I'm in my 20's and want a Harley. I love the way the bikes look, but I haven't been the biggest fan of the classic circular headlight. This thing looks absolutely Badass! I love the headlight...
I test rode the 107 and thoroughly enjoyed it. The 2018 Fat Bob is a great bike. It’s definitely not an old school Harley look, but you can’t please everyone. They still have plenty of other models with the classic look. Ride safe.
Very cool and very comfortable bike. Drove one today for almost a hour and it was extremely comfortable and great. The only issue it was a 107 for a good price. I gotta day it really does need the 114. I don’t really like the fact there is no twincam motor/ evo like motor left. I just rode a Dyna the other day and I loved it. That engine has its place and I think they need to build a model that incorporates it. I get it now and understand.
This new Softail is a marked shift for Harley, these bikes aren't just pretty faces and new paint on the same bike. This is a radical redesign. These bikes perform and handle well and the Milwaukee 8 engine has great power. I rode one and was impressed.
I had a heart attack the kick stand slipped and I was about to throw my body to catch the bike. It’s really a issue they need to resolve. Scared the hell out of me and I didn’t want to be that asshole to drop a dealer bike.
I have been watching a lot of reviews on this bike and you are the first one I've seen that has excellent feedback! From pointing out the non-LED turn signals to the inch and 1/4 raisers to make it difficult for swapping out aftermarket handlebars, these are the details I wanna hear! Awesome honest video man. Thank you.
The bulb and signal light placement is what it is due to equipment regulations, they aren't going to make different bikes on a state by state basis. It's bad enough we can't have the same license plate location as you on Canadian bikes. Some things you just have to change yourself to taste, or whatever tickets you're willing to pay.
I totally hear you about the bulbs & how HD nails you on every little thing. I too just bought a denim black 107ci with ABS... All I can say it WOW I came from a sportster 72 Price point on the 114ci is well worth it, but for me it wasn't the money I just didn't think the 114 would be something I can exploit. After all we do have speed limits & the 107 has been well tested on the touring line. So what I did is have the dealer remove the ABS price off the total which for me is what I wanted anyway a non-ABS. The only real gripe I have is that the mirrors are a bit hard to see out right behind me. Overall an amazing machine.
I've been hopping back and forth between the Fat Bob and my 91 Dyna, man what a difference. I bit the bullet and gave Harley some more money, ordered the cruise control assembly along with some other tidbits.
Man I just picked up the very last new 2018 red iron denim fat bob in the country. They discontinued the color and I had to call like 6 dealerships before they found it. Idk but I just love the color and I love the pipes asthetic. though I probably will get some slip on mufflers for them.
It’s a Great bike. I Love mine. I’ve been lucky to have owned quite a few Harley’s over the years, loved them all and still do. But this one does it for me I love it soooo much. Well done Harley this is the all in one Harley Davidson, Fun, Fast, Looks Ace, Handles Great, So comfy it’s got it all. It’s my every day Harley. Some people don’t like the change but what I say is You love your choice of Harley and I love mine This One. Each to there own. Ride One. Enjoy it dude. Ride Safe.
I'm thoroughly enjoying mine. I traded my 2011 Softail in for this Fat Bob 114. The softail has the oil tank directly under the seat and it really cooked my inner thigh but the Fat Bob locates the oil down under the shock so it is actually a lot less radiant heat.
The best vid I've seen on this bike yet. Real world perspective of costs, issues, and features. Great info! I demo'd one wearing riding pants and it wasn't very hot out, and I never noticed the heat. I thought Harley fixed that with these new engines. I too thought it was a super nice motorcycle. Nothing like any previous Harley I'd ridden. Comfy, handles great, good power, and aside from the 16" wheels, I like the look. I wish it had a tail light in that massive hole under the rear fender though...and that the license plate could be mounted under there. I don't like brown stripes up my back every time it rains. If I were a young guy, I'd probably try and get one. Good chance it may become a cult classic and be worth something a couple decades in the future. And it'll be a ball to ride until then!
I think the heat issue may be a personal one. I have fairly large legs, to many years spent under the squat rack, while riding it's perfect but when stopped with my feet down my leg actually rests on top of the cylinder head.
I was super surprised when I test road the fat bob. The response of the bike is really nice, I was super happy with the bike. Very fun bike, I am thinking about getting one.
This was a very good insite of your Fatbob. Thanks for the honesty and unprejudiced narration. I own a 2010 FatBob and still love it for the looks and handling. Safe riding from me here in Northland New Zealand 🇳🇿🇺🇸
You did a great job of pointing out the 'flaws'...and the parts you love. I really love the rectangular headlight. It reminds me for some reason of the late 70's/early 80's HD Specials.
Rode one today no issue with the engine heat personally . Never realised sissy bar was an option . Standard exhaust goes in the bin immediately for an upgrade as most will/do. Think this is a great bike, especially the 114, and the 'purist' can fek off the same as the air cooled purist with Porsche that moaned and got left behind
i am looking at these. right now 14-16k and you're in for a used ride. 4 things i intend on doing before i even pull it out is, bars and risers, pipes, rear fender, and new tank/s. fat bob must be fat everywhere. well done, and i agree, heartless davidson cheaps out on the most basics.
I own a 2014... It's a great bike. Harley set it up for handling, the rake angle and even the tires were specially made, for that bike. The tires get choppy because of the big contact patches. It gets run down quick... you'll feel it. Especially in the front. They grip like hell tho' Get some Avon Cobras or some other sticky's, there's all kinds of new rubber out there... unless you've got money to burn on replacing those tires that came on it. They get choppy quick, and you'll feel it. Like I said, especially the front, under heavy braking. I have leaned mine over so far I've hit the primary. It loves the turns. Haven't ridden a new 114 yet. Can just imagine. Mine, the 103 is a blast to ride. Up through the mountains of Pennsylvania. It handles the twistys easily. And those dual front brakes do bring you down, quick. Gotta get used to them...
