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Honestly, I think it actually comes from Harley and the whole attitude that if you’re not riding a Harley you’re not riding a real bike. Inevitably that attitude has caused a lot of backlash. I’m originally from Melbourne and now live in Japan. Riding groups in Japan are fantastic. You will find everything from street glides, sports bikes, and even little 125cc dual sports all in the same group. Nobody gives a crap as long as you’re riding. Would be a rare thing to see that in Melbourne.
@@grimfandango6137 HaHa, yeah good on ya!👍 As long as you enjoy it. I just can’t get into cruisers of any kind. I maintain my friends bikes including Harleys so I ride them often but I just don’t like them. Not for me.
It ain’t what you got it’s the way you use it. If you buy anything because you are worried about what other people will think you are beyond help. If you think you can but something that will give you a personality that is just as sad.
I ride an ADV bike and have ridden it through 14 countries and almost every American state. I ride a lot of miles every year and really enjoy dirt and gravel roads. So, a cruiser isn't my style of bike. In all those miles, I have had a lot of conversations with Harley riders at gas stations and cafes and 99% of those interactions have been positive. People are just out enjoying their motorcycles in their own way. Whatever puts a smile on your face and gets you down the road is awesome as far as I'm concerned.
When you're sliding down the road on your bare knees and elbows, someone has to come along and scrape you (and what's left of you) off the tarmac. All this adds load to the health services and attracts attention from the wrong quarters. Ultimately, it is another excuse for the anti-motorcycle lobby to drive another nail in. I ride a Harley but see it as my responsibility to protect a hobby I have enjoyed for fifty years. I dress for the slide and not the ride.
"anti-motorcycle lobby" LOL Nothing worse than a sad little conformist such as yourself having a winge to people who don't care, tell your "issues" to your wife
"All this adds load to the health services and " Same as obesity, drug addicts, alcoholics add load to the same services. If people minded their own business the world would be a better place
@@shaynegriffin684 So, because drug addicts and fat people are overloading the health services, it's OK to not protect yourself from harm on a bike? When a self-inflicted skinned biker takes the place of an unavoidable emergency, it is very much my business to at least say something.
@@howardbull9001 people overdose, no one makes them, fat people in most cases eat too much and don't move enough - all self-inflicted. What I was getting at is people will do what they please, wear the gear or not, personally I care not either way it is their choice, just like it is yours to wear all the gear and good on you. If you are that skinned the fire hose works faster........ Talk a breath, relax.
I want to watch that episode, I’m sure it’s funny as hell. I love my Harley it’s fun and comfortable. The sport bikes look like they’re fun to ride too, I want to try one out.
As he said, to each his own. I have an '06 Deuce and a '15 Street Glide Special. I give the salute to everybody coming in the opposite direction on 2 or 3 wheels, regardless of who manufactured their bike. I would put way more faith and trust in any of these folks than someone in a car.
I own a Road King Classic. A 2023 Indian Pursuit Dark Horse Premium. A 2003 Victory V92C. Love them all. Don't see why people get so butthurt over what someone else rides
U.S. perpective: I have been riding motorcycles for over 40 years. Frankly I find most of the hostility runs from the Harley people towards other people. I can remember one time pulling over on a lonely highway in Northern California to help a couple out on a Harley. They were very appreciative of my help until another Harley rider showed up. Then as I was trying to repair the motorcycle they literally turned their backs on me and only spoke to the person on the Harley. I have also been asked by Harley riders when am I going to get a real motorcycle. This was not a once or twice event but something that happened regularly for about a decade and a half. My friends who ride Harley's and also have other brands don't seem to have the same issue they don't look down on other people. I would happily own a Harley if it did what I wanted it to and I could afford it, But I simply cannot afford PAN America. As for the aesthetic argument, Beauty is in the eye of the beer holder. Leather is great, But honestly I wear it more in the bedroom than I do on the bike. Give me an aerostitch suit any day. Not as sexy but WAY more comfortable and at least as protective.
I've owned three Sportsters, the best of which was an 883R that had a 1450 kit in it. I put a fork brace and steering stabilizer on it, and it transformed how the bike handled. It dyno'd at 108 hp and 104 ft-lbs of torque, so it was pretty fast for a Sportster. But like the previous two Sportsters, I sold it, I just never got the appeal of Harleys. I realized that if you could chrome it, or put eagles, flames, the middle finger, or leather fringe on it, someone would buy it. My overall opinion of Harleys is: "if Harley made an airplane, would YOU fly in it?!"
As others have commented, in the US it's typically the HD riders looking down their noses at everyone else. I don't care what you ride. The bike doesn't make the man (or woman). The rider makes the bike. A skilled rider can be smooth and quick on any bike. Two of the best HD riders I ever saw were always riding solo. Never met them in person, but we randomly happened to be on the same roads at the same time on numerous occasions. One was an older guy with a long white beard on a purple bagger. We chased each other down the same winding two lane road multiple times and occasionally would pass in opposite directions. Always gave each other a nod and wave of mutual respect. The other was a younger woman on a black Sportster. She always wore full black leathers (not cruiser style) and a black helmet. She was smooth and quick through the curves, riding with excellent technique at every turn. She was as good as anyone I've seen on the road. I don't care about exclusive groups, egos, loud pipes, being obnoxious (on any style bike). To me it's awesome to unexpectedly cross paths with skilled riders and enjoy a fun spirited ride together till your intended paths part ways. Then nod and wave looking forward to randomly meeting on the road somewhere again.
I've got a few mates that ride Harleys, but I ride a Suzuki, but a lot of people still mistake it for a Harley. I'm on a pension, so I'm far from flush with cash. Riding is one of the very few hobbies I can still do due to a back injury, and until I did myself a mischief, I was wanting either a Fat Boy, or a V-Rod. Now though, I can't justify that kind of expense, so after a lot of saving, and research I went with a Suzuki Boulevard C-109R. My mates on Harleys gave me shit for getting a "fake" Harley until they find out what it actually is. We still give each other shit, but there's always a mutual respect there too. When it comes to "big bad bikies", 99% of the Harley riders I've met are just down to earth guys, and girls, even the 1%ers. Sports bike riders on the other hand can be different story, but we won't go there. As comfortable as shorts and a t-shirt is in the Australian summer, I've lost too much skin over the years from coming off push bikes (a couple of time over 100kn/h) to want to risk losing more now I'm older. My summer gear is riding pants, a kevlar flanno, and a vest for a little extra thermal protection if I go for a slide. It's still comfortable, and cool enough when riding, stops me getting a lobster tan, and helps me keep as much skin as possible should I come off. I'm with you though regarding what people wear. It's their hide after all, and I'm not their mother.
As a guy who has been on two wheels since I was 5 years old. It's not all Harley riders, it's the snobby one's. In my time I've treated better by a Hells Angel's member than the police. I like all bikes but not all riders. I ridea 06 Goldwing my son's ride Triumph Rocket 3 and a 20th anniversary V Max . The snobby one's give your group a a bad name.
@@LJS01 nope ,I take people one at a time. I don't go through life looking for approval from anyone. BUT I ALSO DON'T RUN AROUND MOKING PEOPLE FOR WHAT THEY RIDE. I EITHER LIKE YOU OR I DONT.
I don't hate Harley's or the people that ride them .what's to hate? There's reckless riders on every road, on all makes of bikes. I'm not one of them. I love my S1000R, it's big and powerful, and I dont need to modify it for any reason as it suits my needs for now. I just turned 61 and plan to ride until I can't! No hate or jealousy from me. Yes, I wear protective jeans, a leather jacket, boots and gloves. But at my age, if I come off, I'm trying to reduce damage. Annie...✌🏽😎
Lol yep, goes to show that harley riders are just like Dennis in it's always sunny... thinks they're really cool but the rest of community is just laughing at them
I grew up in the Harley culture and it doesn't surprise me that they were saying envy and jealousy, but you are right no other riders are thinking that.
Here’s one you don’t hear as much since the Evolution motor was introduced in the early 80s. “How are a Harley Davidson motorcycle and a German Shepherd dog alike?” They both like to ride in the back of a pick-up truck!
Been riding since I was 6 but got my first Harley in 2020. I was immediately hooked! I love saying hi to other riders on the road but still makes me laugh that when on the streets, other riders sometimes avoid passing me or get side by side on intersections 😂😂 I have to agree, we are loud !!
I think #1 is probably correct. I’m a 61 y/o who just started riding. I always wanted a Harley and still do, but for my first bike I wanted something used and not break the bank. I had 0 riding experience with the 2 Day MSF course scheduled a few weeks from then when my son showed me a bike I absolutely fell in love with, a 2002 Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Classic. This 22 year old bike looked brand new and had 15k miles on it. The price was right so I asked my son to look it over, take it for a ride, and if it checks out to go ahead and buy it. He did, and brought it home to me where it sat, waiting for me to get my license. It was pure hell looking at it every day, weeks away from bringing able to ride it. I wound up passing the road test, I struggled with the slow figure 8, but somehow aced the test. I dropped the MSF bike twice during practice, and had zero confidence. I was afraid to get on that beast that was waiting for me. The drops were very humbling. No way would I have bought this bike, I would have started with something smaller and lighter. Anyway, I’ve since improved and would still like to get a Harley, but I love my Vulcan and for now, I’m a happy rider. I am neither jealous nor envious of Harley riders, but when I had a problem starting my bike, a 22 year old bike mind you, and posted it on FB, I hade one friend comment that he’s been riding Harley’s over 20 years and never heard of such a thing (a dead bike) which was a dig at my non Harley bike. He was a wise guy as a kid, and didn’t seem to grow up much, but maybe it’s not the Harley ppl don’t like, it could be the aholes that ride them. It’s not a knock on the bike, aholes ride all different bikes and drive different cars, but I know other Harley riders who are as good as gold. A brother and cousins for a few.
I ride whatever I like, don't care what someone else might think. My bikes currently are a Kawasaki Z1300 and a custom Harley with a S & S 124 engine and 300 mm rear tyre. Owned bikes ranging from Royal Enfield to Kawasaki 500 H1 in the past.
