Coming from sport bikes and motards (and a couple scooters) have to say that's the first harley I've seen in a while that I really like the look of. Very retro, kind of like a cafe racer/harley combo. Nice video. The area you live looks amazing btw.
...love my 05 1200, not a little bike trying to look like a big bike, perfect for going out for a rip and the dual disc's up front make for a sweet ride.
Thanks for your review. I have had all models of Harley's over the years and wanted a cafe racer style. Rode and purchased the roadster yesterday. Harley nailed it with this bike! Gotta get yours now👍
+James SlimMetal - Shocking how different this bike is going down the freeway than any Sportster I've ever ridden! Smooth as silk. I'm really loving this little Sporty! She may have to follow me home... Lol Thanks James!
What an amazing bike! After you mentioned the Roadster in your daily vlog today, I had to come back and watch this again! I'm on an old FXR right now, my next bike will either be a 48 or a Roadster :)...... or an iron lol. Thanks for your daily videos and keep up the good work! John from Colorado.
I really dig the look of this little Sporty. The red really pops and I like what they did with the engine paint. I see what they're going for with the bars. Maybe keep the look but raise them on a 2" riser or something. They really hit this one out of the park with the revisions they've made. You're right about Harley. Lots of bikes are great in their own rites and for many good reasons but nothing can match a Harley. You said it perfect. Great review as always sir!!
pretty sharp, just got back from a 1300 mile trip on my sportster. in your terms it was fan-freakin-tastic........lol. butt got a little sore, but whoever says sportsters cant be riddin a long distance dont know what they are talking about. my honest opinion the scout sixty looks better.
THe lady staff member is riding a big Harley.I like the roadster.I test rode the Sportster 1200 low and that was a nice ride.Very mechanical and great rumble exhaust noise.There's nothing like a Harley.The Roadster seems like a good bike for you.Good video.I like that you test ride all types of motorcycles.Very positive.
So excited when I saw you test road the Roadster Shawn! This was a great video, as usual, to watch. I sat on one at the HD dealer last weekend and to my surprise it just felt right. I'll definitely have to look at this when I'm ready to upgrade my bike. And I 100% agree gotta get it in red! Have a good one :-D
Of course I'm trying to watch this and that new show ride with Norman Reedus is on. The conflict of trying watch both at the same time was serious. I too was surprised by the comfort of that seat too. Glad you liked it. I love my dyna too much to consider it. I really want the fz-07 as an extra bike but I have too many toys I'm paying for right now lol.
many good reviews on these. Not sure if i go for this one, or fork out some extra cash for a street bob.... I do like that everything on the roadster seems aimed for good riding. Up side down forks, double front disks, mid control and stuff...luve it!
No law against owning more than 1. Think of them as women, more the merrier, best yet, you can ride a different one tomorrow and the others don't get jealous and take 1/2 your stuff....
I'm looking at adding another..But having issues between the HD Break Out or HD Softail Slim, the BMW RNineT, and the Moto Guzzi California custom (Without bags). Looking for a non-bagger and something with a lot of character, even the Indian Dark Horse. Real issue is creating time to ride..
Great video, I really enjoyed that and the roads - Wow, not the horrible overcrowded potholed rubbish that I have to put up with. I wonder if you'll ever get to test the new Triumph T120 Bonneville as I'd be interested in hearing your view on that machine. Keep up the good work.
Great video as usual, I especially enjoyed this one as I just bought a sliver/vivid black roadster three weeks ago and it has been a blast thus far. I agree with you on the bars, I drove my bike off the lot and went straight home and swapped in a V&H tracker bar and man what a difference. I love the height too, it was one of the reason for my purchase. I would love to see you buy one so I can see more roadster videos ;) Thanks again!
Way cool!! I may just join you in the Roadster ownership real soon. I literally had to take myself off the ledge this morning to keep from going up there and grabbing this very bike (their only one left at the moment)... I'll probably re-address this when I get back from the Yellowstone meetup in about three weeks time. But I'm not one for having patience... Lol The bars, though I think I get what they were going for, would be gone pretty quick as well. The squatted look of the recent Sportsters just seem to make them way too much of single purpose cruiser. This was a brilliant move on Harley's part, if you ask me! Nice hearing from a Roadster owner! Thanks for the kind words! Be safe out there.
i generally dont like HD's but im starting to really appreciate the looks of the 883 and roadster style! the others i find to much bling if you get my drift
I was thinking the same thing! This bike can only have a 2-into-1 system. Knock any thought of cruiser right out of this bad little girl! Lol Thanks man!
Hi Shawn, Love the videos. I got curious and took a look at Harley's website and it looks like the engine on the 48, 72, 1200T and 1200 Custom all put out 70.8 FT-LB of torque but the Roadster puts out 76 FT-LB. So it seems they definitely did something to the engine, I would love to know what though.
