What is the best "Beginner Harley-Davidson" for you?
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- čas přidán 25. 11. 2018
- Matt Laidlaw and Nick Culver give some insights into what to look for and some things to consider when choosing a Harley-Davidson for a Beginner. There is no perfect "starter" bike that works for everyone. You need to ask yourself a few questions and focus on a couple pieces of key criteria.
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#beginnerharley #newmotorcyclerider - Auta a dopravní prostředky
Its good to see a Harley Dealership with honesty and integrity and not focused primarily on profit. 👍to Matt and Laidlaw's HD.
You are the MOST GENUINE and TRUEST SALESPERSON in the world!!! The customer is king... but maybe a stupid King and thus needs the most HONEST ADVICE! All your VIDEOS ARE HONEST AND GENUINE TRUE INFORMATION!!!! They’re not advertising and sales scams or tricks! Keep on the good work, let the HARLEY DAVIDSON burner shine high! Don’t change your NEW SCORING SYSTEM in your bike reviews... keep on the excellent work!!!!
My first purchase was a road king! The sales man said it was a bad idea but i didn't care i knew what i wanted and still have my baby today. Amazing purchase
sigi b dude kudos for you I had a sporty that got wrecked looking to upgrade they trying scaring my out of getting a low rider . I love my S
That's my boy! Haha I did same thing in 1977. I wish you could've seen the sales guys expression! Haha But, I got one up on you, I had NO insurance NO license NO helmet AND NO prior experience.....Those were the days my friend!
Hahaha, me too. I got my first Harley 15 days ago. A f*cking gorgeous and powerful Road King.
I jus did the same... 2020 roadglide last month
Excellent video. These bikes are certainly not toys and can take your life in an instant. I bought my first bike over the summer it was a 2018 street glide special. I had plenty of ppl telling me it was the wrong move. I rode dirt bikes and four wheelers a few times in my teenage years, never had my own! So I was certainly a novice. You must respect the bike and be responsible. The first week or two I was in a parking lot or closed roads. It’s a lot to take in on it’s own without traffic. You do not belong on the road if you can’t control the bike properly. Do not ride outside your means or try to keep up with those who have been riding for years. Harley Davidsons will humble you very quickly. Be open minded and remain teachable. It’s the best decision I ever made! FYI 31 years old 5”11 190 pds
You never stop learning our mate, treat all motorists as if theyre blind and mental, never trust them to do the obvious and you wont go far wrong..
I'll give you a nickel's worth of free advice, google on youtube Jerry Paladino. He'll teach you the art of slow speed u turns and many other riding techniques, he has really helped me.
In 1977 I rode off the lot with a brand new bike (motorcycle) having never ridden one before! Haha No helmet no insurance no M1 license! And no experience! Haha I think the sales guy had a hunch that I had never ridden before! Haha I wish I could describe his expression! Haha Stuff you see in the movies dude! Haha I only knew the gas/clutch theory, as we never had cars or tractors that were automatic[s]. Oh yeah, and I rode once in the back like a girl on my Army partners Triumph, but that's it. Seriously though, I agree with you 100%, as to the seriousness of good or proper riding skills.....
I took the CHP motorcycle learning & safety course. They use the Street XG500. I decided that learning traffic safety was the most important factor, so I purchased a used Street XG500 after the course and I’ve been riding it for the last 3 months. I’ve averaged 1,200 miles per month and I absolutely loved the process of learning how to ride. My next bike will probably be a used low rider ST. Looking for a 2022, so hit me up!
Great take on what the right bike is for beginner. I went beyond the typical beginner warnings about big twin etc. and bought a SoftTail that I put 40,000 miles on in two years. I had greater natural intuition about operating equipment and machinery than most. Some may be plain clumsy at first building skills. Your dealership was happening when I visited on my way back through to Nor Cal a couple days ago. Thanks to Nick for showing me his Low Rider Softail “S”, Scott and yourself for answering questions and showing the Low Rider on the floor...got my Laidlaw shirt representing up in the Sierra Nevada mountains!
