Is a Harley-Davidson a Good Beginner Motorcycle?
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 29 ส.ค. 2024
- A commonly asked question gets answered in detail by Matt Laidlaw. If you're a newer rider and looking to get into the Harley-Davidson world then you'll find a lot of useful information here.
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I think the main thing lacking in the motorcycle industry is BALLS. A lot of young people today are afraid of their own shadow. Danger doesn't hold the same appeal that it used to.
I COULD NOT AGREE MORE. Comment Pinned
your comment just trggered me.
tccoup355 balls like mine? I bought a brand new Harley 72 had no endorsement and can't wait so i rode around for 2 years luckily never got busted even though i rode through 6 DUI stops lol - i took to it luck house on fire.
I totally agree after watching Moto Madness youtube channel :) there are a lot of guys out there born without those 2 balls - PC destroyed our world and has something to do with lowering human standards for libtards to feel part of humanity and protect their feelings from getting hurt???
Jessica Sinclair always one idiot around to make things political.
I am 36 just got my first Softail heritage 2 months ago never rode before already have 3,000 miles under my belt. wish me luck.
Just got my first bike too! Harley heritage!
You’ll be fine.
39 and just got my first Harley.. fatboy lo (2010)
My first was a Suzuki boulevard but that was over a decade ago. Long dry spell.
Had the Lo Lo for a month and racked 2000 miles on it already
Oh man it’s good to be back
You should of got a hayabusa
Same here! Have less than a year under my belt at 30 and have a Road King with some miles I put on it. It's big and heavy but I love it. It's the bike I wanted since I was a kid.
Great recommendations, Matt. However, I purchased a 2017 Road Glide Ultra as my first bike back in January before this video was ever made. So, if you don’t mind, I’ll add a few recommendations for those who may be like me and went straight for one of the heaviest bikes on the road as a beginner bike. First, I’m a retired military helicopter instructor pilot who now instructs in both airplanes and helicopters. I’ve always had a natural ability to operate all types of machines. (Trucks and trailers, boats, tractors, dozers, track hoes, etc.) Second, my friends are also military instructor pilots who ride HD’s and know my mental and physical abilities. They have been flying with me for 20 plus years and their belief was I could handle that much bike based on past experience and my ability to assess and mitigate risk. They knew that just being able to ride was not going to be good enough for me. That I would approach riding with a desire to be good at riding. Third, I completed the basic rider course and obtained the endorsement prior to making my purchase. I found the course to be fun and fairly easy. I can’t say the same for all 12 who were in the course. Fourth, after purchasing the bike, I spent hours working on slow maneuvers and emergency braking in a vacant parking lot to develop the necessary skills. A 900 pound bike does not behave the same as the bikes you ride in a basic rider course and it takes some getting use to. Even after almost a year, I will still go and work on improving my skills in a parking lot on a regular basis. I’m looking to take an advanced course soon. An RGU or Ultra will practically go on autopilot on the interstate. But slow maneuvers in tight areas takes some serious practice. I can’t stress this enough. Practicing traffic patterns in any aircraft is boring. But correctly flying a traffic pattern with precision will develop skills a pilot will use on every flight and should be practiced regularly. Same principle applies to learning to ride a motorcycle. Challenge yourself to learn to ride with precision. You may think you will look silly riding your $30k motorcycle around cones in a parking lot. But not nearly as silly as dropping it in an intersection, gas station or parking lot. And finally, I stress to pilots to use superior judgement so they are not forced to use superior skills. I carry this principle over to riding a motorcycle. Ride within your skill level. Watch your following distance. Expect motorist to do the unexpected. Maintain an attitude that you are never an expert, you and the bike have limits, and that you can always improve your skills and you will lessen the likelihood of damaging yourself or a very expensive bike.
Good advice… how u doin?
I never rode a motorcycle in my life before. Did my course and test then bought an iron 883 sportster. Had it for almost 2 years I love it.
I’m a new rider. I was given some really great advice from a seasoned rider before I got my license. She told me to to buy a bike that fits my stature...6ft and 220 lbs. Buy one that’s easy to handle...affordable....big enough I won’t grow out of it too quickly. I ended up buying the same bike she rides...09 Heritage Softtail Classic. 2 seasons and 28000kms later I am still in love with my bike and plan to keep it for many more seasons. It’s got everything I want in a bike...performance...handling...comfort...style...and still runs like new due to good care by past and present owners. I highly recommend checking this model out for first time riders ....costs nothing to check it out regardless what you buy. Safe travels.
This is my first year of riding after taking 15 years off. I started with a V-rod because it looked badass. I quickly traded it in for a Street Glide Special, listening to my friends that had baggers. I realized that this was like driving an SUV full time when you wanted a sports car. I traded that in for the Lowrider S. This is the bike I wish I rode in the first place. It loves the hills of Southern CA, looks amazing, and despite the power, can be a great first bike as long as you respect it. My advice to new riders, attend a demo day. Don't just make an emotional decision without having a chance to ride a few biles. As for those bashing the technology, we but Harleys because of the heritage and raw nature of the bike itself. If we wanted the highest technology, we would buy a ducati or BWM. That's not what riding a harley is about. Great channel Matt! Keep up the great work! Hope to visit the dealer when I get up that way.