No kidding? I haven't even looked at Harley's specs yet... Awesome, thanks for the info! I knew there was something different here. They stress not going over 4K RPM's on the test ride (new engine and all), so I didn't, but there is something very lively about this engine for sure! I bet she'll be a blast once broken-in and exhaust, intake and mapping are added!! Thanks a lot!
I got to test ride one of those roadsters a couple of weeks ago in Grand Prairie, Tx. I already own an '01 sportster that I've had since new, so the new roadster was interesting in comparison. Honestly, I didn't really like it that much, mainly because the bars were just too weird, and the instrument panel, not so great. I'm used to the analog speedo and tach combo. The suspension was great however, just like you said in the video. I did like that part. The power was also very good.
Im not sure about the bars on it, they look way too low in the video, but of course that could just be a visual trick/curve or something. I do like that red in the sun, wow it pops. That exhaust note is very odd, some kind of higher pitch noise to it kinda throws me. I would like to know how you feel after a long ride or a dozen on it though. thanks for the videos!
The height was okay (GoPro SuperView may be making them look lower), it was the downward angle of them that seemed very odd, but kind of okay at the same time... They are the lowest Sportster bars height wise, but not sport bike low... I would at least try them for a little while, but have a backup set at the ready. That was the funkiest sounding stock exhaust I've ever heard on a Harley! I don't know if it's a result of trying to sneak some extra power out of them and stay legal, or what..? The red turned out to be beautiful! I think that may be the winner for me. I hope I get the chance to give you give you those long term results of this gal. I'm on the fence on weather to trade the Iron or add another bike payment... I'm going with the "I can't get rid of the Iron" side at the moment. I need to thing about this... In fact, I'm about to take the Iron out in a few to help me stay on that side of the fence... Lol Thanks man!
Hm. The "overdrive" 5th gear is tempting me. I previously wanted a Street Bob, and this is only a couple grand less. It does look cool though and has the upgraded shocks and brakes. Looks more maneuverable. I'm intrigued.
Hell yeah I am moving to Lacey WA next March and I want to upgrade my Iron 883 to something I can cruise longer on. Perhaps a fatboy lo or something. I want to ride to Alaska on it next summer.
Yeah, that may be an issue with this Roadster! Though I don't look down at gauges often, I do need to be able to read them when I do. Harley has no business messing with digital gauges anyway..! Lol All kidding aside, that digital portion completely blacked out at times... Not cool! I'll look into those Koso gauges should I take this gal home with me. Thanks for the tip! Thanks for watching!
It looks a LOT smoother than any other Harley you've ridden on the channel. I can just hear Kelly "but I want that Roadmaster that thing was comfy!" lol you could fly down and go pick up the Denim Black one from Guidera's and take you home a box of fresh peaches :P I'll pick you up at the air port :D
Hey Shawn Ive been looking at an 09 HD Nightster. He is asking 6700 and it has just under 2500miles on it. Would you say that is a good deal and would you recommend buying a nightster or is there something better I should be aware of? also love your videos! keep them up
I think the difference in performance maybe because it's lighter. Not 100 percent sure though. What would've been awesome is if they used the same 1200 motor that was in the xr1200's. Or at least made it an option!
It's a cool bike I'd have to put some higher bars on for me though (rode one a couple weeks ago and the bars being so low where just really uncomfortable for me).
Hey shawn.Would like to see you do a ride and review on a Honda ctx 700 dct.The Honda ctx 700 is my second favorite bike and because of watching your videos the can am spyder is my first favorite bike.Hope you always keep making videos and I wish for you to always have many safe and enjoyable rides.
Ok I'll be honest. .I was checking out the street glide. But you sir im thinking your about to add another stallion to the ranch. I see the wheels turning...
Yeah, this little Roadster has got my gears spinning and grinding all right... Lol But I just don't think I can sacrifice the Iron 883 for it. It would have to be added on it's own, and I just don't know if I want to add another payment right now. It's tough, because I really want this bike!! Thanks Walter!
She would surely have some quiet time for a little bit, having a new bike and all... But I would definitely still ride ol' gal, she's just got this special character about her that makes her very attractive to take out for spins... About to do just that now actually! Lol
I use the passenger pegs as they are in the perfect location for me, but you have no controls back there..! Lol Harley must agree as well, as they make optional rear-sets (with controls) for the Roadster that are in the exact placement of where the passenger pegs would be. Thanks!
