Good tips. My top 5 comfort features are: seat, wind protection, bars, cruise control, and the best bang for the buck. Ear plugs. I ride 80+ mph for hours in 20+ mph winds. It's crazy how less fatigued I am when I wear ear plugs.
Laidlaw’s is a much better dealer to buy from and work with than a lot of other guys in my opinion. Glad you’re out there- still plenty of riding for you (us)!!
I watched this videos on all the Softails. I love has honesty. Once I chose the Street Bob, I already knew I had to get a different seat. He said it sucked, and it sucked.
Agree 100% with your number one, the rider back rest. I don’t usually have it in, but add it in seconds for trips. It allowed me at 64 to do a 6,325 mile trip and still feel great after the trip.
I’m a huge fan of the heated grips. Here in Canada they help increase my riding days. Nothing like riding on a 30 degree morning with toasty hands. Helps as well when riding in a cold rain.
Holy Macaroni!! Dude ALMOST washes the front at 14:29. Cross wind dragons breath rite there. Safe travels in your journey gentleman. Great Channel Matt.
Love your list! Just added a rider backrest to my Road King last weekend. Here is my list of what’s on my RK-Hwy Pegs, cruise, heated seat and handgrips (north Midwest), and in winter I have the slip on lower wind deflectors over my crash bars. Knock out wind and hold engine heat. Still have factory suspension and bars, but I think everything else I added.
I’m 6’3 LePera daddy long legs seat made a great difference for me, don’t feel like I am humping the tank now. Just need a little airflow between the seat. On a 2019 Roadking
Great tips, thanks, Matt. I love my backrest, highway pegs, and cruise control on my 2021 RG. Also, a gel pad seat cushion is awesome. Custom Dynamics led front and rear lights don’t necessarily add to physical riding comfort, however they do offer some additional peace of mind, in knowing other motorists can see you sooner.
I agree with the lights. I like to ride in the evenings when it's a little bit cooler out as a relief from the day's Heat. However in rural areas when it gets dark everything comes out of the ditches and seeing how our government hasn't figured out we should quit giving our money away and fix the damn potholes that's another reason to make sure the lighting is absolutely exceptional. I would really like to have a set of Denalis that are street legal because of all the things you can do with those on the can bus as far as adjustments in settings.
I just saw the video from Thrashin Supply where the guy stopped by and bought his first new motorcycle. It was cool seeing you and your guy, along with the dudes from the 2 lane life and thrashin all together riding for a bit. Cool stuff dude.
Highway pegs. Klockwerks windshield. Legend suspension. Truthfully, I am content with my stock seat on my 2019 street glide special. I bought her new. She has a tad over 55000 miles and loving every mile
This was one amazing video I happen to be a rider of motorcycles for 55 years and all the things you mention are this that have been developed in the later parts of my touring journey, so I take pride in the fact that I lived without such accessaries that you have today but I am thankful that during my life time I can now reap the benefits of all the many wonderful experiences that I have experienced!! Thanks!!!
After my last cross-country trip, I finally spent the ~$1k on an mccruise cruise control system from Australia for my 2018 Versys 1000. It shuts off if you hit the brake or pull in the clutch, and looks like it was a factory installed item. I absolutely love it, it completely changes the long distance experience. I spend enough time at highway speeds during my daily commute that it's also made it much easier.
The three comfort upgrades I made on my 2020 Street Bob was touring seat with backrest (Mustang), heated grips and leather covers for levers. Your video warned me about the Street Bob seat. Best looking, worse performing. Heated grips are a no brainer, have had them on my dual sports and I currently live at 7,000 feet. The leather on levers was for looks but add to comfort when riding at freezing temps or very long rides, didn't expect that. For body, heated pants and vest. Not a fan of wind screens, but i gave ridden in 17° F with no issues. To be fair I like cold weather. I installed heated grips on wife's Softail also along with a heated seat pad. She has electric gear also. We tour on the Softails with no issues. Neither of us like windshields, but with the right gear, comfortable seat and ergonomics, you can ride all day long. I believe the riding triangle is they most important, once you have that, all they other stuff falls into place. Being 5'1" with stubby legs, I can't reach forward controls, so a Softail with mids is perfect for me. To stretch/relax I just hang my feet over pegs. I can't flatfoot anyway, so feet hitting ground isn't an issue.
Great tips. As a Northeastern rider, Heated grips are number 1! I was occasionally riding in 20F / -6.66C with salt and slush on the road. I would constantly change my snowboarding gloves every 15 mins or so whenever I hit the highway. I would thaw my hands on the engine block for about 10 mins in Chinatown NYC to keep warm and it wasn’t enough. Sporty rider ✌️
Snow seal on boots and leather gloves us also great for winter riding. I gave heated grips and heated gear. In the winter in toss leather riding boots and gloves in oven at about 175°F. Rub in snow seal repeat then buff out. Water proofs and blocks wind. I do not used a fairing or windscreen, so wind proof and water proof gloves are a must. With them snow seal, it do not need bulky gloves, which adds to the comfort level. Snow seal is not expensive and a can should last 3 or so years.
@@michaelconran5252 great tip, I’ll definitely try this out! I hate bulky gloves too, kills the throttle response and front brake pressure. I use wool socks and double layer for the boots and have been ok, thanks to Rokker for a premium boot. I don’t use a windscreen or shield either. Safe rides friend
Fully agree Matt, I got them all installed and they are all worth it. Heated seats really depend if you ride usually on a cold weather …whether heated grips can make it even in warm places because sometimes it is cold enough for your hands and it may be even dangerous (eg morning commute to work), heated seats are less mandatory unless you use the bike frequently on cold places.
I’ve been riding Harley CVO road glides for over 10 years and having logged over 100,000 miles on them. I would agree with your list with one exception. I would eliminate the heel shifter and add the new Harley hammock heated/cooling seat. In hot and cold weather it is a game changer. It would definitely make my top three!
I have a corbin heated seat on my kawasaki Vulcan, it's a must have for cold weather riding, a bit pricey at $907 plus tax and shipping but worth every penny 😀
Matt I finally pulled the trigger 2 weeks ago and purchased a 22 cvo blue steel road glide. Upgraded from LRS. All thanks to your influence and inspiration
Matt, I Love my Wilbur’s self leveling front & rear suspension system; complete game changer from my stock pitiful suspension on my 21 CVO RG. Best investment talk about customer service, I made an appointment, road into the U.S based location in Jersey (EPM Performance Imports), as I arrived, the gates rolled up and the Mechanic (Mike) immediately worked on my ride and I was out the door a few hours later. My back and kidneys love me for it.
Hi Matt. OMG, heated grips saved the day on my ride to Alaska and back to Michigan. Woke up one morning in B.C. and the temp was 38 degrees, wind howling from the west and raining. The good news was that I was by that time heading east. Also was wearing ski gloves, but not very waterproof at 60/70 mph. GREAT RIDE !!! Also, this was in July.
Matt, you sure nailed it with this video, and your videos are number ONE. keep them coming, I just picked up a used 2021 CVO Limited, WOW what a bike. I am a old fart at 69 and have been riding for a lot of years. THANKS for your videos.