People told me I was a bit nuts for buying a Harley (for a lot of reasons: I'm young, Harley's aren't beginner bikes, they're too expensive, etc etc etc). I didn't listen to them at all lol. You can 100% learn how to ride on a Harley, and you don't need the most expensive motorcycle on the market.
After I graduated from college (last year), I bought my first motorcycle. Took advantage of the opportunity and started on a Harley Sportster 883. I'm not that big (only 5'8), so I was able to flat foot the bike with ease and keep the bike upright. I watched videos on TH-cam about riding (much like this video here) before I took the MSF safety course. It had a monumental impact on my transition into the riding world. Seriously cannot recommend new riders do that enough. Go online, take advantage of all of these resources. Get a feel for the motorcycle before you buy it. It's a big investment, so it's important that you feel comfortable on it. I use what I learned in the MSF course literally every time I ride. It was so beneficial for me. It's been over a year since I bought the bike, and I've put over 12,000 miles on it since then. I upgraded it to fit my body and my aesthetic preferences. I've been bitten by the riding bug and I got it bad.
TL;DR: riding is a life changing experience and you owe it to yourself to put stock in stuff that will make you happy. Take advantage of online resources, do your homework, get a feel for your motorcycle, and learn. We will all make mistakes, and that comes with the territory. Great video! Sorry for the long comment! Keep the shiny side up!
Orvis128 Good job. Nice info and good writing.
No problem with the longer post. The only way to communicate is to speak and/or write.
Good job and thank you.
Orvid128, thank you for your word. I'm about the height as you. I bought a roadglide and nervous, but I will conquer!
I enlisted in the course also and will not ride my my bike till then. Any advice will be much appreciated from you thanks . Ride safe .
@@rolandhernandez5087 Hi man, my first bike was a fat bob 2016 HD. I learned to ride on this bike. The pro's of riding a "non-beginner" bike is that you'll be very carefull. The negative point for me was that the bike was real heavy (over 700 lbs) and that was something which took me some months to get over. Other than that it's also about your character and how prudent you are (with cars). Good luck man
It's their opinion. I wouldn't suggest anyone start on a large bike. It can be done. It's just less risky to start on smaller bikes. There isn't a wrong or right answer. It's just how they feel. Everyone will be different based on their accepted risk, learning, and skills.
Riding a heavy bike like a Harley requires more physical force and accuracy than a lighter bike.
Big help, out of VEGAS, dying to enter this world. I grew up in rain everyday in Portland, 40 years, now last 5 where i envision my dream of riding. Just new, and studying a little bit, your vid was was so nive for new bee's
Just got my first bike about a month ago 04 Road King switch to roadglide everything custom floorboards clutch cables LED lights 23 inch rim custom paint first bike I've ever had in my life and I'm on the f****** ground rolling baby!!💪🏽💪🏽👍🏽 Just got to get out and ride
First thing I did when I got my first bike (and first rode) was took it on the 101. I don’t recommend that for people but survival is the best way I learn and it worked. Also how I learned to swim as a young kid
This video helped me make my decision last year, I had never rode anything more then a 250 four stroke dirt bike a few times every few years. After watching your videos and trying to penny pinch I ended up buying what I really wanted a 2016 SG used. I took it slow cruised around close to home, rode on the freeway early Sunday mornings and now a year later I ride it to work, freeways etc. I want to trade it in actually on a road glide now lol. Thank you Matt your vids have brought me so much happiness and pushed me to do something I have always wanted to do. I would tell any new rider buy 1. What you can afford, it’s a toy 2. Take it slow ride within your means 3. Take the riders safety course it’s long days but fun.
I never rode a motorcycle before in my life. I took two HD riding classes and learned the basic for riding. The first motorcycle I purchase was a HD road glide ultra (2017). I had my friend pick it up for me and take me to a school parking lot to ride around for a couple of hours. Afterward, I had a friend go with me on a slow ride on the surface streets in my community. Now I ride along on the surface streets and interstates. My motto is: Be Safe! The only way you are going to learn to ride is to go and ride!
I love my HD Road Glide Ultra (2017), which is the first bike I every owned. However, I do not recommend buying a Road Glide Ultra for a beginner, but I'm 53y/o and 270 lbs, with a lot of common sense. Safety First!!!!!!
That’s nice I’m 55 never rode after my classes I’m going straight to a road glide 2019 but learning now thanks man be safe
Yes my first beginner bike was a 2014 street glide with 7 miles !!! My second Harley is an 2017 ultra awesome times
Wow, I am interested to know about your experience starting with a Street glide. Please let me know if you are willing to share.
Guilherme Fraga at first I was afraid to ride but I wanted to ride and I look at other bike but the streetglide felt like me !! I started just riding around my neighbor hood small circles had a lot of fun rode everywhere in the rain cold two years into took a Saftey class to get my m endorsement .. first year 15 k rode with my wife a lot of new places in California and with hog .. never drop my bike but had few close calls but I just kept riding learning and watch you tube video when not on the bike
@@wolfemanbog4176 Awsome.. man good for you. Love hearing positive outcomes.
Guilherme Fraga ask any thing you like to know
MSF (Motorcycle Safety Foundation) has the MSS (Motorcycle Safety School) classes throughout NYC for 2-3 day courses for a reasonable $350 and you get a road test waiver with the completion. It how I got my License.