My H-D dealer uses the term "rider package" with customers. This includes an assessment of the riders requirements for a bike plus discussions on safety equipment and options for basic or advanced training. I know riders, new and experienced, who purchased a H-D bike and within weeks took the dealers MSF advanced course on their new bike in order to gain supervised experience. IMO, this is the right way to go.
A class is always money well spent.
I always tell people to scoop up an older beater for a first bike, if possible. That way when you fall off it a few times it doesn't hurt your feelings too bad. Once you get the hang of it then get something nicer looking.
You are a very genuine and my favorite official guide for everything harley .. Thanks Matt
Matt, your videos show a personal touch that seems to be lacking a lot these days. I have seen a lot of dealerships get bought up over the years and have the focus switch to moving a large volume of bikes at the highest price possible. Seeing your videos over the past couple years proves that, at least when it comes to you are your store that the rider/customer experience still matters. Building those relationships brings in business and keeps your reputation high. Love the content and the direction you are going in with your videos. Ride safe and keep the shiny side up sir.
Very helpful video!!! Thank you for your genuine manner and honesty!!!
This is much needed! Great video!
My first bike was a Sportster never rode a motorcycle I remember when I picked it up I was a little nervous about riding but it seemed to come to me with a little practice everyone is different thanks for the video Matt and Nick your input take care
Nice change to the format Matt and great to see the other staff. Can we have another group ride out with the team?
Very insightful and informative, especially the last 10 secs, very crucial, changes your entire perspective. Thanx once again.
Excellent video. Thanks so much for posting this.
Production quality on these videos is getting top notch 🤟😎
Went from dirt bikes to sport bikes to a 2015 Road King, no regrets. Been all over the country 2 up. 5'9" 160.
Four years ago, when I decided to get back into riding after a 20 yr stop, I looked at Harley because there are a lot of dealerships around me to visit. No salesman ever assessed me and the proper bike as you are describing. I think by taking this extra care, they would not only create a safer bike/rider situation but would probably build a better relationship for future sales.
Ummm you probably told them you rode many times before and you are a great rider. They probably tried to tell you what you should be trying out but you probably wanted to jump feet first into it. I went to a dealership and said I have zero experience. The sales guy took me to beginners bike, helmet and the MSF class they offered. I negotiated the price and I’ve been riding a month now on a bike I can learn on. In s year when it’s paid off, I’m going to go upgrade
I would say the new Street Bob. It's not some speed demon, but it has pep when pushed. Ripping the throttle in first won't make it wheelie, the back end won't fishtail. Unless you hard-start her. Point being it's not too much, not too little. It does everything you could want, and it lighter when righting and faster, more smooth in engine consistency, more maneuverable. This is coming from my Dyna Street Bob, which I never even test rode before I got it.
Before MSF course I never sat on a bike. Outside of MSF course only bike I ever rode is my Low Rider S... Matt’s totally right about new people walking in and just buying what they think looks cool. Thankfully I have no regrets.
Hi guys, liked your video...i passed my like in May 17 I picked up a clean Honda 600 to gain a few miles came over to Florida in the August hired a Heritage for the day loved it when I got home to the UK found a lovely 14 Fattie in red and I am so happy with this bike over the two bikes I've clocked up 6,000 miles.....
When I went to my local harley dealer I sat on every model they had only 2 bikes felt comfortable the street Bob and softail Slim.
As always good video guys...tuff topic hope it’s helps people out....nothing beats a dirt bike for learning all aspects of how to ride 🤓 even if already own a street bike
The best beginner HD bike is 114 Fat Bob with a Stage IV kit. Don't just tip toe in, JUMP in! Seriously, start with baby steps and work up. Great video about the whole concept. You can't gain experience overnight, it does take time. Start in a parking lot, then on a early Sunday morning when there isn't much traffic. Stay off the interstates until you have the right bike and experience. Just don't let peer pressure get the best of you. Do it solo, then practice, practice, practice with what ever you begin with. The take away is Confucius say: Don't cross the double yellow line. Learn how to operate those brakes and if you don't know what friction zone & counter steering is, then f'ng figure it out!!! Ride safe.
New intro / intro music. Nice touch. Great video as usual 👍
Started with the Iron, 2 years later, I'm now on a dyna. Lost about 4 grand in the upgrade, but gained tons of experience and confidence.
