Deluxe is the only bike that is 100% LED from tip to tail. Cruise is a PNA option. Heritage and the Sport Glide are the only two with cruise standard. This is by far my favorite video. I test drove the Deluxe and loved it but it was the Fat Boy that earned my sale.
Matt just my opinion. I like the new format better . It is also nice to do the side by side. It one thing to hear about the changes. Nice addition to already informative channel. Merry Christmas from East Coast.
Matt's bikes's reviews are simply the best: his expert, objective and detailed comments combined with a well shot/edited visual presentation are perfect for bikers of all levels. 5 Stars!
Hey Guys thanks for watching and supporting my channel. I always try to answer all comments and questions but sometimes that's impossible. Please checkout my Patreon Page to Support my Harley-Davidson content Creation and become part of that community where I can answer all questions. www.patreon.com/mattlaidlaw
Hi, and thanks for the info. So Im bargaining at the moment with a dealer. I actually like the 2017(still on the floor) for the teal n pearl paint and seats. 2 questions. Do the seats from a 17 fit on an 18? Is the difference in quality so much that I would be crazy to choose the 17? Thanks Matt!
Really appreciated the riding only in the beginning. Really enjoyed hearing it and the 2017 side-by-side in the beginning before your narration after the freeway section. The Softail Deluxe has always been one of my most favorite, nostalgic Harley bike. Thanks for doing this comparison Matt. Take care and ride safe!
Just (Nov2019) traded in my original 2012 Softail Slim FLS in for a still new 2018 Deluxe FLDE; I loved my Slim for some 90,000K...and look forward to the improved Softail frame, suspension, etc... oh, and the shine! Your videos are helpful indeed.
Thanks Matt for your great review. I just picked up a 2019 Deluxe in Wicked Red/Twisted Cherry, my first Harley. Your review had a big influence on choosing the Deluxe. It’s a superb machine. Thanks again.
I don't ride HD's but appreciate how Matt does his videos and reviews, says it like it is. I am taking the time to learn about Harley's Via these videos because some times I cant get a straight answer. HD has done allot and as a motorcycle enthusiast I appreciate all brands. I have told my friends and I say it again, in my life time I want to ride as many brands as possible before I cant. I love that Blue one and am so impressed with the quality and finish of the new 18's.
Hey Matt! I didn't know you did that good of impersonating the king?! Seriously, I do think H.D. really missed the market's "view" with regards to the wholesale removal of chrome across the range of softail/touring bikes! The Deluxe just says Harley Davidson to me. I get it "they" think otherwise but I'd be interested in the sales numbers after the whole 107 M8 wears off.
Matt thanks for the review as promised... The deluxe has always been my favorite and still is..Not sure a big fan of the turn signals. But still my favorite nostalgic looking bike.
When I first saw this video I was already in love with the exact same bike. Last Xmas I finally pulled the trigger and bought the 18 EB I named her BLU not because of the color but for my late mother’s eyes!! Love this bike.
You know I've been waiting for this one Matt, love this bike, love that blue, most of all a I love the nostalgic look. It looks fantastic on this frame platform and Harley has kept the look of the bike nicely. I have to have one. Thanks for the great review, the new format works for me either way you always get all the info into the episode.
Definitely has that 57 Chevrolet classic look to it I'm glad they kept it like to have a bike that remind you of the heritage of Harley-Davidson thanks Matt great video keep them coming take care
This was the final (and best) review that swayed me from the metric world of nearly 50 years. I have only put 320 miles on her since purchasing two weeks ago. Majority have been highway miles on various roads. It is a great bike! Thanks for the honest review Matt. Ride safe, ride often.
I have had my electric blue Deluxe just over a year now. Pushing close to 7000 miles. The last 1000 after I did a Stage II upgrade with only HD item being the air cleaner. Went with Zipper's 468 cam, Bassani 2-1 and Power Vision tuner with map from Fuel Moto. These mods woke up the little 107. Thanks again Matt for this video. Peace.
I've been waiting for this review of the 2018 Deluxe. For the last several weeks I've wandered from the Harley Davidson to check out other motorcycle makes and styles. Watching this review has set my sights once again on the Harley Davidson Deluxe. The Deluxe is the one. Thank you for a fine review, Matt Laidlaw.