I just learned to ride in April and bought a 17 Low Rider S as my first bike. I managed 2400 miles so far, and never had a problem.
I went back to bikes after thirty years, I bought a Dyna Super Glide which a friend rides to safe country road where I can get my confidence back. Your advice is very important and we all need to recognise our limitations and ride accordingly.
After getting my license I struggled if I should get a iron. After long thinking and talk with H-D dealer and my H-D academy instructors I got the fat boy. Mainly because I don’t want to spend the money on iron then spend more again money on the fat boy which is actually the bike I want. The fat boy to my size is perfect I can put my feet down no problem. So far I been driving very carefully and is slowly getting the hing of the bike.
Brand new rider here. Starting out on a brand new 2017 Dyna Street Bob. Wish me luck...
You'll be fine man. Get the Engine Guard
Awesome. I bought a new street bob 2 months ago. I didn't have any riding experience on any type of dirt bike or motorcycle before that and have had zero issues. I've put almost 2000 miles on it already and love it. Enjoy!!
SB are great new rider's bike :)
Awesome choice. First addition to that ride should be a ride bell given to you by someone who cares about you. Your first mod should be engine guards
I already did. Bought the bike a week later.
Bought my first bike back in March. It was a 2009 1200 Low. After three months I decided to trade it in for 2012 Street Glide. I'm 5'2" weighing 135 lbs. at first it was really hard getting used to the weight and the size but I ride it like I was riding my Sportster now. I put 10,500 miles in three months on the Sportster and learned a lot. I got my Street Glide about a month ago and have put 5,000 miles on it. I daily it and I love my Harley.
My first bike was an 81 Heritage Edition I got 33 years ago when I was 15. It was hard to ride, the seat sat high on the bike, the bars were low and I survived. I had ridden dirt bikes since I was about 8 and that old Harley was still hard to ride. The main thing about learning to ride is forget what other people like and what's cool and get what you are comfortable with, listen to your dealer and people like Matt Laidlaw here. Nothing sucks worse than dropping a $30K+ Harley-Davidson. Be safe!
I was told by the teacher in my class not to buy a SGS. So got my endoursment in Nov 2015. I didn't get a bike till July 2 2016. 2016 Street Glide Special. Then not even 30 days I went to Sturgis. 11 hour rise and 2400 miles later. Put almost 6k on the bike and traded it in Sept for a new Milwalkee 8. A week later road to Washington state from Kansas. 1300 miles a day. Rookie rider. They said it would take me 4 days. It took me a day and a half. I didn't read the rule book. I got my but kicked in Wyoming snow sleet and rain. It didn't stop me. I broke that Milwaukee 8 in in Washington state 2600 miles. To turn around to catch flooding in Idaho for 2 days. Gear gear gear. But I did something that most riders for years haven't done. I had put 13k on the new bike in March of this year. That's sitting down in the winter of Kansas. Then the bike had electrical issues and they had to take it back. But I had over 20k in April. That's my first year riding a bike. And if I listened to everyone. Well I've seen more than most guys that have there bikes for years with maybe 5k on them. I'm pounding the pavement. I don't have a trailer queen.
Bear's SGS nice man. Way to just get out there and GO FOR IT!
Bear's SGS awesome. U give me hope. I want a road king as my first bike
tom martin if it's what you want. Do it. I was scared to death the first day. Big city on a Saturday. But the next day. I went to lunch. 300 miles one way. If you can stand flat footed. You can roll. Keep me posted.
Bear's SGS im didabled hands inverted 90 degrees inwards. Arms about 6 inches shorter than normal no thumbs. But I like to do many things. Thank for encouragement
tom martin so you need some different bars. Nothing is impossible for them that believe.
Great video and spot on advice. I used to ride dirt bikes and atv's a little and the occasional street bike if I found one to borrow. I'm 37 and just bought my first street bike a year ago. A 1999 Kawasaki zrx1100 with 40k miles on it. I've got $1500 including insurance and a new front tire invested in it. Dropped it 3 times in the first few months and laughed about it because that's why I got it. No injuries to me and a few scuffs to the bike. Now I'm comfortable and competent enough that I'm not worried about dropping Harley Davidson breakout. I appreciate your decency and demeanor in your videos. It's nice to see someone offering legit advice without being a d-bag like so many biker channels.
I'm just a little guy, 145 pounds. Learned to ride on my 2013 street glide, 16" apes, long bagger, Milwaukee screaming eagle. Set it down a couple times the first month but had to learn quick. You just gotta go for it if you really wanna ride. Never gonna sell that bike. Ride safe, ride smart, and listen to the riders that been doing it for longer.
I have ridden a 650 and 750 a lot but 25 years ago and some dirt riding. Rode my buddies Rode King yesterday with no problem and I am buying an '06 Deluxe. I have short legs am not a young adrenaline junkie and I am taking the CHP course.
really like your honest reviews, I messed up and went into Huntington Beach Harley signed for a superlow883 brand new and I didn't even have my licence yet no fit specialists helped me now..... .your right I'm scared to turn wrong it will cost to much to fix . but take it day by day. and the hours on the bike is best practice. I'm going buy those engine guards this weekend thank you
Good luck man. You'll do fine. Get the engine guards. Ride is low traffic areas that are familiar.
