2021 Harley-Davidson Road King (FLHR) VS Road King Special (FLHRXS) Test Ride and Review
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- čas přidán 12. 03. 2021
- A detailed overview and comparison of the two Harley-Davidson Road King motorcycles offered in the 2021 model year. Matt and Andrew go into detail on how the Road King matches up with our models within the H-D lineup and how these two fairing-less touring bikes match up against one another. Get the buyer's tips to help you decide of one of these Kings of the Road is the bike for you.
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I absolutely love the HD Road King Classic. The simplicity, the spoked wheels, the white wall tires, and the avalanche of aftermarket parts. Such a joy and beauty to behold. For my retirement, I purchased a brand new 2012 Road King Classic that I configured with my preferences. It had the touring trunk, the HD GPS, the BOOM audio twin speakers, adjustable backrest, etc. Unfortunately, in 2017, the divorce lawyers required a sacrifice and my dream motorcycle was lost on the chopping block. But I digress.
In August 2021 I’ll be 58 years young. I’ve been riding since the age of 13. I’ve lost count of the number of motorcycles I’ve had the pleasure to ride and own. Having said that, my 2012 Road King Classic was the best riding experience I’ve had on a motorcycle. I’m a pensioner now and I don’t think I’ll ever be able to afford one again, but at the very least I had my adventures and journeys. No one can ever take those away. If you own one, enjoy the good times and make lots of memories.
Sorry for your loss 😔 But memories are priceless. All the best, my friend 👊🏻
I bought my used one as a small gift to myself that I could still treat myself to a cheap toy and felt free after my Divorse
@@joeishere500 By chance, I found my old 2012 HD Road King Classic for sale on cycletrader. It matched the VIN I have on my old registration and it still had some of the modifications I installed. I thought about getting it back but somehow it just didn’t feel right. I felt like buying it would be going backwards, like going back to my ex.
I don’t know how I got that emotion but I’m not the type to look back. Every time I’ve traded a motorcycle for a new one, I’ve been it’s only owner. So though I found my old HD Road King Classic, I found myself not wanting to look to the past but to look towards the future. If I get another HD Road King, it will be a current offering. Hopefully, if I do get another, it will be my last ride and it will be something that I can pass on to my son when he’s older. He’s only 9 years old as of this writing.
Also, I really want to reproduce a 65 Ford Mustang with him. That’s on the bucket list. But I digress.
I can’t say enough good things about the HD Road King. Although I found mine being resold, I can only send it’s new owner good wishes and the hope of more adventures and stories.
A part of my soul rides along it without me, and I feel fine with that. Here’s too not looking back.
“It opens me up a little bit more, it’s larger, it helps me spread...” well, Matt, that escalated quickly. 😳
Haha, I ride a Road King when I want to get in the mood.
LOL!! I wasn't the only one that noticed that!!!
@@MattLaidlaw how are the road king specials on long rides and higher speeds? Stability wise? Compared to a low rider S?
I’m way late to the party here, but this video helped me choose a Road King Standard. The utility is just there. I was not aware that the shocks were different. I also wasn’t sure if I was large enough. I am 5’6” and 180lbs. It’s heavy, but I am having no issues and so glad I went with a touring frame. Thanks!
I’m 5’4 and I did choose the special but even at my size I do fine with it. Technique will overcome what you may lack in size/strength!
I think the first Laidlaw video I ever watched was years ago when Matt had the road king with the apes and spoke of riding with apes. Wow these videos have come so far the quality of them is just outstanding. And always with a strong supporting cast. I really look forward to each new video as it comes out. Great job as usual Matt. 👍🏻
Road King standard hands down one of Harleys best values and if your truly interested in the ride and not being distracted by all the gadgets. Only wished they offered the 114 on the standard.
Love my 2011 RK! Pop off the windshield for local riding, toss it on for my 96 mile daily commute or longer rides. It's basically the convertible of the HD touring line. For me the value you get with the RK standard is really hard to beat. Mine is stock except for Python slip-ons, and a passenger backrest. It does everything I ask and more. 🤙
Same brother !
It’s the most modular bike out there
Perfect for short trips, rides to the store for some shopping if u have a tour pack .. commuting to work
Out of state trips
Rack up 400-500 miles in a day no issue at all!!!
