I just bought this bike after watching Matt's review... Matt's analysis and commentary is spot on... I traded in a 12' Road Glide, with ton of custom work and stage IV SE kit... Fell in love with riding all over again... The new engine is so smooth, with great torque and HP... Major improvements in vibration, suspension, transmission, clutch, etc....
Okay, I did it! As of today I traded in my 2011 V-Star 950 tourer for my first Harley Davidson. A 2014 Street Glide with only 2,500 miles on her from Sacramento HD.
I'm 52, and I really dig this blacked out look with the stretched bags. If I can squirrel it away, I wouldn't mind this with quick detach WS, Tour Pack, two-up touring seat, and blacked out passing lamps. That would give me two dream Harleys in one.
Man, GREAT vid! Never owned a bike and have never ridden one either. But THIS video sold me. 6'4", 250 lbs. and I am gonna purchase the Road King Standard! Thx again Matt.
I'm watching from Japan. The Road King Special has been released in Japan as well. Your english is very clear and easy to understand for english learner like me.
I did an extended road test, '18 Heritage Softail Classic (HSC) and Road King Special (RKS) yesterday at local dealer. They was kind enough to allow me, for about 30 minutes back to back to both bikes...and all I can say is the Heritage was so fast and nimble, easy to flick compared to the RKS, at about 92lbs less, its definitely showed this characteristics... However this is where the pluses of the HSC ends for me...I noticed, when speeds reaches above 75 on up, the handle bars would buzz a lot and the mirrors would vibrate wildly to a point that I could not see the objects behind...not sure if there are adjustments that can be made, perhaps test riding a second HSC may be different, but this bike only had 52 miles on the ODO...It reminded me of my former '03 HSC; exhibited the same manners...I was surprised that with all the hype of the new frame, this would go away, but in 2018, it was apparently still evident. I was a bit disappointed as I was leaning to the HSC as next bike, but test riding these machines is definitely recommend as a $20K mistake is a had pill to swallow...lol On the other hand, the RKS on same road and speed, was so butter smooth, though perhaps, with no windshield, it may have made a difference, but since I was deciding which would be my next bike, I give the RKS the all thumbs up for my riding style... Thank you for doing the video & sharing
I love this bike, I'm planning to pick one up this fall. I rode one when the demo truck rolled through and fell in love immediately, I am hoping my local dealer gets a demo unit so I can take a longer, less supervised test ride.
This review was, indeed, comprehensive. I found it fun and a good review. I watched this video because I'm considering my first Harley-Davidson. To be honest, I'm intimidated by these large bikes. For several years now I've had my eye on the Softail Deluxe and am blown away by the great looks of the new Softail Slim s. I like this Road King Special. it calls to me. It is a bike I'd like to own.
Teachering I think a lot of people are intimidated by Large cruisers. It just takes a little experience and they really aren't that hard to handle. The longer you ride them, the lighter they seem to get
Matt Laidlaw I agree, As a experienced flat tracker, TT racer, motocross racer and trial rider... even a shorter guy like me at 5'6 can easily throw around any Large Harley touring model and feel very much in total control . Even at 62 years old. As I naturally incorporate my off road skills to any bike I ride. Personally , I would not steer away anyone of shorter stature 5'4 or taller away from a touring chassis Harley as long as they have very good ridding skills and really have a need for a touring model. Also, a thin scooped seat helps! The more you ride it, the smaller it seems! Well said.
I say get the Road King if you haven't already. I got one a couple months ago, my first bike ever. Very happy that I went with the bigger bike. This thing is super stable and powerful. I have done multiple day trips, lasting more than 8 hours and I am bummed when the ride ends. This bike is so comfortable that I want to keep going and going. I love my 2018 Road King.
Matt, Great comprhensive review! I just purchased a new 2017 FLHR from a dealership in Fl and they didn't go over a thing. I traded in my 95' FLHR and it's quite different to say the least. Thank you again for your review, if I lived in LA I would gladly be a customer!
