I try to ride my bike the same way I drive a semi. Keep your head on a swivel and remain super vigilant. There are a lot of oblivious people on the road.
In my 68 years (52 riding) one big change that I am happy to see is that the animosity between HD riders and the rest of the riding world is almost gone. Thankfully. We are in this together . If you ride thats good enough for me. Just dont ride recklessly. Its hairy enough out there.
Everything is changing, rapidly. All of our crazy, HD riding uncles have passed or gotten too old to do it anymore. People like you, my father and father in law are keeping it going. I intend on doing the same for the rest of my life. Having motorcycles in my garage and having kids in the house changed my life.
Mark it changed in the 80s then in the 90s then again in 2006 now I go to a Bike Rally its not the same. It is all the RICH I see on bikes riding 100,000 dollar motorcycle. Riding the Rule area I see old guys and poor bikers they stay away from the Rally's . unless its Local Fun Run . Be safe have fun enjoy what time we have left Brother God Bless
I’m in Daytona Bikeweek right now. Been coming since 1994. It has changed in so many ways. Less attendance as well. I definitely don’t like the changes. 1998 Road King, 2003 Sportster, 2006 Streetglide.
Truer words have never been spoken! I've been riding 45 years and catch myself daydreaming. Thank God I have not had a fatal accident. It's REAL! It can happen to you!
Isn’t that what we did in our youth? The first bike I rode was a 1963 Honda 305 Dream. It was a beater, but it got me started. 50 years later, I’m on a TriGlude and loving life!
In 1966, a college friend of mine, a very large football player, picked up a black 305 Dream, rode around with our group. Still remember how he looked on it--took a lot of grief from us on our "fancy" old Triumphs and BSAs. He never broke down (we always did). Good times for all, ride safe and smooth!
I'm 70 years old and just bought a brand new Kawazaki z400 and wow what fun! Flickable, lightweight, quick.. I'm done with heavy bikes. So, yes..the culture is changing.
I was riding my Holly down the street going about 40 miles an hour and she was in the center Elaine waiting to turn as soon as I got up to her. She turned right into me shattered my collarbone and fractured my spine so now I’m going through all this Insurance and doctors visits so all the riders up there be careful.
I was broadsided last August by a 19yr old girl. I was in a 25mph zone and had the right-of-way. I got off light with road rash, bruising all over and a totalled bike. Glad you lived to tell the tale. Wish you well, get better🏍💪✌️👍
Good msg at the end. People in cars are not aware enough of bikers especially in spring. Been out a couple times, on rural roads leftover salt and sand is a real hazard too. I hear on making oneself get out and do things. I'm older & single, self motivation can be a challenge!
Of course the motorcycle culture is changing--just like all other cultures in our society. Just watched a youtube wherein a co-called music reviewer did not know who Bob Dylan is! The only thing constant is change...best to you, Itchy, in what is also a very "changed" life for you after your loss. Glad to see you're doing well...
I put an LED headlight in a bike I had. They have less drain on the system than the older tungsten light bulbs, so your electrical system basically thinks the bulb is burned out and you’ll see that the turn signals won’t flash. Often the LED manufacturer will sell a “in-line” resistor to put a little more load on the circuit. This solved my turn signal problem.
Thanks for the reminder on being aware…..I think the problem with the Harleys for me was the weight….road a Yamaha roadliner and as I got older after replacing both knees handling the weight was to much….fast forward and now have a sport bike for several years now and can handle it and have no issues….will be 70 this year and still love the adventure of two wheels….Great video
I'm old and I ride every day. Don't worry about salt because I don't do winter. In Argentina now but back in the US in April. I keep an old 1987 Gold Wing at a friend's house in NY. Don't worry about bike getting wet or dirty. Last year I rode through snow in western NY. Noticed you said you are in northeast Ohio. I'll be up in your neighborhood soon. I'll be visiting me brother in Ashtabula OH. Always impressed by all the older bikes I see in Ohio. Talked to a guy with a barn full of old Honda fours and riding in a cold rain.
Great video some changes are bad . Being an old man I stay with my Road King. I rode Honda in Kawasaki and Yamaha but there is something just riding a Harley that you just don’t get with the rest. Have a great and blessed weekend 👍👍👊❤️🩹
The thing is that, especially outside of the US, where Harleys are even more expensive it's really difficult for young people to be able to afford them. I'm not super young, I'm 35, and I still can't afford 8-10k for a used Harley let alone 15-30k for a new one. I'd love to get one someday, but my first big bike will probably be a japanese cruiser which can be had in good condition for 2-3k and it's a lot of bike for the money
@@ditchcati I'm in the UK, so I'm a bit wary of getting an 80s Harley as my first big bike due to how bad they get with the humidity and grit salt but I'm not lying when I say I'm tempted to! Thanks for the suggestion! 💪
Ive been riding since 68,I get a real kick out of a guy thats been riding a 600 pound (adventure) bike for three years telling me I need safety gear if Im gonna survive. I survived 10 second Kawi's when Kawi's didnt run 10s.I can still turn under most guys on sport bikes on my wide glide if I really want to. So keep your opinion to yourself (adventure) guys.
Hitch I can relate to you not saying without a spouse there don't have nobody to push you I've got the same problem I lost my wife about 4 years ago and the place really went to hell in a handbasket I'm starting to get it back now but like you said you got to really push yourself to get it done
I think the culture is really changing. I do ride a Harley and am in the MC scene. But I also picke up a Royal Enfield Himalayan 400 adventure bike. I honestly love it. Today the MC outlaw clubs are not the issue. It’s these dirt bike riders riding in groups ripping wheelies in and out of traffic in cities. Causing a nuisance and dangerous. I also see some Crotch Rocket MC’s now. I also know some Outlaw clubs now don’t require a Harley. Which is weird to me but I guess it has to change to survive. Also the new sportsers are 15k. What young kid can afford that as an entry level bike. That’s an issue too. So it has to change
we get too much snow related stones all over the roads every winter.i usually dont ride too much before the county runs the sweeper.loose gravel about every turn.not good for ones legs or bike.