For me it's just that so many Harley riders act as if their shit doesn't stink, as well as acting like all other bikers are below them. I see it at bike events all the time, everyone else is mingling and talking bikes and the Harley riders all park their bikes together and spend the entire time talking amongst themselves. It's the Harley riders that ostracise themselves from the rest of the community, not the other way around. It has nothing to do with envy or jealousy on my part, I've never wanted to own a Harley, let alone to spend the money required to join that group.
Have you considered that they prefer it that way? I'm part of the local Harley riders in my home country and the fact is we just enjoy being together exclusively. At most meets we cut off into our own little spot. People are more than welcome to come over and talk to us, we just prefer having our own spot. If anything most of the trouble we've faced is from other bikers who ride sporty bikes coming over to flex their speed. My point: We're not always the bad guys.
@@paciiiimijak I have considered that you like it that way and I find it odd. Everyone else is hanging out with each other, sports bike riders, classic bike riders, retro bike riders, ADV riders, and off in their own little group it's the Harley guys. As I said, it's their choice to ostracise themselves from the rest of the community. No wonder people come to the conclusion that the Harley riders are full of themselves. Why should it be the other riders that come over to you to talk? You're the ones that are setting yourselves apart from the rest. I do agree with you on one point however, sports bike riders can be complete knobs.
@@Biggus63 I can't speak for Harley Riders everywhere, specifically for us, most of us have been friends from high-school age so there's history between us, and simply put we just enjoy each other's company. The Harley riders not from high-school just prefer to band together, we're most certainly not full of ourselves, if other riders are curious they come talk to us and they join in and we have a good time, if not we go about our day. It's like when you had cliques in schools, (popular kids, more studious kids, class clowns, ect.) everyone just fits into their own little group and it's no different for us.
@@Biggus63 You find it odd and that's your stance on it, I'm sure many other people find it odd. If we'd rather stick together frankly that's our business, if anyone's got issue then that's their cross to carry. I'm friends with many different bike riders, be it harleys, sports bikes whatever, but I feel more at home with Harley riders, there's a comradery between us that simply goes deeper than the bike community in general.
@@paciiiimijak Yep, if you guys want to hang around together and segregate yourself from the rest of the biking world that's your business and I won't be losing any sleep over it. Conversely I like all sorts of bikes and the idea of spending time with people who are only interested in Harleys seems rather limited and boring to me so I just leave the Harley riders alone since it's clear that's how they like it. There's a world of great bikes out there and fixating on only one brand isn't for me, especially when the only notable thing about that brand it the image, an image that doesn't appeal to me at all.
I like to do motorcycle polygamy - I have a Harley and a Kawasaki, one is my cocaine the other is my weed. I can appreciate just about anything with 2 wheels.
Good vid. Nice to see it from another perspective. Here in the states it may or may not be a little different but have heard all the same jokes you mentioned. I don't care what you ride as long as you are in the wind, Have a good time, and enjoy yourself doing what you love. Thanks for posting g and happy it came across my feed!
Oh, those sportbike heroes- I have seen so many of them doubling speed limits then run off the road, up an embankment or crashing off into the trees, doing uncontrolled wheelies in city traffic, slapping mirrors off people's cars, following stupid drivers to 'straighten them out,' and flipping off everyone not respecting their ownership of the road that my opinion of them is not that great. A lot of them just want to make money posting videos of their antics I guess. Every one has a GPS phone clipped to the bars and a gopro stick recording their heroic rides. Maybe they deserve a little road-hate, too.
I don’t ride a Harley but live up the street from a very public Hells Angels club house. I love the sound of a Harley in the morning 😂It gets the blood pumping 😄
yeah, the fact the opinion of others and your need to be complimented matter to you so much says everything really. I ride coz i love it, and couldn't give a shit what anyone else thinks of my ride or wants to talk to me
I don't laugh at Harley riders as I find the sport bike riders in their one piece suits more amusing and on my favourite back road over represented in crashes. Any weekend I ride I seem to always see at least one sport bike guy in a crash and they laugh at me on my "old man bike" a Goldwing.
As American and a rider for 55+ years my first Harley was in 1976 your points are fairly accurate for both sides of the pond. However, I think in Europe the general public and other riders who don't like Americans equate the Harley Davidsons to Americans. A little loud, a little heavy, too much money and pretty do things the way we like to do them.
As a brit whos been riding since 76 I can tell you that a high proportion of uk harley riders are knobheads who think because they own a harley they are something special. Don't think anyone makes an American connection much although Joe public love em, Its genuine bikers who dislike them. I have 3 bikes a bmw a 78 Z100 and an old Ironhead and have lived the lifestyle all my life. Started on hondas gravitated to old and new brit bikes and had Roadking and 5 sportsters, love em all but take people as I find them some good and some not so good and really who cares just keep on riding whatever
I love the way they look. Especially the whiskey fire road glide. Went to two Harley dealers and a $26,000 bike became a $35,000 bike. Without adding extras by me. And we have not even done tax tag and title or Maintenance program or wheel and tire program. I think this bike would’ve probably turned out to be more like the cost of a CVO. I own two bikes now. A 22 Kawasaki voyager and a 23 Indian FTR. I will probably wait until 25 to buy a new Indian pursuit. So if you can read between the lines, my problem is the dealerships. I want to buy something, but I don’t wanna feel like I’m getting ripped off at the same time.
There’s many many decent low mileage used bikes for private sale just go online and look. Then you’ll be cutting out the dealership part of the equation.
I have had my current road glide for 2 years and I have had so many compliments and thumbs up. No issues with the bike. It’s been so great that I don’t mind the internet haters.
A Sensei told me once the Black Belt brings out the real person. I think too this can apply to some of the Harley guys, or gals for that matter. Nice vid, thanks for sharing
Great video. Thanks for covering these talking points. As a new rider I'll only comment on what I observe. My area in life is human behaviour, so that will be the two cents I offer. I really don't care what kind of bike people have. I'm not very attached, _yet_, to the nuances of riding culture and the meaning that people associate with their bikes. But I've observed a clear distinction within the Harley subculture that demonstrates a propensity to project their attitudes towards other riders as evidenced in their behaviours. I don't care much about this; I don't care how big, scary or mean-looking someone portrays themselves to be, how many tats or even how expensive a Harley is, so when I observe these attitudes I understand that their projections are a source of the very negative responses they invite. That being said I enjoy that people are out there experiencing a unique aspect of life while being connected to communities. When I see a great bike, I naturally celebrate it and enjoy talking to the person about their bike and what it means to them. When I observe the Harley culture, as a new rider from the outside, I predominantly see men who are trying to express themselves or feel the need to prove _something_, which is totally fine because we do this in various ways, but I do think it is less about envy or jealousy. This kind of response seems more like a rebuttal to excuse why Harley riders exhibit attitudes and behaviours they're guilty of themselves. Example: "Oh he just @#$ jealous he doesn't have one" can be a clear statement that the Harley owner is putting a lot of attachment to the need to feel validated in a material object. I'm using a broad brush here, so I respect that not everyone, on either end of the spectrum, fits within this stereotype. I enjoy the experience of riding and seeing people participating in this riding ecosphere. For me, it's much less about brands and culture, and more about the person, our conversations and what I learn from stories that are important to them.
a lot of what you say is true, i think people miss the point of many of my video's maybe the humour is too subtle. I'm making fun of the whole situation ie sports bike vs HD for a variety of reasons including -- there is so much one sided hate toward HD's and often the haters have no idea what they are talking about, evidenced by what they say. (i find this very entertaining) ... and thanks for watching.
I own a Kawasaki, a Royal Enfield and a Harley Davidson. I do around 10000km per year on each of them. People definitely treat me differently when I'm on the Harley.
About number 2. Once I was fed up at work and I said something like “one of these days I’m gonna quit and join some outlaw MC and just ride”. The dude says: “You ain’t in one yet? You ride a Harley, don’t you?” That was hilarious 😂😂😂😂😂
Such a great channel. Sport and Harley rider. At 50 I've given up my sport bikes and love my road king. I find too many, not all, are just about the lifestyle. Not really about the bikes. Or at least they place too much emphasis on the life style. It comes across as silly sometimes. Some sport bike riders do this too but way worse in the Harley community because Harley encourages this. I also have a young personality. I enjoy modern music and fashion. I go to Harley events and they often feel like an old man convention. My music was 90s grunge. Why is every rally stuck in the 70s?
As a master HD tech, I enjoy your video. Made some great friends from working on them. Outlaws to lawyers. Rich to broke. There is something about it you can't explain.
I'm a motorcycle enthusiast! I like to ride motorcycles and ride all kinds, including cruisers, sports bikes, sports touring, and off-road. I also enjoy dual-sports and adventure touring. There is a road in Alaska that goes from Fairbanks to Prudhoe Bay - it's 500 miles long and primarily dirt and gravel. It's nickname is the Haul Road and adventure seeking motorcyclist come from all over the world to ride it. Well a group of Harley riders had their bikes shipped into Prudhoe Bay with the idea they would ride down the Haul Road. Now, this is a well known road among the motorcycling adventure touring community. And while it isnt' any hard core off-road ride, it isn't really something one would want to ride with a heavy cruiser unless you are a glutton for punishment. Well the upper part is pretty heavy gravel and within the first 20 miles a bunch of the Harley riders crashed. Now, this should have been expected and only riders with substantial off-road experience should have ever attempted it on a large heavy cruiser in the first place. Fact is that someone with substantial off-road experience would most likely choose a more appropriate bike as it would be much more enjoyable anyway. Needless to say their trip was a miserable failure. But they blamed it on the road conditions and were all up in arms and complaining that the road wasn't in better condition practically demanding that someone needed to get it fixed. Really!
Just found your channel and like it. My 110 CrossBones has only 22000ks and I’ve had it for 8 years, but I’m 60 and have been riding for nearly 45 years. I’ve done probably million of ks on bikes so in my 60’s a few less Ks is okay with me. Cheers mate. Liam.
Love the power ranger imagery at the end of the video! They do look like them😂. Love my Harley and would never go back to any other bike. Thanks for your humor in your videos.
I have been riding since '68. All the accidents I've had were self-induced. I would rather ride anything that runs over pushing a bike that doesn't. Two wheels and a motor, that is enough.