'17 sounds better to my ear, but that's offset by the better ride and lighting of the '18. As far as colors I've seen the Wicked Red/Twisted Cherry in person and it is absolutely mouth-watering gorgeous! And Matt, you should know better than to ride down the dark stripe! Outer thirds, middle third is off-limits!
Great Video, I just bought a used 2018 FLDE Softail Deluxe (same as the one in your video same color) with very low miles, i put on a small clear windshield, matching rear pad, and upgraded to a High Performance Screaming Eagle Oil Pump (so as to avoid any sump issues this motor has become known for) and otherwise I LOVE this Motorcycle and everything about it. Very responsive ion ANY GEAR. Came stock with quite a bit of chrome which looks great with the Electric Blue. The Motor simply stands out on this bike.
Matt, I love watching your video productions. Your very relaxed and consistent. Keep up the great work. You are value by many of us out here in UA-cam land. And thank you.
Thank you for being my resource for learning more about Harley Davidson motorcycles. I have an interview for a job at a Harley Davidson dealership. Trying to learn as much as I can. I am very quickly becoming obsessed with the bikes and the brand.
I have the 2019 in black, stage 1, had a 2007 stage 2. I've been hitting 48 to 50 mpg , that blows my mind because it has plenty of power, I love the new led lights, and better frame and rear shock, for me this is my favorite bike I've ever owned
Man those white walls look good off that blue, but I still think that up close, the old one is prettier. The new one's saddle seems significantly better padded than the Slim's. Your friend's legs looked about perfectly angled on it. My knees felt like they were riding above my hips on the Slim and I'm shorter than your friend.
I love the look of the chrome on the 2018 model. The color is also more appealing. It is a little too quiet for me though. I think I would get a slip on to make it easier to listen to the engine.
Thanks a lot for the video, Matt. I am consider buying a deluxe with the next few years, so I have a hard choice between an TwinCam used bike or a M8 new deluxe. For me it is a choice between beauty (TC) and performance (M8) What I like about the M8 2018 deluxe: - Main pro points: Better suspension and ground clearance - better lighting performance. - LED style: I like the style of the LED lighting. It makes the bike looking slightly more futuristic, however, not too much to lose the nostalgic 50ties look - engine performance: however, a very minor point to me!!! - Air filter cover style; better design What I dislike: - Main point: Very visible oil cooling grind. Looks like water cooled. hiding the engine, - Exhaust pipes design/position: I like the old one better - Loss of second passenger seat pad and luggage rack: This is also imo a design flaw. A big issue for me - Fuel guage now digital; now decorative cap. - none of the available colors do really appeal me. Concern: High costs if LED lighting fails. E.g., would the tomestone tail-light need to be replaced completely if one LED fails? Covered by warranty? Matt, can you comment an this? All in all, the new deluxe is a great looking bike. Nevertheless, for me the old design is more beautiful and more nostalgic.
MT Oli LED lights rarely fail. They are rated for around 30,000 hours of use. The engine will be dead way before then. If the light does fail then it will be covered by the warranty. As far as losing the seat and rack it doesn’t bother me. You are getting a new engine, lights, suspension, etc. it’s more then a good trade off for me. As it is most people throw the factory seat in the trash when they get home.
Thanks a lot, Jacob. You convinced me that this should not be an issue. Btw, this question came into my mind seeing quite some older cars with partly failed (= some failed LEDs) breaking lights (the ones located in the central upper part of the rear window).
I know the new softails have better technology. But hands down I prefer the look of the twin cam series deluxe and heritage. The just look more old school to me.
The ONLY bike and the Breakout that looks tits with stock handlebars. Apes will look awesome!!!! These 2018 lineup look better and better I don't care what anyone says. I'm a sportbike rider but these new 18's look insane!....I would buy a Softail for sure! Love the bobber look. Great review Matt, as always! We got your six bro!
They are identical, but RIDING the two is completely different, 2018 is without a doubt the best bike ever Harley have made. I prefer the Heritage Softail Classic (there are several bikes in it)
It's really a shame that this model has been discontinued (2021). Hopefully it will be brought back, as H-D has been known to do with some past discontinued models. No question H-D's most beautiful motorcycle ever.
Matt, thanks for all the content this year. You've upped the bar with your video skills. Has the dealership thought about marketing some exclusive Laidlaw H-D swag, similar to your jacket?