I have a 2017 Low RiderS, and it's the only bike so far, I'm keeping for more than a season..LOL)) Love the power, look, cruise control, Heavy Breather look and did I mention Power !!
So I’ve become a Harley owner myself, but out of circumstance not love. A friend was moving and wanted me to have his ‘14 Road Glide, so he made an offer I couldn’t refuse. I kind of get the Harley thing now, it is imposing, torquey, loud, and somehow satisfying to ride. But I still don’t get the dominance of HD in the US market. They’re expensive, average in quality and tech, and even after you’ve paid the big entry price you still have to spend to make it ‘special’. I’m not a Harley hater, but like a Harley owner that admits they aren’t perfect.
About cooking your leg: The bike has a parade mode turn the throttle to the role off position and then push forward on this forward in the roll off position and hold it for five seconds, this will turn the rear cylinder off when temperature hits 270 this will make it a lot cooler at red lights then the cylinder will come back on automatically at 1200 rpm’s
Nice tip, I knew it shut the rear cylinder down when it reached a certain temp, but that's cool that you can force it. I just put the Sundowner seat on and the nose seems to be just wide enough to block some of the head, and cause a wider spread. So far it has really helped.
In case you haven't tried them yet, you might want to consider the H-D air deflectors or aftermarket thigh heat shields to keep your inner thigh from broiling. They really do help. Also, you might want to test ride a new Softail with mid mounts before buying a kit (whenever they become available). The new Softies frame length is 1" shorter and the pegs are 1" higher up; so unless you're 5' 7" or less, your going to probably be real cramp on the mids. Hope that helps. Congratulations on owning the best performance bike that Harley-Davidson has ever made. And thanks for the owner's review ;-)
Thanks for the tip on the air deflectors. I'll definitely be investing in a set. As for the mids I'm a bit over 6 foot so maybe I need to go get some seat on a bike that comes with them. One thing I've never been comfortable with when riding H-D's was having my feet up front. I guess years of rear sets make an imprint that's hard to change.
LOL. I hear you - it does have a feel like you're riding a lazy boy down the street. Oh well, I'm sure you'll eventually used to them. Happy trails, bud :-)
Great vid!! I have spent about 25 years on sport bikes - also having '04 RC51, and as you said, LOVE the fast-lean into turn etc that sports bikes offer.. Now looking at this bike , after having to finally purchased a 2017 FXDLS..
You think HD accessories are expensive in the US - you should see Brit prices! EVERYTHING is way, way more. I saw a vid where someone fits LED turn signals at the front (Custom Dynamics) and they were $85. I found them in the UK and they were £229 ($315). Oddly, my UK spec FB has combined signal, tail and brake LED clusters at the rear. BTW, I agree that, sadly, it does sound like a sewing machine. My first investment will be some loud pipes.
Good stuff, man. As much as I like this new Fat Bob, I just don't think it's enough to bring in me and others my age (20s). It's the weight, the price, the lack of features and quality, as well as the general business practices of Harley-Davidson. I don't know - I'm a Yamaha guy, but that's mainly because of the good history I've had with their products and dealerships. Anyways, good video, man. Thanks for sharing.
I've always been a Honda guy. I've owned a CBR F4, F4i, RC51, 600RR and a 1000RR. They were reliable, fast, had the best features at the time they were brought to market, and I never felt like they were gouging me on price. That said there really is just something about Milwaukee iron. It took the new Fat Bob for me to even consider purchasing a new H-D. It's more nimble then the weight would suggest, finally stops like a bike should, has torque for days, and is able to provide comfort while still being able to put a grin on your face. I would say test ride one, its not for everyone, but I doubt you would come away not saying what a great bike it is. It just might not fit your style of riding.
I have a 2001 Yamaha R1 that I just picked up for 4000. It is lighter prettier and blows away this behemoth. I had a 2007 Fat-Bob. Had a gf about an hour away and the Bob could not get out of it's own way after 70 mph, dangerous on the super highways where you need power from 70 to 100 mph. great local cruiser though it was.
Oh yeah, 2014 was an exclusive year for the rear fender also. If you wait, parts will be available aftermarket. And the laser etched wheels are known for flaking. Good luck getting Harley to warranty...
Kudos to your review. Your buying experience and your riding experience critique helps me to make a better decision. I will buttonhole my dealer for gift card if nothing’s coming off the msrp. Thanks man.
Good video man. I wanted one of these as soon as I saw it on the cover of cycleworld. Never owned a Harley or even ridden one, just wanted one on share looks. I've owned Honda Shadow, Yamaha Stryker and currently own a S1000rr but want another cruiser. I test rode that bike and loved it. The only thing that prevented me from buying it, is that I consider it a 1st year model and would rather wait for any potential issues to be fixed for next model. But great real world review although you don't really have any miles on it yet lol. And yep, power and brakes on that thing were impressive.
My road king m8 at idle the back cylinder shuts down to reduce heat. Its not to bad. I put heat deflectors on that helped too. I used to be a sportbike guy too when i was younger.