Enjoyed this one a lot Aymen ❤ totally agree, people with different needs riding bikes. Throwing my thoughts here....there's such a broad variety 'Harley owner/rider's ' we have the owners that love to 'tinker/build & modify' their bikes, (these are very talented people) there's owners that love to ride & keep them clean (tis us) ... then there's (I'm not sure what to call them) that just like to say they own one it's in the garage. There still a lot Harleys (including early models) with low Kms out there for sale. Dress code... you nailed it! Ride em don't hide em. 😁
I’ve been riding motorcycles since I was 12 years old. I started out with lawnmower-powered mini-bikes, quickly moved up to dirt bikes and then street bikes. I finally saved enough to buy a new Harley Davidson FXSTS back in 2002. After a few years, I stumbled upon an internet article stating how the timing chains in my “Twin Cam” engine would eventually eat through their tensioners, sending debris throughout the engine, rendering it utterly useless. The fix is to replace the timing chains with a gear drive setup, which costs upwards of $1000, and that’s if I do the work myself. At that time, my bike had about 20,000 miles on it, and that’s where the “danger zone” of timing chain failure begins. So, I basically forgot about that bike, and did the only sensible thing - I bought a Honda. That 2002 FXSTS still sits in my garage, and I put a small handful of miles on it every now and then, but at that rate, the odometer will never turn 21,000 miles in my lifetime. The worst part about the problem is that H-D won’t even acknowledge that there is indeed a problem, but if you try to use a bike with a “Twin Cam” engine for a trade in, the dealership will barely pay you scrap value for the bike. Screw Harley-Davidson, and screw V-twin engines in general. They’re an antique design that needs to be replaced and forgotten.
I Love Harleys, never owned one. Being a Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Owner is on my bucket list. I've ridden various bikes off & on for over 45 years. Life always seems to ...
Hi Aymen, Greetings from America! I recently received a custom order t-shirt I had made. Bordered by the iconic Bar & Shield, “YOU MEET THE NICEST PEOPLE ON A HARLEY-DAVIDSON”, a take off from the Honda ad blitz of years gone by. I’m looking forward to some conversations! Keep up the great video content. Thanks.
I have rode 90,000 miles on a GSX-R1000 AND 75,000 on a GSX-R750. I have had many bikes but never a HD, I feel i may end up on a HD someday so I don't hate them and my father has owned them my whole life, I just wish HD riders would move over and let me by, Its like passing a huge pickup going past just one of them. Simply move to the left in the lane and give me a wave, It wont hurt I promise. I'll be long gone in a second. Were not all here to parade, please let me have my fun too. The worst is coming up on a group of 4 or more, no way are they letting you pass without one of their egos flying. The Alpha in the group will have to race you as you try to get back in, its a given. Even on a Highway they will block traffic flow including holding up other bikes. I literally had a HD rider swerve at me as I make a pass, like a butt hurt dude in a minivan that guy. I don't understand it
Harley's look good, sound good, and have a certain road presence and, if it's possible for a great lump of metal to have, their own unmistakable charisma. I've been riding for 47 years, the last 33 of them on Harley's. Had the crotch-rockets in my younger years, and yes, they are heaps of fun and "dangerous". But as my employment requirements included a current, valid drivers licence (truckie), and the Japanese inline fours were much too easy to leave speed limits in their wake, it was time to grow up and slow down. Harley's are a different kind of fun, and can still easily break speed limits, but you don't really feel the need to, because you can still have shit tons of fun at lower speeds.
My big issue with Harleys is the quality of service at the dealership level and the cost of their bikes. I like Harleys but I live in northern Canada and I'm not willing to pay that kind of money for a bike I can only ride 2 months of the year.
Its my first year riding, bought a Harley cause its a family thing for generations. Got my license with a MT-08 from the school and I must say, both has its things to love. In a land full of speeding cameras I am glad to drive the same speed as GP-Bikes but much more comfortable. I am not as nimble in corners yet cause it is harder than with the Yamaha (wich rides as a bicycle) but give me a few years and I will master it :)
100 plus years and they still haven't figured out how to make anything else other than a unreliable under powered over heating big v twin. And then the idiots that ride em, put loud pipes on them that will wake dead. You say jealous that's funny.
You don't get it. That's fine. Personally, I don't look down on people who don't ride a Harley. I don't care what you ride. Just ride. Why the hate? The engines are purposely antiquated because that is the only way to get the signature Harley sound. An air-cooled 45° v-twin with push rods. We definitely don't buy them for performance and speed. We buy and ride them purely for love. I can have the worst day of my life, and after five minutes on my bike, everything is right in my world. It's funny that Harleys are the most copied cruisers in the world, yet so many people claim to hate them. To me, a Harley has a soul, where other bikes are just bikes. I don't dislike other bikes. I just prefer my Harley. Keep the wheels down.
I've owned a harley and a naked bike. I think Harley are harder to ride due to the weight, lack of lean angle (compared to a sport bike) and even shifting gears requires more effort. I feel alot of the hate comes from people who are afraid of such a bike big that requires "work" in a sense to learn how to ride something that doesn't weigh as much as a feather. Assuming you're not on a track day... then riding sport bikes are just so much easier and you have more room for error due to the light nimble body of a sport. However.. as much as I love my naked yamaha I still love Harley's and don't think anything beats cruising on a beautiful day on a harley with forward controls. Kicking back and relaxing is the best part of riding and nothing beats a harley ( cruiser )
I got a 2000 road king ive never ridden anything like it , its like an old brit bike on steroids, plenty fast enough for uk b roads i absolutely love it ❤
I ride a Buell Tuber in Midwest America, and somehow it runs just fine without open pipes. Doesn’t make sparks going round mild bends either - am I doing something wrong?
I'm a brit biker who has ridden a range of Japanese sports-tourers, dirt bikes, and currently has a 2002 Fatboy. During the 80s and 90s, the Brit biker scene was massively tribalised between sports bikes and, well, everyone else. If you didn't have the latest and greatest Firebalde, ZX6, Gixxer 750 et al, you were nothing. The only other prevalent tribe was the Back Street Heroes custom scene. These 2 just didn't get each other. It's like bacon and coffee at breakfast. I don't bemoan the lack of bacon saltiness in my coffee, nor the absence of a caffeine kick from my bacon. But the sportsbike crowd mocked cruisers for weight, power, cornering prowess, etc. The cruisers mocked sportsbikes for the power-ranger look, pretence that they can feel the 2bhp extra top end from the slip-on can or the 2g weight saving from billet footrests. Thing is, despite both being motorcycles, they are not competing on the same vectors. It'd be ridiculous to argue over whether bacon or coffee was the better breakfast item and mock people who picked the other. But biker tribalism does this. And now we have the Adv crowd making the case for pancakes (or cornflakes, or some other metaphor)
I really don't give a shit what people think. I have ridden all types of motorcycles since 1971 and still riding a 2017 ZX14R and 2021 Street Glide Special. My bikes do the speed limit in the straights and double them in the curves. This hobby isn't like most others because the folks that ride think respect means something and your lack of it may bring unwanted attention to you. Polish, ride, enjoy and danger are key words but whatever you do or how or what you ride Respect each other.
Bought my first Harley in the mid 80s, owned most other japanese brands as well. Don't care what people say, never have. I'm in it for me no one else. I have watched the growth of the community from a time when almost no one rode them. It's great to see this type of content and community involvement
I'd like to amend "Loud pipes save lives", to "Loud bikes save lives". It's why my E-cruiser, being silent, has a 420-watt sound system on it. Good video, mate.
Respectfully - neither of those statements are true. Most people have their windows and stereos up in nearly sound-proofed cars. By the time they hear you - you are past them since the noise comes out the ass-end of the bike (or speakers aimed backwards toward the rider). At best you're just annoying people at red lights.
At best, I'm enjoying my music, and, as an Automotive Engineer, I'm well aware that they probably can't hear it, mate- I just do my own thing, as everyone should.
In the USA 🇺🇸 the out law of motorcycle clubs are Harleys. The guys I worked with that were out law typs loved Harleys. Out here, your choice of bike can make a big difference in the caliber of people your associating with. Most people just don't want to deal with ridiculousness.
Great video. I've been riding dirtbikes and streetbikes for years when I was young. I got married and had kids, so I didn't have a bike for a long time. So after my divorce, I got myself an HD. My new wife loves it, and everyone we meet on rides are so nice. Doesn't matter what the ride. And I've riden all over the U.S. Everybody ride safe.
Hello just subbed, I look at other riders you do you I do me no judgement but there is always someone that think for you lol, I have ridden all kinds of bikes but now choose my Harley as my go to bike its comfortable for the riding I do , now when I feel the need I hop on my sporty that has many go fast parts on it , but most miles get put on my 1988 FLHS that is restored but stroked to an 89cu, love the bike it suits me well , I wish people would just ride more bikes and not judge what you ride just ride, be safe and ride free
And let’s not forget that most Harley Riders hate certain people that ride certain bikes… Perfect example: people who ride the new Nightster RH975. I ride a 2022 Nightster RH975 but I have also owned a 2021 Low Rider S and a 2018 Heritage Classic. While I liked them both, the Nightster just fits ME best. But, to many, “it’s not a real Harley”. 🤦♂️🤦♂️🤦♂️
My biggest beef is none of you nod back to me on my sports bike! Other than that, there's good and bad in all kinds of riders. I don't "hate" Harley riders, but I don't necessarily 'get' what the big deal is with riding bikes that pretty much all look the same, wearing branded clothes (so you all look the same) and then trying to pretend you're all tough and anti establishment when in your little clubs you have so many rules!
I’m glad that HDs aren’t universally loved. It keeps the second hand market more reasonable, and makes seeing (and hearing) them on the road more special. The bikes are glorious, and check off visual and auditory boxes uniquely their own. Their riders run the whole gamut, just as cage drivers do. Stereotypes do exist, and for a reason, just as they do for cars and trucks. But quite often when you look past the public personas they’re projecting, they’re still good people, as most of us are. Ride your ride, and ignore the social drama.