I love these videos. These bikes are so powerful and smooth. Traffic seems well behaved too. On one Sunday ride I had. three different vehicle accidents happen around me. Fender benders only but you know!!
Thank you, Matt. Great video. Both are very beautiful bikes. I decided to get the new Fatboy 114. Its just the iconic one and that engine is fantastic.
Great review Matt. I have to say, I watch all your reviews and enjoy all of them thoroughly. Your reviews were a huge part in my decision to ultimately purchase a street glide last week. I ended up getting a 17 left over, but I really wanted The Milwaukee 8. So, thanks so much and keep it coming. Also, I kind of have to watch your videos :-) it’s too damn cold here in Jersey to ride :-)
Thank you for another outstanding review Matt! I like the new upgrades to the 2018 Deluxe including the LED lighting, also the more nostalgic looking tank console and the 107 engine. I still prefer the retro looking bullet turn signals for the deluxe vs the new ones on the 2018. The 2017 deluxe you used as the comparison is the exact same bike as my new 2017 Deluxe in the same color (Crushed Ice and Frosted Teal Pearl) that I purchased this past Sept. I love my 2017 deluxe which will stay in my family forever. Great job as always Matt and Merry Christmas to you and your family.
I was thinking of updating my 11 year old Deluxe until I looked at the new one , no way , why can't they just have one traditional Harley from the past and leave it alone , adding modern bits and pieces takes away from the old world looks which is its unique charm .
The 2018 Deluxe is the “ugly duck” in this year’s line up. Visited a few dealerships, even out of state on a bike trip, & I have yet to see one in person. Not a lot of UA-cam videos out there either. I personally like it, but would take a Heritage over it. Great review Matt, hope to meet you one day, keep the good videos coming.
Oh Hell Yeah. You promised me this in the new calendar year but you delivered by Christmas. Your the best Matt. Chears from Australia again and a merry christmas to you too 👍 Now as soon as i post this i shall watch with interest ...😂😂
I own the same 2017 in your review. Of course, I fell in love with teal and white and after taking a good test tide, knew it was the one. Maybe someday I'll test ride the 2018 for fun, since I've heard great things about it. Another great review!
for me it's the little things that make like the 2017 and older. Stuff like the chrome bar around the back of the seat. the functional fuel gage left cap, heel toe shifter and I like the older spots with the turn signals below. On the Deluxe that is just a needed look in my opinion. But then again, I love the Harley vibration too. You should know you're on a Harley,
Hi Matt, Great idea to compare both model years and see one to one. The Deluxe was my opinion, always one of the most beautiful models from the factory. unfortunately a bit small, or for drivers over 1.85 m (6 feet). I like 2018 better, the exhaust system, the round air filter and the LED lighting in general. Innovations will always be evaluated later in terms of quality and success. I'm sure HD is on the right track, albeit in my opinion a couple of years late. Greetz. Alex.
Cool bikes and a great review. A great comparison too. Get on a bit sooner on the commentary tho (as someone already said). Ol´Softail has left the building. Keep em´coming sir!!
Great Video Matt, thanks you for the side by side comparison! I live in Northern California, but I am originally from West Covina, I love when I see you in these vids riding around the old 'hood. I somehow miss that place, although it's changed alot!! :) Stop and get some King Tacos for me or a Tommy's Burger on Foothill!!! I currently ride 2005 Heritage Softail, I find the 2018 Softail bike most definitely appeals to me, but I'd want two up with a heel-toe shifter! Thanks again!
Delux, stupenda, stile anni 50. Peccato che esca di produzione, poche vendite x pochi nostalgici. Possederla sarebbe fantastico. Sognare, non costa nulla...... ma rende comunque felici.
Hello Matt. I really like the new 2018 Delux. I’ve always had an eye for this bike but as I do quite a bit of touring with my wife it’s just not practical for me. The M8 engine is a vast improvement on the twin cam. I have a 2017 Street Glide Special and I love the bike. It does exactly what is says on the tin. However given the chance I’d have a Delux too. Don’t suppose you’ve got a spare one knocking about that you don’t want, if so could you parcel it up and send it to me in the UK, I promise to look after it 😀. I had the chance to have a good look at the bike at the UK Bike Show and was not only impressed with the new tech but also the build quality. This is something that keeps me coming back to Harley Davidson every time. For me it seems the bikes just keep getting better and better every year. Well keep up the good work with the videos and have a Merry Christmas and a happy new year.