Thank you so much for reviewing this bike. I recently sold my 2013 the rod, night Rod special just so I could buy the Road King special. It has not hit in Wisconsin yet. Hopefully in another week or two. I am happy you reviewed the charcoal denim color because that is the color that I am interested in. I can't wait to see this bike in person and hope that it will be parked in my garage very soon. I plan to do a lot of touring this summer. Thanks again for all the great reviews.
aaron walz Thank you. You'll love the bike. It's beautiful, plenty of power, and great handling. If you're doing lots of touring you might want a wind shield.
Thanks for the thorough review. Had a 2013 Peace Officer RK that was perfection but traded in for Ultra Limited (happy wife, happy life). Now I’m looking for commute bike and RK at top of the list! You covered this bike very well, thanks again.
How much would it be to add a windshield along with the windshield docking station? I think it should of came with a windshield! Overall that bike is awesome.
Love Love Love the look of this bike. I really dig the Charcoal Denim scheme too. I would add a wind screen to cut down on fatigue, otherwise this beast is ready to burn up the pavement. Very nice!! May have to look at the Road King as my next bike.
I really like your reviews. Tough decision between the regular Road king and this. I do like the look but not the lesser lighting and lack of windshield.
Hey Matt are you able to change out the shocks to the standard road King shocks for a better ride ... ? And also can we add passenger headlamps to the bike aa well... ?
Ray Ramirez my guess is the reason for these shocks is because the rear wheel is 2" bigger. If you had standard shocks your tire would probably rub the fender on bumps.
KCMOto the standard shocks on the special are "LO" shocks which have a shorter spring than the standard shocks. Standard shocks are on the standard Road King so these should give a better ride.
David Streeter correct, with that being said with the taller standard shocks the bike wouldn't sit level due to the larger rear wheel. you'd have to adjust the standard shocks soft enough to sag to make the bike level. Then you get fender rub.
Hi Matt are the 2020 models any different to this one you rode ? I have previously owned a 2010 standard Road King, 2018 Street Glide and a 2019 Heritage Classic, but do miss the Road King. I'm a big guy 6'3" and 200lbs + !! so really appreciate your comments and recommendations. I'm 61 now I don't want to tour anymore, just nice day rides "two up" so to be different that what I've previously owned the RK Special is ticking so many boxes for me. Great reviews, thanks for doing them. (I just hope the 2021 model release on Jan 19th still has the RK Special as they are hard to find new in Aus)
Matt, this is one fine looking motorcycle! I'm old school.. well, maybe just old.. In fact all the bikes I had before were all kickstarts, except for one that had electric start. All those older bikes only had one gas cap so forgive me for sounding stupid but can your gas gauge on this bike be removed like a cap to fill the tank? or do you only fill it from the right? thanks.
Matt, exceptional review. I am in love with this bike. My only reservation is the lack of a few key touring comforts you lose out on by going with the Road King Special as opposed to a Street or Road Glide Special. I know I can add speakers and a windshield. But can I integrate the Boom! Box 6.5GT Radio into this model and somehow enjoy the benefits of that system? Mainly the GPS navigation, Bluetooth connectivity and bike-to-bike communication.
Hi Matt, writing you from Spain. Love your videos better than any other Harley reviews. Just about to buy my first Harley and finding it hard to decide, hope you can help me. My choice is between a Road King Special 2017 and a Heritage Classic 2018 (107 engine ... more than enough power for me), both of them offered to me at the same price. I weight about 230 and I´m 6´2´´. The dealer allowed me to test a Heritage with the 114 and a Road King standard with the 107 .... and honestly I liked better the ride on the Heritage (would getting a Sundowner seat for extra comfort) ...I liked it better as an overall ride bike; but highway ride wise the Roadking Special was much more stable and I like the aesthetics of the King a bit better (probably also getting a better seat and windscreen), but the bike was a bit heavy on the front while manoeuvring slow in the city. I´m really interested in having a longer range comfort ride and normally I use more highway and road with wind often present in the area I live. What would be your advice?. Thank you very much
Hey Matt thanks for your very comprehensive video, I looked at it with pleasure. I live in Lyon, France, and own a 2016 Ultra limited. I must say I find the looks of the RK special superb. Do you think adding a windshield would really ruin that for long trips? Thanks again Ottavio
It's nice to see a dealership that has prices on their bikes. My local dealer won't even give you a price anymore unless you do a "sit down" which means they run your credit and try to make a deal with you. Same thing if you want to test ride any bike. Local dealer has their 2017 Street glide specials at $3k over MSRP. No thanks.