2019 FLHR
468 cam, full exhaust, dyno tuned etc
Gonna do bars this winter and 20k mile service (I been doing my own service but the 20k is a biggie)
Totally right about that pop on/off windshield.
Once I tried it and accepted I was old (just turned 40).. the windshield stays on unless it’s warm and not on hwy for more than 20 mins.
I have a shit back .. always hurts
Unless I’m on my bike
I can ride hours and have zero pain
I think it’s the posture .. some ppl speculate it’s the vibration. How about the idle man.. that motor bouncing around on its mounts ..
Bro.. I could wax lyrical all day on the RK
It’s blizzard here now in chi so I’m watching RK vids lol. And sitting on mine in the garage sometimes and making vrooom sounds. We all do it … bet u do too.
Ride safe bro.
And thank u for your service sir
I can’t get over this edit. I absolutely love the ride with the audio commentary/video in the corner.
Thank you for this feedback! I always struggle with which format to go with on these videos. Thank you
Just in time before bed! I mean it's almost 1am here on the west coast and I have work in the morning, but who cares this is more important
Really great video guys. Great viewpoints for both bikes (or even other HD models) and love all the 'in motion' segments to actually see how beautiful these bikes are from different angles while riding.
I like the road king, I just wish they gave it LEDs.
The Road King just makes you smile when you look at it. Great video stay safe my friend God bless
Great Video Matt👍
Straight to the point, and clear description of the 2 models.
Awesome 😀👍
I was just waiting for this video! I traded in my 2014 SGS for a 2021 RKS and couldn't be happier! After riding my SGS for 7 years I was ready to ditch the fairing and get back to the open space the RKS offered! The look of the RKS made the choice easy between the Standard and Special, I just love that blacked out look and I was lucky enough to get my Special in the "rogue" color Black Jack Metallic! I think there's a few things you overlooked on both Road Kings. With the tech available now with getting great speakers in your helmet; taking calls, navigation info and music is not an issue anymore. Plus you can throw a windshield on the RKS for the long run and then remove when you don't need. With my helmet speakers and a windshield I can get the best of a fairing with out all that mass! Great video!!
Both are so GORGEOUS!!! Thanks all for a great video
Good stuff Matt! Keep it up your channel should be so much bigger! Only channel I watch with voiceover cuz I hate it but yours is tastefully done!
Had a Road King Classic, rode it for 14 years loved that bike!!
The best review of the Road King that I’ve seen. Informative, no BS.
Sick video man! Always coming with videos that are a cut above 🔥🙏🏼
Finally been waiting for this review to drop
Hi Matt, thanks for this review of the Road King. I have ridden a 07 Dyna Wide Glide 100K + miles and looking to purchase a newer generation bike. I’ve watched this video several times and hear something new each time. Your experience with motorcycles shows in all the details you point out. Thanks again!
You always come across as so authentic and even handed in your presentations. You're a real solid continuation of your company's heritage, adding value to both customers and a national audience.
Thank you sir 🙏
Great review guys! Still waiting to get the RKS. Once I'm done savoring my current Breakout 107.
Thank you... Was going back and forth between the Street Glide and RK. Your comments made so much sense and made my decision to go with the RK. Great Video and channel. Thank you again!!
Great video and comparison. This helped me make a decision and picked up a road king standard, 2021. Thank Matt!
Thorough, quality review and comparison. Thanks Matt!!!
I'm new to your channel and a new rider. I took my MSF course at HD NC. And I just got my first HD motorcycle ever. It is a 2014 RK with 8k miles, all I can say is awesome bike. Keep doing what you do Matt. Love the knowledge you give on your channel. Thanks from NC.
I love your explanation of each models strong points.
I like the looks of the standard Road King. Very classic Harley Davidson lineage designed into the bike plus better comfort. Doesn't need anything, keep it bone stock, ride as designed by the factory.
You must be a blast at parties....😕
Just got RK 2021.
You might be right I don’t think it needs anything
I just have to say that I think the Road King Special is one of the coolest touring type motorcycles out there. If I walked into a Harley-Davidson dealer today with the intention of buying a brand new bike ... Well, it would be a black Harley-Davidson Road King Special. No doubt. Thanks for a well made and informative video (again). You guys have basically set the standard for what I like to see, when I search the web for an interesting American motorcycle review.
Just bought the RKS. Im in love with the bike. The difference between the 107 and 114 was huge for me. Well worth the extra money.