Shawn Smoak : thanks Shawn. I’m getting into HD and I’m just ‘getting’ all the unusual things folks are cool with doing, down in my calculations - you can understand where I’m coming from as it sounds interesting, I wouldn’t be able to do that on any bikes previously owned. I’m thinking that would make it more comfortable for those with lower back issues as you could get into a more drag position and straighten the legs. Anyways, I’m doing my homework on this model and the Fat Bob and I reckon it’s in the lead at the moment. I’d be interested if you eventually bought it. No big deal if you didn’t. As a BMW rider (sport bikes) I’m surprised that this model caught my attention so easily and then I got interested in the Fat Bob but I’m not sure I’m a Harley guy just yet. I’ve always not been attracted to the sportsters of old without meaning to be disrespectful but then I think when they got a bit more focused with dual discs and USD forks and ABS, I started to see the attitude of the bike become more accepting of the majority of biker’s expectations (outside of the US certainly). I’m always shocked to hear Harley riders exclaim how good any HD rides especially when it’s a truthful statement instead of blind allegiance to the brand. Truth is, most bikes handle very well these days and have for about 30 years in my experience (especially when talking of equal value, in fact it’s clear other brands would often outperform them in many key areas like safety and power until the VRod came along. I’d say that was a nice bike but I get why it was hated by the diehards. So I guess it’s the other things like the simplicity, the sound and the heritage that that makes up a hell of a lot of shortcomings and you kind of need to be going into a cruiser HD mindset. Funny thing is that as you get older, it does become appealing and the sportster is hardly a laid back ride so there is something more to it that’s hard to work out for riders having to accept a bike that to be fair, is going to be behind their last ride and getting used to that is a real thing. But the rear pegs question is one of those things that I doubt you would ever consider on another bike which adds an element of interest to HD because anything kind of goes, which is probably something that makes the brand and this model worth a try. Every biker needs to at least have a Harley in their lifetime has always been my thinking. In fact having as many cool brands as possible is my view and I guess I’m just coming into Milwaukee’s orbit. I’ve just let my new ‘20 order for the the RR lapse so I guess I need to make a new plan. I think the Roadster May be it. I’d be interested in your take. Average heigh and weight and 44. Lower back ain’t great but it’s just for 20-30min hits to say g’day to my mum and then come back and to keep riding too. Cheers Syd Australia
Bernievids I went through the same questioning as you two years ago. I was strangely attracted to the Roadster specifically, although I didn’t see myself as a Harley guy. After considering several other Japanese and European options, all seemingly more technological (the thinking process I went through matches yours, age 44 too at that time), I bought the Roadster and I really enjoy it. I use it for 200 to 350 km rides almost exclusively, mostly in mountain roads, plus congested city and highway to reach them. I find this bike handling very safe and well balanced. I had to get used to the leg position (I’m very tall) with the air cleaner protruding on the right side. Now it doesn’t bother me. The rear set position feels very natural and comfortable, although I didn’t do the modification as I want to keep the ability to carry a passenger and this is my only bike. What you’ll have to do is a stage 1 to really enjoy what this character rich engine is about. About the speed on open roads, I ride with Ducati friends and in our twisties they’re always surprised how the roadster keeps up effortlessly with their sport bikes. Also I tried the fat bob 107 but it didn’t do much for me (too smooth engine?...) Have fun in your decision process and keep us updated!
Another great review!! I love your knowledge Shawn. I've learned a lot watching you. Mind me asking what you use to edit vids? Think I crashed my comp using the basic Windows movie maker and now learning I may not be the only one!
Hi Shawn, if you choose one from roadster and R nine T, what will you buy? I like sound and low torque of roadster but I also like R9T's nice style and performance. I am looking for buying new motorcycle in a couple of months but It is very difficult to choose one.
Harley should have put the 101hp thunderstorm motor in it, but i'm sure the fools at HD were worried that the Roadster would put a serious whooping on the Lowrider S, and they couldn't have that!!
Yeah, I'm pretty much in love with this one! Lol Harley really knocked the ball out of the park with this little Sporty! Very smart move on their part, as these are selling like hotcakes... Thanks Paul!
Hope no one from work reads these comments..! Lol But hands down the Sportster!! There is just something special about a Harley, that only Harley can do. Not that the Scout isn't absolutely a fantastic motorcycle, it's just the shaking, noisy engine, rough and raw nature of the Sportster that does it all for me..! Thank you very much!
+Shawn Smoak I Was going to ask that same question so glad I checked comments first. Doing a test ride of both this week. Hoping it makes the choice easier for me because right now I kind of want both. Keep up the good work.
It's not Smoak approved until you hear, "fan-freakin'-tastic!" Hahaha! Thanks for your review. I may have to save a couple more extra pennies to get this Roadster over the Iron.
A license is proof that you have the skills necessary to ride a motorcycle, in the absence of a license why should any dealership trust you with their vehicles? It doesn't make any sense.
It looks good but after two minutes of sitting on one at the dealership no way I would want one. yes the clearance is good but as you know you can make that happen on your the iron.