If the clutch feels stiff. No worries to any potential buyers, had my 1k mi service done, threw some synthetic in there and the clutch feels much easier to pull. Not sure if it was the oil or what but it felt much better. Food for thought
Matt loved the video I'm really in between the road king and a fat boy I commute an hour away what would you suggest Great job on all your videos I've learned so much
Matt this and the 2018 are very popular yet I haven’t seen anyone over 5-8 happy with any windshield that looks good yet is practical. Have you seen one that fits the bill? Standard Road King windshield is fine but not much aftermarket with the blacked out look for the Special I’ve seen other than the HD Wind Splitter which is no good for those of average height or taller it seems.
Solid work Matt. I'm 6' and 275. I wrecked my 2009 Road King last summer and am looking to replace it. I'm digging the look of this Special and was wondering if the reduction in shock length and the lower profile tires have a super dramatic effect on the ride or was it just subtly more harsh? I don't ride with a passenger. Thanks!
Matt, My intention with the road king is to tour on it. Would you say that the suspension on the road king special is still conducive for that? Or, should I stick with the road king standard? Thanks
Jason Linde yea, you can still tour on it. It's all about priorities. If comfort is your #1 priority then I would go with the standard. However, you can always add some of the comfort items to the special. So if you like the look of the Special then it would probably be more cost effective to upgrade the FLHRXS. But if the looks don't matter to you then save the money and get the FLHR
didn't find the link to the new motor video you mentioned you would leave, Matt. That Road King Special looks bad to the bone! Harley has some great designer on staff, and these recent bike variations show the variety of appeal possible with the HD lineup. The sound was pretty throaty on my subwoofer listening to your review. Beefy but composed, powerful yet contained, .......
Hey Matt. What color do you think looks best on that bike from your perspective? Also any input from a re-sale value on color on that bike. Do you think that black, grey may have better appeal than the red and olive? Thanks for any input and love the videos. Keep them coming. Had I not live so far from you I would love to buy a bike from you.
Fratres Aeterni I personally like the charcoal denim the best. The vivid black probably second. The other two look really nice as well. It's just a beautiful bike man. The hard candy will probably be the least attractive for re-sell. Not many people can get into that type of paint. I personally like it though.
Thinking of trading up my old 09 RK for one of these... I'll just have to add the windshield mounts for LD riding. What a beautiful bike... I just wish they made it in 114.
Nice ride! I would trade in my LowRider S for the RKS in a heartbeat. Sadly, in Germany, all 2017 Road King Special were sold out after 13 days.. If I would order one now, I would get one at the end of the year..
Matt Laidlaw thanks I ride a 1200 sportster right now and it is not comfortable for long trips I'm a bigger guy I definitely need something more bigger and comfortable
Thanks for the video. I have been waiting for someone to put one out on this bike. I'm a minimalist and use that word a lot when talking about bikes so I laughed when you said it. I'm short and haven't been interested in a touring bike until this one. I love my XL1200C but it's not great for 2 up long trips. That Road King Special would look perfect next to it in my garage...hmmm...
Hi Matt. This bike has other shocks than the normal Road king. Is it possible to install normal Road king shocks on this bike? Are the riding characteristics then the same between the two bikes?
+Yvonne Graaf Yes and Yes. It's the same frame. The rear wheel is two inches larger which affects the ride a bit but yes they will ride very comparable.
Matt, have you done a video like this for the 2018 Road King Special? If not, would you? I'm thinking about making this a purchase option. Thanks for a ll the great content you provide!
Matt I ride a heritage now but I'm already looking for my next bike in 2 years. What are your thoughts on this bike compared to the heritage. I do a fair amount of 2 up riding and my wife is 140 pounds and I'm 200
You do a great job I am up near sf but would consider buying my next harley from you. It is so great how you discuss bike fit and which bike is appropriate for the rider. Harley dealers could learn a lot from you.