Lionel here in California (central valley). First for your info, the Road King was introduced in 1994, replacing the FLHS, Electra Glide Sport. I've put on 100s thousands of miles on the Road Kings. Ridden in 38 states on Hog rallies. I have a 2008 with 69,000 and a 2003 with over 207,000 miles. The 03 had 95 inch at 51k and hasn't been touched since. Same starter, stator, rotor, primary chain, and clutch.
They are a very good handling touring bike. I just put the tour pak on and go. The RK is nimbler than the rest of the baggers due to the fact that the front end is so much lighter. The Softails don't hold a like to the baggers. Whether it's ride, comfort, or handling. The newest are an improvement though.
I liked the video, good info.
Another great review Matt, appreciate your videos and insight. I love my '19 RK std. and after all the upgrades I've done, it would be hard to part with it now.
Breaking it down very well Matt, keep it coming big guy.
Thank you sir!
Lane splitting blows my mind!! People would shoot you for that or open their doors on purpose where I'm from!!!!
Agree 100% It also depends on how well the state educates the public if they ever changed the law. Just because someone rides a motorcycle doesn't mean those who don't know what's all involved in riding, maintenance, etc.
Yes, it gives me the heebie jeebies seeing it.
I wish lane splitting/filtering was legal all over the U.S.
@@CactusJack252 If I rode a 1200 sportster It might not freak me out as much but I ride an Ultra and the thought of scratching someone's car or my bike gives me too much anxiety.
Shit where u from big dawg
Great review guys. Love both the standard and special but at 5.5 tall I am best sticking with my Softail Low Rider. Thanks guys.
Nice honest opinions Matt. I have a RKS but still love the standard. Maybe next time. Thanks from the UK :)
I visited a few dealerships and being on them, I still couldn't make my mind up, this video defitnetly helped out. I'm a road king standard guy
Gone Numb · Rockin' For Decades. Awesome picks, Matt!
Great review Matt thank you
Hi Matt, i m 5' 5" and this is my third Road King standard. Did not lower it, use thick soled HD boots. Best bike I ever had
Nice man. You must have good technique and skill
How is the reliability of the 2022 roadking, have they fixed the sumping issues? Because I’m considering getting a new 2022 thanks for the videos, and your narrative
@@samcabasa6609 no sumping issues with mine. I have done 20,000 miles in 2 years. Mostly in 80+ temperatures, two up and luggage, with no problems. I had the head bearing replaced and a new battery. Had the fork down tubes replaced under warranty after a year because of damage to the lacquer finish. I just had the new ones covered in clear film and they are good now. I would recommend doing that from the start. The standard is mor comfortable than the special and goes around corners better ie without touching the road. You will notice that the new ST models have been raised to the same height.
After test riding Indians, BMWs, Hondas and the entire Harley line, the Road King Special, in my opinion, is the best riding bike of them all. They do list the pros and cons of the bikes well as if you would be better on a Heritage or the Road King models or something with a fairing. Tough choice but it all depends on you riding style. Another great informative video from Laidlaw and the crew. They are straight up honest and very informative in their reviews. Note: what I found is if you are interested in a Special, don't procrastinate, they sell out quickly.
I demo'd the Special today after checking out the Pan America. I've never ridden a large HD, but all I can say is WOW. That engine is unreal. It was as comfortable as my sofa. The only two things I noticed were the stock handle bar is too wide for me so I'm happy to hear I can address that, and I have to think about the weight of the bike at slow speed, and turns. I'm used to "flickable" ADV bikes, and it's gonna take some getting used to if I cross over, and spring for the cruiser.
Matt, thanks so much for taking the time to share these videos. Very helpful!
I currently ride a 08’ Heritage, spokes, whitewalls, immaculate condition, only 6,500 miles, which I’ll find difficult to part with, but can’t get the Road King Special out of my head. Test rode the 17’ four years back and currently the 21’.
I think my only outstanding question is, what your thoughts are on the lower profile front tire, in handling road imperfections and quality of the ride? Also welcoming thoughts from others!
You are so right about touring bikes being different. I never believed it till i test rode a road glide special a few weeks ago. i have a 2018 that i love. i decided last week to buy a road glide special. got the snake venom. I will drive this bike alot to atlanta from jacksonville to see daughter. your video made me give the touring line a second look. also i did go with chrome this time. you are right it is coming back and very pleased. i would have definitely shopped with you had i been closer.
