@@jeffreyculberth1440 I ended up with a 2012 DWG. Thought it would be better for 2 up. Have been enjoying it with my wife riding here in NC and 1 trip to PA. Heading to NH this summer once the social distancing is over.
I am not a trained mechanic either but I can say with great confidence that an after market exhaust should in no way have a negative effect on the engine. A lean condition can only be caused by improper air fuel ratio maybe set of by a bad O2 sensor. Think of Vance Hines pipes as a cat-back system they put them on cars all the time.
Thanks Roger... Yes... I was a 13B! Stationed in Nurnberg Germany... M-110 Howitzers. I was there when the wall fell...didn't get a hunk of it... too busy chasing fraulines to be distracted with all that historical stuff (ahhh youth!). Served in Desert Storm during the ground campaign. You put in some real deal time... "King of Battle!"
Great points about the stage 1 kits. Dealers stand to gain a LOT of money by selling a tune along with a new air filter. The truth is just like you said....the bike will adjust for the pipes just fine without a tune. My mechanic told me it would be fine, and we checked the plugs after a year and they were perfect for a properly set up bike. I actually bought a tuner online for a bit, but the bike ran WORSE with it.
I liked your video so much I went out and bought one. No kiddin, I really did. I also bought the exact same pipes except Harley talked me into the stage 1. Other accessories were the windshield, passing lamps side bag like yours and a fender rack to load things up. Beautiful motorcycle. I only wish the stock seat wasn't so uncomfortable for long trips. Take care and ride safe.
Wow... congrats vulcanman! I don't blame you at all for getting the stage 1... great move! 110% peace of mind and what the heck... more power and you can get an awesome airbreather. I was mainly addressing the "do you HAVE to get one" within my vid. Couple other things that I did that I LOVE since creating this vid... flush mount black fuel caps and relocated the license plate to the rear. I kept hitting my knee on the stock and didn't like how it broke the profile. Enjoy your bike!
Very nice review! Humble and enthusiastic. Just bought a 2018 slim and hesitating on stage 1 or just pipes. I like the long ones. Vanes seems to give the nicest sound from what I've seen in TH-cam.
Very nice, and your mods really bring it to a higher level. The slim is my favorite and will go for one soon. I especially like that speedo/tach that you got from Harley. Never knew it existed.
I was just about to get a street bob did not even know they had this version of the whole fat boy series and I look over and see this and I was in luv! Great bike by the way!
Forgot to ask, did you notice a drop in radiant engine heat when you swapped out the stock pipes? I have heat-wrapped mine but to little improved effect. The V&H pipes seem further away from your leg - maybe those extra inches make all the difference?
Gene, congratulations. I love your bike. Mine is denim black. I do have the black engine guard. I had the V&H Big Shots long installed. Added removable saddle bags and windshield. I like the all black appearance as well, but I wish they would've made the Big Shots in black. I also like the Slim because I used to own a beat up 1948 pan head when I was 17 years old. That was in '67. Go figure. Ever since then, I fell inlove with American Iron. Yes, I like the nostalgic look. I also like the way you "blackened" the front end. By the way, I removed the heel shifter from mine. I've always been use to the toe. Except for my '48 of course which had the foot clutch and hand shifter. Dang! I miss the panhead. This is my fourth Harley. Thanks for sharing your video. Happy riding!
Thanks J Nieto! Love the denim black and may have went that route if they had one in stock at the time... dig the subdued look. I plan on doing another vid here some time soon cause I blacked out much more! Flush mount tank caps, removed heel shifter replaced toe with black, black brake foot control, and removed side mount lic plate mount... replaced with rear center mount... kept hitting my dang leg on the side mount... ... and I didn't like the look.
btw... what windshield did you go with? I visited the HD dealer to ask about a windshield... they didn't have any styles that I wanted that fit my bike. I'm looking for a low profile, more like a flyscreen... had one on my 48 (Sons of Anarchy~ish).
gene1221 Gene, as to the windshield, I went with the part 58278-95. It's 18" light smoke - Polished Braces. I don't think they had the black braces otherwise I would have gotten them instead. I also wanted the quick-release instead of the detachable windshield, but they don't make them for the Slim. At any rate, I like the option of removing the bags and or the windshield if just cruising around town or having them to go on a long trip. I had never ridden a Harley with a windshield. Makes a world of difference in riding. I love the windshield. One thing that I realized later, and perhaps you've already thought of this. If touring and staying at motels etc., I've thought there's a possibility of theft. The only option that I can think of would be to detach it overnight and take indoors. The saddle bags detach from the inside, but I installed locks on the flaps. I ordered the locks at he dealer to match my key. I'll be keeping an eye on TH-cam. I wish you well. BTW, the windshield and the bags give the bike a different look. More like the old Harley's of the 50's...I think so anyway.
Great video brother. Thank you for the info. I kinda figured you could just go with the pipe mod without putting the fuel management on. Beautiful bike to by the way.
gotta '17 ss 103. got the flat black paint, took those chrome boat anchors off first thing and put on v&h ss's flat black. masked off the tank emblems and shot them with flat black and clear coated. took heel shifter off and threw it in the lake with stock pipes. put a fork bag and I'm done, don't need p-pad cos I hate people anyways and only thing I might add is an 'ol distressed brown leather solo saddle with the springs. enjoy the ride, be safe!!!