My first motorcycle ever (not counting the basic rider training course) was a '17 Fatboy S. Perhaps "too much bike" for a new rider, but I always figured that a bike with too much power is like a firearm - treat it with respect. I almost dropped it once, but thankfully I saved it. I have never regretted my purchase. I would also love a street glide cvo for touring; but I have a Harley and I still want a '70 GTO. So I don't know when the CVO will happen. Still - love my Harley!
I started on 2008 Harley Crossbones. I love it
I knew I'd outgrow a smaller bike quickly so went withbwhat I wanted right off the bat
GREAT tips! With that being said, My first (Road legal) bike was a 2003 Road King Anniversary. Heavy bike, Slow, Big....You already know. I grew into the bike almost immediately. I've had it for a year and a half, I have been lucky enough to not go down (Hard) yet. Minor stuff, An oil patch pulling into a parking spot, I made the newb mistake of not putting the stand down before I hopped off 😆 But other than that, Nothing yet! But, I did have a little Suzuki 50cc when I was 6 years old haha! My mom made me sell it after I almost got hit by a truck riding it out front of my house.
I started on a 250 Honda Rebel, rode a 2004 Harley Davidson 1200 Custom for 2 years, and have ridden a Ducati Scrambler for the last two years. Still have my Honda Rebel because it is a cheap backup bike, but am looking into getting a Dyna Low-rider, I even went you Laidlaw's to look at it. Really nice dealership and great employees. Your TH-cam videos are also pretty good. I like your convo about barriers to entry. I am from Washington State where you don't even have to have insurance on a motorcycle (although most people still do because it is cheap and useful), but California is the exact opposite.
Thanks for the comment and the good word about the shop.
My first bike was a 2010 1200 Sportster it doesn't matter what you start on as long as you start on something
Good points. I started my 1st bike on a 1200T and moved to a Fat Bob, which I absolutely love.
Noob here, I'd just like to add that any aspiring rider who's driven a stick shift car will take to it much easier than someone who's never used a clutch. Up/down shifting/using the engine to slow down will come naturally. Being mechanically inclined makes a big difference also. I'm on my 1st bike, and it's an '07 dyna with 1400cc's, and it's just right. While taking my safety course, I noticed what a hard time some of the other people were having. If you just have to get a bike and are not familiar with a clutch, I suggest you try and drive a stick shift car first.
Depends on the rider. Harleys have low seat heights which gives you the reassurance of having both feet flat on the ground. A bigger bike like a road king can be a lot of bike for a new rider.
Good point to mention from a fellow Harley salesperson, is the 1200/1250 kits for the 883. I've sold numerous Iron 883s and had the customer come back a year or two later to get the big bore kit done. Here in Canada, a big chunk of our insurance cost is related to displacement. So you can learn the skills needed to properly handle a bike on the 883, then upgrade when you're confident to the 1200. Plus ripping around on a hopped up sportster is fun as hell.
Matt I love your videos very informative and open minded. Always give it to us real and I respect that. Thank you for your time keep the videos coming. I just recently bought my first Harley a 2018 SGS Twisted Cherry
If you're 6'8" and built like a professional wrestler and you're a quick learner you can probably pull off a road king. If you're 5'8" and kind of timid about it get a street 500 or 750.
Matt great points on beginner riders choosing a bike. However I see seasoned riders who are on bikes that don't fit them. See a lot of people on tippy toes at stop signs on baggers. Dealers and sales people need to help fit the person to the bike not just say you look good on it. As far as people saying "Baby Boomers" are getting to old to ride BS to that. My wife and I are in our mid 60's and we still ride 10K to 20K a year on our baggers. Our friend who just turned 70 is in Sturgis. Rode all the way with his wife. One person in our group is and he rides everyday. Tell the dooms dyers they are WRONG.
Couldn't agree more my friend. Good for you on staying out on the road! Enjoy the ride.
I am close to 60 and 6 foot tall and I never had any motorcycle before, I took basic course and bought 2021 low rider s a month ago, so far I am getting bit more comfortable with it. What may have help me I am guessing, 1. I drive manual cars, 2. I ski, 3. I am very careful and practice a lot in parking lot. 4. watch lots of youtube safety tips, 5. I did 4-5 test rides in dealer's parking lot which I gained bit more experience in those test rides, before I bought bike. I am by no means at ease with it but fairly comfortable riding around town even in heavy traffic. Very important to learn clutch and throttle well before going far. Braking and turn from stop around neighborhood first.
I agree with you Matt. Its not Harley Davidson. & The kids today only drive automatic. 🤦🏻♂️ My first bike was a Yamaha YSR 50 I was 13 No helmet No license No Insurance. I had a lot of fun back in the days!! Can't do that for sure today!!
Hi Matt When I went to class learning how to master slow speed riding, one thing I noticed is everyone had their crash bars covered in thick clear plastic tubing tied on with Zip ties. What an excellent idea and it is not expensive. Go to Home Depot for the tubing.
I started on sportster. I got most of my rookie mistakes corrected in the first couple months. Maybe because how much I rode it. But I was on a fxdb after about 3 months. I am definitely glad I made the change because this is the bike for me.
I just bought my first bike it's a 2015 iron 883. Only been on a bike once. It was perfect size for me at 5' 7 real easy to ride and learn.