I've heard others say the same, but none had rode the bike. The first time I sat on it was to take off on it. It seemed a little odd at first, but that was gone once you started moving. The bars were the strangest thing, but also the easiest to replace. This thing is awesome! Hands down the best Sportster I've ever ridden, and like no other. I will buy one, I just don't think I want to get rid of the Iron to do it. I just have to make up my mind if adding another bike is something I want to do right now... The Iron, DR650 and Honda Element are all about to drop off soon, so it may not be a big deal at all. The wife says to just go get it, shockingly... She about had a cow over the SGS last year! Lol Thanks for watching David!
Wow, 'best sportster Ive ever ridden'. well I trust your opinion more than anyone, I will have to try it out now. Thank you so much for the lengthy reply. did you know that Fousey has recently bought a motorcycle and has been motor vlogging ? I so wish I could make him take a safety course. He got a Honda African twin, went down two days after he got it, it looked like he was lane spitting when he went down.he is already vlogging and lane spitting way too soon and I hate that he is moving so fast because he last said he needed to rethink the motorcycle. I really hope he keeps it up because he seems to love it. Also, I was happy to see that you and Kelly got to meet Roman.Sorry this was so long. Thanks again for the reply.
One of my favorite Sportsters.
That bike looks great. I like that they are finally making one that is actually geared more toward the "sporty" side of sportster.
Coming from sport bikes and motards (and a couple scooters) have to say that's the first harley I've seen in a while that I really like the look of. Very retro, kind of like a cafe racer/harley combo. Nice video. The area you live looks amazing btw.
Passed my msf course, going to get my endorsement and ride my 883 tomorrow.
Fantastic!! Congratulations, and have a great time on the 883! I'm about to take off for a spin on mine myself... Be safe out there.
+Shawn Smoak will do, gonna practice on some low traffic city roads and a big empty lot. Have fun!
did the same thing this year i have owned my 2016 iron 883 since march, congrats!
Iankiller99 congratulations and enjoy your new ride!
It is a real cool looking bike, that Red is nice, Thanks for taking Us along for the ride.
...love my 05 1200, not a little bike trying to look like a big bike, perfect for going out for a rip and the dual disc's up front make for a sweet ride.
Thanks for your review. I have had all models of Harley's over the years and wanted a cafe racer style. Rode and purchased the roadster yesterday. Harley nailed it with this bike! Gotta get yours now👍
Fantastic ride. The freeway part is what got my attention the most.
+James SlimMetal - Shocking how different this bike is going down the freeway than any Sportster I've ever ridden! Smooth as silk. I'm really loving this little Sporty! She may have to follow me home... Lol
Thanks James!
Seriously hope all Harley's line up comes with inverted forks for now own
From now on?
What an amazing bike! After you mentioned the Roadster in your daily vlog today, I had to come back and watch this again! I'm on an old FXR right now, my next bike will either be a 48 or a Roadster :)...... or an iron lol. Thanks for your daily videos and keep up the good work! John from Colorado.
I really dig the look of this little Sporty. The red really pops and I like what they did with the engine paint. I see what they're going for with the bars. Maybe keep the look but raise them on a 2" riser or something. They really hit this one out of the park with the revisions they've made. You're right about Harley. Lots of bikes are great in their own rites and for many good reasons but nothing can match a Harley. You said it perfect.
Great review as always sir!!
Definitely one of HD's most intriguing releases in quite some time...thanks for the review.
Not quite a harley person but the 883, street 750 and the Roadster, I could definatly see myself on one of those.
pretty sharp, just got back from a 1300 mile trip on my sportster. in your terms it was fan-freakin-tastic........lol. butt got a little sore, but whoever says sportsters cant be riddin a long distance dont know what they are talking about. my honest opinion the scout sixty looks better.
THe lady staff member is riding a big Harley.I like the roadster.I test rode the Sportster 1200 low and that was a nice ride.Very mechanical and great rumble exhaust noise.There's nothing like a Harley.The Roadster seems like a good bike for you.Good video.I like that you test ride all types of motorcycles.Very positive.
So excited when I saw you test road the Roadster Shawn! This was a great video, as usual, to watch. I sat on one at the HD dealer last weekend and to my surprise it just felt right. I'll definitely have to look at this when I'm ready to upgrade my bike. And I 100% agree gotta get it in red! Have a good one :-D
Of course I'm trying to watch this and that new show ride with Norman Reedus is on. The conflict of trying watch both at the same time was serious. I too was surprised by the comfort of that seat too. Glad you liked it. I love my dyna too much to consider it. I really want the fz-07 as an extra bike but I have too many toys I'm paying for right now lol.
many good reviews on these. Not sure if i go for this one, or fork out some extra cash for a street bob.... I do like that everything on the roadster seems aimed for good riding. Up side down forks, double front disks, mid control and stuff...luve it!