I agree the new Fat Bob looks better than earlier models. Also like the updated brakes and suspension. Still can't get past the stupid cylinder arrangement combined with air cooling (probably one reason for your cooked thigh, heh heh). The pegs pushed way out front along with the 28 degrees rake don't appear to be intended to provide for decent handling either. I would much rather have a Japanese or European naked bike for those reasons. Still, Harley is finally making some moves in the right direction in spite of customer preference. I just don't understand demanding an archaic engine arrangement and engineering and suspension setup - you can still get the cool engine sound without those drawbacks. Guess that's why I'm not a Harley guy yet but I keep hoping :)
I've owned a zx7r, cbr 600 and still have my r1, my recent bike is a 2016 breakout , love the machine and it's in it's own class compared to sport bikes . The breakout I do love every bit about it bit the lean takes seconds in to get to the lean . Leaning on it is no problem and I do t scrape pegs , I think the bike leans enough . Comfort and style is all there, the 5 gallon tank is a plus in looks and for distance , I'm 5'7 so I think cause of that the ache want all that bad on a rocket
I wish I had reviewed this before I bought mine... You hit the nail on the head for the areas where I'm having problems too. The right inner thigh temperature is rough and I'm surprised at the kickstand as well. Otherwise the fun in riding it outweighs the shortcomings. Looking at getting the Custom Dynamics LED inserts with smoke black lenses. I sure would like to have a better selection for a sissy bar/luggage rack combo... I'll be following you to see what to expect in the future!
I'm not sure how tall you are, but I just put the sundowner seat on and it is just wide enough at the nose the it really helps with the right leg heat. I'll have a video coming up on it after I get a few more miles in the saddle.
Sounds like we have a similar history with bikes, I grew up on Japanese and euro bikes and to this day have never ridden a bike with forward controls. I can't imagine riding a bike with forward controls it just seems wrong to me. I like the bike if it wasn't for the high price and peg placement. I am hoping Indian puts their FTR1200 into production this year otherwise I'll just keep waiting for a real American sport bike. Nice review and thanks for taking the time to record it.
I'm an old bugger but I love the new styling, not to mention it goes like a shower o'shit, handles like a sport bike and stops on cue... what's not to love?
Love the new FatBob....I’ve been a sport bike rider my whole life but have always appreciated a Harley. Don’t get me wrong, I will always love my sport bike but, After test riding the new Fat Bob I was sold. Riding a sport bike daily definitely starts to catch up with you. Lol. I wanted a Harley for the longest time and now I’m going to bite the bullet and bring one home. Has a ton of power, handles great and looks mean! Feels way lighter than it is too. I’m working with my local dealers to try and get them down a bit. Ultimately if I could walk out with a 114 for the tag of a 107 I’d close the deal. Either that or a decent gift card. Vivid Black is the best color option as well, imho. Awesome that it is the cheapest paint option! Ride safe! Great purchase. 👊🏼
Bought the 114 in industrial gray about a month ago and its loads of fun, I can't get enough of it. I haven't had a problem with it burning my leg though. My biggest complaint is the kickstand, it drives me nuts! Unless you're on perfectly flat, smooth ground then it takes atleast 3 attempts to get the thing to lean over all the way.
I've figured out that if I really spread my feet out I can avoid the cylinder head, but it's taking a conscious effort. Hah, I'm glad I'm not the only one the kickstand is driving nuts. The more I've ridden it the more annoying it gets. I've started trying to use my toe to get the stand to extend out before I lean it over.
I ended up going with the matte black 107. HD gave me a killer price, and it felt plenty powerful for me. Similar scenario, I'm coming from a Street Triple R. I absolutely love the torque kick, and it's the most fun I've had from 0-60mph on two wheels. Handles quite well for a "cruiser". I get a bit of the heat too, a little annoying but escapable is you change up your idle stance. I'm getting used to the mid-forward controls but may end up going w Two Bros exhaust and install mids come next season. We'll see. Overall, just a ton of fun.
Awesome insight! I test rode one last fall at the progressive motorcycle show here in Long Beach, CA. It was a badass bike! 👍🏽 Stay safe and safe riding!
try look at the FP3 fuel pack bit pricey but easy to use i found it good when i changed my pipes although it didnt have a map for the pipes i put on my breakout i was able to do a auto tune from my phone while i rode the bike and that sorted any popping and banging on deceleration my bike runs like a dream no flat spots power all the way through bit of food for thought ride safe
Great review! I really like everything about this bike, but wow you weren't kidding about how anemic this sounds! This just doesn't sound at all like a Harley. I am amazed that they would design a bike with this exhaust note. That being said, great review of what looks like a great bike.
Great and honest review for a sweet looking bike. Yes she does sound like a sowing machine but after market exhaust will fix that. However, I think that the lack of cruise control as standard is a p*ss take and not fitting LED indicators with the brake light seems almost half hearted in the design process. Still, she does look good and great review.👍🤘
Great video! I just did a test ride on a Fat Bob today. LOVED the bike!! Yours is the most informative review I’ve seen on YT for the Fat Bob. Really appreciate the information and just sub’d to your channel.
We've had very similar bikes and likely close in age. The Fat Bob is the only Harley I'd consider if it wasn't for the peanut tank. How on earth do you make a night run on this bike when 90% of the gas stations are closed?
AverageGuyAntics You must live in a highly populated area. MOST fuel stops are closed after dark in my area compound that with my disgust with interstate travel and this most fun and capable bike cannot traverse at night for lack of fuel alone. I guess I'll wait till next year.
Not sure how people can compare this to the Indian Scout Bobber (ISB). The specs on the ISB show it has a 69ci engine. That's more like an H-D Iron 883 (54ci). This has almost 50% more engine than the ISB. So yeah it's going to cost more. But if you compare the ISD to the Iron the prices are very similar, ISB being about $2.5k more than the Iron.
I've been riding for over thirty years and I've never been a Harley guy. But I saw one of these in a parking lot today and I love the looks. Personally, I like the pipes. But then I always hated super loud Harleys. No need for an obnoxiously loud bike. Harley dealerships suck too. Usually nothing in stock and accessories are way over priced. And I hate forward controls. I'll stick with my Triumph.
Get some leather or pleather and sew or get someone to sew a loop into the top of the pad to loop around the top of the sissy bar. Haven't done this myself but think it may work.