Great video as always Matt! I really like the RKS, but I like the wind protection and stereo with the fairing, so I went with a 2020 RGS. Question, how do you get such good exhaust audio for the riding portions of your videos?
Love these comparisons Matt. Hope to see more like this. Street Glide and Road Glide against specials, Street Bob against Softail Standard, Low Rider S against Fat Bob, or even the Heritage against the Sport Glide. For me it would be hard to decide between these two. I like the blacked out look, but I also like the windshield and the extra lighting and longer suspension travel. Probably lean a bit more toward the Standard.
Wwywi
Roww
I love the Road King (FLHR) and I'm 5′ 6 tall.
Did you get it lowered? What seat do you use?
@@steviestevie9704 Not lowered, OEM seat. Look for a suitable shoe with a little more sole, it is perfect.
I’m looking into purchasing my very first HD RK and would love to customize it to a Vicla style look! Love your videos so much information!! Thanks fellas!!
Thanks for watching. Good luck with the build!
Thanks for this indepth review 👍 and extra thanks for comparing it with softtail heritage.
The RKS really is the sexiest bike In Harleys line up. Hell... In the last 20 years.
The RKS is my favorite Harley! I have the 2017 model in olive gold and don’t foresee myself ever getting rid of it. Nice comparison Matt and very informative video! 🤘🏾🤩
I'm 5'5". 135 lbs. Retired. Love my Road King standard! Enjoy it in town as well as on the road.
Thank you so much for the informative Video 👍👌
I have the 2017 RKS love it!! Put a windshield on it for long highway rides which I do slot of. Best bike around for me.
Excellent video.
Very educational and helpful 👌 👍
2021 Road King Special in Deadwood Green is #1 on my list of bikes I want right now!
Thanks Matt for another great video. One thing I have found in my experience is that the Road King makes me feel like I am sitting “on top” of the bike. The Softail frames do have that “in the bike” feel.
Funny, I had the opposite experience comparing both 2020 Road King Special and Fatboy.
Wow! Really good comparison video. Exactly what I was looking for. Road king standard it is. Subscribed. 👍🏼
I'm also looking at the standard version.
Man just what I was looking for. Thank tou
Just traded up from a 2020 Heritage 114 to the Road King Special and I'M IN LOVE
How great would it be to have the choice of either the 107ci or the 114ci motor for the RK standard. My retirement present to myself when they come back to Australia. Great review matt as usual, and love the dual comments regarding these bikes. Well done, my set HD channel on the tube.
I bought a 2017 RKS ,coming from 08-17 fat bob chassis & 16 Lowrider S..it fit me like a glove..I'm only 5'8 and I felt right at home. Biggest difference was how much better the FL chassis is on the open road , so much better. The wind blast wasnt to noticable until I reached 75-80 but the floor boards are much better than the forward controls on the fat bob,but then again I could tuck into the pocket better because I'm small. Even though the RKS comes pretty "custom" looking from the factory, no Harley rider can resist the bug to make it your own !! Thanks to the parts catalog it's so easy to get what you need , I did axle nut covers,brawler seat,grips,brake pedal, shift pedal,shifter linkage, LEDs all the way around, Stage 2 (admittingly I went with all S&S internals) and Kerker Stouts slipons. Harley head pipes are good so I didnt go full exhaust. Mine was Hot Rod Red Hard Candy Metalflake..best color IMO..loved that bike. Lost it during to Covid job loss. But I'm going to be back on my feet soon and that's the first thing I'm going to replace.
Great video Matt!
Long Live The King!
My brain says Road King....but my heart says Special...🤔
Mine did too. I bought a 2020 standard in white and absolutely love it. It rolls nice in the twisties too, love the windshield too. Either way, great bike!
Bro same
Brain, please.
Go with your heart.
You buy a special you will want to replace the shocks as they are shorter and plain terrible. Go legends, fox, or ohlins.
I am on that border of Standard or the Special, love the looks of the Special and with the Wind Splitter Windshield seen on some of the Specials you featured it really looks cool. I want to do long road trips, but not sure if I will or not but do plan on commuting to work which is all highway 55 to 70 except last couple miles. Our country roads are nice and curvy too here in Eastern Kentucky, so think Road King be bit more fun than full fairing bike. Great Video.