Thanks for a great video. I went into the HD dealership in Oxford (UK) to look at an Iron 883, but the Softail Slim caught my eye and will buying one this summer.
Great Vid man.. I spent about 2 hours at my local Harley dealer the other day and almost pulled the trigger on the exact same bike. Plan on doing so as soon as the snow breaks. I was actually searching vids on pipes trying to decide and love the Vance & Hines on my CBR. May go with the same for my Slim.. Thanks again
Great review and nice bike. We are of the same mind with respect to the pipes. The first thing I did on my new Sportster 72 was swap out the stock mufflers for some V&N Straight Shots, not looking for more power but rather the classic Harley sound. I did notice a bit more popping on deceleration and hopefully some of that will clear up after a few hundred more miles. Enjoy the new ride!
Very nice review. I have a 2011 SportyEight as I call it and love it but the slim is screaming my name. I've been struggling with it since they first released shortly after I bought my 48 actually. The peanut tank is so cool but kills me on the frequent stops. It gets so annoying. I've also got the stage one with power commander and V&H short shots in black with a heavy breather cone. It's just sick. I geek out on Marvel too lol. I feel like there are not many Harley geeks out there. Good to see another. Rep'n from California over here. Be safe.
Thanks knockoffs The seat is much more comfortable... I ended up getting the matching passenger pillion as well. The Mustang seat fit MUCH cleaner than the stock seat. I ordered it from M&M Cycles... Wide Tripper Solo. Go ahead and google that cycle shop and you'll be all set. Surdyke HD is another great online shop. After making the video I added a black flush mount fuel gauge\cap, removed the heel shifter, and added black diamond shifter\brake controls to the bike. Mod fun never ends!
Good info about the Stage 1 stuff. I saw your 48 video too and both bikes sound great. You mentioned driving a howitzer in the Army. 13 Bravo? I did 20 years as a 13 Bravo. :)
Very good review from real world experience. Trading in my 04 1200r tomorrow and picking my 14 fls slim. Will miss the sporty but been 10 years and time to let her go.
gene1221 Thanks Gene I absolutely love the new bike. Unfortunately I had a kid in a car pull out in front of me within 2 months of getting her. 4k later from his insurance and 2 months of lost riding time I got her back with some upgrades. She now has Python throwbacks, dual color satin black and grey tank, and axle mounted vertical plate holder. I also added the LED Daymaker headlight and LED turn signals. ;)
Awesome bike mate, I picked up the 2014 model,charcoal satin(there is a youtube video of it ) I disagree with the comment not to upgrade the ecm(fuelpac) as HD was required to run these bikes very lean to pass government regulations, if you add performance pipes and open up the air cleaner it will run even more lean, lean = very bad, I would highly recommend remapping to get the whole thing running richer and cooler,this info did not come from dealers just from my research, my dealer never even mentioned to remap,cheers
Great review! I stuck quiet baffles in my V & H exhaust. It's still loud but I can yell over it now. lol My next bike will probably be a Slim unless I can find a better deal on a used Heritage. I really prefer full fenders and chrome. Maybe turn it into a WW2 WLA sort of thing. Everything I read says to get a 2018 or newer for the better lean angle 4'+ and ideally a '19 1/2 for the upgraded oil pump.
Great video and nice job on the commentary. I myself have a softail crossbones which you may be interested in knowing was used in the first Captain America movie. Well I enjoyed the video and Ride Safe.
Hi Gene. Great video. Good detail and some good opinion and pointers. I like the mods you have done. Could you please tell me what brand the engine guard is. I also like it in black so it doesn't stand out too much. Thanks in advance. Harry
nice vid, just bought a 14 streetbob and was wondering about the importance of stage 1 air cleaner and download when I get my pipes also. I just got some cycle shack slips and they are loud as shit haha..I will get full pipes soon though..i also asked about warrenty and they said same thing..totally agree with u.
Good job.. i jst bought the 2014 soft tail.. i found this very helpful an informational.. i will now be adding pipes ... question??? can i put rear pegs with stock pipes..
Which softail? I bought the Softail Fatboy and I was in the same boat as you. The slim didn't have the passenger pegs or pillion, and I would have had to add that later. The Fatboy already had both items included. I was told if you had foot PEGS, it would be fine, Floor BOARDS, would create an issue in clearance.
Hello Gene do you still have the slim? Love your videos. Had a 48 like yours but i painted and fitted a 4.5 gal tank and 14 inch HD apes. Man did i love that bike. Hopefully one day i can get a slim. Cheers Ray.
awesome bike! i just visited my local harley dealer today and rode one of these and a 48. both fantastic! i've had a kawasaki vulcan 800 for the last 12 years and i'm dying to get into a harley...just can't quite make the money work yet...getting close, though! :)
Thanks Gari! Love both the Slim\48... great choices imho! I had various sport\dirtbikes and rode a few other makes of cruisers and... well... every nut and bolt on these HD's oozes the highest quality. Solid solid bikes... and they look badass. Hope you get the greenbacks together... pulling for ya!