Excellent short review. I was looking to get an additional bike that would qualify as another super high performance bike and was looking for a while at this one. ...I think the Ducati Monster 1200 and KTM Super Duke leave this one far behind in performance, not sure if I could compromise on the perf to get American made this time around; and the prices and replacement parts are about the same cost for all those. I think I'll make a few vids on my search too. Anyway, glad you enjoy your new bike... I am still considering it myself; I am a big guy and the forward controls might fit me better and I love that laid back feeling of feet first riding. Anyway, thanks for the review.
Good vid homie. I have the older gen Fat Bob, but it is indeed the best handling Harley. And like you, I come from sport bikes and I still own a BMW S1000rr. BMW is going to be up for sale so I can get the new VMax which will smoke the Fat Bob.
The VMAX definitely looks like a sweet ride. That's why you can never own just one bike. It's like women, one day you want the free spirited blonde, another day you want the sneaky brunette bookkeeper.
Did your wife complain about the right footpeg being so close to the exhaust? I'm looking at it and it really looks like it would fry an ankle without relatively high boots. I'm thinking about buying this bike but I always ride with my girl, it's important for me that she feels comfortable for our trips.
Love the looks of that bike! But seriously harley! LED headlight and not LED signals? Wth!? I got some car LED from amazon cheap! The work as running lights and change to yellow when signal! Then dark covers! Seriously my 2014 sportster 48 has tge same signal lights you have!
Is that rear cylinder heat that bad? Almost everyone is complaining about it. Did you find a fix(like a protective cover) for it? This is probably the only thing holding me back from going out and purchasing one.
Great review, love the look of this bike. I ride the little known HD VRSCR Streetrod, the sport roadster version of the V-Rod, only made in 06-07. Brembo brakes, Showa suspension, 32 degree fork rake instead of 38, more ground clearance for a 40 degree lean angle and true mid controls that allow for a slight lean forward riding position. A long wheelbase like the Fat Bob but it handles and loves curves. I just wonder how they would compare. Why didn't they put mid foot controls on this bike? Harley just cant seem to get away from trying to appeal to there base buyer who they think wants cruiser ergonomics. Give this bike Ducati Diavel power and I will be the first in line.
They chose aesthetics over function. I read an article somewhere with someone speaking with H-D, and H-D said that to style the exhaust like they did they couldn't use mids. They chose form over function, which unfortunately is the running theme with Harley.
Great video, Informative review good job, I’m beginning to like the “ fat bob” something one day in the future may consider, stay safe man & enjoy the rides.
Nice to see Harley changing it up a little bit has that multi Road use not just Highway and I can handle just a little bit more. I'm not saying to go off road with it kind of has that military look that's just my opinion I think the bike is very cool and I'm waiting for them things that they use Market
The handlebar does not go with that kind of bike. My two 2018 favorites are the Fat Boy 114ci and the Breakout 114ci. One thing would be to change is the Breakout handlebar.
The Breakout gauge cluster on the Fat Bob bars, the 883 Superlow's 4.5gal teardrop tank fitted with a flush mount gas cap, a 2-into-1 exhaust, and maybe a 240mm fat ass.
I’m not an expert but I’d guess the turn signals are as far apart as they are (and non-integrated) because the law has a minimum distance requirement between em. Or at least that’s what I heard
I like it all except the tailight setup, the ugly gold pipes and the open bolt heads on the front. I would imagine bugs will eventually fill in those holes and make it fun to clean out.
Run the Schaeffer's full synthetic with half a quart of Lucas full synthetic oil stabilizer and it will cut down on heat plus your engine will last longer.
“She was about to lay herself beneath the bike to save it”.... bro. You got a cool bike but an amazing woman. Ride safe!
That is my dad
I'm in my 20's and want a Harley. I love the way the bikes look, but I haven't been the biggest fan of the classic circular headlight. This thing looks absolutely Badass! I love the headlight...
Same here dude, I'm 28 and always despised the looks of Harley's, but the new Softails look sexy!
I test rode the 107 and thoroughly enjoyed it. The 2018 Fat Bob is a great bike. It’s definitely not an old school Harley look, but you can’t please everyone. They still have plenty of other models with the classic look. Ride safe.
Very cool and very comfortable bike. Drove one today for almost a hour and it was extremely comfortable and great. The only issue it was a 107 for a good price. I gotta day it really does need the 114.
I don’t really like the fact there is no twincam motor/ evo like motor left. I just rode a Dyna the other day and I loved it. That engine has its place and I think they need to build a model that incorporates it. I get it now and understand.
This new Softail is a marked shift for Harley, these bikes aren't just pretty faces and new paint on the same bike. This is a radical redesign. These bikes perform and handle well and the Milwaukee 8 engine has great power. I rode one and was impressed.
This is a very underrated bike with a ton of character. It’s really good and I enjoyed it today quit a lot.
The stock seat is very comfortable! I really liked this bike.
I had a heart attack the kick stand slipped and I was about to throw my body to catch the bike. It’s really a issue they need to resolve. Scared the hell out of me and I didn’t want to be that asshole to drop a dealer bike.
I have been watching a lot of reviews on this bike and you are the first one I've seen that has excellent feedback! From pointing out the non-LED turn signals to the inch and 1/4 raisers to make it difficult for swapping out aftermarket handlebars, these are the details I wanna hear! Awesome honest video man. Thank you.
The bulb and signal light placement is what it is due to equipment regulations, they aren't going to make different bikes on a state by state basis. It's bad enough we can't have the same license plate location as you on Canadian bikes. Some things you just have to change yourself to taste, or whatever tickets you're willing to pay.
I bought mine a few months ago.. f-ing love it!!!