Standing alone these are perfect. Refined to the point of the debut evo softail and if you put an '18 Softail toe-to-toe with the OG Hydraglide they'd ooze so much class you'd need shades. But, yesterday's HD specs aren't matching up with today's American stature and I hope it doesn't affect sales, these look like 3/4 models rolling down the road.
I bought that exact same 18 electric blue this past Xmas. One correction Matt, the 18 doesn’t come with cruise. Now the FXDR has the light bar lights too
Just love watching your videos. This video made me question my choice, did I do right in buying the 2019 Fat Boy. Great beautiful motorcycle for sure. But I noticed the nostalgic looks of this bike really got to me. In my dealers showroom I walked right past it totally focused on the Fat Boy. And I must say I am a bit nostalgic myself. So why I did not see this? The music might have part in it liking this video even more and with that the bike. Good choice.
Honestly at first I didn’t like the deluxe. It looked like an uglier stripped down version of a road king, but it’s grown on me quite a bit and now I think it’s a really nice looking bike.
I don’t have my license yet but plan on getting it soon. I’m 5’10” and about 270. Would you recommend the softtail or a road king for my weight and height? Thank you sir keep up the good work
I love both motorcycle but I have a 09 Vulcan classic lt that look similar to both these motorcycle and I didn’t have to break the bank to buy it oh and it’s liquid cooled.
Deluxe is the only bike that is 100% LED from tip to tail.
Cruise is a PNA option. Heritage and the Sport Glide are the only two with cruise standard.
This is by far my favorite video. I test drove the Deluxe and loved it but it was the Fat Boy that earned my sale.
You know what, you’re right. The 2018 doesn’t have it standard. That’s an error on my part. Thank you for the correction.
Matt just my opinion. I like the new format better . It is also nice to do the side by side. It one thing to hear about the changes. Nice addition to already informative channel. Merry Christmas from East Coast.
It's 9:30 at nite,I'm watching this in bed and my girl says "you don't care about me you care about Matt Laidlaw" 🤣🤣🤣
akata69
Thats a dilemma for you mate. 🤔
Haha. Hopefully I don’t ruin anyone’s relationship. Thanks for always watching my friend.
May I suggest perhaps you just haven't met the right women (yet.) ;)
Matt's bikes's reviews are simply the best: his expert, objective and detailed comments combined with a well shot/edited visual presentation are perfect for bikers of all levels. 5 Stars!
Just picked up a 2019 Softail Deluxe love the bike. Thanks Matt your review has influenced my decision.
Never had much interest in the Deluxe, didn't realize how nice it is - plenty of great little details on this bike that really add up!
Hey Guys thanks for watching and supporting my channel. I always try to answer all comments and questions but sometimes that's impossible. Please checkout my Patreon Page to Support my Harley-Davidson content Creation and become part of that community where I can answer all questions. www.patreon.com/mattlaidlaw
Hi, and thanks for the info. So Im bargaining at the moment with a dealer. I actually like the 2017(still on the floor) for the teal n pearl paint and seats. 2 questions. Do the seats from a 17 fit on an 18? Is the difference in quality so much that I would be crazy to choose the 17? Thanks Matt!
I’ve got the 2017 with the stage 2 upgrade and it runs just fine to me 👍🏼
Really appreciated the riding only in the beginning. Really enjoyed hearing it and the 2017 side-by-side in the beginning before your narration after the freeway section. The Softail Deluxe has always been one of my most favorite, nostalgic Harley bike. Thanks for doing this comparison Matt. Take care and ride safe!
I just bought the 2018.....Cadillac on 2 wheels! The 107 is a beast!
Just (Nov2019) traded in my original 2012 Softail Slim FLS in for a still new 2018 Deluxe FLDE; I loved my Slim for some 90,000K...and look forward to the improved Softail frame, suspension, etc... oh, and the shine! Your videos are helpful indeed.
Thanks Matt for your great review. I just picked up a 2019 Deluxe in Wicked Red/Twisted Cherry, my first Harley. Your review had a big influence on choosing the Deluxe. It’s a superb machine. Thanks again.
I don't ride HD's but appreciate how Matt does his videos and reviews, says it like it is. I am taking the time to learn about Harley's Via these videos because some times I cant get a straight answer. HD has done allot and as a motorcycle enthusiast I appreciate all brands. I have told my friends and I say it again, in my life time I want to ride as many brands as possible before I cant. I love that Blue one and am so impressed with the quality and finish of the new 18's.