Excellent video. I have 8 out of the 10 on my 2016 Triglide which has 120,000 miles. I don’t have the custom seat or the after market suspension. On my last trip from Nevada to Texas and back the air suspension on my Triglide left a lot to be desired. Thanks again.
Agree with all your suggestions and I have them all except heated grips. I went with heated gloves instead but the grips would really be nice if I could find a great style. I have the heated seat and my wife really loves that ,plus I have a heated backrest for the tour pack. She likes that more than the heated seat! But the one thing I love most is the rider backrest. That is a must. I've had the same one on my last three bikes. I just remove it when I sell or trade. I will never have a touring bike without one. I've done 3 coast to coast rides and countless halfway rides since I live in DC and I'm from Texas I make that trek 2 -3 times a year. One of the newer items I have is the modular helment that flips fully rearward. I have the Shark and my wife has the LS2. Both work great and give you a lot of options.
Thank you Matt. I think this is an excellent video for someone like me who is dreaming about one day upgrading to a Touring Harley-Davidson. I agree with everything you said in the video. Thanks again.
Matt Great video. Full face quality helmet makes a huge difference. I get its not actually a bike accessory. But will help in fatigue even with a fairing.. Thx again for the video..
Another comfort option that is really handy is wireless intercom!! It makes long trips so much more enjoyable and now that mesh has become more of a thing, you can talk with a group of people that your riding with. One thing I didn’t even think about when I got mine was the Saftey aspect of them. You can stay focused on the road and warn other riders of any dangers you have encountered.
I just finished a 2300 mile 3 state ride, and Im a big believer of Highway pegs! I can’t ride a bike without em. As well as a large Fairing. I swear by em. Thanks Matt, Good Video.
This guy is right on about the handlebar set up!! I did a 3000 mile trip I'll trip and my handlebars were the stock bars and I'm 6' 1. My shoulder and neck are still killing me from that ride. Change your seat and handle bars and you can handle anything!
Definitely get your most comfort out of a quality seat. Everyone’s backside likes something different so there is no best seat for all out there. Just the best one for you. Fairing and cruise are definitely a plus especially cruise. The right set of bars after you find that perfect seat for you is one of the best also. This was great information as always Matt. 👍
@@cancelchannel3394 hey buddy. Why don’t you know what you’re talking about before you spout off. Harley, like any other manufacturer has motorcycles priced from under 10k to over 40k. The same as Honda does. Guess what. You don’t get a premium suspension or premium seat on a Goldwing either. The fact is that motorcycles are set up from the factory to accommodate a wide range of rider height, leg length so they can market those bikes to a wide range of customers. I have a Harley touring bike and brand new it wasn’t 20k so go chew a nice big pack of shit the fuck up.
Keep up awesome content. Thank you so much for taking time out of your hectic schedule and sign a shirt for me when my brother went out to California and stopped by shop.
Have a 2020 Road King, and I love cruise control!!.. Love the Hill-hold feature too!.. and even though i can remove the windshield easily, I've never ridden anywhere without it!... because i know that being pummeled with the elements plus the pulling effect from hanging on takes it's toll bigtime!
Thanks for the list on Accessories and mods for touring. I have a 2015 Ultra Limited and will always have a Ultra Limited as long as I ride. Bought mine used in 2017 as a two year old bike having 6700 miles on its already. I logged 10,000 K in the first nine months of ownership. I love my limited. I have made some improvements such as Back rest, highway pegs, Klock Works windshield, Ram mount for the phone, Headers and pipes and K&N Filter, ETC... Use the radio all the time. I live on my bike. Thanks for the content. Always checkout your content on the channel. Safe riding!!
Matt, Great subject matter. I have a lot of what you mentioned but what I find that I do now, with the help of the GoPros, I observe what people wear. Now we all know how nice it is to have the wind blowing through your hair, but the styles of helmets. Oh boy, pandora's box. Boots, big heavy or the newer flat sole ones with more comfort and easier to shift. Rain gear, leather; chaps, jacket, gloves. Well, that can keep you going for a while. See ya on the road.
@@MattLaidlaw I think it would be great. I like how ypu centered this video on touring. Riding a couple of hundred miles is different than riding a couple of thousand. People may not get the connection. LOL, how many people think there is a gas station every 50 miles! There are some long, deserted roads when going east to west, north to south. And hit the right or maybe wrong time of year..it can be HOT. But keep those wheels turning.
Heated grips almost nobody has them. First time I heard about them it was always the first thing I added to my tour bikes! I agree with all but one of your list cept for that evil back support! LOL But hey, it's all about perception. I tried one out for almost 4 months and just said to myself, the experience was miserable, and it was time to put em on Ebay. The rest of your list is spot on! If you ride long rides cruise control is king! Matt as always you give out some of the best information when it comes to bikes and riding! I appreciate it very much as everyone else does! Keep the ugly side up!
When I first looked at those At my dealer, I was very skeptical as to whether those things would work for anything at all? But I finally gave in and bought some off of eBay out of sheer curiosity and what an amazing difference push my boards out an inch and a quarter from stock. Love them.
Definitely agree with that list. I’ve got a few of those added to my Road Glide Limited. A couple others I’d add to the list: a drink holder and additional passenger pegs. For long hauls, having a ready ability to grab a water bottle to hydrate regularly makes a big difference, especially on hot days. I’ve ridden coast-to-coast on my Road Glide (even stopped in at your store) and having the ability to hydrate on-the-go allows me to stretch my stops to the limit of my tank that much easier. And for passenger pegs, I added the Kuryakyn adjustable passenger pegs. My wife loves having the option to shift her feet between the passenger floorboards, my lap, and those pegs. And we all know the adage: Happy wife, happy life. 😄
I was laughing when I watched this. Everything you mentioned was basically Ultra Limited. My wife and I bought ours a few years ago. Every time we get home from a trip we add something to the bike or our riding gear. This time it was a windsplitter windshield and rain booties. From the knee down is spot on in the rain. I could go on and on but you pretty much covered it. LOL. Thanks for the great video.
Love your videos Matt, took my license this summer and started out on a 21’ Street Glide Special straight off the bat as your videos has been so inspiring and I love the aesthetics of it. Most of the things you’ve listed (except the things that makes the bike look clumsy, lol) I have added to the bike from the get go. Ride safe from Sweden!
Yes I added a Corbin seat to my sg st set of hiway pegs a taller windshield a set of airshocks and a rockford stage 2 sound system, all these help with long distance rides and make eating up miles a lot more fun .
The lower leg fairings also protect you from the rain. I live in South Texas and it gets very hot down here, but I love having the lower leg fairings. Believe it or not, but the heated grips helps down here during our “winter” months. We get into the 40s, sometimes the 30s. The heated grips really help.
I have rode three hard butt rides around Iowa 1300 to 1400 miles in 23 hours non stop except for fuel . Your ideas are all great but the number 11 would definitely for me was the addition of a drink holder ! Usually on trips I like to do 450 miles a day . Ride safe and on long haul rides I recommend stopping every 150 miles at lest for about 15 minutes . Kick Stands Up !!!