It's a badass ride man
I totally hear you about the bulbs & how HD nails you on every little thing. I too just bought a denim black 107ci with ABS... All I can say it WOW I came from a sportster 72 Price point on the 114ci is well worth it, but for me it wasn't the money I just didn't think the 114 would be something I can exploit. After all we do have speed limits & the 107 has been well tested on the touring line. So what I did is have the dealer remove the ABS price off the total which for me is what I wanted anyway a non-ABS. The only real gripe I have is that the mirrors are a bit hard to see out right behind me. Overall an amazing machine.
I've been hopping back and forth between the Fat Bob and my 91 Dyna, man what a difference. I bit the bullet and gave Harley some more money, ordered the cruise control assembly along with some other tidbits.
Tail lights cannot be integrated from factory because the DOT requires the turn signals to be a particular width apart.
Man I just picked up the very last new 2018 red iron denim fat bob in the country. They discontinued the color and I had to call like 6 dealerships before they found it. Idk but I just love the color and I love the pipes asthetic. though I probably will get some slip on mufflers for them.
That's a great video. Completely natural and in-depth at the same time. Good show!
It’s a Great bike. I Love mine. I’ve been lucky to have owned quite a few Harley’s over the years, loved them all and still do. But this one does it for me I love it soooo much. Well done Harley this is the all in one Harley Davidson, Fun, Fast, Looks Ace, Handles Great, So comfy it’s got it all. It’s my every day Harley. Some people don’t like the change but what I say is You love your choice of Harley and I love mine This One. Each to there own. Ride One. Enjoy it dude. Ride Safe.
I'm thoroughly enjoying mine. I traded my 2011 Softail in for this Fat Bob 114. The softail has the oil tank directly under the seat and it really cooked my inner thigh but the Fat Bob locates the oil down under the shock so it is actually a lot less radiant heat.
The best vid I've seen on this bike yet. Real world perspective of costs, issues, and features. Great info!
I demo'd one wearing riding pants and it wasn't very hot out, and I never noticed the heat. I thought Harley fixed that with these new engines.
I too thought it was a super nice motorcycle. Nothing like any previous Harley I'd ridden. Comfy, handles great, good power, and aside from the 16" wheels, I like the look. I wish it had a tail light in that massive hole under the rear fender though...and that the license plate could be mounted under there. I don't like brown stripes up my back every time it rains.
If I were a young guy, I'd probably try and get one. Good chance it may become a cult classic and be worth something a couple decades in the future. And it'll be a ball to ride until then!
I think the heat issue may be a personal one. I have fairly large legs, to many years spent under the squat rack, while riding it's perfect but when stopped with my feet down my leg actually rests on top of the cylinder head.
I tested he 114 couple weeks ago. Stiff and hard to maneuver, low gears were fun, too gears not much snap. Love the look. 20k hard to stomach.
I was super surprised when I test road the fat bob. The response of the bike is really nice, I was super happy with the bike. Very fun bike, I am thinking about getting one.
This was a very good insite of your Fatbob. Thanks for the honesty and unprejudiced narration. I own a 2010 FatBob and still love it for the looks and handling. Safe riding from me here in Northland New Zealand 🇳🇿🇺🇸
Nice review. I too cut my teeth on Japanese sport bikes. This is finally a Harley I can own!
You did a great job of pointing out the 'flaws'...and the parts you love. I really love the rectangular headlight. It reminds me for some reason of the late 70's/early 80's HD Specials.
Rode one today no issue with the engine heat personally . Never realised sissy bar was an option . Standard exhaust goes in the bin immediately for an upgrade as most will/do.
Think this is a great bike, especially the 114, and the 'purist' can fek off the same as the air cooled purist with Porsche that moaned and got left behind
i am looking at these. right now 14-16k and you're in for a used ride. 4 things i intend on doing before i even pull it out is, bars and risers, pipes, rear fender, and new tank/s. fat bob must be fat everywhere.
well done, and i agree, heartless davidson cheaps out on the most basics.
I own a 2014... It's a great bike. Harley set it up for handling, the rake angle and even the tires were specially made, for that bike. The tires get choppy because of the big contact patches. It gets run down quick... you'll feel it. Especially in the front. They grip like hell tho' Get some Avon Cobras or some other sticky's, there's all kinds of new rubber out there... unless you've got money to burn on replacing those tires that came on it. They get choppy quick, and you'll feel it. Like I said, especially the front, under heavy braking. I have leaned mine over so far I've hit the primary. It loves the turns. Haven't ridden a new 114 yet. Can just imagine. Mine, the 103 is a blast to ride. Up through the mountains of Pennsylvania. It handles the twistys easily. And those dual front brakes do bring you down, quick. Gotta get used to them...
I have a 2017 Low RiderS, and it's the only bike so far, I'm keeping for more than a season..LOL)) Love the power, look, cruise control, Heavy Breather look and did I mention Power !!
Picked mine up Saturday and it rocks.
So I’ve become a Harley owner myself, but out of circumstance not love. A friend was moving and wanted me to have his ‘14 Road Glide, so he made an offer I couldn’t refuse. I kind of get the Harley thing now, it is imposing, torquey, loud, and somehow satisfying to ride. But I still don’t get the dominance of HD in the US market. They’re expensive, average in quality and tech, and even after you’ve paid the big entry price you still have to spend to make it ‘special’. I’m not a Harley hater, but like a Harley owner that admits they aren’t perfect.
All motorcycles have their limitations, all motorcycles are made for certain people, you just have to find which one suits you.
The light thing freaks me out...great review. Thanx for taking the time...be safe.
About cooking your leg: The bike has a parade mode turn the throttle to the role off position and then push forward on this forward in the roll off position and hold it for five seconds, this will turn the rear cylinder off when temperature hits 270 this will make it a lot cooler at red lights then the cylinder will come back on automatically at 1200 rpm’s
Nice tip, I knew it shut the rear cylinder down when it reached a certain temp, but that's cool that you can force it. I just put the Sundowner seat on and the nose seems to be just wide enough to block some of the head, and cause a wider spread. So far it has really helped.