Yo, itchy, when changing my starter on a 99 fatboy, 80 Evo, I used long allen wrenches 3/8 Ratchet end. With a little finessing, the starter came right out. You don't need to take half the bike apart. You can go to Harbor freight to find those long allen wrenches. Let me know if I could be of any help 👍
Yeah the culture is changing. Men in my age group just lived and served in the longest running war in American history. We are more interested in the scene as a whole. Not just a particular brand. Bikers now days have a much broader perspective and generally get along better. The 60+ age group is aging out. And the mentality with it. I have 4 bikes in my garage. A KLR, a Voyager, a Vulcan 900 and a harley heritage 114. The Harley gives you a completely different sense of nostalgia and feel. There are no bad bikes. And all bring pros and cons with them
Mate, love the sound of the Yamaha. My first road registered bike at 17 years old. The blinkers had a relay unit standard. Mine died so I put in a new one. Happy days.
Now days they call them Adventure Bikes. Back when we were kids they were called Scramblers....like the Honda CL 160, CL 175, CL 305, CL 350's. Then the Kawasaki and Yamaha's 125, 175, and 250's.....
Never stop moving sir. Here in NC, I would say it's 75% Harley. I just purchased my first at 55 yrs old, a 22 Road glide. We wanted something to tour on before we get too old. It's not really the age but the mileage. I enjoyed your video.
I just left Daytona Bike Week yesterday and it is getting freaky with the people who come up there with these ridiculous looking motorcycles you're right the culture has gone I've been riding for 50 years back when you weren't even allowed to park your Harley at a bar parking lot in Cincinnati these people go out and buy these 30 40,000 Harley-Davidsons and think that they're a biker they're not a biker I ride an old Evo Chopper you know the last of the great Harley-Davidson Motors and what other thing that makes me sick is to see a man driving a big bagger with his wife next to him on big bagger I guess the same men when they get home have their own apron too
Thanks Terry. My daughters have been riding motorcycles since they were 5 years old, and for the last nearly 30 years. I’ll be sure to tell them that they are not real bikers, and that their only place is to ride bitch on some dude’s chopper and get passed around like in your world. Buy the way, my oldest daughter is hell on wheels, and guarantee would make you look like a poser POS on any bike.
Watched your video this morning and totally agree with you about the road salt. Living in northern Illinois I understand completely about that. Salt is not our friend. I’d like to keep my 03 ultra till death do us part so I need to take care of her best I can. We’re getting rain today which should be headed your way and will help clean the roads so we can get out soon. Always look forward to your videos. Keep up the good work. Continued prayers from Illinois.
Mark, I had the same issue with the back tail lights. I took out the brake light LED (that I put in) and replaced it with an incandescent OEM type bulb and it fixed it. Same here, LED's are diodes and it only allows the current to travel in one direction. An incandescent is like a short in the circuit. Your flasher can't work like that. I would change back to the old OEM type bulb.
You can replace the contacts in your starter and not replace the whole starter. And you don't have to take the starter out of the bike. Sometimes you can clean the contacts and get by for a while. Buy a push button type cover for your starter solenoid too. Look into it. I got a 94 heritage softail with 80,000 miles still the original starter I just replaced the contacts and I was good to go.
Enduro = might try an easy experiment of swapping back to a sealed beam & see if turn signals blink...??? > HD starter = hard to tell without digging into it....The usual troubleshooting = static battery voltage & check cable connections before opening up a few components but sounded to me like starter drive pinion gear that pivots out & turns clutch basket might be worn...i.e. slips when under load...Pinion gear slip can be intermittent for a while i.e. slips in spots but then rolls over engine after a few attempts... ON CAMERA starter didn't sound like it was dragging...sounded more like starter was spinning up faster than normal until engine turned over & fired up. Also didn't hear any solenoid chatter...??? Hope this helps ..
I’m 58 and have two groms. Love me adventure bikes. Also love my Indian, and my Harley’s. I love my toys. I like all bikes all brands. Just get out and ride.
I own a 2016 FLSTC with an S&S cam chest kit and 583 S&S cams and Rhinehart Churchill exhaust. My big bike is a 2010 FLHTK with Vance&Hines round slash-cut slip-ons. I’ll probably put an S&S cam chest kit in this one too this Summer. Both of my bikes are running Dark Horse Man O War compensators and Barnett extra plate clutches. I absolutely love riding them. I kinda miss my old Shovelheads and wish that I’d hung onto at least one of them. I guess after we get my wife a new full size Bronco I will start looking for a Shovelhead to add to the mix. Thanks for such a great video, I just subscribed to your channel.
Where I live more cars are getting smoked windows because their cars have cameras, so of course you can't see inside to know if they are on a cell phone or picking their nose/ Honestly it's nerve racking when you're riding in local traffic
If your wondering about the future of Harleys check out the Born Free rallies. Chopper cutler is big with the younger generation. Out here on the west coast there are a lot of builders, all young guys.