Good, honest assessment/opinion. Get a bike you're not intimidated by. Then get out and ride (after MSF). Your first bike is not the one you're going to have long. Almost no way around it. But, it'll help u figure out what kind of riding you want to do. I had VStar 650 for 3 months. VTX for a year. Spent next 15 years on sport touring bikes and ADV bikes. Now im older, back to cruisers.
Great tips Matt, I fail the course for dropping the bike the first go round, however I plan to take the riders academy course this time around.
I agree with your ideas regarding learning to ride. I learned in the dirt on minibikes, graduated to real dirt bikes, dual-sport (street/trail), and finally Japanese 4s back in the 70s and 80s. Then I took a break from riding (about 30 years). Coming back into it my plan is to tour - mostly day/weekend trips with my wife. But before I go two-up on 900 lbs of Street Glide or Ultra Glide I purchased a Sportster 883 SuperLow. I'm spending a year or so on the Sportster first. Not quite a new rider, a "returning rider" knocking the rust off my balance and reflexes, re-learning those two wheel survival skills. 5K miles in and yes, there have been several times I've been glad I was on a 500 lb machine rather than a 900 lb machine. The Sportster is so darn much fun, I think I'm going to keep it even when I get the touring bike. ;-) I also took the Motorcycle Safety Foundation basic rider course - I highly recommend it to anyone considering starting riding. The classroom sessions will help you pass the license test. The riding sessions will teach you on small, very easy to ride bikes. (eg Honda Rebel 250) My class had some brand new riders, a couple of people transitioning from dirt to street, and two of us more senior returning riders. We talked and agreed it was informative and useful for everyone.
I wish Harley would have down sized the Muscle and the Night Rod Special for beginner riders and update the looks of it to attract the younger market.
It was on my bucket list to get a HD so when I turned 54 this past June 2017 I told myself it was now or never. I went to my local HD in San Diego and bought a new 2017 Heritage Softail, this is the bike I had been wanting to buy for 30 years and finally got it. Yes, I bought the bike before I got my license Lol. I had not Riden a motorcycle in 40 years so I signed up for a Motorcycle safety course and relearned how to ride on a small Honda Rebel. It all came back to me very quickly so right after the weekend course I went home and rode my Heritage for the first time, I absolutely loved it, what an awesome bike. I have put 2000 miles on it in 5 months and I'm super happy with it. I initially thought it would be a good idea to buy a smaller bike first but after the safety course you do feel comfortable and confident to jump on a big bike. I highly recommend the safety course, you spend a lot of time learning to ride on a small motorcycle which is not intimidating at all.
+JC Safa agreed. Thanks for the comment.
Completely agree with you. I got a 2015 Dyna WideGlide 4 days ago. It's my first bike. I've ridden dirt bikes a total of 3 or 4 times. The Dyna is pretty light FEELING. It's heavy but it's low, so that helps. The engine is stage 1 (intake, exhaust, and tuned), and it is FAST. Probably too much for me....but it's great. You have to fight yourself and RESPECT THE POWER. That's not the only issue though. I was backing the bike in somewhere to park it and there was sand and gravel. I was backing down a hill and the front brake locked and the bike kept sliding. My heart was in my throat. Bike was running so I just drove it forward. But still. Had i had sonething smaller would I have been in that situation at all? Who can say. Get what you want, and get what you feel comfortable with. If you feel AT ALL the bike MIGHT be too big. DON'T DO IT.
That's all right what you say Matt ...
One I want to say extendend to this ... when you learn to ride on dirt, you become a fine / better Feeling for your Bike, it's training your reaction very good for every Situation that can be happend ...
When you have learned ride / handle your Bike on Dirt, every other you learn easy by doing ...
Step by Step, not to quickly 👌👍👋☺ ... we see us, your Arne
I used to ride smaller dirt bikes off road in the 70's. Well at the time they weren't really called that. :)
I planned to get a Harley Davidson bob style motorcycle when I hit 50, but I was 5 years late.
Bought a 2017 Harley Davidson Street Bob a few months ago, just hit 1,000 miles.
Can't believe I waited so long, what a game changer, weekends are fun again!
Oh, and yes, intentionally skipped past smaller and/or used bikes, went straight to the Street Bob.
My very first bike at age 39 was a 14 street glide rush more model !!! I never rode a motorcycle before I did take a class at Harley 7 years before so I went for 6 mounts looking for a bike that I felt fit me was hard but the first wrap on the throttle was awesome and had a few close calls but never dropped my bike never Now I ride a 2017 ultra classic that I love and ride daily !!!
Nice. Thank you for sharing your story. I'm loving these!
my first bike was a harley....2014 iron 883. 3 months later got me a 05 heritage. the 883 was an awsome and fun bike....i do miss it but the heritage is a way more comfortable and smoother ride
I started on a 48, and then moved onto a dyna, now i am doing a lot of mx to catch up with the in between training. Get a street for starters and do a lot of dirt biking. Great help for safety. Do not forget everybody can ride straight, it is the corners you should worry:).
True. MX is so good for really becoming a great rider.
Harleys are great first bikes, but many Harley salesmen do new riders a disservice by trying to ram a 800 plus LBS cruiser down their throats because the kickback is better than any other scoot. Perfect example is when I bought my FXDR after the salesman pushing me away from softails and insisting I get a Road King Special I asked for a salesman who's actually trying to get me the right bike for me and not selling me a price tag.