In case you haven't tried them yet, you might want to consider the H-D air deflectors or aftermarket thigh heat shields to keep your inner thigh from broiling. They really do help. Also, you might want to test ride a new Softail with mid mounts before buying a kit (whenever they become available). The new Softies frame length is 1" shorter and the pegs are 1" higher up; so unless you're 5' 7" or less, your going to probably be real cramp on the mids. Hope that helps.
Congratulations on owning the best performance bike that Harley-Davidson has ever made. And thanks for the owner's review ;-)
Thanks for the tip on the air deflectors. I'll definitely be investing in a set. As for the mids I'm a bit over 6 foot so maybe I need to go get some seat on a bike that comes with them. One thing I've never been comfortable with when riding H-D's was having my feet up front. I guess years of rear sets make an imprint that's hard to change.
LOL. I hear you - it does have a feel like you're riding a lazy boy down the street. Oh well, I'm sure you'll eventually used to them. Happy trails, bud :-)
Great vid!! I have spent about 25 years on sport bikes - also having '04 RC51, and as you said, LOVE the fast-lean into turn etc that sports bikes offer.. Now looking at this bike , after having to finally purchased a 2017 FXDLS..
You think HD accessories are expensive in the US - you should see Brit prices! EVERYTHING is way, way more. I saw a vid where someone fits LED turn signals at the front (Custom Dynamics) and they were $85. I found them in the UK and they were £229 ($315). Oddly, my UK spec FB has combined signal, tail and brake LED clusters at the rear. BTW, I agree that, sadly, it does sound like a sewing machine. My first investment will be some loud pipes.
Good stuff, man. As much as I like this new Fat Bob, I just don't think it's enough to bring in me and others my age (20s). It's the weight, the price, the lack of features and quality, as well as the general business practices of Harley-Davidson. I don't know - I'm a Yamaha guy, but that's mainly because of the good history I've had with their products and dealerships. Anyways, good video, man. Thanks for sharing.
I've always been a Honda guy. I've owned a CBR F4, F4i, RC51, 600RR and a 1000RR. They were reliable, fast, had the best features at the time they were brought to market, and I never felt like they were gouging me on price. That said there really is just something about Milwaukee iron. It took the new Fat Bob for me to even consider purchasing a new H-D. It's more nimble then the weight would suggest, finally stops like a bike should, has torque for days, and is able to provide comfort while still being able to put a grin on your face. I would say test ride one, its not for everyone, but I doubt you would come away not saying what a great bike it is. It just might not fit your style of riding.
I have a 2001 Yamaha R1 that I just picked up for 4000. It is lighter prettier and blows away this behemoth. I had a 2007 Fat-Bob. Had a gf about an hour away and the Bob could not get out of it's own way after 70 mph, dangerous on the super highways where you need power from 70 to 100 mph. great local cruiser though it was.
So jealous. Looks incredible. It is the most badass HD I’ve seen
Oh yeah, 2014 was an exclusive year for the rear fender also. If you wait, parts will be available aftermarket. And the laser etched wheels are known for flaking. Good luck getting Harley to warranty...
Kudos to your review. Your buying experience and your riding experience critique helps me to make a better decision. I will buttonhole my dealer for gift card if nothing’s coming off the msrp. Thanks man.
Nice review. Spot on regarding making sure the stand is forward and the weight of the bike is on it.
Good video man. I wanted one of these as soon as I saw it on the cover of cycleworld. Never owned a Harley or even ridden one, just wanted one on share looks. I've owned Honda Shadow, Yamaha Stryker and currently own a S1000rr but want another cruiser. I test rode that bike and loved it. The only thing that prevented me from buying it, is that I consider it a 1st year model and would rather wait for any potential issues to be fixed for next model. But great real world review although you don't really have any miles on it yet lol. And yep, power and brakes on that thing were impressive.
My road king m8 at idle the back cylinder shuts down to reduce heat. Its not to bad. I put heat deflectors on that helped too.
I used to be a sportbike guy too when i was younger.
The MOCO having to pay EPA $15Million in fines kinda put a bit of a crimp in aftermarket parts. V-Rod was nice
I agree the new Fat Bob looks better than earlier models. Also like the updated brakes and suspension. Still can't get past the stupid cylinder arrangement combined with air cooling (probably one reason for your cooked thigh, heh heh). The pegs pushed way out front along with the 28 degrees rake don't appear to be intended to provide for decent handling either. I would much rather have a Japanese or European naked bike for those reasons. Still, Harley is finally making some moves in the right direction in spite of customer preference. I just don't understand demanding an archaic engine arrangement and engineering and suspension setup - you can still get the cool engine sound without those drawbacks. Guess that's why I'm not a Harley guy yet but I keep hoping :)
I've owned a zx7r, cbr 600 and still have my r1, my recent bike is a 2016 breakout , love the machine and it's in it's own class compared to sport bikes . The breakout I do love every bit about it bit the lean takes seconds in to get to the lean . Leaning on it is no problem and I do t scrape pegs , I think the bike leans enough . Comfort and style is all there, the 5 gallon tank is a plus in looks and for distance , I'm 5'7 so I think cause of that the ache want all that bad on a rocket
That front end looks Terminator.
Probably have to bend the tabs within the gas cap to snug it up a little so it doesn't rattle. Easy fix but,I'd have to actually see it.
I am one of the few but I really really like the phaaat bob. esp the light.
I ended up with a Ultra Limited just bc we travel a lot.
I wish I had reviewed this before I bought mine... You hit the nail on the head for the areas where I'm having problems too. The right inner thigh temperature is rough and I'm surprised at the kickstand as well. Otherwise the fun in riding it outweighs the shortcomings. Looking at getting the Custom Dynamics LED inserts with smoke black lenses. I sure would like to have a better selection for a sissy bar/luggage rack combo... I'll be following you to see what to expect in the future!