I'm with you, i wait till after a few rains, i'm up on the NH/ME border and they salt the heck out of them. As to Culture Harley and indian are pricing themselves to death i worked in harley dealers for 40 plus years and even back in the AMF days i didn't see the amount of leftovers they have now, and todays youth just are not into bikes for the price of a new Sportster S they can buy a clean used toyota or Honda car and make it a fast and furious car. But to the topic Culture, the Clubs have claimed most of it as theirs and theirs alone which is nonsense !! when my dad was a young biker anyone could be a 1%er you didn't have to be a club member, and there was no such thing as the ever changing protocols , Back when i was young i Respected the Old Bikers, i would die to spend an afternoon listening to an old biker and his stories of the road, Now i'm the old biker with 60 years behind handlebars and the young riders have not respect, i go to tell a story of how we did it and it's hey dad....shut up (and they were not my kids) they have Apps to Rent your bike, in my day you didn't even ask to ride another mans bike, let along pimp out your bike to a rental company, The Choppers were better in the 70's and 80's because they were home built, then OCC invented the store bought chopper and they were copied by Titan, Iron Horse, Big Dog, Thunder Mountain and others and they are all gone, the big wheel baggers up here are called (english cigarette) Baggers lol , When i was a young biker you rode a FX or an FXST and Baggers were called Gizzer glides and garbage wagons but now everyone rides one, the lights on your DT try a load equalizer. and OMG you are right the distracted drivers are awful........Ride Safe !!
Sub'd. I'm on the north coast of Ohio WSW of Cleveland. Crazy drivers out this way too...just more of'em! I got moto Horns Dual Track chrome horns on my Yamaha V Star Lowrider Custom Cruiser. They'll hear me for sure! Cagers just aren't condition to see the smaller silhouette of a bike & rider. They should've started teaching that in drivers ed decades ago. I'm gonna be 68 this month and learning to ride all over again after some 52 years outta the saddle.
I rode a 1948 FL Panhead in the 1970's and 80's, still riding a 2010 FLHTK, have 8 grand kids, ages 10-25, I'm a Vetnem era Navy Veteran, Yep, the culture has changed, and not for the better. I'm thinking of selling my paid off land, house, garages, RV, bikes etc and moving to South America to get away from all the hate and shitheads here.
Things are a changin..lol Maybe it's goes in cycles The whole harley , biker thing like itchy mentioned was kind of a fad, and biker thing reached a all time high and now its settled down. Younger folks don't seem to be into bikes like we did back in the day..😊 I remember some of your first videos and specially one about "rubs" Answer may lie in those old videos itchy.
To do work on your bikes it would be handy to own a harbourfreight hydraulic motorcycle lift so you don't work on the floor and a 1000 lbs hydraulic table lift ,
I gotta get better at washing my ride. Live in chi town Ride year round as long as no ice or snow on the road and it’s not like 20s for the high for the day. I need that ride more than I need her clean. I do get a bit jealous when I see all the spotless bikes. But I guess I see tons of miles on the odometer that I put on while ppls rides are in storage or washing them
Internet search will help solve your electrical issue. Diode kit and electronic flasher unit seem to be the resolution for many bikes. I'm not sure about yours, but I'll bet there's a site that might mention it. Thank you for the reminder concerning driving habits. Sometimes, I'm the one in the truck fumbling with things instead of focusing on driving. Shame on me. I've been on the receiving end of that while riding my bike. You're right! Itchy, blessings and prayers for you. RHDF!!!
That's some great information,Itchy God bless you and maybe we'll see you out on the road One of these days, I live over here in Savannah,Oh. I haven't got my bike out yet this year either but it's getting closer and closer to the day that I will am just waiting on the roads to get cleared off of all the salt and calcium chloride that's been put down And yeah enjoying ourselves, my wife and I
Great video. I have a suggestion for you. On April 8, 2024 there is going to be a total eclipse of the sun. I think you live in a near perfect zone to experience this. I live in north central WV but most likely it will be a rainy, cloudy day but you might consider filming it for your channel. That day falls on a Monday. Just a suggestion. Have a great week. ✌🏼
The culture may very well be changing or adapting. However, in my opinion, one of the biggest things I see is that in this tough economy with high inflation its making it hard for people to justify toys (bikes, boats, campers etc). Also, Harley is continuing to price themselves out for a very large majority of people. If I wanted to go buy another Harley, I could, I can afford a decent down payment and the bank would approve me no problem. However, I do not need and cannot justify spending $30,000 plus on a motorcycle and I won't do it, no matter how much I like it. So, that leaves me to paying cash for a bike that's used from private individuals, Thats how I got the Dyna and how I got my Vulcan 800 when I got back into riding. I'm not a bike snob, I love various bikes of different types and brands, but a cruiser is my preferred style. As for the Groms, it allows a very cheap price for a brand-new bike that allows youth to get into motorcycles. Sure, people of all ages can ride the Groms, but I usually see youth on them. They are priced so cheap brand new you can barely get a 15 to 20 year old full size cruiser for the price.
I'm 66 now in my late 40s I thought I wanted a v twin so I got a new 2002 Honda VTX 1800C it's a great bike and I still have it but took it off the road. When smart phones came out it took the fun out of biking. It's in like new condition and want to sell it but people will pay 25k for a new Harley that won't compete with a 2002 Honda for 5k.