Matt another great video that’s very important for a great ride. I have seen it before and the points you recommend are the best and I agree with all of them. Keep riding and giving us some great videos.
Old school rider who ten years ago at 50,went from rigid frames to a Road King. King has a Hoppe fairing,hard bags and 14 inch ape hangers from when I bought it. Going back to my chopper days,I made my own jockey shift set up that works like a dream,and my own ‘dump style’ drag pipes with homemade baffles. Made my own sissy bar and padded backrest also. As far as highway pegs go,I just rest my feet on top of the crash bars. At 60,I’m building a rigid Panhead that I’ll likely ride more than the bagger when it’s done.
Yep that about covers them. Learned the hard way myself. Good suspension, cruise control, foot pegs and seat are a must for long hauls. I have two different wind screens and two different seats for types of riding I would be doing for my SGS. I have the nylon slip on lowers covers that slide on the engine guards for cold and wet riding conditions (worth getting). When it comes to long haul, comfort is king, looks come in second. The HD Limited touring motorcycles are the most comfortable than any other manufacture for long hauls.
Totally agree with you about #1. First thing I did with my '17 RGU. Then highway pegs, a heel shifter and thicker, heated grips. Really love this bike. 2nd trip to Sturgis from Indio, CA in 10 days. Ride safe...
here in Rotterdam, Netherlands, heated grips is a must to have if you ride the whole year. I can't live without them!!! Was waiting for it the whole video :o
🛑🛑 Great List Matt👍!! I have every item that you listed, and I think your assessment is “spot on”. I would also like to add 3 more items to the list…. • Heated Seat. • Aftermarket Headpipe. • Aftemarket or Rockford Fosgate Stereo system with Satellite Roadio Antenna. A Heat Seat goes (excuses the pun) hand in hand with Heated Grips. When riding on a dew, cold, or raining situation these 2 items coupled together are AWESOME!! Aftermarket Headpipe, has made a difference for my wife when riding 2 up. Removing the heat from the Catalytic Converter being removed under her right foot, has made our riding much easier. She is no longer complaining about her right foot being “on fire” 🔥. I upgraded my CVO Ultra with a Satellite Antenna as well as the “latest and greatest” Rockford Fosgate Sound System. Being able to take your favorite music with you, regardless of location and being able to hear it at any speed is “priceless”. Take Care My Friend…Keep Up With The Great Vids. 😀👍
Great comment. Thank you. The head pipe giving you a big heat reduction is an interesting one. I know some people experience that which is great. A lot of times the aftermarket stuff creates more heat though what pipe did you use? Stereo upgrade is always good. 🤙🏼🤙🏼
@@MattLaidlaw Matt…I used S&S Power Tuned Duals Header (with the hidden crossover) with Rinehart 4” Mufflers. I did the Stage 4 upgrade, installed the new exhaust, then ran the bike for a few thousand miles and then did a Tune. The new header pipe really changed how hot the bike felt while riding with the Catalytic Converter Removed. My wife used to spray Hair Curling Spray (it was to not allow your hair to burn when it was curled) on her foot prior when riding on long trips, before the pipe was replaced. It was hot 🥵 I really like your Channel. You always do a great presentation, as well as the photography is always first class. Keep Up The Good Work😀👍.
I run up and down the east coast (Florida to mass) a couple of times a year and my ultra is it. Been doing it for 13 years and always do it on a rgu. I keep an oem rg seat and quick release tourpak for in town and convert it with tourpak, riders backrest, oem seat, and cb for the road. 12 inch apes and highway pegs are a must. Lucky Lep's Cycles
Good video Matt, like the idea of lists. With summer here and the high temperatures, how about a list of top 10 accessories, gear and mods for keeping cool in the summer heat?
Suspension Technologies shocks work great for my 07 CVO Ultra. I have Progressive Monotubes in the forks. My wife and I have ridden more than 80k miles on this setup, fully loaded for long three week trips. The heated grips are awesome! We have ridden through massive rainstorms and as long as we continued to move, managed to stay mostly dry using heavy leathers. I rode my bike to work year round, temps down to freezing weather using heated gear and layers. My bike now has 92k mikes on it and going strong!
Really like this kind of video. Helps a lot of riders figure out what they are looking for. Some are not willing to talk about the down falls of motorcycles, this applies to all brands. Thanks
I used to poo-poo the rider backrest until I tried one (I have the adjustable one on my Road King Special). No doubt, it’s exponentially more comfortable and has dramatically increased the amount of time I can comfortably ride. I’m 50 years old and don’t yet think of myself as a “geezer” but honestly, the rider backrest just works.
Yes, yes, yes. Truly, when you buy the bike, it is a blank canvas, and you must make it your own. Can't forget passenger comfort too. When I see new bikes, I think "Man, a lot of work ahead to get that one to fit". It never ends!
Go on 5k trips out west every other year on my Ultra Limited and the best accessory I have purchased BY FAR is the Air Hawk for the seat! Hands down it adds about 30-40% to your distance and that's a lot when you are talking about 600+ miles a day going out and coming back. And Amen on the cruise control...
My 2020 Roadglide limited is fitted with KST custom 14” spearheads, HD Road zeppelin seat, RWD rear shocks, Legend front suspension, adjustable rider backrest. The thing is like riding a couch on long hauls.
My wife and I looked hard at the Road Zeppelin seat, never did like the look of it on the bike but with my butt on it, I can’t see what it looks like on the bike anyway 🤣 it’s just comfortable and the wife loves it
Great tip on the seat. Didn’t know I needed it until I watched ur video then tried it n loved it. Specially when u talk general brand n r not really forcing people to get HD parts.
Really a no-brainer if your like touring cross-country. Did this all about twenty years ago. And I love those adjustable fairing wind deflectors. Holds back rain and wind, and turned open cools in summer.
Great video Matt- best, best, BEST upgrade is to get a touring bike. I absolutely love my streetglide (faring, bags, and 114 power). I literally parked my FXSB for 11 months after buying the FLHXS. The seat is a must as soon as Saddleman gets around to my order!
I agree with cruise control... I use it almost 24/7 driving my bike OR truck. I made a short video of using it on my '21 SGS. Being able to go miles and miles and rest both hands is game changer!
Spot on Matt. One thing i would add to the list is mid-frame air deflectors. They really help keep the heat off of your thighs. I have added most of your list to my 2016 Street Glide Special. I agree that rider back rest is the best accessory for comfort. I also added highway pegs, heated grips, lower fairings, and 7” wind splitter windshield. I love the stock cruise control. Would like to update stock suspension and seat when the budget allows. I am fine with my stock bars. Being 5’7” they work just fine. Keep up the good work!