Enjoy your videos Matt. Just got my Harley riding certificate and loving it!! Considering bikes and watching your videos 👍👍🏍😎DC
Yo Matt awesomeness video again.....i bought my first bike last year Breakout 17.........thanks to you man .....you create alot of fans.......that want to ride more do more keep up the good work......wish i was closer......tampa here 👊🙏🇺🇸
I’m a little late watching this vid but I never miss one. Talk about honesty and transparency this is where you get it. It’s all about the user experience, if it doesn’t fit or work for a person properly the experience isn’t as optional as it could be. The road to making loyal customers is like buying new boots, if they fit right you never leave home without them.
Thank you. And thanks for watching.
Matt nice vid. Thanks for having Nick speak as well, he does a nice job. I went through the riders edge course and highly recommend it.
Yes Nick has been helping me a lot with recent videos.
Great video Matt! I'm on the hunt for the first bike for my wife, and yes it will be a Harley! A lot of good insight here! Thanks!!
czcams.com/video/FBfCiPsyk9U/video.html this was my first
I would prefer a Softail Low Rider for the beginning: strong enough, not too big. Streets and Sportsters are too small and need to be replaced too soon. My own and expensive experience! Tourers are of a special kind, best for long distance rides but not for beginners.
I have about 10 years of riding experience and I just got my 3rd bike I went from a NINJA 636 to a V_Rod now I have a Street Glide Special and the sales man was very helpful even that im a short guy (very short to be honest 5,6) he still help me out. so the best bike is the one than you can ride. great videos ride safe people.
Yay!!! A new video from Matt.
Good video as usual , and congrats for selling this beautiful softail slim special edition 2017 ; looks like my 2016 😀
My boy Nick said exactly what I needed to hear as a brand new rider looking to cop my 1st bike
The last two vlogs have been very good, with the team work lol,
The sales bloke at harley dealership helped me choose my bike, ,, a few grand moor than i had in mind,,, lol, ,,but i must say that if i could employ someone to build a bike to suite me, this would be it, and i'm still just as enthusiastic about it after three years of riding it ,,, all the cars and bikes i've owned, i cant say that about them, i shall buy a second harley but also keep hold of my current one, no way am i letting this go,, harleys have definatly got something...
Man I wish our local HD dealers were like yours Matt, you guys definitely have something special going on there. Might be worth the 6 hour ride if I want to get a new bike someday.
BTW.... How do you fit into a Chevy Volt? 😂
Haha. I don’t fit.
Yes, come see us in the future. I’d love to earn your business on a bike.
I wish my local bike dealers were like this....so genuine. Not just about selling you a bike with tons of extras
Love your videos man!
U guys are making really good content and helping us out... im not brand brand new I've owned a 600rr for 15k miles, rode my dad's road king which I love.. n I was raised a 2 wheel guy.. im still gathering from your content. Bless ya Matt and all those involved. Wish u were my local dealer!
Thank you! We appreciate you watching.
I got my 18 low rider based countless seat tests I was a returning rider after 10 years jumped from a 06 883r and 1000 ironhead. The low rider looked right and felt right for me and I'm 5'6". The big deal breaker was the 5 gal, tank on the bike. I got some good bite with my knees and feel balanced
You guys sold a Heritage Classic 2023 from a dealership 2400 miles away. I love this bike, my first Harley. Keep up the good work, your videos are amongst the best there is out there. The road trip series sealed the deal.
Always the straight up and honest goods. Thanks, Matt!
Hey Matt love the channel! Great advice!
Thanks for watching 👍🏻
OK... OK... I get it, I have a small gas tank, lol. That's all I kept hearing in this video. Haha, well now it means time for another bike soon. Still wouldn't let go of my 48 unless it was an offer I couldn't refuse. Thanks again Matt, alway informative and always honest.
Currently On cycle trader for a used 2018/19 Fatboy FLFBS. Vivid black, black tempest or midnight blue. 😀
Getting better all the time brother. Nice work between you & Nick lately too. Keep it up man!