I raced a road King special against a stage two street glide (also with the Milwaukee 8). He pulled on me way harder! Can't wait to trade my G-SXR 600 for the Road King special although money might be tight.... the Stage upgrades might come a bit slow ;)
I just bought this bike after watching Matt's review... Matt's analysis and commentary is spot on... I traded in a 12' Road Glide, with ton of custom work and stage IV SE kit... Fell in love with riding all over again... The new engine is so smooth, with great torque and HP... Major improvements in vibration, suspension, transmission, clutch, etc....
Okay, I did it! As of today I traded in my 2011 V-Star 950 tourer for my first Harley Davidson.
A 2014 Street Glide with only 2,500 miles on her from Sacramento HD.
New road king is gorgeous!
Picked mine the other day, took her out today. This machine is f*ing unbelievable!
Thanks for all your work!
Motorcycle congrats man!
I'm 52, and I really dig this blacked out look with the stretched bags.
If I can squirrel it away, I wouldn't mind this with quick detach WS, Tour Pack, two-up touring seat, and blacked out passing lamps. That would give me two dream Harleys in one.
Man, GREAT vid! Never owned a bike and have never ridden one either. But THIS video sold me. 6'4", 250 lbs. and I am gonna purchase the Road King Standard! Thx again Matt.
+Rudy Vee Great bike my friend. Enjoy it. Definitely go with the touring chassis
I really appreciated the "who is this bike for" section of your comments, Matt. It helps me focus on what I want/need.
Christopher Wade glad I could help
Matt always calls it as he sees it, these videos are great. Always learn a lot too; its very much appreciated.
I'm watching from Japan. The Road King Special has been released in Japan as well.
Your english is very clear and easy to understand for english learner like me.
Picked mine up today! 👍🏽😎👍🏽
Eric Reyes nice man. Congrats!
Eric Reyes how much are the road kings going for? an do you like your new bike?
I enjoyed the insight on the lighting aspects of the 2 Road King models, as well as the suspension characteristics of both models!
I picked up my 2018 Road King Special this past Friday and already have 600 miles on it I love it.
Nice 👍🏻👍🏻
Jelly! Enjoy. Ride safe.
I never liked the roadking, until now. The special looks awesome. And that paintjob is unreal man.
Need a test ride on one of these jobs. Wonderful and clear explanations of the new model. Cheers!
Not usually a fan of Road Kings but really like the blacked out look on this bike. Great video as usual.
I absolutely love this Road King and am seriously considering getting one in black. Great vlog Matt. I cannot wait to see one in person.
I did an extended road test, '18 Heritage Softail Classic (HSC) and Road King Special (RKS) yesterday at local dealer. They was kind enough to allow me, for about 30 minutes back to back to both bikes...and all I can say is the Heritage was so fast and nimble, easy to flick compared to the RKS, at about 92lbs less, its definitely showed this characteristics...
However this is where the pluses of the HSC ends for me...I noticed, when speeds reaches above 75 on up, the handle bars would buzz a lot and the mirrors would vibrate wildly to a point that I could not see the objects behind...not sure if there are adjustments that can be made, perhaps test riding a second HSC may be different, but this bike only had 52 miles on the ODO...It reminded me of my former '03 HSC; exhibited the same manners...I was surprised that with all the hype of the new frame, this would go away, but in 2018, it was apparently still evident. I was a bit disappointed as I was leaning to the HSC as next bike, but test riding these machines is definitely recommend as a $20K mistake is a had pill to swallow...lol
On the other hand, the RKS on same road and speed, was so butter smooth, though perhaps, with no windshield, it may have made a difference, but since I was deciding which would be my next bike, I give the RKS the all thumbs up for my riding style...
Thank you for doing the video & sharing
+dcdell2008 Thanks for the constructive comment.
I love mine 13 inche fox shocks made the ride 100% better. Great job Matt.
I love this bike, I'm planning to pick one up this fall. I rode one when the demo truck rolled through and fell in love immediately, I am hoping my local dealer gets a demo unit so I can take a longer, less supervised test ride.
Thanks, Matt for the nice review of the 2017 Road King Special! I now bought a black one and will pick it up this Friday. Keep on doing videos.