Also- Full face Helmet! I've ridden across the USA 3X. First time was with 1/2 helmet, and it was very tough with wind, sun, and rain. The full face gave me great protection from the elements and less overall fatigue when riding long miles. Plus the benefit of helmet electronics (music, rider communication)
I have a Sundowner and I can’t find one for my 20 Sport Glide. Added a heel/toe on my bike, have a surgically repaired left leg. Have the HD Fused Lo bar and their perfect for me. Nice rise & pullback they put my hands in a perfect position 😎
Well Matt I'm 10 for 10 on your list but I've been across this country in October at least 8 times and I agree whole heartedly with this list. I've logged over 300,000 miles touring
I added a Mustang seat with a back rest to my 2020 Heritage 114 along with the HD Kahuna heated grips and I love it for touring now. The handlebar position is perfect, the cruise control awesome and although it’s the soft tail frame instead of the touring frame, it’s comfortable for me. The one thing you did not mention that’s big for me is rider floorboards instead of pegs. They are stock on the Heritage and all touring models and they make long rides much more comfortable than pegs. Plus the forward position is much more comfortable for me being 6 ft tall. I rode about 500 miles from West Virginia to my home in Atlanta a few weeks ago and was perfectly comfortable and not tired when I got home. Very good video. Thanks for your hard work on all your videos.
Good List, as a HOG Chapter Director and Cross Country rider (about 17k per year) I agree with your list - but I would offer this. For Seat comfort the Harley Air Zepplin Pad (not full seat) instantly added 100 miles of comfort to my rides...upping my riding days to 400 miles a day. For peace of mind "comfort" the Custom Dynamics Brake light flasher made me feel more comfortable in traffic - cars drop back further from your rear fender when they see the "police like" flash of your tail lights. The best windshield you can buy is the Long Ride Shields custom made re-curve windshield. It instantly made my wife happy and kept her from getting beat up by highway winds. (and it averages only about $100). Another GREAT feature is the Sirius XM Infortainment add in - yes for music - but MORE for the Weather Radar Option that helps you navigate around rain and storms.
Seen the video with thrashin. Always dig the content bro. I only wish I could come out to Cali and buy a Harley off you. Right now I drive a 22 Indian chief bobber
Great video. My two little additions would be hand-guards if you don’t have a big fairing or windscreen and heated gloves/jacket/pants. Riding out here in PA, the heated grips are nice for a cool day but in the winter half of your hands are frozen and the other half are sweaty.
Matt I agree with all the accessories you covered. On the heel- toe shifter, I purchased the Harley extensions was a game changer I can move my foot forward and backwards more.🤙🏼👍👍
Matt one thing you didn’t mention for the road glide comfort is fork fangs. Those made a dramatic difference in buffeting for me! Night and day better!
For Road Kings, the windshield is very good, but last year I added Hand Guards in front of the grips that really help with keeping the cold winter wind off of my hands. In fact, I leave them on all year round.
I run soft lowers on my road glide when it gets colder. Also on trips, for wind and rain. They are not super attractive but the ride is much more enjoyable. That’s the reason I haven’t put on the Santoro crash bars to match my bag guards, the soft lowers won’t fit on them… don’t want to give up that comfort for looks.
headed gloves and heated jacket liner works wonders. i travel with them all of the time i left oregon it was 39 degrees wet and cold, road to west texas and went through AZ where it was snowing. glad i had them when i left but didnt need them at all after i left oregon. but it is nice to know i had them there incase i needed them.
You nail it right off with the backrest. With my SGS it was the first thing I got. With 10k on my 2021, I’m still liking my stock seat, but my Highway pegs are a must. And cruise control for sure. And yes my 12” bars definitely made a difference. Still playing with my suspension. Dropped 2” on the rear with the stock shocks, and found a sweet spot on the adjustment. The only other thing I’m thinking of doing is front and back shocks. As for the heal shifter, I’m still old school. Keep the vids coming Matt. Always enjoy those left coast rides from here in Florida. Daytona Biketoberfest coming soon. Maybe the suspension then!
Love your videos. U do a great job especially the wknd runs. Just started catching up on your episodes. With an 01 ultra I have 8 of 10. Only missing heated grips and upgraded shocks. Keep up the great work
I could not agree more I do a lot of long-distance riding, the order of my upgrades when I purchased my 19 RGS. 1) Seat w/rider back rest I bought it before I left the dealership 2) Windshield the RGS shield is worthless 3) Suspension/Shocks went with 13" Legends Revo A 4) Handlebars and heated grips. I did eventually upgrade front suspension as well but that's more for handling than comfort. My 19 RGS came with the heel shifter, but I would have added it if it didn't.
ALL EXCELLENT IDEAS and needs for a GREAT ride...and COMFORT TOO GO WITH !!!! Love the front suspension and Back as well working TOGETHER too....VERY TRUE !!!!!! Comfort is like a purring motor---EVERYTHING is working in tangent together and ALL IN HARMONY !!!!
Too funny I hade you about the wind but I love the feeling of it passing on my chest and the sound of the wind in my helmet😂. Course, after an eight or ten hour day, I’m ready for shower and a bed. My biggest worry with the shields is being so relaxed I fall asleep😂
Good tips. My top 5 comfort features are: seat, wind protection, bars, cruise control, and the best bang for the buck. Ear plugs. I ride 80+ mph for hours in 20+ mph winds. It's crazy how less fatigued I am when I wear ear plugs.
Totally agree with the ear plugs!
Ditto absolutely the ear plugs. I also have found reducing your clothes from flapping in the wind lowers fatigue. I use Velcro straps on my lower legs
Good tip! I started wearing ear plugs in the 90's. I got a lot of odd looks and eye rolls back then but... No fatigue for me.
This dude and his videos influenced me to purchase my first Harley SG at 50.
Probably for 50 grand lol
Laidlaw’s is a much better dealer to buy from and work with than a lot of other guys in my opinion. Glad you’re out there- still plenty of riding for you (us)!!
I watched this videos on all the Softails. I love has honesty. Once I chose the Street Bob, I already knew I had to get a different seat. He said it sucked, and it sucked.
Awesome man! ✌️
Congrats and enjoy your new Harley!!!
Agree 100% with your number one, the rider back rest. I don’t usually have it in, but add it in seconds for trips. It allowed me at 64 to do a 6,325 mile trip and still feel great after the trip.
5:50 Thank you for showing the "resting on engine guard"! I have grip tape on mine just for that purpose! Just one more option for long rides!
I’m a huge fan of the heated grips. Here in Canada they help increase my riding days. Nothing like riding on a 30 degree morning with toasty hands. Helps as well when riding in a cold rain.
Holy Macaroni!! Dude ALMOST washes the front at 14:29. Cross wind dragons breath rite there. Safe travels in your journey gentleman. Great Channel Matt.
Love your list! Just added a rider backrest to my Road King last weekend. Here is my list of what’s on my RK-Hwy Pegs, cruise, heated seat and handgrips (north Midwest), and in winter I have the slip on lower wind deflectors over my crash bars.
Knock out wind and hold engine heat.
Still have factory suspension and bars, but I think everything else I added.
I’m 6’3 LePera daddy long legs seat made a great difference for me, don’t feel like I am humping the tank now. Just need a little airflow between the seat. On a 2019 Roadking
Copy that got that seat on cvo 2020 seated way back and ride 🥃
Top job Matt!