I love how you said the Sports guy might be scared of the power and speed of his bike. I say it's because there's NO WAY thats ever happening for Harley riders.
ridding is always been about peace of mind, fun and therapy, not to mention the common bond among men. I personally found when I use it for commuting to work, it diminishes the enjoyment
What I have found quite heartening in the recent decade or so in the UK is the decline in tribalism in the Brit bike press. These days, articles reviewing cruiser type bikes no longer focus on how "odd" they are or how "acclimatisation" is needed - stemming from an assumption that all bikers congregated solely around sportsbikes [which was common, but not universal]. A recent review of the latest Street Glide [Bike magazine] stood out quite a lot because the author dropped in quite a lot of those old tropes. It made the article read as very dated (imo). Part of me thinks - being a biker in the very crowded south - that this is because the road riding experience is no longer defined by what type of bike you ride in the UK. In the south especially, the roads a crammed at all times of day and night, there are static and average speed cameras everywhere, not to mention endless patches of 40 and 50 limits. The other day on a ride from Basingstoke thru Alton and onto Loomies cafe, I caught a small group of other bikers - a couple of adv [Africa Twin and a GS], an R7, and a Kwak H2 [the 750cc 2-stroke] - who was fastest down this twisty route?.......None of us. The road is stifled by 40 and 50 limits, and we're all behind a queue of 7+ cars and no options to make safe overtakes for miles. Every time it straightens out so you can see far enough for an overtake, you can't; even if you ignore the speed limit, because there are 9 cars coming the other way. So our speed is dictated by the slowest car up ahead. Around the 2000s, the performance competition vector with bikes started getting a bit 'Emperors New Clothes'. Bragging rights over stats became just pub talk because you couldn't responsibly use the performance on the road and very few people actually did that many track days. 2.5 decades later and the secret is out that big power is just 'coz you want it, you'll never use it; so you might as well choose your ride by favoured style/sitting position/colour as much as stats sheet
Good video, thanks. By God I hate HD's, all that chrome, bulk, agricultural mechanics and feet forward shit, but each to their own. Keep the rubber side down. Paul in the UK
Harley Davidson is second to no company in branding and marketing. Their mantra is and always has been to make middle-aged men feel tough which is pure genius.They are very similar to the company. Interstate battery who do not manufacture batteries they only market Johnson controls and Enersys batteries that sport their brand.This is why it's hard to take Harley Davidson seriously. I've never fell for marketing, I'm a Lone Wolf, I buy what I want to buy and ride what I want to ride because it's what I want, not what some marketing campaign tells me. Even if Harley's were quality motorcycles, I would not buy one just because of the obnoxious marketing aspect. Tesla is the same. They started as a technology company, not a car manufacturer, that is why the fit and finish are lacking. As a result, companies and people become what they focus on.
I have been riding motorcycles of all types and vintages for over 30 years. I could have any bike I wanted with the exception of a few crazy boutique bikes. I ride a 30 year old Harley. Most of my friends ride bikes that old or older, but none of them are metric. Most metric bikes lack the aftermarket and loyalty to hang around that long. Harley Davidson has done well to keep the old v twin design around this long. Evidently it works because they are still around.
A confident person doesn't really care what other people ride or what other people think and nor will they pass ignorant judgement on them. Choice of motorcycle doesn't dictate what sort of person you are. We are all different thank god.
I bought my first Harley in 1982, and I was laughed at by a lot of other motorcycle people. "Did you pay THAT much for THAT bike? And they laughed. (The bike was a 1977 shovel head, stripped Electra). Later many of them bought Harleys themselves. And still ride them. Maybe not the same bikes, but they are Harleyriders.
Two reasons I don't ride a Harley: 1. They are expensive. 2. They are loud. I ride a Triumph which I find just as good looking as a Harley. But you do you. P.S. I wear a mesh jacket which allows for full air flow while also providing protection in the event of a crash, and it doesn't look like a power ranger suit. 5 stars, highly recommend!!
Here in the UK there are 2 types of Harley riders. RUBs that think they are a class above the rest and the others, down to earth blue collar guys who've worked hard to afford the bike of their dreams and are some of the best people I've met.
Assuming it's jealously and not disdain is funny. The louder-than-it-needs-to-be exhaust is probably the main reason. Equating sound levels with safety is equally amusing. The exclusive mindset is another reason. I get the fewest waves from oncoming Harleys than anyone else. To be fair, I don't care. If I'm riding on the road, it's to get to another dirt road or singletrack.
Accurate reference to power rangers. These guys on their 400 lb toys worry more about their gear and their power rangers costume than they do riding. They love Halloween. I guess they hope someone gives them candy that’s why they dress up in costume.
I wear the hi vis on my Buell Ulysses. #AdvDad. But that might not be as common where he is as it is here. There are a lot of trails and dirt roads around here.
We wear the gear coz our bikes tend to go quicker than a oversized over weight moped. One day when you ride a real bike you'll see the need to wear a helmet.
@@guins99 Take Halloween over assless chaps any day man baby. Why you think i ride toys? Enjoy your rainbow branded company 🏳🌈 now you can get a color tattoo 🤣🤣
Not all, but many Harley riders spend a little to much time judging. I say this as a Harley rider. I've owned about every model made. That in includes the new Nightster. Many Harley riders look down on the Nightster and Sporster S. The Revolution engines sound nothing like a Harley, not to say it's not loud as hell. I look at it simply. I ride what I ride because that is what I like now. My 975 is one of the best bikes I've ever owned of any brand. It's fast, agile and comfortable. If you've been around for a while it's reminiscent of the of the original Dyna, but much faster.
I have a Iron 883 2017 and generally I don’t have any issues I may at times get asked if I left my skirt at home or when I might get a bigger bike but I normally just reply with they don’t do dirt and I have no wish to pick up a Harley touring bike on some fire trail in the back of nowhere. I have a converted Iron scrambler. It does do dirt. 😂
They’re often the only ones that don’t acknowledge “the nod”, but not always, and it’s often the younger “tough guys”. Even some of my friends own Harleys and we ride mixed Japanese, Italian, anything. It might be the wannabe outlaw thing? BTW, self was 1% in the 1970’s before they were a thing in the antipodes. I understand the attraction to these though. Nothing quite as visceral as that sound apart from vintage Brit twins. Doesn’t matter as long as you’re enjoying it.👍🏻
First time I heard the term squid was growing up in the dirt bike world. It pertained to a guy who was slow and non skilled. Always in the way holding back faster riders!
I wash my C14 around 2 times a year. But i only put 7,000-10,000 miles on it per year. I change oil in the engine and final drive 3-4 times a year, so more often than i beat it with a soapy sponge.
Had a hoda 30 yrs ago the bought a harley so really never rode other types of bikes i did ride a vmax years ago what a bike. We all know a harley just a tractor motor on a tractor frame. All five of mine like around 50 to 70 mph. Perfect for me im out to enjoy a ride and take in the scenery
It's funny cause there is truth to this. I've been riding Harley's since the seventys in my younger years and know all about the culture. These days I'm riding a triumph but still ride Brando . Can't bring myself to wear that space helmet and gear.😅
I'm not a Harley Hater personally. I love the Sportster since Then Came Bronson came on TV in '69. But I'm not a Wanna-Be biker at all. I'm more of a riding enthusiast. My '18 V Star 250 V-twin LCC fits me like a glove! Torquey, nimble Cruiser that's so much fun to ride!
I bought a newish HD Street Glide because, astonishingly, it was a good deal. After a couple years owning it... i kind of get it. Quality was good, and it was fun to ride. But, after a move required selling the HD, i wouldn't nuy another. I found it a bit too slow and uncomfortable. It wasnt at all suitable for the type of riding i enjoy. But, saying HDs dont handle is bull$hit. They are big and require commitment to make them respond quickly. My opinion is that if you have the balls for it, they will handle suprisingly well. But, that's the best i can say about them. Pretty to look at, and pretty uninspiring to ride. As for the people that buy and love them... you do you. I will be happy to ride with you and hang with you... as long as you arent one of those HD are best types. Frankly, when it comes to bikes i kinda love them all.
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This video should be called-"5 reasons why Harley rider think people are jealous." Lmao
Honestly, I think it actually comes from Harley and the whole attitude that if you’re not riding a Harley you’re not riding a real bike. Inevitably that attitude has caused a lot of backlash. I’m originally from Melbourne and now live in Japan. Riding groups in Japan are fantastic. You will find everything from street glides, sports bikes, and even little 125cc dual sports all in the same group. Nobody gives a crap as long as you’re riding. Would be a rare thing to see that in Melbourne.
Yep. I ride an old Japanese bike and on the open road most riders will wave as they pass but hardly ever will Harley Davidson riders .
I've owned a procession of English and Japanese bikes.
Then I got a Harley.
If you're not riding a Harley, you're not riding a real bike.
@@grimfandango6137 HaHa, yeah good on ya!👍 As long as you enjoy it. I just can’t get into cruisers of any kind. I maintain my friends bikes including Harleys so I ride them often but I just don’t like them. Not for me.
It ain’t what you got it’s the way you use it. If you buy anything because you are worried about what other people will think you are beyond help. If you think you can but something that will give you a personality that is just as sad.
I ride an ADV bike and have ridden it through 14 countries and almost every American state. I ride a lot of miles every year and really enjoy dirt and gravel roads. So, a cruiser isn't my style of bike. In all those miles, I have had a lot of conversations with Harley riders at gas stations and cafes and 99% of those interactions have been positive. People are just out enjoying their motorcycles in their own way. Whatever puts a smile on your face and gets you down the road is awesome as far as I'm concerned.
If I cared what others think, I wouldn't be a motorcyclist - just a guy who owns a bike.
I feel the same about tattoos.Got my first one when i was seventeen firstly because I like them and secondly to piss my oldies off.
@SJ-oxy Not particularly.
When you're sliding down the road on your bare knees and elbows, someone has to come along and scrape you (and what's left of you) off the tarmac. All this adds load to the health services and attracts attention from the wrong quarters. Ultimately, it is another excuse for the anti-motorcycle lobby to drive another nail in.
I ride a Harley but see it as my responsibility to protect a hobby I have enjoyed for fifty years. I dress for the slide and not the ride.
"anti-motorcycle lobby" LOL
Nothing worse than a sad little conformist such as yourself having a winge to people who don't care, tell your "issues" to your wife
"All this adds load to the health services and "
Same as obesity, drug addicts, alcoholics add load to the same services.