I really would like a Roadster, it looks so cool to ride. From what I reviewed on UA-cam, everyone who rides them likes them.
I see a Shawn Smoak video, I hit the like button. It's just what I do!
Great looking bike! Demo's will be here next month, can't wait!
I thought my mind was made up with the Yamaha XSR 900 , then the Yamaha SCR 950 , now this Harley Roadster ! So many good choices out there .
No law against owning more than 1. Think of them as women, more the merrier, best yet, you can ride a different one tomorrow and the others don't get jealous and take 1/2 your stuff....
+BigBlue Glide I own 3 bikes now lol , but want to add a Harley .....maybe
I'm looking at adding another..But having issues between the HD Break Out or HD Softail Slim, the BMW RNineT, and the Moto Guzzi California custom (Without bags). Looking for a non-bagger and something with a lot of character, even the Indian Dark Horse.
Real issue is creating time to ride..
+n2o4me Can't go wrong with a sporty! I have a new low rider now but there have been some times I've missed my sporty!
Loving my Slim S!
Great video, I really enjoyed that and the roads - Wow, not the horrible overcrowded potholed rubbish that I have to put up with. I wonder if you'll ever get to test the new Triumph T120 Bonneville as I'd be interested in hearing your view on that machine. Keep up the good work.
Great video as usual, I especially enjoyed this one as I just bought a sliver/vivid black roadster three weeks ago and it has been a blast thus far. I agree with you on the bars, I drove my bike off the lot and went straight home and swapped in a V&H tracker bar and man what a difference. I love the height too, it was one of the reason for my purchase. I would love to see you buy one so I can see more roadster videos ;)
Thanks again!
Way cool!! I may just join you in the Roadster ownership real soon. I literally had to take myself off the ledge this morning to keep from going up there and grabbing this very bike (their only one left at the moment)... I'll probably re-address this when I get back from the Yellowstone meetup in about three weeks time. But I'm not one for having patience... Lol
The bars, though I think I get what they were going for, would be gone pretty quick as well. The squatted look of the recent Sportsters just seem to make them way too much of single purpose cruiser. This was a brilliant move on Harley's part, if you ask me!
Nice hearing from a Roadster owner! Thanks for the kind words! Be safe out there.
Love your livery comments lol. From the UK
I was watching and then Northwest Harley Davidson, I have road the same path on my 2005 1200 Roadster.
That's northwest Harley Davidson in Lacey Washington lol. That was my local HD dealer before I moved to AZ
i generally dont like HD's but im starting to really appreciate the looks of the 883 and roadster style! the others i find to much bling if you get my drift
Robbert Hoek agreed
Awesome video as always Shawn ! If my local dealership has test ride day again, I will go ride this. At 6'4", I am interested to test my fit on this.
OMG, this video makes me want a Roadster. LOL Thanks for posting this Shawn!
if you get this bike, you have to get a really sweet 2 into 1 performance exhaust. they go perfectly with the style of the bike.
I was thinking the same thing! This bike can only have a 2-into-1 system. Knock any thought of cruiser right out of this bad little girl! Lol
Thanks man!
Roland Sands Slant 2-into-1 pricey burt nicey.
She's not to shabby either dude 😘I think that's the best color it suits it well the red 👍🏻
Hi Shawn,
Love the videos. I got curious and took a look at Harley's website and it looks like the engine on the 48, 72, 1200T and 1200 Custom all put out 70.8 FT-LB of torque but the Roadster puts out 76 FT-LB. So it seems they definitely did something to the engine, I would love to know what though.
No kidding? I haven't even looked at Harley's specs yet... Awesome, thanks for the info! I knew there was something different here. They stress not going over 4K RPM's on the test ride (new engine and all), so I didn't, but there is something very lively about this engine for sure! I bet she'll be a blast once broken-in and exhaust, intake and mapping are added!!
Thanks a lot!
better cams.
I got to test ride one of those roadsters a couple of weeks ago in Grand Prairie, Tx. I already own an '01 sportster that I've had since new, so the new roadster was interesting in comparison. Honestly, I didn't really like it that much, mainly because the bars were just too weird, and the instrument panel, not so great. I'm used to the analog speedo and tach combo. The suspension was great however, just like you said in the video. I did like that part. The power was also very good.
Im not sure about the bars on it, they look way too low in the video, but of course that could just be a visual trick/curve or something. I do like that red in the sun, wow it pops. That exhaust note is very odd, some kind of higher pitch noise to it kinda throws me. I would like to know how you feel after a long ride or a dozen on it though. thanks for the videos!