Thanks Matt. Thoroughly enjoyed your comments and reviews and looking at these for my FatBob 2022.
Thank you sir! I appreciate the contribution. Enjoy the Fat Bob!
Great tips, thanks, Matt. I love my backrest, highway pegs, and cruise control on my 2021 RG. Also, a gel pad seat cushion is awesome. Custom Dynamics led front and rear lights don’t necessarily add to physical riding comfort, however they do offer some additional peace of mind, in knowing other motorists can see you sooner.
I agree with the lights. I like to ride in the evenings when it's a little bit cooler out as a relief from the day's Heat. However in rural areas when it gets dark everything comes out of the ditches and seeing how our government hasn't figured out we should quit giving our money away and fix the damn potholes that's another reason to make sure the lighting is absolutely exceptional. I would really like to have a set of Denalis that are street legal because of all the things you can do with those on the can bus as far as adjustments in settings.
*5 **#Likes** 👍🏼 is the limit for me **#Eddie**.* 👍🏼👍🏼 🇬🇧 🫡🫥 👋🏼
I just saw the video from Thrashin Supply where the guy stopped by and bought his first new motorcycle. It was cool seeing you and your guy, along with the dudes from the 2 lane life and thrashin all together riding for a bit. Cool stuff dude.
Highway pegs. Klockwerks windshield. Legend suspension. Truthfully, I am content with my stock seat on my 2019 street glide special. I bought her new. She has a tad over 55000 miles and loving every mile
This was one amazing video I happen to be a rider of motorcycles for 55 years and all the things you mention are this that have been developed in the later parts of my touring journey, so I take pride in the fact that I lived without such accessaries that you have today but I am thankful that during my life time I can now reap the benefits of all the many wonderful experiences that I have experienced!! Thanks!!!
Couldn’t agree more. Now that I have heated grips and seat ,hard to ride without. Just enough to warm up in early morning. Keep up the great content.
After my last cross-country trip, I finally spent the ~$1k on an mccruise cruise control system from Australia for my 2018 Versys 1000. It shuts off if you hit the brake or pull in the clutch, and looks like it was a factory installed item. I absolutely love it, it completely changes the long distance experience. I spend enough time at highway speeds during my daily commute that it's also made it much easier.
Yes sir. Game changer out on the road.
The three comfort upgrades I made on my 2020 Street Bob was touring seat with backrest (Mustang), heated grips and leather covers for levers. Your video warned me about the Street Bob seat. Best looking, worse performing. Heated grips are a no brainer, have had them on my dual sports and I currently live at 7,000 feet. The leather on levers was for looks but add to comfort when riding at freezing temps or very long rides, didn't expect that. For body, heated pants and vest. Not a fan of wind screens, but i gave ridden in 17° F with no issues. To be fair I like cold weather. I installed heated grips on wife's Softail also along with a heated seat pad. She has electric gear also. We tour on the Softails with no issues. Neither of us like windshields, but with the right gear, comfortable seat and ergonomics, you can ride all day long. I believe the riding triangle is they most important, once you have that, all they other stuff falls into place. Being 5'1" with stubby legs, I can't reach forward controls, so a Softail with mids is perfect for me. To stretch/relax I just hang my feet over pegs. I can't flatfoot anyway, so feet hitting ground isn't an issue.
same brother
Great tips. As a Northeastern rider, Heated grips are number 1! I was occasionally riding in 20F / -6.66C with salt and slush on the road. I would constantly change my snowboarding gloves every 15 mins or so whenever I hit the highway. I would thaw my hands on the engine block for about 10 mins in Chinatown NYC to keep warm and it wasn’t enough. Sporty rider ✌️
Snow seal on boots and leather gloves us also great for winter riding. I gave heated grips and heated gear. In the winter in toss leather riding boots and gloves in oven at about 175°F. Rub in snow seal repeat then buff out. Water proofs and blocks wind. I do not used a fairing or windscreen, so wind proof and water proof gloves are a must. With them snow seal, it do not need bulky gloves, which adds to the comfort level. Snow seal is not expensive and a can should last 3 or so years.
@@michaelconran5252 great tip, I’ll definitely try this out! I hate bulky gloves too, kills the throttle response and front brake pressure. I use wool socks and double layer for the boots and have been ok, thanks to Rokker for a premium boot. I don’t use a windscreen or shield either. Safe rides friend
Fully agree Matt, I got them all installed and they are all worth it. Heated seats really depend if you ride usually on a cold weather …whether heated grips can make it even in warm places because sometimes it is cold enough for your hands and it may be even dangerous (eg morning commute to work), heated seats are less mandatory unless you use the bike frequently on cold places.
I’ve been riding Harley CVO road glides for over 10 years and having logged over 100,000 miles on them. I would agree with your list with one exception. I would eliminate the heel shifter and add the new Harley hammock heated/cooling seat. In hot and cold weather it is a game changer. It would definitely make my top three!
cooling? so in hot weather it could remain on lower temp? great
I have a corbin heated seat on my kawasaki Vulcan, it's a must have for cold weather riding, a bit pricey at $907 plus tax and shipping but worth every penny 😀
Matt I finally pulled the trigger 2 weeks ago and purchased a 22 cvo blue steel road glide. Upgraded from LRS. All thanks to your influence and inspiration
Right on! Congrats. That’s a beautiful bike. My personal favorite CVO this year.
Matt, I Love my Wilbur’s self leveling front & rear suspension system; complete game changer from my stock pitiful suspension on my 21 CVO RG. Best investment talk about customer service, I made an appointment, road into the U.S based location in Jersey (EPM Performance Imports), as I arrived, the gates rolled up and the Mechanic (Mike) immediately worked on my ride and I was out the door a few hours later. My back and kidneys love me for it.
Hi Matt. OMG, heated grips saved the day on my ride to Alaska and back to Michigan. Woke up one morning in B.C. and the temp was 38 degrees, wind howling from the west and raining. The good news was that I was by that time heading east. Also was wearing ski gloves, but not very waterproof at 60/70 mph. GREAT RIDE !!! Also, this was in July.
Great comment! Thanks! Heated grips have saved me multiple times!
Yeah the back rest is a game changer. Never thought I would say that. Lol.
Matt, you sure nailed it with this video, and your videos are number ONE. keep them coming, I just picked up a used 2021 CVO Limited, WOW what a bike. I am a old fart at 69 and have been riding for a lot of years. THANKS for your videos.
Excellent video. I have 8 out of the 10 on my 2016 Triglide which has 120,000 miles. I don’t have the custom seat or the after market suspension. On my last trip from Nevada to Texas and back the air suspension on my Triglide left a lot to be desired. Thanks again.
Thanks for the comment. 8/10 sounds like a comfortable ride. 👍🏼
Windshield or fairing are my number 1 necessity for my bikes. I love my new st and with the tall shield it works excellent.