Mark, You brought it up. No water in your 'barn' (garage). 😂 How much would it take to get a line out there? Not major ordeal and you'd be mighty pleased to have that utility to complete the workshop. As for cruisers, baggers, you didn't give kudos to The 'other' bike of olde style1901 Indian bikes. It's ok though because most folks that know bikes acknowledge that Indian isn't as prolific as HD or even Honda. No question, affordability is a major issue. I solved that matter by buying used. And lastly, I want to thank, thank, THANK you for highlighting the Safety issue. We bikers/riders have to be super vigilant to make up for the carelessness of the cagers. It cannot be stressed enough, we have to look all around & more than once before making a decision or a move. " if you like the video, hit that subscribe button". WELL, of course we like your vids, so keep 'em coming. thanx
The big wheelbagger scene is starting to fade (thank God). The new fad is performance baggers smh. I just don't get why anyone would make a touring bike into a crotch rocket. I guess I may be getting too old for the nonsense. I have a 2018 Road Glide Special, a 2005 Fatboy, a 2006 Suzuki Boulevard, and a 1982 Honda CX500 turbo. Ilove my Harleys but I appreciate the metrics too. Ride safe
Yeow Itchy, Do You still have Your original headlight minus the glass? I was thinking to possibly try to old headlight in the shell, to see if the indicators start blinking, it would save a lot of grief if You found that's the problem, It's still cold over here in Wales, with a biting wind, and the gritting trucks have been out in the last couple of days, so I'll be waiting for a few downpours of rain to wash the roads before the Harley Trike comes out again, and as You said there's such a vast array of Bikes on the roads these days, Times are a changing! 👍🤘🏴
LED bulbs do not draw enough current to operate the flasher. I had to put a 50 ohm resistor on the ground side of one light, front or back, to get mine to flash, ah two resistors one for each side not every bulb.
Yes, it’s a lot dangerous to be on the road these days. Driving in my car is getting too much. I had two passing vehicles coming my way on the highway and had to pull over, otherwise they would have hit me dead on.
I been riding for 50 or better years, various bikes including Harleys... My last Harley was destroyed by a Texting Cager....Hit and run. Fortunately I was not hurt bad but my Hog was destroyed. I now ride a Yammie 1700 Road star Silverado...bike looks and rides like a Heritage, even the engine is spot on to a newer Hog. Why? because at 72 years old I cannot afford Harley prices. I have a shop and I fix them, and detail them @ $50 hr...Why because I love motorcycles and I give bikers a break. Something that you do not find much these days. I'm a lonewolf wear my own cut, and I'm old school, I believe and live the Biker's Code, and still do Biker Shit.....I still will pull out the old sleeping bag and snore under the stars. Yes times change....EVERYONE wants to be a biker until it's time to do Biker Shit....Thanks for letting me rant....Keep the shiny side up and the rubber side down....
I know the company isn't trading anymore but victory motorcycles are awesome I have one from 2011 and has never failed me..... On your flasher issue on the scrambler... You my good man have either a dodgy flasher relay, or have fitted led bulbs instead of the old original bulbs that or you have your wiring back to front on the bulbs
I am like you, man. I have more respect for my bike. When the warmer air sets in, I'll get my bike out, but like you said ima let mother nature wash the roads off 1st! I waited this long I can wait a little longer! When I 1st started riding, I was out now and riding until it was so cold I couldn't stand it. Well, the newness wore off a long time ago. I love it don't get me wrong, I am to the age now ill ride when it suits me. I rode dirt bikes since I was 10 years old, so riding for me I love it but it gets boring to me sometimes, man. I drive a lot with my job and the last thing I want to do when I get home is go for a ride, I ride when it suits me, man!! Far as culture, everything changes as time goes by.
Pretty much all Harley's up here in SE Wisco. No big wheel bikes or choppers either. Young kids are on sport bikes though. I'm riding now...salt free roads by me.
We have a contest at bike week where we count how many times we hear AC/DC. In years past you would hear it everywhere. Not this year. 50 cent took their place! Must of heard his 2 hits 30 times. So yeah, culture has already changed.
I try to ride my bike the same way I drive a semi. Keep your head on a swivel and remain super vigilant. There are a lot of oblivious people on the road.
In my 68 years (52 riding) one big change that I am happy to see is that the animosity between HD riders and the rest of the riding world is almost gone.
Thankfully.
We are in this together .
If you ride thats good enough for me.
Just dont ride recklessly.
Its hairy enough out there.
Had a Harley! Be that as it may I like my Victory Vegas...
Everything is changing, rapidly. All of our crazy, HD riding uncles have passed or gotten too old to do it anymore. People like you, my father and father in law are keeping it going. I intend on doing the same for the rest of my life. Having motorcycles in my garage and having kids in the house changed my life.
how beautiful it is there, a lot of trees, silence, and my dream is a Harley, EVO, with Vans Hines pipes. hello from Ukraine)
All of my friends ride Harley's and I ride a Triumph Bonneville. I love their bikes and they love mine.
Mark it changed in the 80s then in the 90s then again in 2006 now I go to a Bike Rally its not the same. It is all the RICH I see on bikes riding 100,000 dollar motorcycle. Riding the Rule area I see old guys and poor bikers they stay away from the Rally's . unless its Local Fun Run . Be safe have fun enjoy what time we have left Brother God Bless
I’m in Daytona Bikeweek right now. Been coming since 1994. It has changed in so many ways. Less attendance as well. I definitely don’t like the changes. 1998 Road King, 2003 Sportster, 2006 Streetglide.
America is in financial trouble, corporate is making millions an not passing the pay, down to the working class, making it hard to afford things,
Plenty of evil companies for sure but the government corruption is the main issue.
I am keeping my 1994 ElectraGlide Classic. It has very good power for stock and is carbureted.
Truer words have never been spoken! I've been riding 45 years and catch myself daydreaming. Thank God I have not had a fatal accident. It's REAL! It can happen to you!
Isn’t that what we did in our youth? The first bike I rode was a 1963 Honda 305 Dream. It was a beater, but it got me started. 50 years later, I’m on a TriGlude and loving life!
In 1966, a college friend of mine, a very large football player, picked up a black 305 Dream, rode around with our group. Still remember how he looked on it--took a lot of grief from us on our "fancy" old Triumphs and BSAs. He never broke down (we always did). Good times for all, ride safe and smooth!