The height was okay (GoPro SuperView may be making them look lower), it was the downward angle of them that seemed very odd, but kind of okay at the same time... They are the lowest Sportster bars height wise, but not sport bike low... I would at least try them for a little while, but have a backup set at the ready. That was the funkiest sounding stock exhaust I've ever heard on a Harley! I don't know if it's a result of trying to sneak some extra power out of them and stay legal, or what..? The red turned out to be beautiful! I think that may be the winner for me. I hope I get the chance to give you give you those long term results of this gal. I'm on the fence on weather to trade the Iron or add another bike payment... I'm going with the "I can't get rid of the Iron" side at the moment. I need to thing about this... In fact, I'm about to take the Iron out in a few to help me stay on that side of the fence... Lol
Thanks man!
Hm. The "overdrive" 5th gear is tempting me. I previously wanted a Street Bob, and this is only a couple grand less. It does look cool though and has the upgraded shocks and brakes. Looks more maneuverable. I'm intrigued.
OMG your always making me want to buy a new BIKE!! Keep em comin.. good stuff
Bought one like this and modified it, nice video, ride safe
And seriously, just trade in the Iron and get it...the two bikes fit in the same functional slot, but the Roadster is clearly an upgrade! Go for it!
Do it! Get one in denim black, put the headlight fairing you have now on the Iron and some RSD rearsets and end your misery! :)
Sold mine for an XR1200. It solves all of the Roadster issues.
Hell yeah I am moving to Lacey WA next March and I want to upgrade my Iron 883 to something I can cruise longer on. Perhaps a fatboy lo or something. I want to ride to Alaska on it next summer.
Shawn, I put Koso gauges in my FLHX and WOW....
Yeah, that may be an issue with this Roadster! Though I don't look down at gauges often, I do need to be able to read them when I do. Harley has no business messing with digital gauges anyway..! Lol All kidding aside, that digital portion completely blacked out at times... Not cool! I'll look into those Koso gauges should I take this gal home with me. Thanks for the tip!
Thanks for watching!
It looks a LOT smoother than any other Harley you've ridden on the channel. I can just hear Kelly "but I want that Roadmaster that thing was comfy!" lol you could fly down and go pick up the Denim Black one from Guidera's and take you home a box of fresh peaches :P I'll pick you up at the air port :D
Hey Shawn Ive been looking at an 09 HD Nightster. He is asking 6700 and it has just under 2500miles on it. Would you say that is a good deal and would you recommend buying a nightster or is there something better I should be aware of? also love your videos! keep them up
I think the difference in performance maybe because it's lighter. Not 100 percent sure though. What would've been awesome is if they used the same 1200 motor that was in the xr1200's. Or at least made it an option!
Hi Shawn.. love the sportster's to.. i have a 2006 sportster Low... just love her!! Stay cool ! !
that looks like a blend of Ducatti monster and triumph.
Hey Shawn, love all your videos, was wondering if you ever had a chance to ride the XR 1200 when it was out, and if so, how does the Roadster compare?
Wonder if that seat fits an Iron. Looks comfortable.
Great vid, great bike, great scenery too. Subbed.
It's a cool bike I'd have to put some higher bars on for me though (rode one a couple weeks ago and the bars being so low where just really uncomfortable for me).
Hey shawn.Would like to see you do a ride and review on a Honda ctx 700 dct.The Honda ctx 700 is my second favorite bike and because of watching your videos the can am spyder is my first favorite bike.Hope you always keep making videos and I wish for you to always have many safe and enjoyable rides.
Nice review man, i like the 883 but i think i might just be too big for the 883. Probably gonna go with the dyna wide glide after i pass my test
Hello have you heard anything about the new Can am spyder electric concept
Nice bike... Nice weather , gonna need a bigger garage shawn
Lol... I would have one now if I could keep my kid out of there... I'm sure loving this one!!
Thanks man!
They have. 1200 Sportsters have 70lbs of Torque, the Roadster has 76lbs of torque. Also , the Roadster has 3" more of ground clearance.
I feel like the Chips song should be playing. You should make some kick edits of you changing gears.
What's the lean angle on that compared to a normal sporty? Nice review. Ride well and be happy.
If you had to do it again would you still get the Iron 883 or would you purchase the Roadster?
So did you like it? lol......nice vid!! I need to go test ride one of these myself.
Ok I'll be honest. .I was checking out the street glide. But you sir im thinking your about to add another stallion to the ranch. I see the wheels turning...
Yeah, this little Roadster has got my gears spinning and grinding all right... Lol But I just don't think I can sacrifice the Iron 883 for it. It would have to be added on it's own, and I just don't know if I want to add another payment right now. It's tough, because I really want this bike!!
Thanks Walter!
Yeah i can tell. Its like you got this crazy itch. Man what you gonna do? Then will the ole iron get any use then???
+vince orr albert Shawn was so excited. He wasn't thinking straight. lol
She would surely have some quiet time for a little bit, having a new bike and all... But I would definitely still ride ol' gal, she's just got this special character about her that makes her very attractive to take out for spins... About to do just that now actually! Lol
I know this is a year old video but I might have to look into this bike.