Thank you. Most all brands have something great to offer. I grew up on Honda dirt bikes.
The 2017 has more classic styling with turn signals and oil pan up top. Great music 🎶 and riding 😀🇺🇸✌️Another excellent review by Matt 👍
Hi CJ How Are You Bro ? Yes i Agree The 2018 is Nice But The 2017 i Really Love !! and Thanks Matt Another Great Video.
Beautiful color on the 2017!!! Classic and classy.
I agree
Hey Matt! I didn't know you did that good of impersonating the king?! Seriously, I do think H.D. really missed the market's "view" with regards to the wholesale removal of chrome across the range of softail/touring bikes! The Deluxe just says Harley Davidson to me. I get it "they" think otherwise but I'd be interested in the sales numbers after the whole 107 M8 wears off.
Matt thanks for the review as promised... The deluxe has always been my favorite and still is..Not sure a big fan of the turn signals. But still my favorite nostalgic looking bike.
When I first saw this video I was already in love with the exact same bike. Last Xmas I finally pulled the trigger and bought the 18 EB I named her BLU not because of the color but for my late mother’s eyes!! Love this bike.
You know I've been waiting for this one Matt, love this bike, love that blue, most of all a I love the nostalgic look. It looks fantastic on this frame platform and Harley has kept the look of the bike nicely. I have to have one. Thanks for the great review, the new format works for me either way you always get all the info into the episode.
Definitely has that 57 Chevrolet classic look to it I'm glad they kept it like to have a bike that remind you of the heritage of Harley-Davidson thanks Matt great video keep them coming take care
This was the final (and best) review that swayed me from the metric world of nearly 50 years. I have only put 320 miles on her since purchasing two weeks ago. Majority have been highway miles on various roads. It is a great bike! Thanks for the honest review Matt. Ride safe, ride often.
Congrats man. Enjoy the
Bike!! Thanks for watching.
I have had my electric blue Deluxe just over a year now. Pushing close to 7000 miles. The last 1000 after I did a Stage II upgrade with only HD item being the air cleaner. Went with Zipper's 468 cam, Bassani 2-1 and Power Vision tuner with map from Fuel Moto. These mods woke up the little 107. Thanks again Matt for this video. Peace.
Love all the new bikes, im a deluxe rider, only thing i dont like is turns signals, older bullets so much nicer.
mixalis , what about the fake plastic oil tank , the ignition switch gone , and the scooter stand on the 2018 ?!😜
Totally agree. I have a 2010. Switched to Bullets right off.
hard to beat these classics here. have just the right touches where needed and not "too" over the top. a winner here!
I've been waiting for this review of the 2018 Deluxe. For the last several weeks I've wandered from the Harley Davidson to check out other motorcycle makes and styles. Watching this review has set my sights once again on the Harley Davidson Deluxe. The Deluxe is the one. Thank you for a fine review, Matt Laidlaw.
I have been a metric bike guy for over 1/4 century, but this new 2018 deluxe has my serious attention. Excellent video, thank you.
Love the intro (w music of course)!! And your review of the bike 🙌
'17 sounds better to my ear, but that's offset by the better ride and lighting of the '18. As far as colors I've seen the Wicked Red/Twisted Cherry in person and it is absolutely mouth-watering gorgeous!
And Matt, you should know better than to ride down the dark stripe! Outer thirds, middle third is off-limits!
Great Video, I just bought a used 2018 FLDE Softail Deluxe (same as the one in your video same color) with very low miles, i put on a small clear windshield, matching rear pad, and upgraded to a High Performance Screaming Eagle Oil Pump (so as to avoid any sump issues this motor has become known for) and otherwise I LOVE this Motorcycle and everything about it. Very responsive ion ANY GEAR. Came stock with quite a bit of chrome which looks great with the Electric Blue. The Motor simply stands out on this bike.
Matt, I love watching your video productions. Your very relaxed and consistent. Keep up the great work. You are value by many of us out here in UA-cam land. And thank you.
Thank you for being my resource for learning more about Harley Davidson motorcycles. I have an interview for a job at a Harley Davidson dealership. Trying to learn as much as I can. I am very quickly becoming obsessed with the bikes and the brand.
