I think the Pan America 1250 with the Revmax engine is one of the best bike HD produced in deacades. Yet HD die hard fans seems to hate it. 🤷♂️
Your best upload yet mate! Wise words indeed. I once owned an old Road King and really enjoyed the ride but could never get along with the whole HD scene. Nothing wrong with the bikes though. They offer a unique riding experience. Ultimately though it doesn't matter what you ride.... only where you ride it to.
I have always liked Harleys and hoped some day to buy one. Always expensive so I keep riding mostly old Hondas. I do like my Harley T-shirts. My main ride now is a GL1200 with 100,000 miles on it.
62yo, riding 50 years.I currently have an ‘05 RoadKing and a ‘18 BMW R1200GSA… I’ve had some of everything. I’d still like to few more for the stable before I retire
Great commentary in these most “interesting” of times, and also on the brand discussion…your thoughts and adventures are a good mental escape from the day to day for me and entertaining due to your realism in the approach to each topic. Plus motivational to get my arse on the bike for a ride! Keep ‘em coming!
Love this! Couldn’t agree more! To me, riding a motorcycle is just that, riding a motorcycle! Who gives a shit about all the baggage that some riders want. The world needs more people like you! There’s too much fear and negativity being promoted in the world lately! We need more positivity and inspiration like you’re promoting! Appreciate you sharing this!
I've never been interested in cruisers or Harleys but now that I'm getting older I'd like to try a Harley before my riding days are done. Cultural baggage isn't a concern with any bike. Get on it and ride.
Amen
I’ve owed Hondas in the past but I do love my Harley street glide. I ride with a group of friends that all ride different brand bikes. I really don’t care what someone rides just get out and ride. It’s about what feels good to you who cares what you ride.
It doesn't matter what you ride. It only matters that you ride. I've been riding since 1970. I've ridden everything from Can Am, Yamaha, Honda, HD. . . In the end I ended with my Victory's. Powerful, comfortable, reliable and easy to maintain. No muss, no fuss. No constant breakdowns, just riding. That's why I ride alone and keep to myself. Simple, I mind my business and expect others to do the same. I truly don't give a hoot about what you ride. You're not riding for me. That's my job.
As with most of the comments I agree with your comments and love the second line “and why you shouldn’t care “ 😂
I also had a tiger 1200 XRT but traded it for A Pan America. Also called the Dirt Glide or a “Hardly” Davidson. I also have zero brand loyalty. Best fit for me wins. 😄
Thanks for sharing. You're not alone. Haha.. I'm not alone! And yes, life is good!
For years I said I would never own a Harley. I started riding about 7 1/2 years ago a few months before turning 52. For about 6 years, I lusted over a Triumph Street Triple and finally got one. After a few years of fast riding, I thought I needed a cruiser. So I looked around and saw a Harley Sport Glide in white that caught my attention. I did a test ride and liked it. Ended up buying it 3 1/2 years ago. I still have my Triumph. Then I wanted to try an adventure bike. So in February, I ended up buying a Triumph Tiger 850 Sport to “dip my toes in the water”. I like the feeling of riding it. So now I have 3 bikes with different styles of riding. All the bikes give me a different feeling while riding them. My theory is similar to yours…. Ride what you want that gives you the feeling of freedom. Who cares what others think.
I have an FXDL TC88 from 10/98.
It's right for me but I wouldn't recommend it to anyone.
Love the one you're with, if it makes you happy it's right for you.
Along the way I've considered a 1995 thunderbird and a 1988 vfr750 but I'm on my third Harley since 1988.
I'd like a Vincent silver shadow but those ducks haven't lined up.
A Ducati 999 would look better than my dining table.
Happy days from sunny Devon.
Good luck with your channel and please keep bringing us views from wherever you find yourself.
This guy has it figured out.
Turn off the news, get on your bike and ride ( or do whatever your thing is ).
Life is good.
Great message Craig. Going to look at a KLR650 tomorrow. Been on a Concours 14 for about 6 years and a Suzuki Boulevard before that. I'm looking to hit some dirt and the Concours just isn't meant for that!
100% 🤘 Your best work Craig...Love it. I'm 62 now and facing a crossroads. Since April '22 the injuries have piled up. Just a new challenge. Thanks for sharing.😁
Fantastic scenery! I've ridden a Yammy SR250, a 1200 Sportster, a 150cc SYM scooter and a Triumph street twin. All good fun in their own way.
Amen - brilliant !
Thank you ! 🎉🎉🎉
I read you loud and clear, Craig. I am going to be 70 in a few months. I don't fit on Harley's period. I sold my Victory Vision last year, nice motorcycle but not well suited for off pavement riding which we have a lot of in South Dakota. I ended up with a BMW R1200 GSA. It is much lighter, great for the lower back, fast as all get out when you need it and just plain fun. It does everything I want or need very well. No, I don't go to Starbucks or worry about fitting into some culture and never did. I just really like riding the bike!
I live in Kentucky and almost everyone here is on a Harley bagger like some kind of cult. I recently went on a ride with 10 other guys on my Moto Guzzi. I was the only one not on a Harley, they didn't care but it kind of bothered me. Another problem i have with Harley riders is that they like to stop at a bar and drink a few and play Keno more than riding. I love all motorcycles but would like to see more variety.
My chief concern is if I do need service there is a dealer within reasonable distance to take care of me without going miles and miles to find a franchised dealer that can provide needed service.