Heck, a year later and I’m still thinking of this bike myself..! Lol I was super impressed!
Thanks for watching!
I love my roadster it was just the type of bike I was looking for
When you said rear pegs, did you mean mid or do you use the passenger pegs.
I use the passenger pegs as they are in the perfect location for me, but you have no controls back there..! Lol
Harley must agree as well, as they make optional rear-sets (with controls) for the Roadster that are in the exact placement of where the passenger pegs would be.
Thanks!
Shawn Smoak : thanks Shawn. I’m getting into HD and I’m just ‘getting’ all the unusual things folks are cool with doing, down in my calculations - you can understand where I’m coming from as it sounds interesting, I wouldn’t be able to do that on any bikes previously owned. I’m thinking that would make it more comfortable for those with lower back issues as you could get into a more drag position and straighten the legs.
Anyways, I’m doing my homework on this model and the Fat Bob and I reckon it’s in the lead at the moment. I’d be interested if you eventually bought it. No big deal if you didn’t.
As a BMW rider (sport bikes) I’m surprised that this model caught my attention so easily and then I got interested in the Fat Bob but I’m not sure I’m a Harley guy just yet.
I’ve always not been attracted to the sportsters of old without meaning to be disrespectful but then I think when they got a bit more focused with dual discs and USD forks and ABS, I started to see the attitude of the bike become more accepting of the majority of biker’s expectations (outside of the US certainly).
I’m always shocked to hear Harley riders exclaim how good any HD rides especially when it’s a truthful statement instead of blind allegiance to the brand. Truth is, most bikes handle very well these days and have for about 30 years in my experience (especially when talking of equal value, in fact it’s clear other brands would often outperform them in many key areas like safety and power until the VRod came along. I’d say that was a nice bike but I get why it was hated by the diehards. So I guess it’s the other things like the simplicity, the sound and the heritage that that makes up a hell of a lot of shortcomings and you kind of need to be going into a cruiser HD mindset.
Funny thing is that as you get older, it does become appealing and the sportster is hardly a laid back ride so there is something more to it that’s hard to work out for riders having to accept a bike that to be fair, is going to be behind their last ride and getting used to that is a real thing.
But the rear pegs question is one of those things that I doubt you would ever consider on another bike which adds an element of interest to HD because anything kind of goes, which is probably something that makes the brand and this model worth a try.
Every biker needs to at least have a Harley in their lifetime has always been my thinking. In fact having as many cool brands as possible is my view and I guess I’m just coming into Milwaukee’s orbit. I’ve just let my new ‘20 order for the the RR lapse so I guess I need to make a new plan. I think the Roadster May be it.
I’d be interested in your take. Average heigh and weight and 44. Lower back ain’t great but it’s just for 20-30min hits to say g’day to my mum and then come back and to keep riding too. Cheers Syd Australia
Bernievids I went through the same questioning as you two years ago. I was strangely attracted to the Roadster specifically, although I didn’t see myself as a Harley guy. After considering several other Japanese and European options, all seemingly more technological (the thinking process I went through matches yours, age 44 too at that time), I bought the Roadster and I really enjoy it.
I use it for 200 to 350 km rides almost exclusively, mostly in mountain roads, plus congested city and highway to reach them. I find this bike handling very safe and well balanced.
I had to get used to the leg position (I’m very tall) with the air cleaner protruding on the right side. Now it doesn’t bother me.
The rear set position feels very natural and comfortable, although I didn’t do the modification as I want to keep the ability to carry a passenger and this is my only bike.
What you’ll have to do is a stage 1 to really enjoy what this character rich engine is about.
About the speed on open roads, I ride with Ducati friends and in our twisties they’re always surprised how the roadster keeps up effortlessly with their sport bikes.
Also I tried the fat bob 107 but it didn’t do much for me (too smooth engine?...)
Have fun in your decision process and keep us updated!
Looks like the Harley Wide Glide bars.
Another great review!! I love your knowledge Shawn. I've learned a lot watching you. Mind me asking what you use to edit vids? Think I crashed my comp using the basic Windows movie maker and now learning I may not be the only one!
Well thank you very much!! I use CyberLink PowerDirector 14 as my main editor...
Thanks for watching and commenting!
+Shawn Smoak thanks Shawn! I'll look into it. Not sure why movie maker is messing my comp up?!
Hi Shawn, if you choose one from roadster and R nine T, what will you buy? I like sound and low torque of roadster but I also like R9T's nice style and performance. I am looking for buying new motorcycle in a couple of months but It is very difficult to choose one.
What do you use to record the video? Sound visual quality is amazing! Did you end up buying the roadster?