If people minded their own business the world would be a better place
@@shaynegriffin684 So, because drug addicts and fat people are overloading the health services, it's OK to not protect yourself from harm on a bike? When a self-inflicted skinned biker takes the place of an unavoidable emergency, it is very much my business to at least say something.
@@howardbull9001 people overdose, no one makes them, fat people in most cases eat too much and don't move enough - all self-inflicted.
What I was getting at is people will do what they please, wear the gear or not, personally I care not either way it is their choice, just like it is yours to wear all the gear and good on you.
If you are that skinned the fire hose works faster........
Talk a breath, relax.
@@shaynegriffin684Just because others choose to destroy themselves in different ways, you are inferring that it's OK for bikers to do the same.
South Park nailed it. Its funny because it has an element of truth.
When people care enough about the Sportbike power ranger community, perhaps SP will do them? Could be awhile tho…
Stereotypes exist for a reason.
I want to watch that episode, I’m sure it’s funny as hell. I love my Harley it’s fun and comfortable.
The sport bikes look like they’re fun to ride too, I want to try one out.
Lol great point! Well said
I'm happy with my Ninja 1000sx, upright comfortable 👍
Just love the motorcycle you ride. Who cares what other people choose to ride? Freedom!
Spot on
As he said, to each his own. I have an '06 Deuce and a '15 Street Glide Special. I give the salute to everybody coming in the opposite direction on 2 or 3 wheels, regardless of who manufactured their bike. I would put way more faith and trust in any of these folks than someone in a car.
I own a Road King Classic. A 2023 Indian Pursuit Dark Horse Premium. A 2003 Victory V92C. Love them all. Don't see why people get so butthurt over what someone else rides
U.S. perpective:
I have been riding motorcycles for over 40 years. Frankly I find most of the hostility runs from the Harley people towards other people. I can remember one time pulling over on a lonely highway in Northern California to help a couple out on a Harley. They were very appreciative of my help until another Harley rider showed up. Then as I was trying to repair the motorcycle they literally turned their backs on me and only spoke to the person on the Harley. I have also been asked by Harley riders when am I going to get a real motorcycle. This was not a once or twice event but something that happened regularly for about a decade and a half.
My friends who ride Harley's and also have other brands don't seem to have the same issue they don't look down on other people. I would happily own a Harley if it did what I wanted it to and I could afford it, But I simply cannot afford PAN America.
As for the aesthetic argument, Beauty is in the eye of the beer holder. Leather is great, But honestly I wear it more in the bedroom than I do on the bike. Give me an aerostitch suit any day. Not as sexy but WAY more comfortable and at least as protective.
I've owned three Sportsters, the best of which was an 883R that had a 1450 kit in it. I put a fork brace and steering stabilizer on it, and it transformed how the bike handled. It dyno'd at 108 hp and 104 ft-lbs of torque, so it was pretty fast for a Sportster. But like the previous two Sportsters, I sold it, I just never got the appeal of Harleys. I realized that if you could chrome it, or put eagles, flames, the middle finger, or leather fringe on it, someone would buy it. My overall opinion of Harleys is: "if Harley made an airplane, would YOU fly in it?!"
Hell NO. I'll leave it at that.
As others have commented, in the US it's typically the HD riders looking down their noses at everyone else. I don't care what you ride. The bike doesn't make the man (or woman). The rider makes the bike. A skilled rider can be smooth and quick on any bike. Two of the best HD riders I ever saw were always riding solo. Never met them in person, but we randomly happened to be on the same roads at the same time on numerous occasions. One was an older guy with a long white beard on a purple bagger. We chased each other down the same winding two lane road multiple times and occasionally would pass in opposite directions. Always gave each other a nod and wave of mutual respect. The other was a younger woman on a black Sportster. She always wore full black leathers (not cruiser style) and a black helmet. She was smooth and quick through the curves, riding with excellent technique at every turn. She was as good as anyone I've seen on the road. I don't care about exclusive groups, egos, loud pipes, being obnoxious (on any style bike). To me it's awesome to unexpectedly cross paths with skilled riders and enjoy a fun spirited ride together till your intended paths part ways. Then nod and wave looking forward to randomly meeting on the road somewhere again.
I think everyone should love (respect) everyone so the world will be more peaceful
I've got a few mates that ride Harleys, but I ride a Suzuki, but a lot of people still mistake it for a Harley. I'm on a pension, so I'm far from flush with cash. Riding is one of the very few hobbies I can still do due to a back injury, and until I did myself a mischief, I was wanting either a Fat Boy, or a V-Rod. Now though, I can't justify that kind of expense, so after a lot of saving, and research I went with a Suzuki Boulevard C-109R. My mates on Harleys gave me shit for getting a "fake" Harley until they find out what it actually is. We still give each other shit, but there's always a mutual respect there too.
When it comes to "big bad bikies", 99% of the Harley riders I've met are just down to earth guys, and girls, even the 1%ers. Sports bike riders on the other hand can be different story, but we won't go there.
As comfortable as shorts and a t-shirt is in the Australian summer, I've lost too much skin over the years from coming off push bikes (a couple of time over 100kn/h) to want to risk losing more now I'm older. My summer gear is riding pants, a kevlar flanno, and a vest for a little extra thermal protection if I go for a slide. It's still comfortable, and cool enough when riding, stops me getting a lobster tan, and helps me keep as much skin as possible should I come off. I'm with you though regarding what people wear. It's their hide after all, and I'm not their mother.
As a guy who has been on two wheels since I was 5 years old. It's not all Harley riders, it's the snobby one's. In my time I've treated better by a Hells Angel's member than the police. I like all bikes but not all riders. I ridea 06 Goldwing my son's ride Triumph Rocket 3 and a 20th anniversary V Max . The snobby one's give your group a a bad name.
That may be my fave quote about bikers/bikes...."I like all bikes, not all riders". GENIUS! I agree
" It's not all Harley riders, it's the snobby one's" It's sounds like you're desperate for their approval, why?
@@LJS01 nope ,I take people one at a time. I don't go through life looking for approval from anyone. BUT I ALSO DON'T RUN AROUND MOKING PEOPLE FOR WHAT THEY RIDE. I EITHER LIKE YOU OR I DONT.
@LJS01
You sound defensive, why?
@ORflycaster I'm not, but you are trying real hard to be a asshole ,your parents not raise you right.
I don't hate Harley's or the people that ride them .what's to hate? There's reckless riders on every road, on all makes of bikes. I'm not one of them. I love my S1000R, it's big and powerful, and I dont need to modify it for any reason as it suits my needs for now. I just turned 61 and plan to ride until I can't! No hate or jealousy from me. Yes, I wear protective jeans, a leather jacket, boots and gloves. But at my age, if I come off, I'm trying to reduce damage.
Annie...✌🏽😎
@LowkeyAnnie I'm impressed! 🙂
Finally someone with some common sense. Good job
Envy and jealousy, that's the funniest thing I've ever heard.
Lol yep, goes to show that harley riders are just like Dennis in it's always sunny... thinks they're really cool but the rest of community is just laughing at them
I grew up in the Harley culture and it doesn't surprise me that they were saying envy and jealousy, but you are right no other riders are thinking that.
I guess when you spend that much money to play dress up, you start to believe the fantasy.
Here’s one you don’t hear as much since the Evolution motor was introduced in the early 80s. “How are a Harley Davidson motorcycle and a German Shepherd dog alike?” They both like to ride in the back of a pick-up truck!
as an EVO rider..thats cool..lol..never heard it before
This was my favorite Harley joke. Harley has the patent on the solid piston and the motorcycle revolves around it
@@johnmelton1777 i heard that one..never stops being funny lol
LOL my GSD loves to ride in the passenger seat licking the windows.😛
I don't hear that or "troublehead" anymore since my dad closed shop years ago.
Been riding since I was 6 but got my first Harley in 2020. I was immediately hooked! I love saying hi to other riders on the road but still makes me laugh that when on the streets, other riders sometimes avoid passing me or get side by side on intersections 😂😂 I have to agree, we are loud !!
I think #1 is probably correct. I’m a 61 y/o who just started riding. I always wanted a Harley and still do, but for my first bike I wanted something used and not break the bank. I had 0 riding experience with the 2 Day MSF course scheduled a few weeks from then when my son showed me a bike I absolutely fell in love with, a 2002 Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Classic. This 22 year old bike looked brand new and had 15k miles on it. The price was right so I asked my son to look it over, take it for a ride, and if it checks out to go ahead and buy it. He did, and brought it home to me where it sat, waiting for me to get my license. It was pure hell looking at it every day, weeks away from bringing able to ride it. I wound up passing the road test, I struggled with the slow figure 8, but somehow aced the test. I dropped the MSF bike twice during practice, and had zero confidence. I was afraid to get on that beast that was waiting for me. The drops were very humbling. No way would I have bought this bike, I would have started with something smaller and lighter. Anyway, I’ve since improved and would still like to get a Harley, but I love my Vulcan and for now, I’m a happy rider. I am neither jealous nor envious of Harley riders, but when I had a problem starting my bike, a 22 year old bike mind you, and posted it on FB, I hade one friend comment that he’s been riding Harley’s over 20 years and never heard of such a thing (a dead bike) which was a dig at my non Harley bike. He was a wise guy as a kid, and didn’t seem to grow up much, but maybe it’s not the Harley ppl don’t like, it could be the aholes that ride them. It’s not a knock on the bike, aholes ride all different bikes and drive different cars, but I know other Harley riders who are as good as gold. A brother and cousins for a few.
I ride whatever I like, don't care what someone else might think. My bikes currently are a Kawasaki Z1300 and a custom Harley with a S & S 124 engine and 300 mm rear tyre. Owned bikes ranging from Royal Enfield to Kawasaki 500 H1 in the past.
Nice!
For me it's just that so many Harley riders act as if their shit doesn't stink, as well as acting like all other bikers are below them. I see it at bike events all the time, everyone else is mingling and talking bikes and the Harley riders all park their bikes together and spend the entire time talking amongst themselves. It's the Harley riders that ostracise themselves from the rest of the community, not the other way around. It has nothing to do with envy or jealousy on my part, I've never wanted to own a Harley, let alone to spend the money required to join that group.