Agree with all your suggestions and I have them all except heated grips. I went with heated gloves instead but the grips would really be nice if I could find a great style. I have the heated seat and my wife really loves that ,plus I have a heated backrest for the tour pack. She likes that more than the heated seat! But the one thing I love most is the rider backrest. That is a must. I've had the same one on my last three bikes. I just remove it when I sell or trade. I will never have a touring bike without one. I've done 3 coast to coast rides and countless halfway rides since I live in DC and I'm from Texas I make that trek 2 -3 times a year. One of the newer items I have is the modular helment that flips fully rearward. I have the Shark and my wife has the LS2. Both work great and give you a lot of options.
Thank you Matt. I think this is an excellent video for someone like me who is dreaming about one day upgrading to a Touring Harley-Davidson.
I agree with everything you said in the video. Thanks again.
Heated jacket liners are a must have for cold weather riding too
Matt Great video. Full face quality helmet makes a huge difference. I get its not actually a bike accessory. But will help in fatigue even with a fairing..
Thx again for the video..
Agreed! A quality full face or modular is a must! 👍
Cosign on the full face helmet. I used to think Harley riders looked dumb with them but now I know it's a must.
Another comfort option that is really handy is wireless intercom!! It makes long trips so much more enjoyable and now that mesh has become more of a thing, you can talk with a group of people that your riding with. One thing I didn’t even think about when I got mine was the Saftey aspect of them. You can stay focused on the road and warn other riders of any dangers you have encountered.
I just finished a 2300 mile 3 state ride, and Im a big believer of Highway pegs! I can’t ride a bike without em. As well as a large Fairing. I swear by em. Thanks Matt, Good Video.
This guy is right on about the handlebar set up!! I did a 3000 mile trip I'll trip and my handlebars were the stock bars and I'm 6' 1. My shoulder and neck are still killing me from that ride. Change your seat and handle bars and you can handle anything!
Definitely get your most comfort out of a quality seat. Everyone’s backside likes something different so there is no best seat for all out there. Just the best one for you. Fairing and cruise are definitely a plus especially cruise. The right set of bars after you find that perfect seat for you is one of the best also. This was great information as always Matt. 👍
Harleys cost well over $30,000, you would think for that ridiculous price, they would have the highest quality seat and suspension available "/
@@cancelchannel3394 hey buddy. Why don’t you know what you’re talking about before you spout off. Harley, like any other manufacturer has motorcycles priced from under 10k to over 40k. The same as Honda does. Guess what. You don’t get a premium suspension or premium seat on a Goldwing either. The fact is that motorcycles are set up from the factory to accommodate a wide range of rider height, leg length so they can market those bikes to a wide range of customers. I have a Harley touring bike and brand new it wasn’t 20k so go chew a nice big pack of shit the fuck up.
Looks like I’m buying cruise control today, as usual thank you for a wonderful video
Keep up awesome content. Thank you so much for taking time out of your hectic schedule and sign a shirt for me when my brother went out to California and stopped by shop.
Have a 2020 Road King, and I love cruise control!!.. Love the Hill-hold feature too!.. and even though i can remove the windshield easily, I've never ridden anywhere without it!... because i know that being pummeled with the elements plus the pulling effect from hanging on takes it's toll bigtime!
Thanks for the list on Accessories and mods for touring. I have a 2015 Ultra Limited and will always have a Ultra Limited as long as I ride. Bought mine used in 2017 as a two year old bike having 6700 miles on its already. I logged 10,000 K in the first nine months of ownership. I love my limited. I have made some improvements such as Back rest, highway pegs, Klock Works windshield, Ram mount for the phone, Headers and pipes and K&N Filter, ETC... Use the radio all the time. I live on my bike. Thanks for the content. Always checkout your content on the channel. Safe riding!!
Matt,
Great subject matter. I have a lot of what you mentioned but what I find that I do now, with the help of the GoPros, I observe what people wear.
Now we all know how nice it is to have the wind blowing through your hair, but the styles of helmets. Oh boy, pandora's box.
Boots, big heavy or the newer flat sole ones with more comfort and easier to shift.
Rain gear, leather; chaps, jacket, gloves.
Well, that can keep you going for a while.
See ya on the road.
Yea maybe I need to do a video on riding gear. What do you think?
@@MattLaidlaw
I think it would be great. I like how ypu centered this video on touring. Riding a couple of hundred miles is different than riding a couple of thousand. People may not get the connection.
LOL, how many people think there is a gas station every 50 miles!
There are some long, deserted roads when going east to west, north to south. And hit the right or maybe wrong time of year..it can be HOT.
But keep those wheels turning.
Heated grips almost nobody has them. First time I heard about them it was always the first thing I added to my tour bikes! I agree with all but one of your list cept for that evil back support! LOL
But hey, it's all about perception. I tried one out for almost 4 months and just said to myself, the experience was miserable, and it was time to put em on Ebay. The rest of your list is spot on! If you ride long rides cruise control is king!
Matt as always you give out some of the best information when it comes to bikes and riding! I appreciate it very much as everyone else does! Keep the ugly side up!
Agree with all, I always add floorboard extensions. Seems to eliminate the bowlegged feel and to me adds a lot of comfort
When I first looked at those At my dealer, I was very skeptical as to whether those things would work for anything at all? But I finally gave in and bought some off of eBay out of sheer curiosity and what an amazing difference push my boards out an inch and a quarter from stock. Love them.
Definitely agree with that list. I’ve got a few of those added to my Road Glide Limited.
A couple others I’d add to the list: a drink holder and additional passenger pegs.
For long hauls, having a ready ability to grab a water bottle to hydrate regularly makes a big difference, especially on hot days. I’ve ridden coast-to-coast on my Road Glide (even stopped in at your store) and having the ability to hydrate on-the-go allows me to stretch my stops to the limit of my tank that much easier.
And for passenger pegs, I added the Kuryakyn adjustable passenger pegs. My wife loves having the option to shift her feet between the passenger floorboards, my lap, and those pegs. And we all know the adage: Happy wife, happy life. 😄
I was laughing when I watched this. Everything you mentioned was basically Ultra Limited. My wife and I bought ours a few years ago. Every time we get home from a trip we add something to the bike or our riding gear. This time it was a windsplitter windshield and rain booties. From the knee down is spot on in the rain. I could go on and on but you pretty much covered it. LOL. Thanks for the great video.
Love your videos Matt, took my license this summer and started out on a 21’ Street Glide Special straight off the bat as your videos has been so inspiring and I love the aesthetics of it.
Most of the things you’ve listed (except the things that makes the bike look clumsy, lol) I have added to the bike from the get go.
Ride safe from Sweden!
Yes I added a Corbin seat to my sg st set of hiway pegs a taller windshield a set of airshocks and a rockford stage 2 sound system, all these help with long distance rides and make eating up miles a lot more fun .
The lower leg fairings also protect you from the rain. I live in South Texas and it gets very hot down here, but I love having the lower leg fairings. Believe it or not, but the heated grips helps down here during our “winter” months. We get into the 40s, sometimes the 30s. The heated grips really help.
I’ve had two ultra’s and a 2014 limited. Another must have for touring, windshield pouches
Great video Matt. Just took my CVO Street Glide down to Key West from Miami and realized I need a taller windshield over the stock one.