Motorcycle choice has many variables, and is similar to choosing a truck, camera, saxophone, or make of electric guitar. Whatever nurtures your soul most is the best choice. While living in SoCA in the 80's and 90's I loved and only rode Japanese 750cc/1100cc sport bikes. I did buy a 1987 Harley Electra Glide Sport but sold it after a few weeks; the vibration while riding on the 405 freeway and the lack of power was simply not my idea of what a motorcycle should be. After moving to remote CO in 1994 my sport bike days transformed into riding KTM 350cc/500cc enduro bikes. Now at 73, I prefer riding my KTM 1090R to enjoy the incredible 2 lane roads and easier off-road adventures all within a few miles from my garage. I began riding on a Yamaha 80cc trail bike at 15, and since then, motorcycles have provided endless amounts of ecstasy and adventure. Similar to the size and shape of a woman, all of us have individual needs and desires in a motorcycle, so there is no correct choice. Enjoy whatever works best for you. Great video, thanks for sharing!
I agree just be yourself and enjoy the ride
Liked and subscribed. Notice how the people who say they don’t care also made it a point to tell you they own a Harley and inadvertently told you off.
You are 100% spot on across the board from Harley Davidson and politics to cross country riding and being on the road as long as humanly possible.
My wife would lose her mind if I stayed on the road for 60 days. For now she can tolerate at the most a couple weeks. I’ll spoon feed her longer trips in the coming years.
Craig, thank you for this video and all of your others. I just wanted to mention that not everyone who doesn't 100% agree with a given opinion is driven by anger and fear. I think that attitude may be a bit of projection. People attributing 'fear' to the reason why people have differing perspectives and opinions are often the same people wear seat belts and full gear. Is it 'fear' that causes them to make those choices? Obviously not ... that would be a stupid assumption. It works both ways. What I do care about as a motorcyclist is the increase in cars on the road with no license, no registration, no insurance, and the ever increasing numbers of people driving across the centerline into my lane while distracted with phones or other technology.
Loved my 95 Sportster, wish still had. Loving my 96 Fatboy and 99 Roadking. Fun factor is huge for me. Have had excellent dependability and reliability. Have enjoyed numerous 1200 mile trips over years. Some tours much longer. See ya on road.
As a touring rider, HD doesn’t make a quality long distance tourer. I want water cooled, shaft drive, smooth engine, reliability, and quiet. I agree that everyone should ride what they want, and I don’t care what other people think of my ride.
I rode a '93 electra glide up for years and long before "baggers" were a thing. It was a very practical bike for touring. Never let me down and could easily work on it myself. Never quite fit in with Harley crowd though and as time went on the misfit became more noticeable. I'd sure get interesting looks when I'd show for a ride in a red Darien Aerostich and a hi-vis full faced helmet. Eventually, the draw to ride dirt and gravel pushed me towards a different bike and brand. Anyways, couldn't agree more; do your own thing and enjoy the gift of motorcycling. Thanks for the vid. - Mark
In my 35 years of riding, my impressions of Harley riders are that a lot (certainly not all) of them tend to be a bit elitist. They truly believe HD defines motorcycling. To be fair, and probably equally as polarizing, I've found the same thing in the adventure bike community with GS riders. A few months ago, while I was on my Tiger 1200 at a gas station, a GS rider asked why I didn't buy a BMW. Uh....because I like the one I'm riding more(?) He couldn't seem to wrap his head around that. 🤷♂️
I ride my old Softail long distances with less then possible equipment - really oldschool
I've only had three motorcycles in my life. An old gold wing that I learned to ride on, but never registered, A Honda shadow that saw as much dirt as pavement and now a ten year old honda nc700x. The first was just given to me for free and the other two just worked out to be good deals.
Thinking back, all I ever really wanted was a small dual sport. Maybe one day.
True words.
I DO love the 1974 Sportster, I bought when I was 19 (for a TON of money, considering the price of Honda's and such), and still own that nasty little time machine.
I also love the Night Train that I got back in '08 and, in my 70'th year, will probably be my last bike. I've also got to confess a love for old-school choppers, but know that it's just the remnants of the 17 year-old still swimming around in my head.
Thankfully, I never fell into the "Harley Ego Moat", surviving my youthful idiocy to ALWAYS choose good riding gear over costumes when I'm on one of these things...even to the point of being insulted by an assortment of females who, over the years, challenged my riding abilities because I wouldn't let them on my bikes without similar protection. Thankfully, there was never a spill that put the gear into use, but it was there.
And, of course, I've suffered through my fair share of lectures, delivered in that biker drawl (that's slowly disappearing these days), about the evils of AMF bikes, even though they were the ones that kept Harley on life support 'till its employees could save their company.
This is not to say that I didn't greatly enjoy the talking-to my bud Vince received on a trek up though the Rockies. He was checking the spark plugs on his Honda for fouling when some guy, replete in his Harley regalia warned him, "Yeh, ye gots to be car'ful 'o ridin 'dees bikes at high altitudes....makie'm run lean and dey jist burn up".
At camp, I had great fun in repeating the lecture (what are friends for, anyway?)
Life is short...ride the bike you love.
Thank you for your video.
Hi from Uk great vid
I have a harley which i love dearly but also have a T7 both are not that young but nor am i love them both as they are at opposite ends of the biker spectrum in the end just enjoy what you ride and ride often enjoy your choice of bike and please niver criticise a rider for enjoying there choice everybike is special in its own because it brings freedon in its own way ride free guys
Well said. Life would be so boring if we all looked the same thing. I had a Harley and i have a Triumph. Both bikes were different in so many ways . As long as we respect each and every biker. who cares what they ride, the choice is there's