That is one beautiful motorcycle and as always, I really enjoy your review videos.
Brad C thank you
This review was, indeed, comprehensive. I found it fun and a good review. I watched this video because I'm considering my first Harley-Davidson. To be honest, I'm intimidated by these large bikes. For several years now I've had my eye on the Softail Deluxe and am blown away by the great looks of the new Softail Slim s. I like this Road King Special. it calls to me. It is a bike I'd like to own.
Teachering I think a lot of people are intimidated by Large cruisers. It just takes a little experience and they really aren't that hard to handle. The longer you ride them, the lighter they seem to get
Matt Laidlaw
I agree, As a experienced flat tracker, TT racer, motocross racer and trial rider... even a shorter guy like me at 5'6 can easily throw around any Large Harley touring model and feel very much in total control . Even at 62 years old. As I naturally incorporate my off road skills to any bike I ride. Personally , I would not steer away anyone of shorter stature 5'4 or taller away from a touring chassis Harley as long as they have very good ridding skills and really have a need for a touring model. Also, a thin scooped seat helps! The more you ride it, the smaller it seems! Well said.
I say get the Road King if you haven't already. I got one a couple months ago, my first bike ever. Very happy that I went with the bigger bike. This thing is super stable and powerful. I have done multiple day trips, lasting more than 8 hours and I am bummed when the ride ends. This bike is so comfortable that I want to keep going and going. I love my 2018 Road King.
Matt, Great comprhensive review! I just purchased a new 2017 FLHR from a dealership in Fl and they didn't go over a thing. I traded in my 95' FLHR and it's quite different to say the least. Thank you again for your review, if I lived in LA I would gladly be a customer!
Gary Alan Thanks man. Enjoy the bike. Congrats.
Thank you so much for reviewing this bike. I recently sold my 2013 the rod, night Rod special just so I could buy the Road King special. It has not hit in Wisconsin yet. Hopefully in another week or two. I am happy you reviewed the charcoal denim color because that is the color that I am interested in. I can't wait to see this bike in person and hope that it will be parked in my garage very soon. I plan to do a lot of touring this summer. Thanks again for all the great reviews.
aaron walz Thank you. You'll love the bike. It's beautiful, plenty of power, and great handling. If you're doing lots of touring you might want a wind shield.
Love the green color can't wait to see it in person
Thanks for the thorough review. Had a 2013 Peace Officer RK that was perfection but traded in for Ultra Limited (happy wife, happy life). Now I’m looking for commute bike and RK at top of the list! You covered this bike very well, thanks again.
How much would it be to add a windshield along with the windshield docking station? I think it should of came with a windshield! Overall that bike is awesome.
Great Review Matt as usual, thanks, and this Road King Special is just Amazing!!!!
It doesn't get any better or badder than this...so sweet!
i ride a2018 R K special u r 1 of my favorite u tube people in 65 and ride in style😊
Thank you! Much appreciated.
Nice overview video... Thanks for going into detail over the differences!
Love Love Love the look of this bike. I really dig the Charcoal Denim scheme too. I would add a wind screen to cut down on fatigue, otherwise this beast is ready to burn up the pavement. Very nice!! May have to look at the Road King as my next bike.
The bikes in your shop look a lot cleaner and PDI'd better than some I've seen. +1
I really like your reviews. Tough decision between the regular Road king and this. I do like the look but not the lesser lighting and lack of windshield.
Great video, thank you.. this is the bike I want and I'm doing A LOT of reasearch before I go in. You've been a big help.
Another great review, I really appreciate your videos, good balanced and unbiased information in a well presented format. Keep up the good work.
Ashley Hill thank you. Thanks for watching.
Can you install windshield to this model?
I took thia bike out for a test ride just the other day...amazing. I ride a sportster and if I get approved for a new loan, I think I will trade.
thanks for that as that is what i am looking at for that bike as it stands out with the red over black as it complement both colours.
Sweet Road King. Looks good murdered out!!! Matt I also loved the Slim S that past right by you.. lol
Good review - and yeah, I noticed those bare hands right away. Don't take unnecessary chances bro.