I have rode three hard butt rides around Iowa 1300 to 1400 miles in 23 hours non stop except for fuel . Your ideas are all great but the number 11 would definitely for me was the addition of a drink holder ! Usually on trips I like to do 450 miles a day . Ride safe and on long haul rides I recommend stopping every 150 miles at lest for about 15 minutes . Kick Stands Up !!!
You are 100% correct about your number one choice for long riding comfort. Rider backrest is just unparalleled
Matt another great video that’s very important for a great ride. I have seen it before and the points you recommend are the best and I agree with all of them. Keep riding and giving us some great videos.
Thanks for the comment. Glad I could help 👍🏼
Old school rider who ten years ago at 50,went from rigid frames to a Road King. King has a Hoppe fairing,hard bags and 14 inch ape hangers from when I bought it. Going back to my chopper days,I made my own jockey shift set up that works like a dream,and my own ‘dump style’ drag pipes with homemade baffles. Made my own sissy bar and padded backrest also. As far as highway pegs go,I just rest my feet on top of the crash bars. At 60,I’m building a rigid Panhead that I’ll likely ride more than the bagger when it’s done.
Lower fairings are essential to me. Reason is that without them, the wind pushed out my thighs, putting stress on my hips. Lowers solves that problem.
Yep that about covers them. Learned the hard way myself. Good suspension, cruise control, foot pegs and seat are a must for long hauls. I have two different wind screens and two different seats for types of riding I would be doing for my SGS. I have the nylon slip on lowers covers that slide on the engine guards for cold and wet riding conditions (worth getting). When it comes to long haul, comfort is king, looks come in second. The HD Limited touring motorcycles are the most comfortable than any other manufacture for long hauls.
Totally agree with you about #1. First thing I did with my '17 RGU. Then highway pegs, a heel shifter and thicker, heated grips. Really love this bike. 2nd trip to Sturgis from Indio, CA in 10 days. Ride safe...
I appreciate the comment from a confirmed road warrior. Thank you for the input.
here in Rotterdam, Netherlands, heated grips is a must to have if you ride the whole year. I can't live without them!!! Was waiting for it the whole video :o
Thanks for the video, I appreciate hand gaurds to protect from road debris and rocks. Helps in the cold doesn't seem to hinder in the heat. IL
That’s a good one too. 👍🏼 Thanks for the comment.
🛑🛑 Great List Matt👍!!
I have every item that you listed, and I think your assessment is “spot on”.
I would also like to add 3 more items to the list….
• Heated Seat.
• Aftermarket Headpipe.
• Aftemarket or Rockford Fosgate Stereo system with Satellite Roadio Antenna.
A Heat Seat goes (excuses the pun) hand in hand with Heated Grips. When riding on a dew, cold, or raining situation these 2 items coupled together are AWESOME!!
Aftermarket Headpipe, has made a difference for my wife when riding 2 up. Removing the heat from the Catalytic Converter being removed under her right foot, has made our riding much easier. She is no longer complaining about her right foot being “on fire” 🔥.
I upgraded my CVO Ultra with a Satellite Antenna as well as the “latest and greatest” Rockford Fosgate Sound System. Being able to take your favorite music with you, regardless of location and being able to hear it at any speed is “priceless”.
Take Care My Friend…Keep Up With The Great Vids. 😀👍
Great comment. Thank you. The head pipe giving you a big heat reduction is an interesting one. I know some people experience that which is great. A lot of times the aftermarket stuff creates more heat though what pipe did you use? Stereo upgrade is always good. 🤙🏼🤙🏼
@@MattLaidlaw
Matt…I used S&S Power Tuned Duals Header (with the hidden crossover) with Rinehart 4” Mufflers.
I did the Stage 4 upgrade, installed the new exhaust, then ran the bike for a few thousand miles and then did a Tune.
The new header pipe really changed how hot the bike felt while riding with the Catalytic Converter Removed. My wife used to spray Hair Curling Spray (it was to not allow your hair to burn when it was curled) on her foot prior when riding on long trips, before the pipe was replaced. It was hot 🥵
I really like your Channel. You always do a great presentation, as well as the photography is always first class.
Keep Up The Good Work😀👍.
I'm a big fan of Corbin seats and one of the first things I change is the seat on my bikes.
I run up and down the east coast (Florida to mass) a couple of times a year and my ultra is it. Been doing it for 13 years and always do it on a rgu. I keep an oem rg seat and quick release tourpak for in town and convert it with tourpak, riders backrest, oem seat, and cb for the road. 12 inch apes and highway pegs are a must.
Lucky Lep's Cycles
I really like the fact that you typically showcase Arizona desert and mountains in your rides and videos.... Now you know why I live here.
Good video Matt, like the idea of lists. With summer here and the high temperatures, how about a list of top 10 accessories, gear and mods for keeping cool in the summer heat?
Suspension Technologies shocks work great for my 07 CVO Ultra.
I have Progressive Monotubes in the forks. My wife and I have ridden more than 80k miles on this setup, fully loaded for long three week trips.
The heated grips are awesome! We have ridden through massive rainstorms and as long as we continued to move, managed to stay mostly dry using heavy leathers.
I rode my bike to work year round, temps down to freezing weather using heated gear and layers.
My bike now has 92k mikes on it and going strong!
I put the extended footboards on a 2021 FLTRK as well as the heated/cooled hammock seat.
Really like this kind of video. Helps a lot of riders figure out what they are looking for. Some are not willing to talk about the down falls of motorcycles, this applies to all brands. Thanks
I used to poo-poo the rider backrest until I tried one (I have the adjustable one on my Road King Special). No doubt, it’s exponentially more comfortable and has dramatically increased the amount of time I can comfortably ride. I’m 50 years old and don’t yet think of myself as a “geezer” but honestly, the rider backrest just works.
Everything you mentioned regarding the accessories to make the long distance riding comfortable and more enjoyable is spot on!!! Thank you
Yes, yes, yes. Truly, when you buy the bike, it is a blank canvas, and you must make it your own. Can't forget passenger comfort too. When I see new bikes, I think "Man, a lot of work ahead to get that one to fit". It never ends!
Go on 5k trips out west every other year on my Ultra Limited and the best accessory I have purchased BY FAR is the Air Hawk for the seat! Hands down it adds about 30-40% to your distance and that's a lot when you are talking about 600+ miles a day going out and coming back. And Amen on the cruise control...
My 2020 Roadglide limited is fitted with KST custom 14” spearheads, HD Road zeppelin seat, RWD rear shocks, Legend front suspension, adjustable rider backrest. The thing is like riding a couch on long hauls.
My wife and I looked hard at the Road Zeppelin seat, never did like the look of it on the bike but with my butt on it, I can’t see what it looks like on the bike anyway 🤣 it’s just comfortable and the wife loves it
Great tip on the seat. Didn’t know I needed it until I watched ur video then tried it n loved it. Specially when u talk general brand n r not really forcing people to get HD parts.