I'm not sure how tall you are, but I just put the sundowner seat on and it is just wide enough at the nose the it really helps with the right leg heat. I'll have a video coming up on it after I get a few more miles in the saddle.
Sounds like we have a similar history with bikes, I grew up on Japanese and euro bikes and to this day have never ridden a bike with forward controls. I can't imagine riding a bike with forward controls it just seems wrong to me. I like the bike if it wasn't for the high price and peg placement. I am hoping Indian puts their FTR1200 into production this year otherwise I'll just keep waiting for a real American sport bike. Nice review and thanks for taking the time to record it.
I'm an old bugger but I love the new styling, not to mention it goes like a shower o'shit, handles like a sport bike and stops on cue... what's not to love?
Funny about the signal lights Harley Davidson uses some parts will fit 1901 to present lol
Love the new FatBob....I’ve been a sport bike rider my whole life but have always appreciated a Harley. Don’t get me wrong, I will always love my sport bike but, After test riding the new Fat Bob I was sold. Riding a sport bike daily definitely starts to catch up with you. Lol. I wanted a Harley for the longest time and now I’m going to bite the bullet and bring one home. Has a ton of power, handles great and looks mean! Feels way lighter than it is too. I’m working with my local dealers to try and get them down a bit. Ultimately if I could walk out with a 114 for the tag of a 107 I’d close the deal. Either that or a decent gift card. Vivid Black is the best color option as well, imho. Awesome that it is the cheapest paint option! Ride safe! Great purchase. 👊🏼
The first thing that stood out when I rode the bike was how nimble it is. Definitely feels lighter then it is. Good luck with the negotiations.
Bought the 114 in industrial gray about a month ago and its loads of fun, I can't get enough of it. I haven't had a problem with it burning my leg though. My biggest complaint is the kickstand, it drives me nuts! Unless you're on perfectly flat, smooth ground then it takes atleast 3 attempts to get the thing to lean over all the way.
I've figured out that if I really spread my feet out I can avoid the cylinder head, but it's taking a conscious effort. Hah, I'm glad I'm not the only one the kickstand is driving nuts. The more I've ridden it the more annoying it gets. I've started trying to use my toe to get the stand to extend out before I lean it over.
I ended up going with the matte black 107. HD gave me a killer price, and it felt plenty powerful for me. Similar scenario, I'm coming from a Street Triple R. I absolutely love the torque kick, and it's the most fun I've had from 0-60mph on two wheels. Handles quite well for a "cruiser".
I get a bit of the heat too, a little annoying but escapable is you change up your idle stance. I'm getting used to the mid-forward controls but may end up going w Two Bros exhaust and install mids come next season. We'll see. Overall, just a ton of fun.
My Two Brothers Exhaust will be here Monday. Time to give the bike the sound it should have had .
Nice as it is you haven't sold it for me. It's those little things that make all the difference.
Awesome insight! I test rode one last fall at the progressive motorcycle show here in Long Beach, CA. It was a badass bike! 👍🏽
Stay safe and safe riding!
try look at the FP3 fuel pack bit pricey but easy to use i found it good when i changed my pipes although it didnt have a map for the pipes i put on my breakout i was able to do a auto tune from my phone while i rode the bike and that sorted any popping and banging on deceleration my bike runs like a dream no flat spots power all the way through bit of food for thought ride safe
pipes and windscreen make this bike awesome
vance hines + fp3 + windscreen
Solid honest review. Love this motorcycle, could be in my future. Triumph Bobber atm
I bought a 2018 road king, absolutely luv it...
Had to replace my gas cap because the rattling was aggravating but covered under warranty
Love the vid, I just can't see me giving up my 17 V-rod for it. HD shouldn't stopped making the best bike ever
Great review! I really like everything about this bike, but wow you weren't kidding about how anemic this sounds! This just doesn't sound at all like a Harley. I am amazed that they would design a bike with this exhaust note.
That being said, great review of what looks like a great bike.
Great and honest review for a sweet looking bike. Yes she does sound like a sowing machine but after market exhaust will fix that. However, I think that the lack of cruise control as standard is a p*ss take and not fitting LED indicators with the brake light seems almost half hearted in the design process. Still, she does look good and great review.👍🤘
Great video! I just did a test ride on a Fat Bob today. LOVED the bike!! Yours is the most informative review I’ve seen on YT for the Fat Bob. Really appreciate the information and just sub’d to your channel.
Thanks for sharing dude,bike would handle for shaw looks light weight i would change the bars ,pies and headlight lamp to round ,but nice mate
Lol beat ‘em up on the merch lol 😂.💪👍🏻 got my 2023 and 1000 worth . Shame they don’t offer it anymore for 2024 .at least in the states
We've had very similar bikes and likely close in age. The Fat Bob is the only Harley I'd consider if it wasn't for the peanut tank. How on earth do you make a night run on this bike when 90% of the gas stations are closed?
It doesn't seem to bother me, plus nowadays most gas stations are 24 hours, or at least leave the pumps on for pay at the pump.
AverageGuyAntics You must live in a highly populated area. MOST fuel stops are closed after dark in my area compound that with my disgust with interstate travel and this most fun and capable bike cannot traverse at night for lack of fuel alone. I guess I'll wait till next year.
Thanks for your awesome clear cut take on your Fat Bob.
Not sure how people can compare this to the Indian Scout Bobber (ISB). The specs on the ISB show it has a 69ci engine. That's more like an H-D Iron 883 (54ci). This has almost 50% more engine than the ISB. So yeah it's going to cost more. But if you compare the ISD to the Iron the prices are very similar, ISB being about $2.5k more than the Iron.
I have zero complaints on my 2018 road king, its perfect...