Matt speaks the truth! Awesome info🔥🔥🔥🔥😎😎😎😎
I have always felt that the fit for your body is the most important, and can you stop the bike in a emergency situation. Going fast or power is easier to control. You can usually manhandle a lighter bike.
No more agree. As a new rider i started with Fatboy 2016 and i found it perfect bike for me and it fits . Still enjoying riding this softail these days
Matt, i have a 2018 softail slim and im trying to decide between putting a stage 4 on it or trading in for a 2018 salt denim street glide special, my slim has 1100 miles on it, it has the ventilator intake, big radius exhaust and the harley tuner, do you have a guesstimate on what my trade value would be?
thanks
I tried all the Harleys at the dealership and as you said the first point is your physical size, what do you plan to use the bike for and how often. and let them try some of the bikes in the different range (street, sportster, softail and glide).For me it was the… 883 have some video on my channel ;-) than I changed to a roadster with forward control but if I had the money i would go for a sport glide.
As a new rider, My 2018 Heritage was the perfect mix between big touring bike and smaller(ish) bike. Perfect Swiss Army knife in my opinion. Also, I am 6’1 215 lbs. I probably would recommend something smaller for a smaller person.
Gears & Gadgets I went with custom sportster cause its heritage and my waight/ hight : ratio
1200c_hd Harley sportster nothing wrong with the Custom. Nothing wrong with any of them really.
Gears & Gadgets heritage is a great ride looking to turn my custom into a hetitage adding white walls passing lights and a bad ass breather
thanks guys god bless from il I'm ready for riding season ! or it to get 40 degs an dry
Hey Matt, I have a 10 Fatboy what would you recommend for a Air Intake Cleaner?..Mine is stock right now. Thank you in advance, great videos!
After being off bikes for a while, I came back and got a 12 heritage and took a ride like a pro class. Best move I could make. Most dealerships have rider classes either beginner or advanced. Spend the few bucks to save your skin...
Good perspectives from Matt and Nick, my first bike was a 1977 KZ650, it was a little heavy but was affordable for a 18 year old back in 1995. Love this channel, keep up the good work Matt.
Thank you! 👍🏻
My first bike was a very used, 1972 Honda CB750. It was hard to keep it running; hey it’s what I could afford. My next bike was a 2007 Nightster. I miss that bike something fierce and would love it back! For me, I think that the Nightster would have been the perfect starter bike for me. The front and rear tires were pretty wide which was great for stability. The mid controls are perfect for any beginner, and the seat height was perfect. (I’m not tall) The weight of the bike kept the front wheel on the ground, even with the 1200. The smaller tank made ,my rides fairly short, which in my mind, made me not ride over my abilities.
Which harley would you suggest for a person who is 6'0, 275lbs who is also a beginner?
I like your shirts, where can I get one? Just a little heads up - I live in West Palm Beach, Florida and I have met a few people locally who work at HD dealership and they watch and enjoy your channel.....just thought you aught to know.
For a 5'7 (63kg) new rider, experience with manual cars only: can I ride a 48 or its really better to start with the 883? Thanks!
Am 1.67 cm witch bike would you recommend me for the city .? Beginner
Took the MFS beginner course and passed last year. Went out and bought a '92 electra glide sport roughly 780lbs wet. That 80' evo was very forgiving with my shitty throttle control but I struggled every time I was below 12mph. so many low speed drops. I practiced and practiced and bought all the tutorials videos. I got it now and find I'm better then a lot of seasoned riders but it definitely made me question did I get in over my head.
I just traded in my 2018 Heritage Classic, for a 2019 Soft Tail Low Rider, I’m having trouble finding a backrest for me. I was told I’d have to swap out the seat for one that’s designed with a higher back, but I don’t like the look of it, it didn’t look like it had good female support.
I’m in Canada, but if you could steer me in the right direction I’d greatly appreciate it!👍😉
I’m also told I need to buy a riser for my shield if I find it too low, and it’s not cheap!,.. I didn’t want the faring.
It’s still at the dealership and I’m trying to get it done for longer rides before she’s delivered. I’m not sure if it matters but it’s the midnight blue.
great advice fellas
I just finished my MMS course, I also took 14 lessons . I’m 6’1 230 lbs I would like a heritage. I feel I’m too tall for a sportster or a 883 iron. What do some of you gents think ?