I completely agreed with you, get a tipper bike to learn by yourself, or here in New York City, we have, and is recommended by Harley Davidson New York, a MSS (Motorcycle Safety School). If you ever had drive a motorcycle, you start learn with a Harley Davidson motorcycle and with "only" three days you can learn how to bike. I don't want to make any advertisement to nobody, but this one I recommend. I did a safe course and it is amazing how those Kids learned.
I live in the UK. We have a lot more rules than America and our insurance is way more expensive. I'm 25 years old and looking to get my first bike in October and I'll be getting a street bob.. it's pretty sad that nobody else my age seems to be interested with motorcycles, not just Harley's specifically. I will make sure to put some nice V&H pipes on so it can be as obnoxious as possible to piss some people off.
What doe youwhand. To. Sale let me. Noo
Hi Matt,
and again a great mix of information and views of the wonderful American landscape. I have been actively driving motorcycles for 35 years and are always learning about them. Thanks for the nice video. greetings from Bavaria. Night Train Alex.
Another thing to consider is rider size on those smaller bikes if the rider is large enough that they cannot position themselves properly that can lead to safety issues i learned that getting the bike that fits your size is just as important
You offer some pretty honest advice, and I cannot agree more on dirt bike learning. Your very first really shouldn't be a bigger 1000+ street bike on the road. Not IMO. If you can't go dirt first....Used and smaller isn't a bad option at all.
Thanks Matt. I bought a Harley Street Rod 3 weeks ago and I love the hell out of the thing.
Did you do anything to fix the riding position? I just sat on one because I was considering test riding it and it was almost painful, and I can actually get comfortable on some super sports. Ended up test riding a Low Rider S and loved it, which is something because I'm not a "Harley guy" and found the other Harleys I've ridden in the past to be slow and soft.
So basically just money is the reason why Harley's aren't good beginner's bikes?
In other words, if money really isn't an issue for me, and I want a Harley, then is a Harley a good beginner bike for me? Is there anything about a Harley other than the price that would make it not good for a beginner?
I've sat on a Sportster before and I feel as comfortable as I do on my mountain bike.
I started out young on a honda 50. Rode on a learners perment for a few years on a yamaha V star 650. Finally took the riding academy at our local Harley Dealership to get my license. Would highly recommend taking it. Just be careful you'll want a Harley before you leave. 😆 I went and bought a used Ultra Classic to park next ro my Yammie.
Great video!
I am 50 y/old, rode a dirt bike as a kid and a mid-size street bike in my 20's. STOP. (I told 25 yrs off with 4 kids, soccer, family life).
I bought the bike I always wanted (Electra Glide Ultra- SE103 engine (used)). Wow I had ALOT of learning to do. It has been 6 months of really practicing low speed maneuvering in parking lots, 1-2 hr a week, and I am now feeling comfortable, but a long way to go.
If I were to do again, I would have bought an Iron883, or Lowrider S, and spent 2 years making responsible progress, and THEN move up to the bagger/cruiser.
Best advise I could give, in retrospect, is to follow Matt's info here.
Don't do what I did.
Thank you. I appreciate the comment
It sounds like it's so much easier to start learning to ride in the US, here in Aus you need to record 50 hours of riding with a supervised instructor before being able to just ride by yourself
You hit the nail on the head with the accessibility comment. I would have never seen myself on a Harley without coming up on bicycles, minibikes, dirtbikes and the eventual. I think all Dad's should expose their kids to these things early and often. Damn shame California has become so pussified.
It takes money to buy and maintain a motorcycle. If you don't have good credit and or cash, you are not going to buy something brand new to learn on then later trade in for a bigger ride.
If you want a Harley, there are plenty of them out there for cheap. The old Evos are still good. You can get something decent for 5k. They are reliable, mostly easy to work on and parts are available.
Know what you want it for and look accordingly.
Take a course and PRACTICE!
From my own personal experience, I started on an 87 ElectraGlide. Got a good deal on it, and I started in my driveway getting used to the clutch, the front break and not dumping it at slow speed.
From there I got it out and practiced in WalMart and took it slow until I was comfortable. Took about a week altogether then over time you and your machine blend together and you just ride it. It becomes second nature.
Be aware of your surroundings. Don't get cocky and over ride your skill.
Is a Harley Davidson a good first motorcycle? Sure if all you can afford is one bike, get you want and learn it. If you have the means to start small and change bikes, then do that.
Just started riding about 6 months ago 1st bike Heritage Softail Mooglide!. Im about 6' 2" though so i can handle it pretty well. I guess what im trying to say is that sometimes its the person as well (some people are natural riders)
I was born in 82 so I fall into the millennial category. I rode my first bike at a pretty young age, a kx60 first bike I owned was a kx125 and my first street bike was a 636 and my learning experience on the street was the ride home. From Portsmouth, VA to Virginia Beach across a metal grates bridge. So... some of us have balls. Now my problem is time to shop.
You should make a video on how to shop via email. I'm a truck driver and after watching your 114 times 117 breakout video I want the anniversary model.