Autumnleaf2011 Hi Autumn... yes indeed I used to have the 48... and loved it. Things are going great and thanks! Hmmm... the Slim and 48 definitely have their own individual personality... I love the Slim but must admit that I really miss seeing that 48 in my garage... I love the compact front heavy bulldog profile of the Sportster! Beautiful bike. I'm used to the weight of the Slim... non issue.
***** Personally, I think the 500 would be a better bike to learn on. You could do it on the 800, but it would be more difficult given the extra weight. Keep in mind that you WILL lay your first bike down. Once you get into the swing of riding, you'll quickly outgrow the 500 and want something bigger...The same thing will happen with the 800. Another option may be to take a riding course -- they use REALLY small bikes. That way you could get the hang of the principles of riding without having to worry about a heavier bike. In that case, you could learn on the small bike, but still get yourself a heavier / mid-size bike like the 800. BTW, I finally did get a Harley, but ended up going with the Fat Boy Lo. Fantastic bike! Good luck!
If u r concerned about weight and cleaning the bike up, I'd take those engine bars off dude, I don't think you'll drop it, sits nice and low to the ground. Very nice bike, I've just received a set of those pipes for xmas, cant wait to put them on during the xmas break, they sounds so nice, safe riding dude.
Thanks P Os! Hope you enjoy your new pipes! I'm on the fence about removing the engine guard. It's one of the few items I would leave on the bike due to its functionality rather than looks (I generally side with looks :). I'm not overly concerned with the hp to weight ratio... It's just an added perk to removing excess whatever. But... yes, I'm used to the bike so the engine guard just might get deleted!
It actually don't look that bad on your bike to be honest, kinda gives the bike a stronger wider stance plus peace of mind case she goes over, even slow drops can do so much damage eh, thanks for replying, take care, ride safe.
Beautiful Bike !! Love the Pipes!!! Having a hard time on deciding if I want to buy the Softail Slim of the Fat Boy Low for my first bike... thoughts or ideas? I know there is a price difference, but just looking for some inside view and thoughts on people who might have either one?? Thanks guys....
personally I went with the Slim because it reminded me of the 48... which I love the general look of that bike. Fat Boys are awesome too sooo... win win regardless of your choice!
nice bike, very good video explaining all about the softail slim, I'm thinking of buying that model in the future, or the breakout or buying an older evo? Thanks for the insight on the fitting of the pipes and I believe you are right in what you are saying if it doesn't void the warranty then it must be fine.
Thanks cliffy... Glad that this video may have helped in some way... that's what its all about... sharing the info\ knowledge\ experiences. Good luck getting your HD... I'm partial to the Slim, of course... love the fatty front tire.
That's the exact bike I looked at today. I sat on the street bob, which was my original pick. But, after sitting on it, my feet would not go flat. I'm only 5'8. I feel more secure if my feet are flat. After sitting on the soft tail. my feet were flat. My question is, how come you don't black out the Transmission cover? I know I'm going to.
Gene comparing scraping with the 48 and the slim. Did it feel more sketchy scraping the 48 with the pegs compared to scraping foot boards. Any close calls?
It never felt sketchy... for either bike... zero close calls. When it would happen I would right myself up a smidgen... done. Footpegs and the floorboards are made to fold up when coming into contact with... well... anything... so no worries.
Regarding this model of Harley don't some owners "drop" the bike down so as to ride at a lower rake? Or does it just seem that they're sitting lower due to a more contoured low-ride seats and different rims and less sidewall tires? I'm buying a new 14' FLS Softail Slim and will covert it over to a low ride-look bike with black 3 spoke rims, different tires, less fender, different lighting , black fork and headers. I'm just getting started researching and asking questions. Thanks for any input.
Hi Louie... I don't necessarily know what other riders might be doing but... on the surface... I doubt they're doing any thing to get the low profile you speak of. At the time I purchased my Slim that model had the lowest seat height of the entire Harley lineup. That along with the dipped profile of the bike gives it a very low\ stretched look. I noticed what you're saying with the Slims and believe its just the stock look.
coincidence you asked this... within another comment I just talked about how much more the 48 pegs dragged over the Slim foot boards. Yes... it was common to drag the 48 pegs... Slim= in 4k miles I scraped them a bit twice. I had to be much much more careful on the 48. Slim... I never even think about it.
Hey Pal, do you still love your bike? I currently own also a Buell XB12S but I like to "upgrade" on a Slim S 2016. Is there any additional experience you made since 2013? Greets, Mark
The bad part about it is... these carb and FI Twin cams don't sound anything like what Harleys have sounded like since 1936, but whatever... that is what technology is good for. Love my old evo... she is in pieces, but that's ok... I'll take a screwed up INA cam bearing that will be replaced with a Torrington over a japanese sounding twin cam with a cam chain. ;) Nice bike either way... I've liked the softail slim since the day it came out.
Gene what kind of mustang seat did you get? The wide tripper or vintage? I was wondering if it held you in the better because when accelerating quickly i almost slide right off. Lol.