Have you considered that they prefer it that way? I'm part of the local Harley riders in my home country and the fact is we just enjoy being together exclusively. At most meets we cut off into our own little spot. People are more than welcome to come over and talk to us, we just prefer having our own spot. If anything most of the trouble we've faced is from other bikers who ride sporty bikes coming over to flex their speed. My point: We're not always the bad guys.
@@paciiiimijak I have considered that you like it that way and I find it odd. Everyone else is hanging out with each other, sports bike riders, classic bike riders, retro bike riders, ADV riders, and off in their own little group it's the Harley guys. As I said, it's their choice to ostracise themselves from the rest of the community. No wonder people come to the conclusion that the Harley riders are full of themselves. Why should it be the other riders that come over to you to talk? You're the ones that are setting yourselves apart from the rest. I do agree with you on one point however, sports bike riders can be complete knobs.
@@Biggus63 I can't speak for Harley Riders everywhere, specifically for us, most of us have been friends from high-school age so there's history between us, and simply put we just enjoy each other's company. The Harley riders not from high-school just prefer to band together, we're most certainly not full of ourselves, if other riders are curious they come talk to us and they join in and we have a good time, if not we go about our day. It's like when you had cliques in schools, (popular kids, more studious kids, class clowns, ect.) everyone just fits into their own little group and it's no different for us.
@@Biggus63 You find it odd and that's your stance on it, I'm sure many other people find it odd. If we'd rather stick together frankly that's our business, if anyone's got issue then that's their cross to carry. I'm friends with many different bike riders, be it harleys, sports bikes whatever, but I feel more at home with Harley riders, there's a comradery between us that simply goes deeper than the bike community in general.
@@paciiiimijak Yep, if you guys want to hang around together and segregate yourself from the rest of the biking world that's your business and I won't be losing any sleep over it. Conversely I like all sorts of bikes and the idea of spending time with people who are only interested in Harleys seems rather limited and boring to me so I just leave the Harley riders alone since it's clear that's how they like it. There's a world of great bikes out there and fixating on only one brand isn't for me, especially when the only notable thing about that brand it the image, an image that doesn't appeal to me at all.
I like to do motorcycle polygamy - I have a Harley and a Kawasaki, one is my cocaine the other is my weed. I can appreciate just about anything with 2 wheels.
very well described
Good vid. Nice to see it from another perspective. Here in the states it may or may not be a little different but have heard all the same jokes you mentioned. I don't care what you ride as long as you are in the wind, Have a good time, and enjoy yourself doing what you love. Thanks for posting g and happy it came across my feed!
Oh, those sportbike heroes- I have seen so many of them doubling speed limits then run off the road, up an embankment or crashing off into the trees, doing uncontrolled wheelies in city traffic, slapping mirrors off people's cars, following stupid drivers to 'straighten them out,' and flipping off everyone not respecting their ownership of the road that my opinion of them is not that great. A lot of them just want to make money posting videos of their antics I guess.
Every one has a GPS phone clipped to the bars and a gopro stick recording their heroic rides. Maybe they deserve a little road-hate, too.
I don’t ride a Harley but live up the street from a very public Hells Angels club house. I love the sound of a Harley in the morning 😂It gets the blood pumping 😄
Lol
I have 4 Harleys, 8 bikes total. When I ride metric, no one says anything to me. Ride my Harleys, people look, and I get compliments.
They don’t know any better, that’s why
yep , and thats your claim to fame , he gets compliments ... lol
If we going by attention, you can't compete with a honda grom 😅
yeah, the fact the opinion of others and your need to be complimented matter to you so much says everything really. I ride coz i love it, and couldn't give a shit what anyone else thinks of my ride or wants to talk to me
@@Bob-ts2tu if that was the case, I would only ride Harleys.
I don't laugh at Harley riders as I find the sport bike riders in their one piece suits more amusing and on my favourite back road over represented in crashes. Any weekend I ride I seem to always see at least one sport bike guy in a crash and they laugh at me on my "old man bike" a Goldwing.
As American and a rider for 55+ years my first Harley was in 1976 your points are fairly accurate for both sides of the pond. However, I think in Europe the general public and other riders who don't like Americans equate the Harley Davidsons to Americans. A little loud, a little heavy, too much money and pretty do things the way we like to do them.
lol, you are probably right
As a brit whos been riding since 76 I can tell you that a high proportion of uk harley riders are knobheads who think because they own a harley they are something special. Don't think anyone makes an American connection much although Joe public love em, Its genuine bikers who dislike them. I have 3 bikes a bmw a 78 Z100 and an old Ironhead and have lived the lifestyle all my life. Started on hondas gravitated to old and new brit bikes and had Roadking and 5 sportsters, love em all but take people as I find them some good and some not so good and really who cares just keep on riding whatever
I love the way they look. Especially the whiskey fire road glide. Went to two Harley dealers and a $26,000 bike became a $35,000 bike. Without adding extras by me. And we have not even done tax tag and title or Maintenance program or wheel and tire program. I think this bike would’ve probably turned out to be more like the cost of a CVO. I own two bikes now. A 22 Kawasaki voyager and a 23 Indian FTR. I will probably wait until 25 to buy a new Indian pursuit. So if you can read between the lines, my problem is the dealerships. I want to buy something, but I don’t wanna feel like I’m getting ripped off at the same time.
It's hard to find an honest Harley dealership
There’s many many decent low mileage used bikes for private sale just go online and look. Then you’ll be cutting out the dealership part of the equation.
not so much the motorcycle, it's the type of people that ride them, bunch of walter mittys.
I have had my current road glide for 2 years and I have had so many compliments and thumbs up. No issues with the bike. It’s been so great that I don’t mind the internet haters.
A Sensei told me once the Black Belt brings out the real person. I think too this can apply to some of the Harley guys, or gals for that matter. Nice vid, thanks for sharing
Not a Harley rider, but my hat's off to your well reasoned presentation here. Love the line, "just a throwaway line made by non-thinkers!!
Much appreciated!
Enjoyed this video 👌🏻
They hate us cause they ain’t us
Great video. Thanks for covering these talking points. As a new rider I'll only comment on what I observe.
My area in life is human behaviour, so that will be the two cents I offer.
I really don't care what kind of bike people have. I'm not very attached, _yet_, to the nuances of riding culture and the meaning that people associate with their bikes. But I've observed a clear distinction within the Harley subculture that demonstrates a propensity to project their attitudes towards other riders as evidenced in their behaviours. I don't care much about this; I don't care how big, scary or mean-looking someone portrays themselves to be, how many tats or even how expensive a Harley is, so when I observe these attitudes I understand that their projections are a source of the very negative responses they invite.
That being said I enjoy that people are out there experiencing a unique aspect of life while being connected to communities. When I see a great bike, I naturally celebrate it and enjoy talking to the person about their bike and what it means to them. When I observe the Harley culture, as a new rider from the outside, I predominantly see men who are trying to express themselves or feel the need to prove _something_, which is totally fine because we do this in various ways, but I do think it is less about envy or jealousy. This kind of response seems more like a rebuttal to excuse why Harley riders exhibit attitudes and behaviours they're guilty of themselves. Example: "Oh he just @#$ jealous he doesn't have one" can be a clear statement that the Harley owner is putting a lot of attachment to the need to feel validated in a material object.
I'm using a broad brush here, so I respect that not everyone, on either end of the spectrum, fits within this stereotype.
I enjoy the experience of riding and seeing people participating in this riding ecosphere. For me, it's much less about brands and culture, and more about the person, our conversations and what I learn from stories that are important to them.
a lot of what you say is true, i think people miss the point of many of my video's maybe the humour is too subtle. I'm making fun of the whole situation ie sports bike vs HD for a variety of reasons including -- there is so much one sided hate toward HD's and often the haters have no idea what they are talking about, evidenced by what they say. (i find this very entertaining) ... and thanks for watching.
I own a Kawasaki, a Royal Enfield and a Harley Davidson. I do around 10000km per year on each of them. People definitely treat me differently when I'm on the Harley.
Yes it's very obvious once you see it first hand
That means you ride 82 ks 365 days of the year. Thats impressive.
@@romandybalathat’s what I was thinking as well
About number 2. Once I was fed up at work and I said something like “one of these days I’m gonna quit and join some outlaw MC and just ride”. The dude says: “You ain’t in one yet? You ride a Harley, don’t you?” That was hilarious 😂😂😂😂😂
lol
Such a great channel. Sport and Harley rider. At 50 I've given up my sport bikes and love my road king. I find too many, not all, are just about the lifestyle. Not really about the bikes. Or at least they place too much emphasis on the life style. It comes across as silly sometimes. Some sport bike riders do this too but way worse in the Harley community because Harley encourages this. I also have a young personality. I enjoy modern music and fashion. I go to Harley events and they often feel like an old man convention. My music was 90s grunge. Why is every rally stuck in the 70s?
Money... those who have disposable income.... retired old Pharts and Dad's with kids finally out of the house and on their own.
Why does that bother you?
I've had nothing but positive comments about my previous Shovelhead and my current Breakout 114.
As a master HD tech, I enjoy your video. Made some great friends from working on them. Outlaws to lawyers. Rich to broke. There is something about it you can't explain.
Thank you
I'm a motorcycle enthusiast! I like to ride motorcycles and ride all kinds, including cruisers, sports bikes, sports touring, and off-road. I also enjoy dual-sports and adventure touring. There is a road in Alaska that goes from Fairbanks to Prudhoe Bay - it's 500 miles long and primarily dirt and gravel. It's nickname is the Haul Road and adventure seeking motorcyclist come from all over the world to ride it. Well a group of Harley riders had their bikes shipped into Prudhoe Bay with the idea they would ride down the Haul Road. Now, this is a well known road among the motorcycling adventure touring community. And while it isnt' any hard core off-road ride, it isn't really something one would want to ride with a heavy cruiser unless you are a glutton for punishment. Well the upper part is pretty heavy gravel and within the first 20 miles a bunch of the Harley riders crashed. Now, this should have been expected and only riders with substantial off-road experience should have ever attempted it on a large heavy cruiser in the first place. Fact is that someone with substantial off-road experience would most likely choose a more appropriate bike as it would be much more enjoyable anyway. Needless to say their trip was a miserable failure. But they blamed it on the road conditions and were all up in arms and complaining that the road wasn't in better condition practically demanding that someone needed to get it fixed. Really!