I've emailed dealers local to me but none of them will quote a number less than MSRP. I plan to shop but I just don't have the time while I'm at home. I seen one on ebay from a dealer sell for 19,899 MSRP is 21ish. It came from a dealer, new with a windshield , grips, cruise control, a luggage rack, and passenger backrest. If I plan on doing a stage 3 or 4 I don't wanna pay MSRP. I'll be putting plenty of money into the service department. But nobody will quote anything less than msrp.
If your gonna spend the money, just buy what you want to start, you'll save money in the long run, i started on a 15' street glide and i still smile everytime i throw a leg over it, i spent hours low speed practicing, these big bikes can be thrown around like nothing with proper technique, just gotta put in the time to learn and practice
Matt I do enjoy your thorough clear explanation of HD comparisons and misconceptions. I'm currently riding an '05 Victory Kingpin, love it. But I've had my eye on a couple of HD cruisers. Thanks for sharing your knowledge!
Hey Matt great review I do agree with u a street 750 and an 883 are great beginner bikes. I have no motorcycle experience at all and they were easy bikes to start off and you really have to b clumsy to drop a Harley my only problem I had was stalling the bikes which was very common for beginners my instructor told me but, in my opinion the 2017 street rod was the best bike to ride easy to control was very surprised how much power it had and it's very affordable. My other problem i had with that bike was my feet didn't fit the pegs that well because I have a size 14 shoe that was my only complaint but over all I highly recommend that bike for beginners.
I always offer a new rider the chance to go ride a dirtbike. No not a 450 MX bike, but a smaller displacement bike with a mello powerband. The controls (Throttle, brakes & clutch) are basically the same. A new rider has to become totally familiar with the controls and especially the ability to "panic brake" effortlessly without thinking!
Great video Matt, also would like to mention that as you age, which we all do, look at changing models, I used to always ride Electraglide standards when they had them , graduated to Classics then Ultras, find they are just to cumbersome now and heavy , moved to Softails and now ride dyna switchback and feel much more comfortable, at 74 still riding and loving it. Great bike with lockable, removable bags and same with windscreen.
+Bob Henderson Very nice. I've seen some of my customers move down to lighter bikes over the years as well. Glad to hear you're still riding.
I used to work the parts counter at a motorcycle shop, biggest mistake I think people make is deciding on a bike before they've even touched one. So they try it out and realize it doesn't fit them, it's too heavy, too tall, bars are too wide/low/narrow whatever. So they decide to try and make it fit because it's "what they want." Get the bike that fits you the best out of the box with minimal tweaks.
Good advice. People choose the “look” of a big over what suits their needs more times than not.
Good advice to start on a dirt bike. To this I'd add: a good bike to start on is a USED Japanese bike that you can buy for about $3,000 and ride for one season and then sell it, get your most of your money back, and then get your Harley.
Love your clips, so good to see someone cruising around Cali. Being from Melbourne Australia it seems like the closest thing to what we have but the bike scene i wish we had. Its all about Breakouts and v rods over here, we need more club style dynas and badass baggers! Hope u enjoy making these clips, useful content.
So cool how you were in Idyllwild. I ride there all the time from Indio using Highway 74. Really scenic. Good vlog Matt! Ride safe!!
Being from the other part of the ocean I wholeheartedly agree with what you say. Motorcycles have lost appeal to newer generations: they are too costly, many of the millennials simply could not afford them. Moreover, marketing has depicted "entry level" bikes as "poor man's choice" bikes, so millennials would not settle for entry level bikes because they are not cool since they scream "beginner" from a mile away.
I turned 41 this year, my girlfriend is 31, when we go to dinners and the like with her friends of her age they are totally uninterested in my bike. They don't even look at her. When we hang around with people "old like me", they always approach and ask questions.
Ok, my personal experience isn't a marketing statistic, but many other friends of mine have experienced the same.
I would say no. I've ridden a couple and the center of gravity is higher up. Something lime a Suzuki C50 has a very liw center of gravity. That makes it very good to learn making proper turns on. Low seat height and forward controls gives a beginning rider a good posture.
Great Video Matt. I highly recommend a safety riding class for all riders! I have had two skilled rider classes and both thought me things I didn't know. Slow speed maneuvers that will drop you in every day situations. Thanks and Ride Safe!
IN TEXAS, PART OF THE LICENCE PROCESS, IN TAKING A RIDER/DRIVER HANDS ON TRAINING. COST ARE 15 TO 200 FOR A STATE/FEDERAL AUTHORIZED TRAINING. THIS IS A MUST FOR ALL DRIVERS. PERSONAlly I HAVE TAKEN THE CLASS A/B, C AND NOW THE CYCLE TRAINING. I HAVE USED THIS TRAINING WHILE DRIVING MULTIPLE TIMES
Dirt bike experience is invaluable. Those of us that started on dirt have a huge head start.In fact, dirt experience likely saved my life in 2008...
Absolutely.
Learning on a harley wasn't hard but granted I learned in the 750 street!!! I even passed the test at the DMV! I finally up graded last month to the 2008 dyna fat bob!!! It's a beast and I love it!!! If you want to learn on a harley get the 500 or 750 street they are light and easy to maneuver
Joey Patacsil thanks for sharing your experience.
My daughter bought the 750 street rod for a first bike. Girls generally aren't as stupid as guys. Works great for her she doesn't rev a lot and the 750 is a lot more tolerant than a sportster, I had one. Now I have the low rider. But she is not normal size. 5 10 220lbs and lifts weights. Took the Harley course with her was great. I started riding at 8. Now I'm 60. Also the 750 street rod will go 80 , the speed limit here, with ease.