I got the Tripper vulcanman... and it fits perfectly! I was actually surprised that it fit snugger\ better engineered steam-lined fitment than the stock seat. The seat also "cups" your rear nicely which prevents any sliding when you open the bike up. Looks and feels great. I will say that its def not a touring seat... after an hour I need to take-5... ... or 10.
I have the same ride....for the same reasons...in fact I also had a 48..the rumour was it was called a 48 cuz after 48 miles ya needed to fill it up....Sold my bagger and bought the slim...no regrets...by the way....did you get a stage 1? ;-) Enjoyed your vid...
Hi. if you really just wanted the sound to improve why didn't you go with slip ons? I am looking to update my stock pipes but I cant decide if I should go with slip ons or entire pipes.... I don't think I care much for the extra power either... I just want better sound.
A few more horsepower really doesn't mean much for a Softail Slim. Such horsepower is only added near the redline of the upper gears anyway. What really matters with V&H, or other aftermarket pipes, is sound, looks, and torque in the low and mid-range rpms.
i just got that same bike and i was going to put short shots on it also, Is your bike still running good without the stage 1? because im going for sound only also...but people keep telling me get it done cause cause its bad on the engine.
Thanks clark! Hahah... well... glad to hear I don't come across as a douchebag\tool. I just love bikes and try to share info when I can... ... I get a lot of ideas\info from other's videos soooo just participating in the info sharing.
Hmmm... I'm 5'7" and feel a bit short for it... not bigtime but yeah... I'd imagine it would fit you well but def go into the dealership and sit on a few... you might be a bit cramped.
Love the Bike. Id like a new one myself. Consider this... One could become an experienced Carb Tuner within 500 miles. Just Say'in. Get deep in your ride, no smack talk from me. Peace!
I bought a bag for mine but don't like the way it straps on, they give you tape to help protect the paint but I still don't trust it. Sending bag back.
How tall are you? reason I ask is because I am buying a harley but I have a hardtime planting my feet flat on the ground, you seem to do that on that bike. Thanks
Manuel Castillo Manny, I own a 2015 FLS, I'm only 5'5", and I find it real easy to reach the controls, and can stand flat footed with a little space between me and the seat. Great bike, but hated the toe heel shifter, and the stock seat
Harley Davidson dealerships sell one through their catalog, made by Jim's, that bolts to the downtubes on the frame right below the voltage regulator. It won't affect your warranty, either
You don’t need stage 1... but you will never have too performance. And yea you want sounds... but stage one lets it be a smooth ride better gas better flow less oil burn and many more
Its 2018 and I watch this video about every other weekend. Saving for a used 2013 for next year.
You get it? I just bought a 13 and am loving it
@@jeffreyculberth1440 I ended up with a 2012 DWG. Thought it would be better for 2 up. Have been enjoying it with my wife riding here in NC and 1 trip to PA. Heading to NH this summer once the social distancing is over.
@@jeffreyculberth1440 m trying to get one but doubting on the reliability s ok mehwere somewhat
I am not a trained mechanic either but I can say with great confidence that an after market exhaust should in no way have a negative effect on the engine. A lean condition can only be caused by improper air fuel ratio maybe set of by a bad O2 sensor. Think of Vance Hines pipes as a cat-back system they put them on cars all the time.
Beautiful, beautiful, bike! Love that sound! Love those black pipes on it!
Thanks for the review of the bike, can't thank you enough for helping me choose a new Harley awesome.
Thanks Roger... Yes... I was a 13B! Stationed in Nurnberg Germany... M-110 Howitzers. I was there when the wall fell...didn't get a hunk of it... too busy chasing fraulines to be distracted with all that historical stuff (ahhh youth!). Served in Desert Storm during the ground campaign. You put in some real deal time... "King of Battle!"
+gene1221 Silly Question . How tall are you Mr. Gene.
Great points about the stage 1 kits. Dealers stand to gain a LOT of money by selling a tune along with a new air filter. The truth is just like you said....the bike will adjust for the pipes just fine without a tune. My mechanic told me it would be fine, and we checked the plugs after a year and they were perfect for a properly set up bike. I actually bought a tuner online for a bit, but the bike ran WORSE with it.
I liked your video so much I went out and bought one. No kiddin, I really did. I also bought the exact same pipes except Harley talked me into the stage 1. Other accessories were the windshield, passing lamps side bag like yours and a fender rack to load things up. Beautiful motorcycle. I only wish the stock seat wasn't so uncomfortable for long trips. Take care and ride safe.
Wow... congrats vulcanman! I don't blame you at all for getting the stage 1... great move! 110% peace of mind and what the heck... more power and you can get an awesome airbreather. I was mainly addressing the "do you HAVE to get one" within my vid. Couple other things that I did that I LOVE since creating this vid... flush mount black fuel caps and relocated the license plate to the rear. I kept hitting my knee on the stock and didn't like how it broke the profile. Enjoy your bike!
Enjoyed that. Bike sounds great. Your enthusiasm is infectious. Ride safe.
Very nice review! Humble and enthusiastic. Just bought a 2018 slim and hesitating on stage 1 or just pipes. I like the long ones. Vanes seems to give the nicest sound from what I've seen in TH-cam.
Very nice, and your mods really bring it to a higher level. The slim is my favorite and will go for one soon.