Amazing review as usual. Sincerely appreciated
Matt does the Road King have a fob or does it only have the ignition lock?
Matt, great video. Thanks. Is it correct that you can attach a windshield to this bike for extended touring?
Hey Matt are you able to change out the shocks to the standard road King shocks for a better ride ... ? And also can we add passenger headlamps to the bike aa well... ?
Ray Ramirez you beat me to that question!
Ray Ramirez my guess is the reason for these shocks is because the rear wheel is 2" bigger. If you had standard shocks your tire would probably rub the fender on bumps.
KCMOto the standard shocks on the special are "LO" shocks which have a shorter spring than the standard shocks. Standard shocks are on the standard Road King so these should give a better ride.
David Streeter correct, with that being said with the taller standard shocks the bike wouldn't sit level due to the larger rear wheel. you'd have to adjust the standard shocks soft enough to sag to make the bike level. Then you get fender rub.
KCMOto so do you think there would be any point in putting the standard shocks on? Would you see any benefit from the standard shocks?
Hi Matt are the 2020 models any different to this one you rode ?
I have previously owned a 2010 standard Road King, 2018 Street Glide and a 2019 Heritage Classic, but do miss the Road King. I'm a big guy 6'3" and 200lbs + !! so really appreciate your comments and recommendations. I'm 61 now I don't want to tour anymore, just nice day rides "two up" so to be different that what I've previously owned the RK Special is ticking so many boxes for me.
Great reviews, thanks for doing them. (I just hope the 2021 model release on Jan 19th still has the RK Special as they are hard to find new in Aus)
Thanks for the review. Looks like its more of a show king instead of a road king though.
RK has always been my favorite choice
Matt, this is one fine looking motorcycle! I'm old school.. well, maybe just old.. In fact all the bikes I had before were all kickstarts, except for one that had electric start. All those older bikes only had one gas cap so forgive me for sounding stupid but can your gas gauge on this bike be removed like a cap to fill the tank? or do you only fill it from the right? thanks.
I dig that you fired it up on the showroom floor. :D
Awesome bike! And as always a great job on the review! Greetings from the Netherlands! Keep up the good work.
Are the bottom frame rails lower to the ground on the special vs the standard?
Thank you, I love the Road King , always road the SE version I am awaiting the CVO version hopefully soon.
Matt, exceptional review. I am in love with this bike. My only reservation is the lack of a few key touring comforts you lose out on by going with the Road King Special as opposed to a Street or Road Glide Special. I know I can add speakers and a windshield. But can I integrate the Boom! Box 6.5GT Radio into this model and somehow enjoy the benefits of that system? Mainly the GPS navigation, Bluetooth connectivity and bike-to-bike communication.
Which Harley Davidson motorcycles handle the best ? I occasionally like to have a blast on a curvy bumpy road .
Michael Gehrke The Roadster is a great handling bike.
Matt Laidlaw these also have a good amount of lean angle.
Nice blacked-out bike!
Can a windshield be added later?
great review as allways Matt, thanks again for your efforts 👍👍👍
what do you think about the bars on the bike comfort wise?
Harley, please bring back charcoal gray denim. This color looks so good on black. 100% agreed that the RKS looks like a million bucks.
another great video matt, gotta love that baldwin park traffic :/
Another solid review, thanks as always Matt! When do you think these will be available to test ride or rent for the day??
Hi Matt, writing you from Spain. Love your videos better than any other Harley reviews. Just about to buy my first Harley and finding it hard to decide, hope you can help me. My choice is between a Road King Special 2017 and a Heritage Classic 2018 (107 engine ... more than enough power for me), both of them offered to me at the same price. I weight about 230 and I´m 6´2´´. The dealer allowed me to test a Heritage with the 114 and a Road King standard with the 107 .... and honestly I liked better the ride on the Heritage (would getting a Sundowner seat for extra comfort) ...I liked it better as an overall ride bike; but highway ride wise the Roadking Special was much more stable and I like the aesthetics of the King a bit better (probably also getting a better seat and windscreen), but the bike was a bit heavy on the front while manoeuvring slow in the city. I´m really interested in having a longer range comfort ride and normally I use more highway and road with wind often present in the area I live. What would be your advice?. Thank you very much
Another great video . Thanks Matt . I'm up here in Vancouver Canada
Hey Matt
thanks for your very comprehensive video, I looked at it with pleasure. I live in Lyon, France, and own a 2016 Ultra limited. I must say I find the looks of the RK special superb. Do you think adding a windshield would really ruin that for long trips?