Really a no-brainer if your like touring cross-country. Did this all about twenty years ago. And I love those adjustable fairing wind deflectors. Holds back rain and wind, and turned open cools in summer.
Great video Matt- best, best, BEST upgrade is to get a touring bike. I absolutely love my streetglide (faring, bags, and 114 power). I literally parked my FXSB for 11 months after buying the FLHXS.
The seat is a must as soon as Saddleman gets around to my order!
As they say: once you go bagger you never go back. Haha. Be sure to give the breakout some love once in a while.
I agree with cruise control... I use it almost 24/7 driving my bike OR truck. I made a short video of using it on my '21 SGS. Being able to go miles and miles and rest both hands is game changer!
Spot on Matt. One thing i would add to the list is mid-frame air deflectors. They really help keep the heat off of your thighs. I have added most of your list to my 2016 Street Glide Special. I agree that rider back rest is the best accessory for comfort. I also added highway pegs, heated grips, lower fairings, and 7” wind splitter windshield. I love the stock cruise control. Would like to update stock suspension and seat when the budget allows. I am fine with my stock bars. Being 5’7” they work just fine. Keep up the good work!
Also- Full face Helmet! I've ridden across the USA 3X. First time was with 1/2 helmet, and it was very tough with wind, sun, and rain. The full face gave me great protection from the elements and less overall fatigue when riding long miles. Plus the benefit of helmet electronics (music, rider communication)
I have a Sundowner and I can’t find one for my 20 Sport Glide. Added a heel/toe on my bike, have a surgically repaired left leg. Have the HD Fused Lo bar and their perfect for me. Nice rise & pullback they put my hands in a perfect position 😎
Matt is absolutely spot on with those 10 Touring-Comfort Accessories .
Well Matt I'm 10 for 10 on your list but I've been across this country in October at least 8 times and I agree whole heartedly with this list. I've logged over 300,000 miles touring
I added a Mustang seat with a back rest to my 2020 Heritage 114 along with the HD Kahuna heated grips and I love it for touring now. The handlebar position is perfect, the cruise control awesome and although it’s the soft tail frame instead of the touring frame, it’s comfortable for me. The one thing you did not mention that’s big for me is rider floorboards instead of pegs. They are stock on the Heritage and all touring models and they make long rides much more comfortable than pegs. Plus the forward position is much more comfortable for me being 6 ft tall. I rode about 500 miles from West Virginia to my home in Atlanta a few weeks ago and was perfectly comfortable and not tired when I got home. Very good video. Thanks for your hard work on all your videos.
Matt, you are spot on with your advice. Thanks!
Good List, as a HOG Chapter Director and Cross Country rider (about 17k per year) I agree with your list - but I would offer this. For Seat comfort the Harley Air Zepplin Pad (not full seat) instantly added 100 miles of comfort to my rides...upping my riding days to 400 miles a day. For peace of mind "comfort" the Custom Dynamics Brake light flasher made me feel more comfortable in traffic - cars drop back further from your rear fender when they see the "police like" flash of your tail lights. The best windshield you can buy is the Long Ride Shields custom made re-curve windshield. It instantly made my wife happy and kept her from getting beat up by highway winds. (and it averages only about $100). Another GREAT feature is the Sirius XM Infortainment add in - yes for music - but MORE for the Weather Radar Option that helps you navigate around rain and storms.
Seen the video with thrashin. Always dig the content bro. I only wish I could come out to Cali and buy a Harley off you. Right now I drive a 22 Indian chief bobber
Great video. My two little additions would be hand-guards if you don’t have a big fairing or windscreen and heated gloves/jacket/pants. Riding out here in PA, the heated grips are nice for a cool day but in the winter half of your hands are frozen and the other half are sweaty.
Matt I agree with all the accessories you covered. On the heel- toe shifter, I purchased the Harley extensions was a game changer I can move my foot forward and backwards more.🤙🏼👍👍
It's a good list Matt. Pretty much bang on the money 😎
Matt one thing you didn’t mention for the road glide comfort is fork fangs. Those made a dramatic difference in buffeting for me! Night and day better!
Thanks Matt! Getting my new to me (first real bike) 2000 heritage softail classic ready for summer!
For Road Kings, the windshield is very good, but last year I added Hand Guards in front of the grips that really help with keeping the cold winter wind off of my hands. In fact, I leave them on all year round.
Matt, every item on your "10 must have mods" is totally spot on! I can see myself putting several on my MC as soon as I get rolling! Doug🏍️🤓👍
Thank you! It’s good to see people agreeing with me. Get riding my friend. 🤙🏼
I run soft lowers on my road glide when it gets colder. Also on trips, for wind and rain. They are not super attractive but the ride is much more enjoyable. That’s the reason I haven’t put on the Santoro crash bars to match my bag guards, the soft lowers won’t fit on them… don’t want to give up that comfort for looks.
headed gloves and heated jacket liner works wonders. i travel with them all of the time i left oregon it was 39 degrees wet and cold, road to west texas and went through AZ where it was snowing. glad i had them when i left but didnt need them at all after i left oregon. but it is nice to know i had them there incase i needed them.
You nail it right off with the backrest. With my SGS it was the first thing I got. With 10k on my 2021, I’m still liking my stock seat, but my Highway pegs are a must. And cruise control for sure. And yes my 12” bars definitely made a difference. Still playing with my suspension. Dropped 2” on the rear with the stock shocks, and found a sweet spot on the adjustment. The only other thing I’m thinking of doing is front and back shocks. As for the heal shifter, I’m still old school. Keep the vids coming Matt. Always enjoy those left coast rides from here in Florida. Daytona Biketoberfest coming soon. Maybe the suspension then!
Love your videos. U do a great job especially the wknd runs. Just started catching up on your episodes. With an 01 ultra I have 8 of 10. Only missing heated grips and upgraded shocks. Keep up the great work
I could not agree more I do a lot of long-distance riding, the order of my upgrades when I purchased my 19 RGS. 1) Seat w/rider back rest I bought it before I left the dealership 2) Windshield the RGS shield is worthless 3) Suspension/Shocks went with 13" Legends Revo A 4) Handlebars and heated grips. I did eventually upgrade front suspension as well but that's more for handling than comfort. My 19 RGS came with the heel shifter, but I would have added it if it didn't.
ALL EXCELLENT IDEAS and needs for a GREAT ride...and COMFORT TOO GO WITH !!!! Love the front suspension and Back as well working TOGETHER too....VERY TRUE !!!!!! Comfort is like a purring motor---EVERYTHING is working in tangent together and ALL IN HARMONY !!!!
Well said. 👍🏼 thanks for the comment.
Great Tips ,I am going to try and get a new bike in the next six months . and I really liked all the Ideas you had . and I will remember them .
Too funny
I hade you about the wind but I love the feeling of it passing on my chest and the sound of the wind in my helmet😂. Course, after an eight or ten hour day, I’m ready for shower and a bed. My biggest worry with the shields is being so relaxed I fall asleep😂
2nd time watching this video, you have some great well explained ideas Matt, thanks again for your time.