I especially like that speedo/tach that you got from Harley. Never knew it existed.
I was just about to get a street bob did not even know they had this version of the whole fat boy series and I look over and see this and I was in luv! Great bike by the way!
The Slim is my favorite bike..Nice job covering a variety of typical questions. Thanks!
Thanks KirkWickizerArt!
Sweet bike mate. Never had a Harley in 30 years of riding.. time I started.
Great video and good points - as a Slim-lover you've given me some good ideas about mods for the future. Much appreciated.
Forgot to ask, did you notice a drop in radiant engine heat when you swapped out the stock pipes? I have heat-wrapped mine but to little improved effect. The V&H pipes seem further away from your leg - maybe those extra inches make all the difference?
Gene, congratulations. I love your bike. Mine is denim black. I do have the black engine guard. I had the V&H Big Shots long installed. Added removable saddle bags and windshield. I like the all black appearance as well, but I wish they would've made the Big Shots in black. I also like the Slim because I used to own a beat up 1948 pan head when I was 17 years old. That was in '67. Go figure. Ever since then, I fell inlove with American Iron. Yes, I like the nostalgic look. I also like the way you "blackened" the front end. By the way, I removed the heel shifter from mine. I've always been use to the toe. Except for my '48 of course which had the foot clutch and hand shifter. Dang! I miss the panhead. This is my fourth Harley. Thanks for sharing your video. Happy riding!
Thanks J Nieto! Love the denim black and may have went that route if they had one in stock at the time... dig the subdued look. I plan on doing another vid here some time soon cause I blacked out much more! Flush mount tank caps, removed heel shifter replaced toe with black, black brake foot control, and removed side mount lic plate mount... replaced with rear center mount... kept hitting my dang leg on the side mount... ... and I didn't like the look.
btw... what windshield did you go with? I visited the HD dealer to ask about a windshield... they didn't have any styles that I wanted that fit my bike. I'm looking for a low profile, more like a flyscreen... had one on my 48 (Sons of Anarchy~ish).
gene1221
Gene, as to the windshield, I went with the part 58278-95. It's 18" light smoke - Polished Braces. I don't think they had the black braces otherwise I would have gotten them instead. I also wanted the quick-release instead of the detachable windshield, but they don't make them for the Slim. At any rate, I like the option of removing the bags and or the windshield if just cruising around town or having them to go on a long trip. I had never ridden a Harley with a windshield. Makes a world of difference in riding. I love the windshield. One thing that I realized later, and perhaps you've already thought of this. If touring and staying at motels etc., I've thought there's a possibility of theft. The only option that I can think of would be to detach it overnight and take indoors. The saddle bags detach from the inside, but I installed locks on the flaps. I ordered the locks at he dealer to match my key. I'll be keeping an eye on TH-cam. I wish you well. BTW, the windshield and the bags give the bike a different look. More like the old Harley's of the 50's...I think so anyway.
Great video brother. Thank you for the info. I kinda figured you could just go with the pipe mod without putting the fuel management on. Beautiful bike to by the way.
gotta '17 ss 103. got the flat black paint, took those chrome boat anchors off first thing and put on v&h ss's flat black. masked off the tank emblems and shot them with flat black and clear coated. took heel shifter off and threw it in the lake with stock pipes. put a fork bag and I'm done, don't need p-pad cos I hate people anyways and only thing I might add is an 'ol distressed brown leather solo saddle with the springs. enjoy the ride, be safe!!!
Thanks for a great video. I went into the HD dealership in Oxford (UK) to look at an Iron 883, but the Softail Slim caught my eye and will buying one this summer.
Did u get one? If so how reliable is it? M trynna get one
This was a very interesting video for a young guy like me who does not really know a lot about bikes and Harley's in particular!
Great Vid man.. I spent about 2 hours at my local Harley dealer the other day and almost pulled the trigger on the exact same bike. Plan on doing so as soon as the snow breaks. I was actually searching vids on pipes trying to decide and love the Vance & Hines on my CBR. May go with the same for my Slim.. Thanks again
Thanks Dr. Poogobbler (haha!)
I'm guessing that you will not be disappointed with the Slim... I love it!
Dig your bike man. All sensible yet cool mods. I like the tachometer upgrade in particular. Have fun bro.
Great review and nice bike. We are of the same mind with respect to the pipes. The first thing I did on my new Sportster 72 was swap out the stock mufflers for some V&N Straight Shots, not looking for more power but rather the classic Harley sound. I did notice a bit more popping on deceleration and hopefully some of that will clear up after a few hundred more miles.
Enjoy the new ride!
WOW, I love it, it will be my next ride, thank you so much!
Good Looking FLS, my friend. I was torn between the FLS and the Street Bob, and went with the FXDB. Still a fan! Enjoy it this winter.
Thanks J... can't go wrong with any of the HD's... solid bikes that ooze history\style. Hope you're enjoying your FXDB!
I sure am. Thanks for checking in, my friend.
Great video, and the mods are just right. would be great if you could post the link
for the Mustang seat. Looks rear comfortable. Safe riding to ya
What a spectacular piece of machinery
Sweet!!!