Thing that yamaha brought some old memories back for me! Thank you Sir
I ride a 22 Goldwing tour and an 08 Harley-davidson Road King cvo and love them both! I do however feel more bad on my King and more dad on my Wing.
Peppers dude we are getting older and things are changing every year and dang that old two stroke brings back good memories
I'm 70 years old and just bought a brand new Kawazaki z400 and wow what fun! Flickable, lightweight, quick.. I'm done with heavy bikes. So, yes..the culture is changing.
I was riding my Holly down the street going about 40 miles an hour and she was in the center Elaine waiting to turn as soon as I got up to her. She turned right into me shattered my collarbone and fractured my spine so now I’m going through all this Insurance and doctors visits so all the riders up there be careful.
I was broadsided last August by a 19yr old girl. I was in a 25mph zone and had the right-of-way. I got off light with road rash, bruising all over and a totalled bike. Glad you lived to tell the tale. Wish you well, get better🏍💪✌️👍
Always assume the worst out there. Ride like you’re invisible. Ride safe guys. Come home to your families in one piece.
@@alandavis1245facts
Thank God u lived to tell the tale.
It’s always a car turning in front of us or running a light.
Prayers to speedy recovery and being back riding ASAP
Good msg at the end. People in cars are not aware enough of bikers especially in spring. Been out a couple times, on rural roads leftover salt and sand is a real hazard too. I hear on making oneself get out and do things. I'm older & single, self motivation can be a challenge!
I’ll tell you the same thing I told my little brother who’s had an Ultra since 2005. I didn’t buy a Harley to admire it in the garage 😏
Ring a ding ding....love that 2 stroke Yammie! Brings back my childhood memories riding with my friends.
Of course the motorcycle culture is changing--just like all other cultures in our society. Just watched a youtube wherein a co-called music reviewer did not know who Bob Dylan is! The only thing constant is change...best to you, Itchy, in what is also a very "changed" life for you after your loss. Glad to see you're doing well...
I put an LED headlight in a bike I had. They have less drain on the system than the older tungsten light bulbs, so your electrical system basically thinks the bulb is burned out and you’ll see that the turn signals won’t flash. Often the LED manufacturer will sell a “in-line” resistor to put a little more load on the circuit. This solved my turn signal problem.
There are electronic flashers that work with LED lights.
Thanks for the reminder on being aware…..I think the problem with the Harleys for me was the weight….road a Yamaha roadliner and as I got older after replacing both knees handling the weight was to much….fast forward and now have a sport bike for several years now and can handle it and have no issues….will be 70 this year and still love the adventure of two wheels….Great video
I'm old and I ride every day. Don't worry about salt because I don't do winter. In Argentina now but back in the US in April. I keep an old 1987 Gold Wing at a friend's house in NY. Don't worry about bike getting wet or dirty. Last year I rode through snow in western NY. Noticed you said you are in northeast Ohio. I'll be up in your neighborhood soon. I'll be visiting me brother in Ashtabula OH. Always impressed by all the older bikes I see in Ohio. Talked to a guy with a barn full of old Honda fours and riding in a cold rain.
Great video some changes are bad . Being an old man I stay with my Road King. I rode Honda in Kawasaki and Yamaha but there is something just riding a Harley that you just don’t get with the rest. Have a great and blessed weekend 👍👍👊❤️🩹
Yeah it'll be the LED headlamp doing it
I absolutely love your number tag collection
Isn't this a great time of year..
The thing is that, especially outside of the US, where Harleys are even more expensive it's really difficult for young people to be able to afford them.
I'm not super young, I'm 35, and I still can't afford 8-10k for a used Harley let alone 15-30k for a new one.
I'd love to get one someday, but my first big bike will probably be a japanese cruiser which can be had in good condition for 2-3k and it's a lot of bike for the money
Yup. I bought a 20 year old honda shadow saber and I regret nothing
You can find 80” evos for $3600 to $5500 if you shop. I know as I just bought one. Don’t give up on getting your Harley.
@@ditchcati I'm in the UK, so I'm a bit wary of getting an 80s Harley as my first big bike due to how bad they get with the humidity and grit salt but I'm not lying when I say I'm tempted to!
Thanks for the suggestion! 💪
Thanks for having me in this ride with you Mark God Bless you
Ive been riding since 68,I get a real kick out of a guy thats been riding a 600 pound (adventure) bike for three years telling me I need safety gear if Im gonna survive. I survived 10 second Kawi's when Kawi's didnt run 10s.I can still turn under most guys on sport bikes on my wide glide if I really want to. So keep your opinion to yourself (adventure) guys.
64 and was goin 10s in 77’ Land speed race a ZX10 with my 75 yr old brother today. Goin just shy of 200. Age is a state of mind.
Hitch I can relate to you not saying without a spouse there don't have nobody to push you I've got the same problem I lost my wife about 4 years ago and the place really went to hell in a handbasket I'm starting to get it back now but like you said you got to really push yourself to get it done
I think the culture is really changing. I do ride a Harley and am in the MC scene. But I also picke up a Royal Enfield Himalayan 400 adventure bike. I honestly love it. Today the MC outlaw clubs are not the issue. It’s these dirt bike riders riding in groups ripping wheelies in and out of traffic in cities. Causing a nuisance and dangerous. I also see some Crotch Rocket MC’s now. I also know some Outlaw clubs now don’t require a Harley. Which is weird to me but I guess it has to change to survive. Also the new sportsers are 15k. What young kid can afford that as an entry level bike. That’s an issue too. So it has to change
we get too much snow related stones all over the roads every winter.i usually dont ride too much before the county runs the sweeper.loose gravel about every turn.not good for ones legs or bike.
Victory Motorcycles!!!