Just found your channel and like it. My 110 CrossBones has only 22000ks and I’ve had it for 8 years, but I’m 60 and have been riding for nearly 45 years. I’ve done probably million of ks on bikes so in my 60’s a few less Ks is okay with me. Cheers mate. Liam.
Love the power ranger imagery at the end of the video! They do look like them😂.
Love my Harley and would never go back to any other bike. Thanks for your humor in your videos.
I have been riding since '68. All the accidents I've had were self-induced. I would rather ride anything that runs over pushing a bike that doesn't. Two wheels and a motor, that is enough.
Enjoyed this one a lot Aymen ❤ totally agree, people with different needs riding bikes. Throwing my thoughts here....there's such a broad variety 'Harley owner/rider's ' we have the owners that love to 'tinker/build & modify' their bikes, (these are very talented people) there's owners that love to ride & keep them clean (tis us) ... then there's (I'm not sure what to call them) that just like to say they own one it's in the garage. There still a lot Harleys (including early models) with low Kms out there for sale. Dress code... you nailed it! Ride em don't hide em. 😁
A lot of us struggle with how we're perceived,so right.. You're wise consensus is encouraging Br ,💯🥇
I’ve been riding motorcycles since I was 12 years old. I started out with lawnmower-powered mini-bikes, quickly moved up to dirt bikes and then street bikes. I finally saved enough to buy a new Harley Davidson FXSTS back in 2002. After a few years, I stumbled upon an internet article stating how the timing chains in my “Twin Cam” engine would eventually eat through their tensioners, sending debris throughout the engine, rendering it utterly useless. The fix is to replace the timing chains with a gear drive setup, which costs upwards of $1000, and that’s if I do the work myself. At that time, my bike had about 20,000 miles on it, and that’s where the “danger zone” of timing chain failure begins. So, I basically forgot about that bike, and did the only sensible thing - I bought a Honda. That 2002 FXSTS still sits in my garage, and I put a small handful of miles on it every now and then, but at that rate, the odometer will never turn 21,000 miles in my lifetime. The worst part about the problem is that H-D won’t even acknowledge that there is indeed a problem, but if you try to use a bike with a “Twin Cam” engine for a trade in, the dealership will barely pay you scrap value for the bike. Screw Harley-Davidson, and screw V-twin engines in general. They’re an antique design that needs to be replaced and forgotten.
I Love Harleys, never owned one. Being a Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Owner is on my bucket list. I've ridden various bikes off & on for over 45 years. Life always seems to ...
Hi Aymen, Greetings from America!
I recently received a custom order t-shirt I had made. Bordered by the iconic Bar & Shield, “YOU MEET THE NICEST PEOPLE ON A HARLEY-DAVIDSON”, a take off from the Honda ad blitz of years gone by. I’m looking forward to some conversations!
Keep up the great video content. Thanks.
HD is a tee shirt company that also sells motorcycles. 🤔
@@jamescampbell4334 Yes. Truth be told. The merchandise is such a big, or the biggest, part of the brand. Great point!
I have rode 90,000 miles on a GSX-R1000 AND 75,000 on a GSX-R750. I have had many bikes but never a HD, I feel i may end up on a HD someday so I don't hate them and my father has owned them my whole life, I just wish HD riders would move over and let me by, Its like passing a huge pickup going past just one of them. Simply move to the left in the lane and give me a wave, It wont hurt I promise. I'll be long gone in a second. Were not all here to parade, please let me have my fun too. The worst is coming up on a group of 4 or more, no way are they letting you pass without one of their egos flying. The Alpha in the group will have to race you as you try to get back in, its a given. Even on a Highway they will block traffic flow including holding up other bikes. I literally had a HD rider swerve at me as I make a pass, like a butt hurt dude in a minivan that guy. I don't understand it
Harley's look good, sound good, and have a certain road presence and, if it's possible for a great lump of metal to have, their own unmistakable charisma. I've been riding for 47 years, the last 33 of them on Harley's. Had the crotch-rockets in my younger years, and yes, they are heaps of fun and "dangerous". But as my employment requirements included a current, valid drivers licence (truckie), and the Japanese inline fours were much too easy to leave speed limits in their wake, it was time to grow up and slow down. Harley's are a different kind of fun, and can still easily break speed limits, but you don't really feel the need to, because you can still have shit tons of fun at lower speeds.
My big issue with Harleys is the quality of service at the dealership level and the cost of their bikes. I like Harleys but I live in northern Canada and I'm not willing to pay that kind of money for a bike I can only ride 2 months of the year.
Its my first year riding, bought a Harley cause its a family thing for generations. Got my license with a MT-08 from the school and I must say, both has its things to love. In a land full of speeding cameras I am glad to drive the same speed as GP-Bikes but much more comfortable. I am not as nimble in corners yet cause it is harder than with the Yamaha (wich rides as a bicycle) but give me a few years and I will master it :)
100 plus years and they still haven't figured out how to make anything else other than a unreliable under powered over heating big v twin. And then the idiots that ride em, put loud pipes on them that will wake dead. You say jealous that's funny.
You know you want one.
But but but but ur just jealous yeah that’s it
You don't get it. That's fine. Personally, I don't look down on people who don't ride a Harley. I don't care what you ride. Just ride. Why the hate? The engines are purposely antiquated because that is the only way to get the signature Harley sound. An air-cooled 45° v-twin with push rods. We definitely don't buy them for performance and speed. We buy and ride them purely for love. I can have the worst day of my life, and after five minutes on my bike, everything is right in my world. It's funny that Harleys are the most copied cruisers in the world, yet so many people claim to hate them. To me, a Harley has a soul, where other bikes are just bikes. I don't dislike other bikes. I just prefer my Harley. Keep the wheels down.
@@white_devil73 I believe you are in the minority sir.
@@dwaynef17046 thank you. We're not all dicks.
I've owned a harley and a naked bike. I think Harley are harder to ride due to the weight, lack of lean angle (compared to a sport bike) and even shifting gears requires more effort. I feel alot of the hate comes from people who are afraid of such a bike big that requires "work" in a sense to learn how to ride something that doesn't weigh as much as a feather. Assuming you're not on a track day... then riding sport bikes are just so much easier and you have more room for error due to the light nimble body of a sport. However.. as much as I love my naked yamaha I still love Harley's and don't think anything beats cruising on a beautiful day on a harley with forward controls. Kicking back and relaxing is the best part of riding and nothing beats a harley ( cruiser )
Thanks great comment
I got a 2000 road king ive never ridden anything like it , its like an old brit bike on steroids, plenty fast enough for uk b roads i absolutely love it ❤
I ride a Buell Tuber in Midwest America, and somehow it runs just fine without open pipes. Doesn’t make sparks going round mild bends either - am I doing something wrong?
A Buell is not a HD bike , a Buell is cool . XB rider here 🤘👊👍👌
I'm a brit biker who has ridden a range of Japanese sports-tourers, dirt bikes, and currently has a 2002 Fatboy. During the 80s and 90s, the Brit biker scene was massively tribalised between sports bikes and, well, everyone else. If you didn't have the latest and greatest Firebalde, ZX6, Gixxer 750 et al, you were nothing. The only other prevalent tribe was the Back Street Heroes custom scene. These 2 just didn't get each other. It's like bacon and coffee at breakfast. I don't bemoan the lack of bacon saltiness in my coffee, nor the absence of a caffeine kick from my bacon. But the sportsbike crowd mocked cruisers for weight, power, cornering prowess, etc. The cruisers mocked sportsbikes for the power-ranger look, pretence that they can feel the 2bhp extra top end from the slip-on can or the 2g weight saving from billet footrests.
Thing is, despite both being motorcycles, they are not competing on the same vectors. It'd be ridiculous to argue over whether bacon or coffee was the better breakfast item and mock people who picked the other. But biker tribalism does this. And now we have the Adv crowd making the case for pancakes (or cornflakes, or some other metaphor)
well said thank you
I really don't give a shit what people think. I have ridden all types of motorcycles since 1971 and still riding a 2017 ZX14R and 2021 Street Glide Special. My bikes do the speed limit in the straights and double them in the curves. This hobby isn't like most others because the folks that ride think respect means something and your lack of it may bring unwanted attention to you. Polish, ride, enjoy and danger are key words but whatever you do or how or what you ride Respect each other.
Bought my first Harley in the mid 80s, owned most other japanese brands as well. Don't care what people say, never have. I'm in it for me no one else. I have watched the growth of the community from a time when almost no one rode them. It's great to see this type of content and community involvement
I have only a KTM naked bike but I love any motorcyclist who waves back to me even if they are on a scooter let alone Harley brothers ❤😍
I'd like to amend "Loud pipes save lives", to "Loud bikes save lives".
It's why my E-cruiser, being silent, has a 420-watt sound system on it.
Good video, mate.
Respectfully - neither of those statements are true. Most people have their windows and stereos up in nearly sound-proofed cars. By the time they hear you - you are past them since the noise comes out the ass-end of the bike (or speakers aimed backwards toward the rider). At best you're just annoying people at red lights.
At best, I'm enjoying my music, and, as an Automotive Engineer, I'm well aware that they probably can't hear it, mate- I just do my own thing, as everyone should.
@@defenestrationfan "Loud pipes save lifes" refers to pedestrians.
Buying my FXSB one year ago was one of the best decisions I ever made.
In the USA 🇺🇸 the out law of motorcycle clubs are Harleys.
The guys I worked with that were out law typs loved Harleys.
Out here, your choice of bike can make a big difference in the caliber of people your associating with.
Most people just don't want to deal with ridiculousness.
Great video. I've been riding dirtbikes and streetbikes for years when I was young. I got married and had kids, so I didn't have a bike for a long time. So after my divorce, I got myself an HD. My new wife loves it, and everyone we meet on rides are so nice. Doesn't matter what the ride. And I've riden all over the U.S. Everybody ride safe.
Hello just subbed, I look at other riders you do you I do me no judgement but there is always someone that think for you lol, I have ridden all kinds of bikes but now choose my Harley as my go to bike its comfortable for the riding I do , now when I feel the need I hop on my sporty that has many go fast parts on it , but most miles get put on my 1988 FLHS that is restored but stroked to an 89cu, love the bike it suits me well , I wish people would just ride more bikes and not judge what you ride just ride, be safe and ride free
thanks and a big welcome
And let’s not forget that most Harley Riders hate certain people that ride certain bikes…
Perfect example: people who ride the new Nightster RH975.