Wow, the best keeps getting better!!! Both beautiful colours!👍😎🇨🇦
Loving the Elvis music! LOL
HAHA
Hi Matt, Great review and thanks to your review I'm picking up my new 2018 Deluxe this week from my local dealer in Canberra Australia..
I have the 2019 in black, stage 1, had a 2007 stage 2. I've been hitting 48 to 50 mpg , that blows my mind because it has plenty of power, I love the new led lights, and better frame and rear shock, for me this is my favorite bike I've ever owned
Man those white walls look good off that blue, but I still think that up close, the old one is prettier.
The new one's saddle seems significantly better padded than the Slim's. Your friend's legs looked about perfectly angled on it. My knees felt like they were riding above my hips on the Slim and I'm shorter than your friend.
I don't like the light bar. Looks too futuristic for a Deluxe.
I agree
This is the review I’ve been waiting for!
Fantastic review, Matt. I gotta say, the paint on that 2017 is gorgeous. You really can't go wrong with a Deluxe any way you look at it.
I love the look of the chrome on the 2018 model. The color is also more appealing. It is a little too quiet for me though. I think I would get a slip on to make it easier to listen to the engine.
Always look forward to your videos Matt. I'm watching this as 6 inches of snow fall here in Toronto.
Matthew Grant Yes....watching him ride makes me jealous as I sit inside and watch the snow come down......ugh
Sorry guys. California Has it's perks
Thanks a lot for the video, Matt. I am consider buying a deluxe with the next few years, so I have a hard choice between an TwinCam used bike or a M8 new deluxe. For me it is a choice between beauty (TC) and performance (M8)
What I like about the M8 2018 deluxe:
- Main pro points: Better suspension and ground clearance
- better lighting performance.
- LED style: I like the style of the LED lighting. It makes the bike looking slightly more futuristic, however, not too much to lose the nostalgic 50ties look
- engine performance: however, a very minor point to me!!!
- Air filter cover style; better design
What I dislike:
- Main point: Very visible oil cooling grind. Looks like water cooled. hiding the engine,
- Exhaust pipes design/position: I like the old one better
- Loss of second passenger seat pad and luggage rack: This is also imo a design flaw. A big issue for me
- Fuel guage now digital; now decorative cap.
- none of the available colors do really appeal me.
Concern: High costs if LED lighting fails. E.g., would the tomestone tail-light need to be replaced completely if one LED fails? Covered by warranty? Matt, can you comment an this?
All in all, the new deluxe is a great looking bike. Nevertheless, for me the old design is more beautiful and more nostalgic.
MT Oli LED lights rarely fail. They are rated for around 30,000 hours of use. The engine will be dead way before then. If the light does fail then it will be covered by the warranty. As far as losing the seat and rack it doesn’t bother me. You are getting a new engine, lights, suspension, etc. it’s more then a good trade off for me. As it is most people throw the factory seat in the trash when they get home.
Thanks a lot, Jacob. You convinced me that this should not be an issue.
Btw, this question came into my mind seeing quite some older cars with partly failed (= some failed LEDs) breaking lights (the ones located in the central upper part of the rear window).
I know the new softails have better technology. But hands down I prefer the look of the twin cam series deluxe and heritage. The just look more old school to me.
The ONLY bike and the Breakout that looks tits with stock handlebars. Apes will look awesome!!!! These 2018 lineup look better and better I don't care what anyone says. I'm a sportbike rider but these new 18's look insane!....I would buy a Softail for sure! Love the bobber look. Great review Matt, as always! We got your six bro!
Thank you! Thanks for watching.
They are identical, but RIDING the two is completely different, 2018 is without a doubt the best bike ever Harley have made. I prefer the Heritage Softail Classic (there are several bikes in it)
It's really a shame that this model has been discontinued (2021). Hopefully it will be brought back, as H-D has been known to do with some past discontinued models. No question H-D's most beautiful motorcycle ever.
Matt, thanks for all the content this year. You've upped the bar with your video skills. Has the dealership thought about marketing some exclusive Laidlaw H-D swag, similar to your jacket?
I'll be down for that. There are customising shops that have their own merchandising so could be a winner.
Another great video on a classic bike..it'll never go out of style..heck, no HD does!!
Amen
2017 has the most beautiful color of all the harleys ever built.