Yo, itchy, when changing my starter on a 99 fatboy, 80 Evo, I used long allen wrenches 3/8 Ratchet end. With a little finessing, the starter came right out. You don't need to take half the bike apart. You can go to Harbor freight to find those long allen wrenches. Let me know if I could be of any help 👍
Yeah the culture is changing. Men in my age group just lived and served in the longest running war in American history. We are more interested in the scene as a whole. Not just a particular brand. Bikers now days have a much broader perspective and generally get along better. The 60+ age group is aging out. And the mentality with it. I have 4 bikes in my garage. A KLR, a Voyager, a Vulcan 900 and a harley heritage 114. The Harley gives you a completely different sense of nostalgia and feel. There are no bad bikes. And all bring pros and cons with them
looking forward to more warmer consistent weather.
Mate, love the sound of the Yamaha. My first road registered bike at 17 years old. The blinkers had a relay unit standard. Mine died so I put in a new one. Happy days.
You are right Itchy ride safe.😎
Sitting in my terraced house with no garage in rainy ol England lol
yeh that sounds shitty
Now days they call them Adventure Bikes. Back when we were kids they were called Scramblers....like the Honda CL 160, CL 175, CL 305, CL 350's. Then the Kawasaki and Yamaha's 125, 175, and 250's.....
You are correct!
Or enduros
Or enduros
Never stop moving sir. Here in NC, I would say it's 75% Harley. I just purchased my first at 55 yrs old, a 22 Road glide. We wanted something to tour on before we get too old. It's not really the age but the mileage. I enjoyed your video.
I just left Daytona Bike Week yesterday and it is getting freaky with the people who come up there with these ridiculous looking motorcycles you're right the culture has gone I've been riding for 50 years back when you weren't even allowed to park your Harley at a bar parking lot in Cincinnati these people go out and buy these 30 40,000 Harley-Davidsons and think that they're a biker they're not a biker I ride an old Evo Chopper you know the last of the great Harley-Davidson Motors and what other thing that makes me sick is to see a man driving a big bagger with his wife next to him on big bagger I guess the same men when they get home have their own apron too
Thanks Terry. My daughters have been riding motorcycles since they were 5 years old, and for the last nearly 30 years. I’ll be sure to tell them that they are not real bikers, and that their only place is to ride bitch on some dude’s chopper and get passed around like in your world. Buy the way, my oldest daughter is hell on wheels, and guarantee would make you look like a poser POS on any bike.
Watched your video this morning and totally agree with you about the road salt. Living in northern Illinois I understand completely about that. Salt is not our friend. I’d like to keep my 03 ultra till death do us part so I need to take care of her best I can. We’re getting rain today which should be headed your way and will help clean the roads so we can get out soon. Always look forward to your videos. Keep up the good work. Continued prayers from Illinois.
Mark, I had the same issue with the back tail lights. I took out the brake light LED (that I put in) and replaced it with an incandescent OEM type bulb and it fixed it. Same here, LED's are diodes and it only allows the current to travel in one direction. An incandescent is like a short in the circuit. Your flasher can't work like that. I would change back to the old OEM type bulb.
You can replace the contacts in your starter and not replace the whole starter. And you don't have to take the starter out of the bike. Sometimes you can clean the contacts and get by for a while. Buy a push button type cover for your starter solenoid too. Look into it. I got a 94 heritage softail with 80,000 miles still the original starter I just replaced the contacts and I was good to go.
Enduro = might try an easy experiment of swapping back to a sealed beam & see if turn signals blink...??? > HD starter = hard to tell without digging into it....The usual troubleshooting = static battery voltage & check cable connections before opening up a few components but sounded to me like starter drive pinion gear that pivots out & turns clutch basket might be worn...i.e. slips when under load...Pinion gear slip can be intermittent for a while i.e. slips in spots but then rolls over engine after a few attempts... ON CAMERA starter didn't sound like it was dragging...sounded more like starter was spinning up faster than normal until engine turned over & fired up. Also didn't hear any solenoid chatter...??? Hope this helps ..
You need a resister put in the wiring to get them working.
I’m 58 and have two groms. Love me adventure bikes. Also love my Indian, and my Harley’s. I love my toys. I like all bikes all brands. Just get out and ride.
Another great one Mark
Hey Bud! Ride on over to Tennessee! You can stay with us for a couple of days and we'll ride some of the awesome roads around here
You have to add those resistors to make led’s work
It’s the miles, not the style!!👍😎👍
Oh I forgot, They are also chopping Ironhead Sportsters as well.
My friend bought a Canam Ryker....those are getting popular.
There is flashing that goes under shingles and into the gutter....it comes already bent to fit...I had same problem
I am in love with and keeping my 2019 Indian Scout Bobber. 2 wheels is to wheels, knees in the breeze boss...
Took me a while before I could afford a Harley but always wanted that loud chome bike. And now I love it been riding it forever now want an Evo
I own a 2016 FLSTC with an S&S cam chest kit and 583 S&S cams and Rhinehart Churchill exhaust. My big bike is a 2010 FLHTK with Vance&Hines round slash-cut slip-ons. I’ll probably put an S&S cam chest kit in this one too this Summer. Both of my bikes are running Dark Horse Man O War compensators and Barnett extra plate clutches. I absolutely love riding them. I kinda miss my old Shovelheads and wish that I’d hung onto at least one of them. I guess after we get my wife a new full size Bronco I will start looking for a Shovelhead to add to the mix. Thanks for such a great video, I just subscribed to your channel.
I've got an 04 Road King, 72 rigid Ironhead, 73 Triumph Daytona 500, and a 72 Triumph Tiger 650.
Where I live more cars are getting smoked windows because their cars have cameras, so of course you can't see inside to know if they are on a cell phone or picking their nose/ Honestly it's nerve racking when you're riding in local traffic
it sounds like your turn signal isn't getting enough power. Keep up the good work in your yard looks great.