Nice looking and sounds good too!!!!!!
The bike fits you very well!
GOOD FOR YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
That's very true. For once I envy shorter people. They much better on bikes than this 6.2ft broom 😁
Nice review, and the bike looks great too!
Very nice review. I have a 2011 SportyEight as I call it and love it but the slim is screaming my name. I've been struggling with it since they first released shortly after I bought my 48 actually. The peanut tank is so cool but kills me on the frequent stops. It gets so annoying. I've also got the stage one with power commander and V&H short shots in black with a heavy breather cone. It's just sick. I geek out on Marvel too lol. I feel like there are not many Harley geeks out there. Good to see another. Rep'n from California over here. Be safe.
Thanks knockoffs
The seat is much more comfortable... I ended up getting the matching passenger pillion as well. The Mustang seat fit MUCH cleaner than the stock seat. I ordered it from M&M Cycles... Wide Tripper Solo. Go ahead and google that cycle shop and you'll be all set. Surdyke HD is another great online shop.
After making the video I added a black flush mount fuel gauge\cap, removed the heel shifter, and added black diamond shifter\brake controls to the bike. Mod fun never ends!
Very nice video and an excellent overview of your bike. You have a couple of mods I might add to my 2015 Fatboy. Ride safe. Scott
I'm not into Harley's at all but I do like the look of yours. I don't know where you live but enjoy this years riding season!
I love this bike, can't wait to get mine.
Thanks! Good luck getting yours... I'm guessing you will not be disappointed!
Love this video. Chill with the hands bro
Good info about the Stage 1 stuff. I saw your 48 video too and both bikes sound great. You mentioned driving a howitzer in the Army. 13 Bravo? I did 20 years as a 13 Bravo. :)
Very good review from real world experience. Trading in my 04 1200r tomorrow and picking my 14 fls slim. Will miss the sporty but been 10 years and time to let her go.
Thanks Leif! I have a feeling you're going to be verrrry happy with your decision. Congrats!
gene1221 Thanks Gene I absolutely love the new bike. Unfortunately I had a kid in a car pull out in front of me within 2 months of getting her. 4k later from his insurance and 2 months of lost riding time I got her back with some upgrades. She now has Python throwbacks, dual color satin black and grey tank, and axle mounted vertical plate holder. I also added the LED Daymaker headlight and LED turn signals. ;)
Thanks guys... appreciate it!
Nice video and I feel needs one of this bike and the changes makes your bike awesome
Thanks Amir!
Awesome bike mate, I picked up the 2014 model,charcoal satin(there is a youtube video of it ) I disagree with the comment not to upgrade the ecm(fuelpac) as HD was required to run these bikes very lean to pass government regulations, if you add performance pipes and open up the air cleaner it will run even more lean, lean = very bad, I would highly recommend remapping to get the whole thing running richer and cooler,this info did not come from dealers just from my research, my dealer never even mentioned to remap,cheers
Great review! I stuck quiet baffles in my V & H exhaust. It's still loud but I can yell over it now. lol My next bike will probably be a Slim unless I can find a better deal on a used Heritage. I really prefer full fenders and chrome. Maybe turn it into a WW2 WLA sort of thing. Everything I read says to get a 2018 or newer for the better lean angle 4'+ and ideally a '19 1/2 for the upgraded oil pump.
Great video and nice job on the commentary. I myself have a softail crossbones which you may be interested in knowing was used in the first Captain America movie. Well I enjoyed the video and Ride Safe.
Did you experience the Harley death wobble on that bike yet? I did on my 2014 fls softail slim.
Hi Gene. Great video. Good detail and some good opinion and pointers. I like the mods you have done. Could you please tell me what brand the engine guard is. I also like it in black so it doesn't stand out too much. Thanks in advance. Harry
Good man,i just got the 2018 u should see /try this new m8 the difference is night and day.
nice vid, just bought a 14 streetbob and was wondering about the importance of stage 1 air cleaner and download when I get my pipes also. I just got some cycle shack slips and they are loud as shit haha..I will get full pipes soon though..i also asked about warrenty and they said same thing..totally agree with u.
great vid,, looking at changing from a sports bike to a Harley! .i also was in Germany at that time In Hamburg British forces thou :)
Very sweet bike big guy" enjoy and "Be Safe"
Good job.. i jst bought the 2014 soft tail.. i found this very helpful an informational.. i will now be adding pipes ... question??? can i put rear pegs with stock pipes..
Which softail? I bought the Softail Fatboy and I was in the same boat as you. The slim didn't have the passenger pegs or pillion, and I would have had to add that later. The Fatboy already had both items included. I was told if you had foot PEGS, it would be fine, Floor BOARDS, would create an issue in clearance.
Hello Gene do you still have the slim? Love your videos. Had a 48 like yours but i painted and fitted a 4.5 gal tank and 14 inch HD apes. Man did i love that bike. Hopefully one day i can get a slim. Cheers Ray.
awesome bike! i just visited my local harley dealer today and rode one of these and a 48. both fantastic! i've had a kawasaki vulcan 800 for the last 12 years and i'm dying to get into a harley...just can't quite make the money work yet...getting close, though! :)
Thanks Gari! Love both the Slim\48... great choices imho! I had various sport\dirtbikes and rode a few other makes of cruisers and... well... every nut and bolt on these HD's oozes the highest quality. Solid solid bikes... and they look badass. Hope you get the greenbacks together... pulling for ya!