I love these videos. These bikes are so powerful and smooth. Traffic seems well behaved too. On one Sunday ride I had. three different vehicle accidents happen around me. Fender benders only but you know!!
It seems like accidents always happen in groups.
Goodlooking bikes, great to start a video with the riding portion!
Really enjoy my 2019 Softail Slim, looking to add a deluxe to my collection in the future. Beautiful bike can't wait!
Couple of 'Ol School Gangstas!
Finally good intro music!
Thank you, Matt. Great video. Both are very beautiful bikes. I decided to get the new Fatboy 114. Its just the iconic one and that engine is fantastic.
Great review Matt. I have to say, I watch all your reviews and enjoy all of them thoroughly. Your reviews were a huge part in my decision to ultimately purchase a street glide last week. I ended up getting a 17 left over, but I really wanted The Milwaukee 8. So, thanks so much and keep it coming. Also, I kind of have to watch your videos :-) it’s too damn cold here in Jersey to ride :-)
Thank you for another outstanding review Matt! I like the new upgrades to the 2018 Deluxe including the LED lighting, also the more nostalgic looking tank console and the 107 engine. I still prefer the retro looking bullet turn signals for the deluxe vs the new ones on the 2018. The 2017 deluxe you used as the comparison is the exact same bike as my new 2017 Deluxe in the same color (Crushed Ice and Frosted Teal Pearl) that I purchased this past Sept. I love my 2017 deluxe which will stay in my family forever. Great job as always Matt and Merry Christmas to you and your family.
I was thinking of updating my 11 year old Deluxe until I looked at the new one , no way , why can't they just have one traditional Harley from the past and leave it alone , adding modern bits and pieces takes away from the old world looks which is its unique charm .
The 2018 Deluxe is the “ugly duck” in this year’s line up. Visited a few dealerships, even out of state on a bike trip, & I have yet to see one in person. Not a lot of UA-cam videos out there either. I personally like it, but would take a Heritage over it. Great review Matt, hope to meet you one day, keep the good videos coming.
Oh Hell Yeah. You promised me this in the new calendar year but you delivered by Christmas. Your the best Matt.
Chears from Australia again and a merry christmas to you too 👍
Now as soon as i post this i shall watch with interest ...😂😂
I own the same 2017 in your review. Of course, I fell in love with teal and white and after taking a good test tide, knew it was the one. Maybe someday I'll test ride the 2018 for fun, since I've heard great things about it. Another great review!
Thanks man. Enjoy the Deluxe
for me it's the little things that make like the 2017 and older. Stuff like the chrome bar around the back of the seat. the functional fuel gage left cap, heel toe shifter and I like the older spots with the turn signals below. On the Deluxe that is just a needed look in my opinion. But then again, I love the Harley vibration too. You should know you're on a Harley,
Hi Matt, Great idea to compare both model years and see one to one. The Deluxe was my opinion, always one of the most beautiful models from the factory. unfortunately a bit small, or for drivers over 1.85 m (6 feet). I like 2018 better, the exhaust system, the round air filter and the LED lighting in general. Innovations will always be evaluated later in terms of quality and success. I'm sure HD is on the right track, albeit in my opinion a couple of years late. Greetz. Alex.
Hey Matt, thanks a lot for your great videos from Germany. I wish you and your family a Happy New Year and a Merry Christmas. Greetings from Germany.
Man amazing Rockabilly Intro, super fun and great comparison, as always a superb video!! Thanks for sharing, Greetings from Mexico City!!
Hello from London UK...loving the bikes
Cool bikes and a great review. A great comparison too. Get on a bit sooner on the commentary tho (as someone already said).
Ol´Softail has left the building.
Keep em´coming sir!!
Great Video Matt, thanks you for the side by side comparison! I live in Northern California, but I am originally from West Covina, I love when I see you in these vids riding around the old 'hood. I somehow miss that place, although it's changed alot!! :) Stop and get some King Tacos for me or a Tommy's Burger on Foothill!!! I currently ride 2005 Heritage Softail, I find the 2018 Softail bike most definitely appeals to me, but I'd want two up with a heel-toe shifter! Thanks again!
There is vibration in a Softail M8. Matt says they took 100% vibs out of M8. That was surprising statement.