Matt. What do you recommend for a someone who is riding royal Enfield classic 350cc which weighs around 440 pounds. I am 6 feel around 200 pounds. Looking for a cruiser comfortable bike
Going to get a Harley in a couple weeks. My first bike I learned on was a 250. So I think a Softail would be perfect. But is it big enough for me and my lady?
My first bike at 40 years was in 2014 a 2014 streetglide that I learned to ride then upgraded to a 2017 ultra classic which I am happy but hate that the bike has oil transfer issue and it the dealership waiting on the repair
My first was a 2017 fxdf (after having my motorcycle license for just couple of month)
I am 5'9 height and 170 pounds, have experience with clutch and gear motorcycles 500cc. Do i pick sportster iron 883 or softail standard/fat bob? I am comfortable with sportster but little scared to pick softail.
Is there any chance u will do a test ride video with the TRI- GLIDE.. thnx
I'd take the 45 sidevalve model whose engine is in the crate at the beginning. Not fast but incredibly fun to ride!
Hi, what year/model is that bike @3:25?
5'10 140lbs grew up with dirtbikes a bit and owned a yamaha fz07 for about a year for my street experience, Looking into a street bob for my first harley kinda just hesitant on the weight of it not so much power as i got discipline seems likes it a good choice to grow and remain into the bike. Any thoughts?
Tremendously helpful
Glad we could help.
I need HD bike with
sound look & comfort
Which one I have to chose ?
Man I love you videos I've been watching for a so I guess about 2 years now I am a beginner we are very frustrated with the Harley dealership in our area in Mississippi is there anyway I can get some late log gear and deal with you and your company
Ima beginner and got a 2020 road glide... love it..
I think that everybody has a good point. My suggestion is get what ever you want but be honest with yourself. Take advantage of taking the riders course and don't be ashamed of taking it again if you're not confident with riding. If you get a bike and realize that you are not as confident as you thought that you were then leave it in the garage and take the course.
Yes. The MSF course is money well spent. It’s the perfect avenue for new riders to “get their feet wet”
Hey Matt. 2006 I got my Motorcycle Endorsement. First bike I started on was a 06 Honda Nighthawk 250. Bought new. Over the last 12 years, I have had Maxi Scooters. 05 Honda Silver Wing. And a 2010 Yamaha Majesty 400. Traded the Majesty for a 15 Street 750. Rode that for 2 years and 14k miles. Now I have a 2018 1200 Custom. Being that I am only 5' 4" and 150 pounds, And a Short Inseam, The 1200 Custom is a good fit. I do miss riding the Majesty. Found it to be Practical. Had a nice trunk that was weather tight. Along with the dashboard and enclosed pockets. Heard a rumor that HD may stop making the Sportsters after 2019. Hopefully they will have something that I will be able to fit on? My Harley Dealer Fits you to the Bike. Unlike some dealerships. A few years ago I met a guy who, Just got his License in Sept. Riding a Suzuki M109 Modified. I think it was around March(A few months after he got his license), Watched him dump the bike. Landed in a ditch. That's how I met him. He was making a left turn from a stop. T Intersection. Soon as he let the clutch out, Back end slid out. His dealer totaled the bike.
yall i dont have a motorcycle but i want to get one. im gonna be honest im too afraid of owning and riding one because ive heard of people getting into horrible accidents. like death wobbles or getting hit by a semi and stuff like that. i really want one but my fear is holding me back. how did you guys get over this fear or did you not have it at all?
I’m 5,7 150lbs with great dirtbike skills, do you recommend a dyna street bob?
Would love to swing by one of these days and meet the whole crew. Maybe when I’m ready to make the 500 mile trip haha
Julian Deala come on by, Matt loves meeting viewers of the channel!
Personally I think it depends on the age when you start riding. I started 4 years ago at 37 on a cruiser with no problem. If I did that as a kid I would have dumped it by now for sure
billiondollardan age is definitely a factor, as I touched on with my 1125R being my first bike. Worked at 24, would probably not have worked at 17 or 18.