Started on a dirt bike, street bike by 17, riding all my adult life. At 46 loving my Ultra for comfort and my Road King to rip back roads. Would still love to have a Sportster, but the expense of two bikes is enough. Lol
I got a 2006 Street as my first hog coming from a 250 supermoto. In a couple years i'll go all in for a 2024 street
My first was a Yamaha Roadstar, sort of big but not to expensive in case I felt riding wasn't for me. Last year I bought my first Harley (Road Glide Ultra).
My first bike is a 2009 Road Glide...so far no issues. Dropped it once but was saved by my highway peg....not a bad bike for me...6’7” ...300 lbs...anything smaller would be clownish....imo...
Harleys worked perfect for me went from a 1987 sportster to a 2005 road king to a 2013 street glide
The company doesn’t make enough lower CC bikes, period. That’s Harley Davidsons problem.
Great video. Learned on my current bike. 96 heritage classic. I ride with my father in-law and his is 17 heritage classic. His has a lot more power than mine, but mine has more than enough for me (for now) . I know I would have hurt myself if I started out with something more powerful.
Just got my first bike, 2013 Harley heritage in black
Great videos and great finishing subject. Motorcycling is looked at as a dangerous transport option rather than the fun, economical and pleasurable option that it truly is. Yes it is dangerous but so is cycling, walking down the street and driving a car can be. I just think if teenagers who havent ridden before could see the pleasure and community it brings to a mode of transport then they would consider it over a car or other alternatives. Motorcycling isnt a secret club its a economical and ecologically friendly way to get around. How many people do you see driving a car and they have no passengers, just them. Pus they take up less space etc. My father always loved his motorcycles and it made me want to have tuition and pass my test. I am glad i did. I dont ride as i dont own a bike due to commitments but i wish i could and i envy all those that do.
My first bike 27 years ago was a Honda 350, that was a perfect bike to learn on because it had limited power and it was only a $300 purchase. Start with a small old $500.00 to a $1000.00 bike to learn on so you don't really care if you damage it
Bought a 125cc dirt bike a few years ago, rode it for a few months and then moved up to a 250cc for a few months and decided that I just didn't like how much effort goes into riding a dirt bike and sold both within a year. About a two months ago, I got a wild hair to get a street bike. Just took the Harley Davidson Riding Academy this past week and did really well in it. I learned a lot and felt pretty confident. I've been watching a lot of your recent videos lately, and with the info in those paired up to what I've been thinking, I'd like to go after the 2018 Breakout 107, since it's been improved over previous models, according to your reviews, other reviews and what Harley has done to the softail platform. I'll obviously test ride it first, but what's your opinion on this? I love the Breakout for the looks of being like a chopper (what I was originally going to buy until people talked me out of it, thankfully). If it matters, I'm 5'9, 130lbs. I don't see myself going on real long rides (no more than 30 minutes to an hour each way or more than 50+miles one way, but that could change...???). Thanks and keep up the videos Matt
Awesome video once again Matt!
Great topic, and even greater advice and info!
Great video Matt. Took an MSF Basic Rider Course at my local Harley dealership last summer on a Street 500 and bought the Street 750 as my first bike. I've tipped the bike over twice (once installing a seat, 2nd time because i'm an idiot and forgot the kickstand) and only some minor cosmetic damage done. Really solid-built bikes. Can't recommend taking the course enough. Going to take your advice and take a look at a Low Rider sometime soon as an upgrade.
Agreed, go buy a used Honda to learn on and I don’t mean a Valkyrie that will eat your lunch or just kill you before you learn at worst. I recommend a beginners course , it’s money well spent that will keep you learning . A Harley is not what you start out on, it’s what you move up to with experience and the ability to afford. With a strong emphasis on affordability, Harley’s are generally expensive!! Yea, you can find a good deal here and there, but across the board they will cost a bit more than a metric. I own both and my Harley was special ordered so I paid the fiddler lol. And it was twice and then some of my Vstar 1100 Silverado that’s a hypercharged beast.
my first bike ever was a used 2012 Fatboy it wasn't the best first bike as it was heavy and its lean angle was meh but i did 2 years on it with no issues so its up to the riders abilities but your right the price of them makes it risky if you drop it!
Learning to ride motocross first was by far best thing ive done, not only did i learn on something far cheaper than a hd but it gave me so many added skills. My first road bike was a cbr250rr which i didnt really enjoy, i then changed to mx and after 3 solid years of mx tracks each week i rode my old mans sporty one day and needless to say it was my bike few weeks later. Agree got to understand how much it will cost to repair before buying as beginner, im learning to stunt this one before getting a late model dyna haha
Keeping in mind i learnt on 2014 yz125 for a year then moved onto 2015 yz250 which i still own and makes the sporty feel real torquey but lack in hp lol another great thing is i learnt the benefits of well setup high end suspension on the dirt so took same concept to my harley and handles way better than stock. Being 5 11" 155lbs no stock suspension works for me haha
I got a used fxdf. I'm 6'5 so it was hard for me to find something that didn't make me look like a clown riding a child's tricycle. I kind of wish I got a lower cc touring bike like a versys, but I'm getting the hang of it.