If your wondering about the future of Harleys check out the Born Free rallies. Chopper cutler is big with the younger generation. Out here on the west coast there are a lot of builders, all young guys.
Yup itchy I get outside also work begins lol 😅 summer coming too. Stay safe out there riding your sled. God bless prayers too. Good video 😊
I'm with you, i wait till after a few rains, i'm up on the NH/ME border and they salt the heck out of them. As to Culture Harley and indian are pricing themselves to death i worked in harley dealers for 40 plus years and even back in the AMF days i didn't see the amount of leftovers they have now, and todays youth just are not into bikes for the price of a new Sportster S they can buy a clean used toyota or Honda car and make it a fast and furious car. But to the topic Culture, the Clubs have claimed most of it as theirs and theirs alone which is nonsense !! when my dad was a young biker anyone could be a 1%er you didn't have to be a club member, and there was no such thing as the ever changing protocols , Back when i was young i Respected the Old Bikers, i would die to spend an afternoon listening to an old biker and his stories of the road, Now i'm the old biker with 60 years behind handlebars and the young riders have not respect, i go to tell a story of how we did it and it's hey dad....shut up (and they were not my kids) they have Apps to Rent your bike, in my day you didn't even ask to ride another mans bike, let along pimp out your bike to a rental company, The Choppers were better in the 70's and 80's because they were home built, then OCC invented the store bought chopper and they were copied by Titan, Iron Horse, Big Dog, Thunder Mountain and others and they are all gone, the big wheel baggers up here are called (english cigarette) Baggers lol , When i was a young biker you rode a FX or an FXST and Baggers were called Gizzer glides and garbage wagons but now everyone rides one, the lights on your DT try a load equalizer. and OMG you are right the distracted drivers are awful........Ride Safe !!
Mine is doing the same....a screen over the eavestrough...they shoved the screen under the new shingles.
Thanks mark
Now it’s Trikes and minivans now
Straight from the department of redundancy department.
I guess. I was at a dealership looking at a PCX160, an XR150, and the Navi; the only ones he had for under $5,000. 😂
I've only seen big wheel baggers backed out of trailers, then sit till the shows are over.
Sub'd. I'm on the north coast of Ohio WSW of Cleveland. Crazy drivers out this way too...just more of'em! I got moto Horns Dual Track chrome horns on my Yamaha V Star Lowrider Custom Cruiser. They'll hear me for sure! Cagers just aren't condition to see the smaller silhouette of a bike & rider. They should've started teaching that in drivers ed decades ago. I'm gonna be 68 this month and learning to ride all over again after some 52 years outta the saddle.
LEDs all round.
Same in New Zealand 🇳🇿 .
Kids riding around dirtbikes .
Hold on to your Harleys
I rode a 1948 FL Panhead in the 1970's and 80's, still riding a 2010 FLHTK, have 8 grand kids, ages 10-25, I'm a Vetnem era Navy Veteran, Yep, the culture has changed, and not for the better. I'm thinking of selling my paid off land, house, garages, RV, bikes etc and moving to South America to get away from all the hate and shitheads here.
70 degrees the 1st week of March ? good for you, had to deal with 15 inches of snow last week here in the Oregon Coast Range...
Things are a changin..lol
Maybe it's goes in cycles
The whole harley , biker thing like itchy mentioned was kind of a fad, and biker thing reached a all time high and now its settled down.
Younger folks don't seem to be into bikes like we did back in the day..😊
I remember some of your first videos and specially one about "rubs"
Answer may lie in those old videos itchy.
To do work on your bikes it would be handy to own a harbourfreight hydraulic motorcycle lift so you don't work on the floor and a 1000 lbs hydraulic table lift ,
Cant afford a HD, I enjoy my Metric Cruiser. Love my Honda Sabre 1100. Minimal maintenance and never lets me down 🤷♀ Appreciate a Harley for sure....
I gotta get better at washing my ride.
Live in chi town
Ride year round as long as no ice or snow on the road and it’s not like 20s for the high for the day.
I need that ride more than I need her clean. I do get a bit jealous when I see all the spotless bikes.
But I guess I see tons of miles on the odometer that I put on while ppls rides are in storage or washing them
Internet search will help solve your electrical issue. Diode kit and electronic flasher unit seem to be the resolution for many bikes. I'm not sure about yours, but I'll bet there's a site that might mention it.
Thank you for the reminder concerning driving habits. Sometimes, I'm the one in the truck fumbling with things instead of focusing on driving. Shame on me. I've been on the receiving end of that while riding my bike. You're right!
Itchy, blessings and prayers for you.
RHDF!!!
enjoyed my ride out today on my vstrom 650,my other bikes grom,monkey and van van.these little bikes are so much fun.light and nimble
That's some great information,Itchy God bless you and maybe we'll see you out on the road One of these days, I live over here in Savannah,Oh. I haven't got my bike out yet this year either but it's getting closer and closer to the day that I will am just waiting on the roads to get cleared off of all the salt and calcium chloride that's been put down And yeah enjoying ourselves, my wife and I
Great video. I have a suggestion for you. On April 8, 2024 there is going to be a total eclipse of the sun. I think you live in a near perfect zone to experience this. I live in north central WV but most likely it will be a rainy, cloudy day but you might consider filming it for your channel. That day falls on a Monday. Just a suggestion. Have a great week. ✌🏼
I ride a stock Heritage Springer motor is bulletproof. I miss the Biker Build Off days. Not a big fan of big wheel baggers. I wish you the best.