@@TH3G0ODGUY I hear ya man. I got a Yamaha FZ-10 when that came out here in the US and that kind of bike would have just destroyed me as a kid! 1125R as a first bike is pretty dang beefy too, dude. I probably couldn't have done that when I was 24. I don't think I was mature enough honestly
i am a brand new rider, and i want the 883, but my dad thinks a street bob would be better because once i grow into it it’ll be better and more comfortable in the long run. what do y’all think? i’m 5’8 155lbs
Great vid... I am looking to be a new rider this upcoming spring. I have had experience with manuals before, and scooters. Definitely interested in a Harley, but as I’m sure you get this same question all the time. I’m 6’ and 260. I’m really interested in the Street Glide, but everyone keeps telling not to start on that bike, to get a street bob or something. I just don’t see that as a good way to go, as I’m sure I’ll just be trading it in the next year for the bike I actually wanted in the first place. And I’m not interested in losing money on a trade in either.
You’re a big dude. Get the street glide. Especially with a decent understanding of manual transmissions. Street glide is not the best bike to learn on but it’s a bike that would won’t have to ever upgrade out of.
Hey Matt,
Im looking to purchase a Harley davidson fatboy for my first bike. I've ridden quads before but that's about it. I was thinking of getting a sportster for my first bike but i dont like how i fit on it, plus I plan to take my wife on rides. I like how i fit on a fatboy but it is intimidating how big they are. Im 6' about 200 lbs and my wife is 5'9". What do you think about my first bike being a fatboy? Thanks
The Honda shade was hilarious for me since i like both
what Harley would you recommend for an absolute beginner female with no experience with clutch? My am 5'4" and weigh 140 Ibs. thank you
I'm 6ft 2 and 110kg and 37 years old, was looking at the iron 883 as a potential first.. but I'm starting to lean towards a street bob or softail slim.. just cautious about the extra power as a novice rider...
Matt I hear the weight issue all the time, it’s important but man you ride the bike not pick it up ...Beauty of Harley’s is get
2 seats, a windshield if needed and set the ride height adjust bars and pegs levers ....then just ride it have fun
I'm in my 50s, retired, 6'3" 215-220 or so. What would you think about the Heritage for me as a beginner?
Im 6'0, 320, with size 15 feet, I not only dont feel comfortable on anything below Softail, Im going with floorboards. Havent drove a lick on a motorcycle beside the drivers class which I honestly believe I failed because I wasnt comfortable on those little tinker toy street 500s
Kind of perfect that you not only had the perspective of a rider with a very large amount of experience and one with a relatively short amount of riding experience, but they both happened to be on sort of opposite ends of the height spectrum as well. I guess I'm pretty fortunate there, being 5'11". That seems to be a pretty good height for just about any bike. Thanks for the great content as always, guys.
Another great video. I got news on Harleys 2020 colors already
Oh yea. What’s coming out. I’d love to know.
@@MattLaidlaw just go to dodge.com and look at the 2019 colors of the charger and challenger lol. Harley copies mopar colors every year. I believe hd will have a green or purple come out next year
Would a lrs be a good beginner I'm 6'2 about 160
I wish you were here in NC. I really want to go and look and ask questions but I heard our HD dealer here in Jacksonville are assholes.
Love the videos Matt! Been going through much various content.
Im 6'2, 82kg (160-170pounds?). I rode a bike for a very limited time as a kid never had my own. Very well versed with a manual clutch both on cars and bikes. I wanted to consider a bike here in Europe, for riding country to country, easy cruising etc. Looks obviously play a huge role. Im stuck between the breakout and fat bob. They look awesome, but the breakout has the long wheel base, which seems feasible. I was thinking of a sportster but its apparently not the best for my needs and body dimensions. Anyone here have any advice - also taking into consideration last time I was on a bike I didn't go over 25mph, so experience is not there yet! Please do share your opinions :D !
The Fatbob is going to be better suited for aggressive riding like in canyons etc. The Breakout is a pure cruiser that has a mean aggressive look.
@@MattLaidlaw So we agree that the Breakout 2019 is perfect for someone with almost zero experience in riding and body dimensions? So a starter bike Breakout HD wins?