I have the 2020 Road King Special. Love the bike. Great video. I really enjoyed it.
How much 💰
Nice. I just got a 2021 RKS a few days ago. Absolutely love it.
@@My.name.goes.here. congratulations. You will love it.
Thanks for the great information, I love both bikes but the standard sounds like the bike for the long hauls and I like the classic look.
Ohh hell yeah!! Love this channel!
I love you
i love both bike.. but I think I'm leaning towards the Special.. but then again I love the classic Chrome look. So hard to deiced
Another great review 🤘
Just Picked up 2021 RKS in Black Jack Metallic. Going to throw on PM Apex Contrast Cut Fuel Gauge and Cap. Edge Cut Accents with Fused Bars and Wind Splitter Wind Shield. Great Video Matt 🤙🏼
Congrats. Enjoy man. Great bike.
Thanks Matt! That’s just what I wanted to see. Thanks for posting..I love the standard CHROME!!!!!
Great video, Matt. I would love to move to a Road King but brother, they need to add more color choices! Like that metallic blue that the Roadster came with a few years back. I would hate to buy a $23k (after fees and TTT) bike just to spend another $3k in paint alone.
Great comparison. The 107 is plenty of power in my opinion . I really like them both but if I had to choose I’d take the Special , but I’m currently riding a ‘18 RGS . I think a Special with apes would be the ticket ! I also think you couldn’t go wrong with either one
Matt, another great video. My riding style varies. I traded in my wide glide and now have a ducati multistrada and a monster 821. I will be trading in my monster but I am struggling between the RKS or the LRS with bags. I'm military and need enough space to carry my uniform and computer, and I travel all over Illinois. Thoughts?
Sold a 21 Road King yesterday at Boston Harley Davidson. Love your informative videos.
Thank You!!!
Karen Wall
Boston Harley Davidson
Garth Bunga is apparently my son its his Laptop
Nice man. I gotta visit there some time.
Wished they would put the light bar on the Special makes no sense! I want to be seen by cagers. That’s my only complaint! Great Informative Video Matt keep them coming.
Great info! Running a heritage ready for an upgrade
I love my 2020 Roadking in Stiletto red.
This channel is my comfort content.
I got the 21 special in vivid black , couldnt be happier.
wow ..my friend jesse was right about your work.you got skilZ.i cant imagine all the hardwork and dedication one needs to make videos with this much quality.my goodness you make our 4k t.v come to life.wowzers you have won our respect.gr8 vid's amazing content..thanks though..from north philly..oh your rides are like no words can explain thanks Mr.Matt.L your team is world-class kick ass..
Thank you! Thanks for checking out the channel. Enjoy the ride my friend.
Great video. If I was riding solo I would want a Special with a Stage I kit and maybe some mini apes. If I had a passenger I would want a Road King Standard with a Stage I kit, rider and passenger back rests and maybe some mini apes.
Love my 2020 RKS, just an amazing bike all around. I wouldn't have minded getting the standard with the chrome though. I was on the fence and I could have gone either way.
Cool video! Thanks!
been running both. the RK is and will be the classic cruiser and best ride you can get for money. no gadget no gimmicks just pure fun and best handling for a reasonable price. Road King rules!
Matt, Do you have to change anything before you ride these? I’m 6’2 and I actually felt like I had more room on the Heritage, which, along with space constraints, is why I bought it.
Love your channel. Definitely helped me with my 2018 Heritage purchase
Great video 👍
Great review! I went with the standard and love it!
I not really with the big faring, so I'm actually looking at the standard also. I want the full version, and not the stripped down version.
@@pharoah1200 everyone has the blacked out stuff now, I went standard with a king pack, this summer I’m putting big whitewalls on too.
@@kylefng , good deal.
The special has its own character but I would still need passing lights and a wind shield but that’s my look
thank you for doing this
Awsome video!
Black is the best color for a motorcycle!
Thanks for the reviews. Hows the helmet buffeting between the RK and a Road Glide?
thank for the vid im finally set on a road king
Trading my 04 sporty monday for the road king standard
Great video! My dream bike isa a Road king special.
I have a 2020 Road King standard and a 2022 Road King Special. Love the Road King.
Could the Road King Standard's shock be but on the Rpad King Special?Thanks, great vid!
The special if I owned it will be getting the passing lights and windshield mounts. As for the motor, builders love the 107 over the 114 .