I ride a 2022 Nightster RH975 but I have also owned a 2021 Low Rider S and a 2018 Heritage Classic. While I liked them both, the Nightster just fits ME best. But, to many, “it’s not a real Harley”. 🤦♂️🤦♂️🤦♂️
People can be ignorant.
We’re all here to help each other out regardless of any means by which people have their own prejudices.
Safe rides 👍🤜
American, been riding a Harley since 1985 love the machine 😊
My biggest beef is none of you nod back to me on my sports bike! Other than that, there's good and bad in all kinds of riders. I don't "hate" Harley riders, but I don't necessarily 'get' what the big deal is with riding bikes that pretty much all look the same, wearing branded clothes (so you all look the same) and then trying to pretend you're all tough and anti establishment when in your little clubs you have so many rules!
I’m glad that HDs aren’t universally loved. It keeps the second hand market more reasonable, and makes seeing (and hearing) them on the road more special. The bikes are glorious, and check off visual and auditory boxes uniquely their own. Their riders run the whole gamut, just as cage drivers do. Stereotypes do exist, and for a reason, just as they do for cars and trucks. But quite often when you look past the public personas they’re projecting, they’re still good people, as most of us are. Ride your ride, and ignore the social drama.
I love how you said the Sports guy might be scared of the power and speed of his bike. I say it's because there's NO WAY thats ever happening for Harley riders.
Haha im just happy to see other bikers. Riding puts a silver lining on life.
Right on!
ridding is always been about peace of mind, fun and therapy, not to mention the common bond among men. I personally found when I use it for commuting to work, it diminishes the enjoyment
What I have found quite heartening in the recent decade or so in the UK is the decline in tribalism in the Brit bike press. These days, articles reviewing cruiser type bikes no longer focus on how "odd" they are or how "acclimatisation" is needed - stemming from an assumption that all bikers congregated solely around sportsbikes [which was common, but not universal]. A recent review of the latest Street Glide [Bike magazine] stood out quite a lot because the author dropped in quite a lot of those old tropes. It made the article read as very dated (imo).
Part of me thinks - being a biker in the very crowded south - that this is because the road riding experience is no longer defined by what type of bike you ride in the UK. In the south especially, the roads a crammed at all times of day and night, there are static and average speed cameras everywhere, not to mention endless patches of 40 and 50 limits. The other day on a ride from Basingstoke thru Alton and onto Loomies cafe, I caught a small group of other bikers - a couple of adv [Africa Twin and a GS], an R7, and a Kwak H2 [the 750cc 2-stroke] - who was fastest down this twisty route?.......None of us. The road is stifled by 40 and 50 limits, and we're all behind a queue of 7+ cars and no options to make safe overtakes for miles. Every time it straightens out so you can see far enough for an overtake, you can't; even if you ignore the speed limit, because there are 9 cars coming the other way. So our speed is dictated by the slowest car up ahead.
Around the 2000s, the performance competition vector with bikes started getting a bit 'Emperors New Clothes'. Bragging rights over stats became just pub talk because you couldn't responsibly use the performance on the road and very few people actually did that many track days. 2.5 decades later and the secret is out that big power is just 'coz you want it, you'll never use it; so you might as well choose your ride by favoured style/sitting position/colour as much as stats sheet
Have friends who ride HD. I ride Triumphs. We’ve been good fun jacking with each other for years.
DOUG. I have a 94 FXDWG. Only mod, upgrade on the cam , rejet, and pipes 28k. Runs, and starts like brand new.
Good video, thanks. By God I hate HD's, all that chrome, bulk, agricultural mechanics and feet forward shit, but each to their own.
Keep the rubber side down.
Paul in the UK
Thanks ride safe (lol its an acquired taste)
Because most of their exhausts sound like the aftermath of a man who ate bad shellfish.
The Ford badge is a the only other brand I can think of that is as ubiquitously tattooed on people.
Harley Davidson is second to no company in branding and marketing. Their mantra is and always has been to make middle-aged men feel tough which is pure genius.They are very similar to the company. Interstate battery who do not manufacture batteries they only market Johnson controls and Enersys batteries that sport their brand.This is why it's hard to take Harley Davidson seriously. I've never fell for marketing, I'm a Lone Wolf, I buy what I want to buy and ride what I want to ride because it's what I want, not what some marketing campaign tells me. Even if Harley's were quality motorcycles, I would not buy one just because of the obnoxious marketing aspect. Tesla is the same. They started as a technology company, not a car manufacturer, that is why the fit and finish are lacking. As a result, companies and people become what they focus on.
I have been riding motorcycles of all types and vintages for over 30 years. I could have any bike I wanted with the exception of a few crazy boutique bikes. I ride a 30 year old Harley. Most of my friends ride bikes that old or older, but none of them are metric. Most metric bikes lack the aftermarket and loyalty to hang around that long. Harley Davidson has done well to keep the old v twin design around this long. Evidently it works because they are still around.
A confident person doesn't really care what other people ride or what other people think and nor will they pass ignorant judgement on them. Choice of motorcycle doesn't dictate what sort of person you are. We are all different thank god.
I bought my first Harley in 1982, and I was laughed at by a lot of other motorcycle people. "Did you pay THAT much for THAT bike? And they laughed. (The bike was a 1977 shovel head, stripped Electra).
Later many of them bought Harleys themselves. And still ride them. Maybe not the same bikes, but they are Harleyriders.
Two reasons I don't ride a Harley: 1. They are expensive. 2. They are loud.
I ride a Triumph which I find just as good looking as a Harley.
But you do you.
P.S. I wear a mesh jacket which allows for full air flow while also providing protection in the event of a crash, and it doesn't look like a power ranger suit. 5 stars, highly recommend!!
Here in the UK there are 2 types of Harley riders. RUBs that think they are a class above the rest and the others, down to earth blue collar guys who've worked hard to afford the bike of their dreams and are some of the best people I've met.
Assuming it's jealously and not disdain is funny.
The louder-than-it-needs-to-be exhaust is probably the main reason. Equating sound levels with safety is equally amusing.
The exclusive mindset is another reason. I get the fewest waves from oncoming Harleys than anyone else. To be fair, I don't care. If I'm riding on the road, it's to get to another dirt road or singletrack.
Accurate reference to power rangers. These guys on their 400 lb toys worry more about their gear and their power rangers costume than they do riding. They love Halloween. I guess they hope someone gives them candy that’s why they dress up in costume.
I wear the hi vis on my Buell Ulysses. #AdvDad. But that might not be as common where he is as it is here. There are a lot of trails and dirt roads around here.
We wear the gear coz our bikes tend to go quicker than a oversized over weight moped. One day when you ride a real bike you'll see the need to wear a helmet.
@@pucknhusker9426 trick or treat! You ride little toys cause you couldn’t handle an 850 lb bike. Stick with what you can handle, little fella.
@@guins99cringe.
@@guins99 Take Halloween over assless chaps any day man baby. Why you think i ride toys? Enjoy your rainbow branded company 🏳🌈 now you can get a color tattoo 🤣🤣
Not all, but many Harley riders spend a little to much time judging. I say this as a Harley rider. I've owned about every model made. That in includes the new Nightster. Many Harley riders look down on the Nightster and Sporster S. The Revolution engines sound nothing like a Harley, not to say it's not loud as hell. I look at it simply. I ride what I ride because that is what I like now. My 975 is one of the best bikes I've ever owned of any brand. It's fast, agile and comfortable. If you've been around for a while it's reminiscent of the of the original Dyna, but much faster.
I have a Iron 883 2017 and generally I don’t have any issues I may at times get asked if I left my skirt at home or when I might get a bigger bike but I normally just reply with they don’t do dirt and I have no wish to pick up a Harley touring bike on some fire trail in the back of nowhere. I have a converted Iron scrambler. It does do dirt. 😂
They’re often the only ones that don’t acknowledge “the nod”, but not always, and it’s often the younger “tough guys”. Even some of my friends own Harleys and we ride mixed Japanese, Italian, anything. It might be the wannabe outlaw thing? BTW, self was 1% in the 1970’s before they were a thing in the antipodes. I understand the attraction to these though. Nothing quite as visceral as that sound apart from vintage Brit twins. Doesn’t matter as long as you’re enjoying it.👍🏻
First time I heard the term squid was growing up in the dirt bike world. It pertained to a guy who was slow and non skilled. Always in the way holding back faster riders!
I wash my C14 around 2 times a year. But i only put 7,000-10,000 miles on it per year. I change oil in the engine and final drive 3-4 times a year, so more often than i beat it with a soapy sponge.
Had a hoda 30 yrs ago the bought a harley so really never rode other types of bikes i did ride a vmax years ago what a bike. We all know a harley just a tractor motor on a tractor frame. All five of mine like around 50 to 70 mph. Perfect for me im out to enjoy a ride and take in the scenery
It's funny cause there is truth to this. I've been riding Harley's since the seventys in my younger years and know all about the culture. These days I'm riding a triumph but still ride Brando . Can't bring myself to wear that space helmet and gear.😅
Great point of view as always. Thanks
Thanks for watching!
I'm not a Harley Hater personally. I love the Sportster since Then Came Bronson came on TV in '69. But I'm not a Wanna-Be biker at all. I'm more of a riding enthusiast. My '18 V Star 250 V-twin LCC fits me like a glove! Torquey, nimble Cruiser that's so much fun to ride!
I bought a newish HD Street Glide because, astonishingly, it was a good deal. After a couple years owning it... i kind of get it. Quality was good, and it was fun to ride. But, after a move required selling the HD, i wouldn't nuy another. I found it a bit too slow and uncomfortable. It wasnt at all suitable for the type of riding i enjoy. But, saying HDs dont handle is bull$hit. They are big and require commitment to make them respond quickly. My opinion is that if you have the balls for it, they will handle suprisingly well. But, that's the best i can say about them. Pretty to look at, and pretty uninspiring to ride. As for the people that buy and love them... you do you. I will be happy to ride with you and hang with you... as long as you arent one of those HD are best types. Frankly, when it comes to bikes i kinda love them all.