Autumnleaf2011 Hi Autumn... yes indeed I used to have the 48... and loved it. Things are going great and thanks! Hmmm... the Slim and 48 definitely have their own individual personality... I love the Slim but must admit that I really miss seeing that 48 in my garage... I love the compact front heavy bulldog profile of the Sportster! Beautiful bike. I'm used to the weight of the Slim... non issue.
Im saving for a vulcan 500 as my forst bike (just turned 18) is it a good bike to start on or should i go for the 800?
***** Personally, I think the 500 would be a better bike to learn on. You could do it on the 800, but it would be more difficult given the extra weight. Keep in mind that you WILL lay your first bike down. Once you get into the swing of riding, you'll quickly outgrow the 500 and want something bigger...The same thing will happen with the 800.
Another option may be to take a riding course -- they use REALLY small bikes. That way you could get the hang of the principles of riding without having to worry about a heavier bike. In that case, you could learn on the small bike, but still get yourself a heavier / mid-size bike like the 800.
BTW, I finally did get a Harley, but ended up going with the Fat Boy Lo. Fantastic bike!
Good luck!
Good infor, my daughter want this HD slim or the Indian scout 60. She hasn't made up heard mine yet. Any ideas on that.
Nice ride and great review.....!!
The foot boards scrape as you turn is what I have heard?
If u r concerned about weight and cleaning the bike up, I'd take those engine bars off dude, I don't think you'll drop it, sits nice and low to the ground. Very nice bike, I've just received a set of those pipes for xmas, cant wait to put them on during the xmas break, they sounds so nice, safe riding dude.
Thanks P Os! Hope you enjoy your new pipes!
I'm on the fence about removing the engine guard. It's one of the few items I would leave on the bike due to its functionality rather than looks (I generally side with looks :). I'm not overly concerned with the hp to weight ratio... It's just an added perk to removing excess whatever. But... yes, I'm used to the bike so the engine guard just might get deleted!
It actually don't look that bad on your bike to be honest, kinda gives the bike a stronger wider stance plus peace of mind case she goes over, even slow drops can do so much damage eh, thanks for replying, take care, ride safe.
I bought the 48 first too, I just got a 15 Slim.
This guy is as yinzer as it gets. Nice bike brother.
Great Harley!!! Any updates or changes?
You still alive dude?
I did the same thing as you, traded my 48 for the Softail Slim.
Beautiful Bike !! Love the Pipes!!! Having a hard time on deciding if I want to buy the Softail Slim of the Fat Boy Low for my first bike... thoughts or ideas? I know there is a price difference, but just looking for some inside view and thoughts on people who might have either one?? Thanks guys....
personally I went with the Slim because it reminded me of the 48... which I love the general look of that bike. Fat Boys are awesome too sooo... win win regardless of your choice!
nice bike, very good video explaining all about the softail slim, I'm thinking of buying that model in the future, or the breakout or buying an older evo? Thanks for the insight on the fitting of the pipes and I believe you are right in what you are saying if it doesn't void the warranty then it must be fine.
Thanks cliffy... Glad that this video may have helped in some way... that's what its all about... sharing the info\ knowledge\ experiences. Good luck getting your HD... I'm partial to the Slim, of course... love the fatty front tire.
Hi Gene, is the soft tail slim suitable for a small size guy at 5'4 inch ?
That's the exact bike I looked at today. I sat on the street bob, which was my original pick. But, after sitting on it, my feet would not go flat. I'm only 5'8. I feel more secure if my feet are flat. After sitting on the soft tail. my feet were flat.
My question is, how come you don't black out the Transmission cover? I know I'm going to.
Great video and information.
Thanks!
Mad bike bro!
Coolest Machine ever!!!
Gene comparing scraping with the 48 and the slim. Did it feel more sketchy scraping the 48 with the pegs compared to scraping foot boards. Any close calls?
It never felt sketchy... for either bike... zero close calls. When it would happen I would right myself up a smidgen... done. Footpegs and the floorboards are made to fold up when coming into contact with... well... anything... so no worries.
Good review and insights, thanks.
Thanks TINSHED TEES!
Regarding this model of Harley don't some owners "drop" the bike down so as to ride at a lower rake? Or does it just seem that they're sitting lower due to a more contoured low-ride seats and different rims and less sidewall tires? I'm buying a new 14' FLS Softail Slim and will covert it over to a low ride-look bike with black 3 spoke rims, different tires, less fender, different lighting , black fork and headers. I'm just getting started researching and asking questions. Thanks for any input.
Hi Louie... I don't necessarily know what other riders might be doing but... on the surface... I doubt they're doing any thing to get the low profile you speak of. At the time I purchased my Slim that model had the lowest seat height of the entire Harley lineup. That along with the dipped profile of the bike gives it a very low\ stretched look. I noticed what you're saying with the Slims and believe its just the stock look.