The culture may very well be changing or adapting. However, in my opinion, one of the biggest things I see is that in this tough economy with high inflation its making it hard for people to justify toys (bikes, boats, campers etc). Also, Harley is continuing to price themselves out for a very large majority of people. If I wanted to go buy another Harley, I could, I can afford a decent down payment and the bank would approve me no problem. However, I do not need and cannot justify spending $30,000 plus on a motorcycle and I won't do it, no matter how much I like it. So, that leaves me to paying cash for a bike that's used from private individuals, Thats how I got the Dyna and how I got my Vulcan 800 when I got back into riding. I'm not a bike snob, I love various bikes of different types and brands, but a cruiser is my preferred style. As for the Groms, it allows a very cheap price for a brand-new bike that allows youth to get into motorcycles. Sure, people of all ages can ride the Groms, but I usually see youth on them. They are priced so cheap brand new you can barely get a 15 to 20 year old full size cruiser for the price.
I'm 66 now in my late 40s I thought I wanted a v twin so I got a new 2002 Honda VTX 1800C it's a great bike and I still have it but took it off the road. When smart phones came out it took the fun out of biking. It's in like new condition and want to sell it but people will pay 25k for a new Harley that won't compete with a 2002 Honda for 5k.
Mark, You brought it up. No water in your 'barn' (garage). 😂 How much would it take to get a line out there? Not major ordeal and you'd be mighty pleased to have that utility to complete the workshop. As for cruisers, baggers, you didn't give kudos to The 'other' bike of olde style1901 Indian bikes. It's ok though because most folks that know bikes acknowledge that Indian isn't as prolific as HD or even Honda. No question, affordability is a major issue. I solved that matter by buying used. And lastly, I want to thank, thank, THANK you for highlighting the Safety issue. We bikers/riders have to be super vigilant to make up for the carelessness of the cagers. It cannot be stressed enough, we have to look all around & more than once before making a decision or a move. " if you like the video, hit that subscribe button". WELL, of course we like your vids, so keep 'em coming. thanx
The big wheelbagger scene is starting to fade (thank God). The new fad is performance baggers smh. I just don't get why anyone would make a touring bike into a crotch rocket. I guess I may be getting too old for the nonsense. I have a 2018 Road Glide Special, a 2005 Fatboy, a 2006 Suzuki Boulevard, and a 1982 Honda CX500 turbo. Ilove my Harleys but I appreciate the metrics too. Ride safe
Good topic as always Mark!!!
Yeow Itchy, Do You still have Your original headlight minus the glass? I was thinking to possibly try to old headlight in the shell, to see if the indicators start blinking, it would save a lot of grief if You found that's the problem,
It's still cold over here in Wales, with a biting wind, and the gritting trucks have been out in the last couple of days, so I'll be waiting for a few downpours of rain to wash the roads before the Harley Trike comes out again, and as You said there's such a vast array of Bikes on the roads these days, Times are a changing! 👍🤘🏴
Your motorcycle muffler sounds good.watching from Philippines.thanks this vid.sir mark..
Nice video Mark.. Enjoyed it...
LED bulbs do not draw enough current to operate the flasher. I had to put a 50 ohm resistor on the ground side of one light, front or back, to get mine to flash, ah two resistors one for each side not every bulb.
The newer Harley m8 s are easy to replace the starter. Two bolts and she comes right out. Just replaced one on a 21 ro😂ad glide limited 😮
Still a cruch rocket ya balls Still get jingled around the gas tank 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
Yes, it’s a lot dangerous to be on the road these days. Driving in my car is getting too much. I had two passing vehicles coming my way on the highway and had to pull over, otherwise they would have hit me dead on.
I been riding for 50 or better years, various bikes including Harleys... My last Harley was destroyed by a Texting Cager....Hit and run. Fortunately I was not hurt bad but my Hog was destroyed. I now ride a Yammie 1700 Road star Silverado...bike looks and rides like a Heritage, even the engine is spot on to a newer Hog. Why? because at 72 years old I cannot afford Harley prices. I have a shop and I fix them, and detail them @ $50 hr...Why because I love motorcycles and I give bikers a break. Something that you do not find much these days. I'm a lonewolf wear my own cut, and I'm old school, I believe and live the Biker's Code, and still do Biker Shit.....I still will pull out the old sleeping bag and snore under the stars. Yes times change....EVERYONE wants to be a biker until it's time to do Biker Shit....Thanks for letting me rant....Keep the shiny side up and the rubber side down....
I know the company isn't trading anymore but victory motorcycles are awesome I have one from 2011 and has never failed me..... On your flasher issue on the scrambler... You my good man have either a dodgy flasher relay, or have fitted led bulbs instead of the old original bulbs that or you have your wiring back to front on the bulbs
I am like you, man. I have more respect for my bike. When the warmer air sets in, I'll get my bike out, but like you said ima let mother nature wash the roads off 1st! I waited this long I can wait a little longer! When I 1st started riding, I was out now and riding until it was so cold I couldn't stand it. Well, the newness wore off a long time ago. I love it don't get me wrong, I am to the age now ill ride when it suits me. I rode dirt bikes since I was 10 years old, so riding for me I love it but it gets boring to me sometimes, man. I drive a lot with my job and the last thing I want to do when I get home is go for a ride, I ride when it suits me, man!! Far as culture, everything changes as time goes by.
Pretty much all Harley's up here in SE Wisco. No big wheel bikes or choppers either. Young kids are on sport bikes though. I'm riding now...salt free roads by me.
We have a contest at bike week where we count how many times we hear AC/DC. In years past you would hear it everywhere. Not this year. 50 cent took their place! Must of heard his 2 hits 30 times. So yeah, culture has already changed.
Its your headlight mark.
I had a problem with my electric/lighting when I installed the wrong headlamp too.