Really nice entry level bike was the first Harley-Davidson I ever bought great video Matt thank you take care
How is it possible that H-D can ruin the Heritage's classic vibe in 2018 (IMHO), yet improve the Deluxe exponentially? And then... drop the Deluxe??
Delux, stupenda, stile anni 50. Peccato che esca di produzione, poche vendite x pochi nostalgici. Possederla sarebbe fantastico. Sognare, non costa nulla...... ma rende comunque felici.
I'd definitely ride a deluxe!
Hello Matt. I really like the new 2018 Delux. I’ve always had an eye for this bike but as I do quite a bit of touring with my wife it’s just not practical for me. The M8 engine is a vast improvement on the twin cam. I have a 2017 Street Glide Special and I love the bike. It does exactly what is says on the tin. However given the chance I’d have a Delux too. Don’t suppose you’ve got a spare one knocking about that you don’t want, if so could you parcel it up and send it to me in the UK, I promise to look after it 😀. I had the chance to have a good look at the bike at the UK Bike Show and was not only impressed with the new tech but also the build quality. This is something that keeps me coming back to Harley Davidson every time. For me it seems the bikes just keep getting better and better every year. Well keep up the good work with the videos and have a Merry Christmas and a happy new year.
I loved the review on the Deluxe. World-class as usual.
Awesome bike and video!
Would like to see the 2018 Sportster 1200 custom.
If you could make a review video, that would be sweet!
I'm going to try and do that one this year,
Looking forward to it, your reviews are the best and the most in-depth!
Another quality presentation. Thanks for the in-depth presentation. That video quality is awesome 😎!
TC103 all day
Thanks for the video, Matt! Love the 50s style of the Deluxe. What song is the intro? Fit the bike perfectly :)
A BIG THANK YOU from Germany ! Great Videos, very informative. I`m riding a 2018 Deluxe and I love it ! Take care and ride safe ! Joe
Great video as usual. Was waiting for Dave’s opinion though, but 30 min format did not allow him to speak I guess :D
Standing alone these are perfect. Refined to the point of the debut evo softail and if you put an '18 Softail toe-to-toe with the OG Hydraglide they'd ooze so much class you'd need shades. But, yesterday's HD specs aren't matching up with today's American stature and I hope it doesn't affect sales, these look like 3/4 models rolling down the road.
To quote Elvis: "Thank ya, Thank ya.... Thank ya very much" for the video review.
I bought that exact same 18 electric blue this past Xmas. One correction Matt, the 18 doesn’t come with cruise. Now the FXDR has the light bar lights too
Love tbe 18. But the 2 tone paint scheme on the 17 is the bomb.com! Love it!
How tall are you matt ?
Nice video
I haven't been in a dealer since I bought my 05 deluxe
Beautiful post 1973 VW Beetle at 5:36!
Elvis liked them for a reason!!
2018 just looks smaller, and I mean that in a good way. Great review.
Listen to those motors purr. Along the highway. Thats where it is at
Just love watching your videos. This video made me question my choice, did I do right in buying the 2019 Fat Boy. Great beautiful motorcycle for sure. But I noticed the nostalgic looks of this bike really got to me. In my dealers showroom I walked right past it totally focused on the Fat Boy. And I must say I am a bit nostalgic myself. So why I did not see this? The music might have part in it liking this video even more and with that the bike. Good choice.
Honestly at first I didn’t like the deluxe. It looked like an uglier stripped down version of a road king, but it’s grown on me quite a bit and now I think it’s a really nice looking bike.
It’s a timeless classic.
Great review Matt as always.
Can the 2018 deluxe turn signal bar be swapped out for the 2018 heritage light bar? I know the rear turn signals cannot.
Really diggin the colors on this harleys!
I got ta looking at Matt ride these Harley's and started to laugh! He makes any Harley appear "small" as he rides em!
I don’t have my license yet but plan on getting it soon. I’m 5’10” and about 270. Would you recommend the softtail or a road king for my weight and height? Thank you sir keep up the good work
I would say the Road King. However, the Softail would be easier if you're just starting out learning to ride.
Cool music Matt, who is it ??
2017 colour looks more vintage and nostalgic. Why they don't bring that colour to 2018 upwards models ? Because they discontinued completely....
My absolute dream bike
I love both motorcycle but I have a 09 Vulcan classic lt that look similar to both these motorcycle and I didn’t have to break the bank to buy it oh and it’s liquid cooled.