I've been riding for over thirty years and I've never been a Harley guy. But I saw one of these in a parking lot today and I love the looks. Personally, I like the pipes. But then I always hated super loud Harleys. No need for an obnoxiously loud bike. Harley dealerships suck too. Usually nothing in stock and accessories are way over priced. And I hate forward controls.
I'll stick with my Triumph.
Kudos to you Harley guys who buy a new bike then spend hundreds to turn it into what it should have been in the first place.
Good video. Harley is expensive and not for everyone. I went with the 2019 street glide. I like HD because they are American made.
turn signals have to be 9" apart thats why the signals are configured like that from the factory.
Get some leather or pleather and sew or get someone to sew a loop into the top of the pad to loop around the top of the sissy bar. Haven't done this myself but think it may work.
Excellent short review. I was looking to get an additional bike that would qualify as another super high performance bike and was looking for a while at this one. ...I think the Ducati Monster 1200 and KTM Super Duke leave this one far behind in performance, not sure if I could compromise on the perf to get American made this time around; and the prices and replacement parts are about the same cost for all those. I think I'll make a few vids on my search too. Anyway, glad you enjoy your new bike... I am still considering it myself; I am a big guy and the forward controls might fit me better and I love that laid back feeling of feet first riding. Anyway, thanks for the review.
comparing this to those other bikes is like comparing a big SUV to a corvette. Completely different.
Needs a heat deflector or something for that right side , I wonder if they'll address that
Thanks for the honest review!
This is the best review ever 👍
Dude the bike is amazing, i found one here in Greece for 20k euros, used, too expensive, maybe i wait a few years before i get one..
Good vid homie. I have the older gen Fat Bob, but it is indeed the best handling Harley. And like you, I come from sport bikes and I still own a BMW S1000rr. BMW is going to be up for sale so I can get the new VMax which will smoke the Fat Bob.
The VMAX definitely looks like a sweet ride. That's why you can never own just one bike. It's like women, one day you want the free spirited blonde, another day you want the sneaky brunette bookkeeper.
Did your wife complain about the right footpeg being so close to the exhaust? I'm looking at it and it really looks like it would fry an ankle without relatively high boots. I'm thinking about buying this bike but I always ride with my girl, it's important for me that she feels comfortable for our trips.
Love the looks of that bike! But seriously harley! LED headlight and not LED signals? Wth!? I got some car LED from amazon cheap! The work as running lights and change to yellow when signal! Then dark covers! Seriously my 2014 sportster 48 has tge same signal lights you have!
Is that rear cylinder heat that bad? Almost everyone is complaining about it. Did you find a fix(like a protective cover) for it? This is probably the only thing holding me back from going out and purchasing one.
Great review, love the look of this bike. I ride the little known HD VRSCR Streetrod, the sport roadster version of the V-Rod, only made in 06-07. Brembo brakes, Showa suspension, 32 degree fork rake instead of 38, more ground clearance for a 40 degree lean angle and true mid controls that allow for a slight lean forward riding position. A long wheelbase like the Fat Bob but it handles and loves curves. I just wonder how they would compare. Why didn't they put mid foot controls on this bike? Harley just cant seem to get away from trying to appeal to there base buyer who they think wants cruiser ergonomics. Give this bike Ducati Diavel power and I will be the first in line.
They chose aesthetics over function. I read an article somewhere with someone speaking with H-D, and H-D said that to style the exhaust like they did they couldn't use mids. They chose form over function, which unfortunately is the running theme with Harley.
Great review. Don't like the bike but I appreciate you going through the features. Ride safe.
As pre the turn lights into the brake light some states don’t allow that so u can be ticketed my only guess to why
These brakes WILL do an endo!
I saw a video on here of some stunt rider doing it.
Pretty crazy!
You should have a regular screw throttle lock or atleast the hole for the screw
Great video, Informative review good job, I’m beginning to like the “ fat bob” something one day in the future may consider, stay safe man & enjoy the rides.
Nice to see Harley changing it up a little bit has that multi Road use not just Highway and I can handle just a little bit more. I'm not saying to go off road with it kind of has that military look that's just my opinion I think the bike is very cool and I'm waiting for them things that they use Market
The handlebar does not go with that kind of bike. My two 2018 favorites are the Fat Boy 114ci and the Breakout 114ci. One thing would be to change is the Breakout handlebar.
Fat Bob would look and function better with a smooth top tank and handlebar mounted speedo/Tach in line of sight.
The Breakout gauge cluster on the Fat Bob bars, the 883 Superlow's 4.5gal teardrop tank fitted with a flush mount gas cap, a 2-into-1 exhaust, and maybe a 240mm fat ass.
Yeah, dumbest thing is the small 3.5 gallon fuel tank. No range for a night run or group ride.
I’m not an expert but I’d guess the turn signals are as far apart as they are (and non-integrated) because the law has a minimum distance requirement between em. Or at least that’s what I heard
8:30 Maybe because it is not legal in different countries and it is so easy, cheap and most common fix bike owner to make.
I own this bike. Like it a lot. Do you still have this bike? Miles? Thoughts now?
I like it all except the tailight setup, the ugly gold pipes and the open bolt heads on the front. I would imagine bugs will eventually fill in those holes and make it fun to clean out.
Fixed the exhaust and rear lights in other video's. Take a peak, if you're so inclined. Ride safe.
Bestiful bike. Congradulations. Make it your own. Ride safe!
Run the Schaeffer's full synthetic with half a quart of Lucas full synthetic oil stabilizer and it will cut down on heat plus your engine will last longer.
Great review.. Thank you
Hi, great review, are you still in love with the bike? I am considering the fatboy but I hear the chrome makes them a bad buy
Oh man, if she’s was ready to do that for a bike, you’ve got a good woman. Lol
Good review. But I’m sticking with my dyna low rider S.