Gene 1221 did you notice that you scrapped more with the 48 foot pegs or the slim foot boards?
coincidence you asked this... within another comment I just talked about how much more the 48 pegs dragged over the Slim foot boards. Yes... it was common to drag the 48 pegs... Slim= in 4k miles I scraped them a bit twice. I had to be much much more careful on the 48. Slim... I never even think about it.
This dude is funny. :D
But the bike tho... beast. Would love to own that! Perhaps in a couple of years when I save some money!
Awesome !
Hey Pal,
do you still love your bike? I currently own also a Buell XB12S but I like to "upgrade" on a Slim S 2016. Is there any additional experience you made since 2013?
Greets,
Mark
Very nice bike!!!
Thanks!
Great job Bro!
The bad part about it is... these carb and FI Twin cams don't sound anything like what Harleys have sounded like since 1936, but whatever... that is what technology is good for. Love my old evo... she is in pieces, but that's ok... I'll take a screwed up INA cam bearing that will be replaced with a Torrington over a japanese sounding twin cam with a cam chain. ;) Nice bike either way... I've liked the softail slim since the day it came out.
Thanks Dp908!
Gene what kind of mustang seat did you get? The wide tripper or vintage? I was wondering if it held you in the better because when accelerating quickly i almost slide right off. Lol.
I got the Tripper vulcanman... and it fits perfectly! I was actually surprised that it fit snugger\ better engineered steam-lined fitment than the stock seat. The seat also "cups" your rear nicely which prevents any sliding when you open the bike up. Looks and feels great. I will say that its def not a touring seat... after an hour I need to take-5... ... or 10.
very nice video! Awesome bike! By the way was that it in the Avengers?
I have the same ride....for the same reasons...in fact I also had a 48..the rumour was it was called a 48 cuz after 48 miles ya needed to fill it up....Sold my bagger and bought the slim...no regrets...by the way....did you get a stage 1? ;-) Enjoyed your vid...
Hahaha... thanks cross... I did get rather long winded with that whole Stage 1 topic :)
Hi. if you really just wanted the sound to improve why didn't you go with slip ons? I am looking to update my stock pipes but I cant decide if I should go with slip ons or entire pipes.... I don't think I care much for the extra power either... I just want better sound.
12:26 he shuts the fck up and starts the motorcycle. You’re welcome
where did you get the bag?
A few more horsepower really doesn't mean much for a Softail Slim. Such horsepower is only added near the redline of the upper gears anyway. What really matters with V&H, or other aftermarket pipes, is sound, looks, and torque in the low and mid-range rpms.
do you find the floor boards scrape all the time when cornering?
I do
Do you like it better than the Sportster 48?
i just got that same bike and i was going to put short shots on it also, Is your bike still running good without the stage 1? because im going for sound only also...but people keep telling me get it done cause cause its bad on the engine.
Hi tiger... apologies for the delayed response... yes my bike is running fantastic without the stage 1!
Nice video. You talk proudly about your bike but don't sound like a tool like most guys on TH-cam. Ride safe man
Thanks clark! Hahah... well... glad to hear I don't come across as a douchebag\tool. I just love bikes and try to share info when I can... ... I get a lot of ideas\info from other's videos soooo just participating in the info sharing.
Hey man how tall are you ? And can you flat foot this bike ?
I'm 6 "1" with 33 inch inseam. Think Id be a good fit for this bike?
Hmmm... I'm 5'7" and feel a bit short for it... not bigtime but yeah... I'd imagine it would fit you well but def go into the dealership and sit on a few... you might be a bit cramped.
Km 9ii
dude how tall are u? im 5'8. im looking to get a 48 since its the smallest harleys around. im afraid i would look small on this bike. haha
You still around?
Love the Bike. Id like a new one myself. Consider this... One could become an experienced Carb Tuner within 500 miles. Just Say'in. Get deep in your ride, no smack talk from me. Peace!
I bought a bag for mine but don't like the way it straps on, they give you tape to help protect the paint but I still don't trust it. Sending bag back.
Is that bike small or are you really tall?
How tall are you? reason I ask is because I am buying a harley but I have a hardtime planting my feet flat on the ground, you seem to do that on that bike. Thanks
Manuel Castillo Manny, I own a 2015 FLS, I'm only 5'5", and I find it real easy to reach the controls, and can stand flat footed with a little space between me and the seat. Great bike, but hated the toe heel shifter, and the stock seat
Nice thanks for the info..i bought the same bike
I added an oil cooler, and some
vance and hines big shots pipes as well, the cooler really cut down on some of the heat on the inside of my right leg
Oil cooler? Havent seen that.
Harley Davidson dealerships sell one through their catalog, made by Jim's, that bolts to the downtubes on the frame right below the voltage regulator. It won't affect your warranty, either
Great Harley!
What kind of seat please?
Real nice bike
Each to their own. Bike looks nice, but I hate loud pipes.
anybody know how to change the digital display to show the speedometer instead of the gear/tac ?
on the Slim there is a trip button on your left hand handle bar cluster... push that to cycle your display info.
You don’t need stage 1... but you will never have too performance. And yea you want sounds... but stage one lets it be a smooth ride better gas better flow less oil burn and many more