Harley should have put the 101hp thunderstorm motor in it, but i'm sure the fools at HD were worried that the Roadster would put a serious whooping on the Lowrider S, and they couldn't have that!!
Loved the look of the bike lovely red
How does it compare to the Indian Scout you rode Shawn?
Would you mind riding another *CAN-AM*? I love those bikes.
I really enjoyed this review haha
What's the price tag on that one Shawn? It's a beaut.
starts at 11,299.00 (MSRP)
I just bought a 2016 in vivid black for $10,200. haggled the shit outta the dealer to get it. It was their last 2016.
sweet xD
Shawn, what is your inseam measurment?
Hey Shawn, one nice bike😃👍
Yeah, I'm pretty much in love with this one! Lol Harley really knocked the ball out of the park with this little Sporty! Very smart move on their part, as these are selling like hotcakes...
Thanks Paul!
what area do you live in. im from Pennsylvania and that place looks beautiful
That was a great test ride. The mirrors told me everything. Smooth sailing. This is the one I want. I am 6'2'. What do you think on that?
You should be fine, these bike are very tall. I am 5'11" with a 32 inseam and I am just barely flatfooted.
You said the motor feels different. I read they raised the compression. So it should feel stronger.
Shawn, off topic I know but do you still have the CB1100 ?
nice sound...
Roadster or Scout? Thanks for another great video!!
Hope no one from work reads these comments..! Lol But hands down the Sportster!! There is just something special about a Harley, that only Harley can do. Not that the Scout isn't absolutely a fantastic motorcycle, it's just the shaking, noisy engine, rough and raw nature of the Sportster that does it all for me..!
Thank you very much!
+Shawn Smoak I Was going to ask that same question so glad I checked comments first. Doing a test ride of both this week. Hoping it makes the choice easier for me because right now I kind of want both. Keep up the good work.
The seat is ok, but aftermarket is the way to go.
It's not Smoak approved until you hear, "fan-freakin'-tastic!" Hahaha! Thanks for your review. I may have to save a couple more extra pennies to get this Roadster over the Iron.
wish i was there riding.all i get in the UK is folks who talk with there eyes.
Also i was wondering if people can take bikes for teat rides if they dont have a lisnce?
Anthony Kittle I don't think I wanted to do a test ride once and first thing the asked me was for my license.
A license is proof that you have the skills necessary to ride a motorcycle, in the absence of a license why should any dealership trust you with their vehicles? It doesn't make any sense.
She might feel like more power because she is geared like a 883, so she should feel like a 883 with a big bore kit
It does have more power. Geared the same as all 1200s.
I got this bike for graduation it is AMAZING
Huge Harley store
It looks good but after two minutes of sitting on one at the dealership no way I would want one. yes the clearance is good but as you know you can make that happen on your the iron.
I've heard others say the same, but none had rode the bike. The first time I sat on it was to take off on it. It seemed a little odd at first, but that was gone once you started moving. The bars were the strangest thing, but also the easiest to replace. This thing is awesome! Hands down the best Sportster I've ever ridden, and like no other. I will buy one, I just don't think I want to get rid of the Iron to do it. I just have to make up my mind if adding another bike is something I want to do right now... The Iron, DR650 and Honda Element are all about to drop off soon, so it may not be a big deal at all. The wife says to just go get it, shockingly... She about had a cow over the SGS last year! Lol
Thanks for watching David!
Wow, 'best sportster Ive ever ridden'. well I trust your opinion more than anyone, I will have to try it out now. Thank you so much for the lengthy reply. did you know that Fousey has recently bought a motorcycle and has been motor vlogging ? I so wish I could make him take a safety course. He got a Honda African twin, went down two days after he got it, it looked like he was lane spitting when he went down.he is already vlogging and lane spitting way too soon and I hate that he is moving so fast because he last said he needed to rethink the motorcycle. I really hope he keeps it up because he seems to love it. Also, I was happy to see that you and Kelly got to meet Roman.Sorry this was so long. Thanks again for the reply.
how tall are you?
Why do they go with you for test ride. over here we go on our own.
Different stores have polices for things like that...
Thanks for watching Fred!
I watch all your vlogs, i love them.
Thank you sir!!
Wwll they don't do it here, you can test ride or drive anything on your own.
Plus your on the bike on your own so how could they stop you riding off if you wanted
Isn't this a sportster?
*11:16** - THAT SILVER CAR IS WAYYYY TOO CLOSE BEHIND THAT BUS. Some drivers are insane.*
Lol, yeah it was! Almost as if the camper was hauling the unoccupied car behind it... Lol Thanks for watching!
Safe Harley to watch out with
it's the bigger wheel sizes.
now that's gotta thinking
Clean
God that thing is so damn beautiful
also it's 16lbs heavier than the 48.
Ruh roh ☺
Lol... Thanks man!!