Thanks again
Ottavio
It's nice to see a dealership that has prices on their bikes. My local dealer won't even give you a price anymore unless you do a "sit down" which means they run your credit and try to make a deal with you. Same thing if you want to test ride any bike. Local dealer has their 2017 Street glide specials at $3k over MSRP. No thanks.
KCMOto Get on facebook and let the world know , I cant stand that either!!
That is one beautiful machine. Very nice review well done.
Very good, informative review. Been on my '09 Road King for several years now, but this 107 has me intrigued.
Just tight. Love the color. Interior black is great for this sporting riders.
What would you suggest on how to lower a roadking for someone who is 5 foot 4?
Another enjoyable video. As always.
Thanks for the great video. How would you compare the ride to the FatBoy S?
I was wondering the same.
Rudy Valdes the ride on this Road King Special is far superior. Most notably at higher speeds like the freeway.
Matt Laidlaw thank you Matt
Excellent job as always!
If the clutch feels stiff. No worries to any potential buyers, had my 1k mi service done, threw some synthetic in there and the clutch feels much easier to pull. Not sure if it was the oil or what but it felt much better.
Food for thought
Matt loved the video I'm really in between the road king and a fat boy I commute an hour away what would you suggest Great job on all your videos I've learned so much
Matt this and the 2018 are very popular yet I haven’t seen anyone over 5-8 happy with any windshield that looks good yet is practical. Have you seen one that fits the bill? Standard Road King windshield is fine but not much aftermarket with the blacked out look for the Special I’ve seen other than the HD Wind Splitter which is no good for those of average height or taller it seems.
Solid work Matt. I'm 6' and 275. I wrecked my 2009 Road King last summer and am looking to replace it. I'm digging the look of this Special and was wondering if the reduction in shock length and the lower profile tires have a super dramatic effect on the ride or was it just subtly more harsh? I don't ride with a passenger. Thanks!
Matt, My intention with the road king is to tour on it. Would you say that the suspension on the road king special is still conducive for that? Or, should I stick with the road king standard? Thanks
Jason Linde yea, you can still tour on it. It's all about priorities. If comfort is your #1 priority then I would go with the standard. However, you can always add some of the comfort items to the special. So if you like the look of the Special then it would probably be more cost effective to upgrade the FLHRXS. But if the looks don't matter to you then save the money and get the FLHR
YEAH, COMFORT FOR TOURING WOULD BE THE PRIORITY ON A ROAD KING. WHAT'S THE PRIORITY IF GETTING THE RXS?
Matt, thanks for your response and opinion. Much appreciated.
Another great review Matt, thanks.
Hey Matt nice video as usual.....can you add the clip on windscreen on this?
Great rundown, as usual.
didn't find the link to the new motor video you mentioned you would leave, Matt. That Road King Special looks bad to the bone! Harley has some great designer on staff, and these recent bike variations show the variety of appeal possible with the HD lineup. The sound was pretty throaty on my subwoofer listening to your review. Beefy but composed, powerful yet contained, .......
Paul DesRoches hmm I left it in a card. I don't know why it wouldn't show up. Check my channel and you'll find it.
Is there a more beautiful stock bike? I don’t think so Tim.
Cool looking bike and as always a great, balanced review.
Hey Matt. What color do you think looks best on that bike from your perspective? Also any input from a re-sale value on color on that bike. Do you think that black, grey may have better appeal than the red and olive?
Thanks for any input and love the videos. Keep them coming. Had I not live so far from you I would love to buy a bike from you.
@matt laidlaw
Fratres Aeterni I personally like the charcoal denim the best. The vivid black probably second. The other two look really nice as well. It's just a beautiful bike man. The hard candy will probably be the least attractive for re-sell. Not many people can get into that type of paint. I personally like it though.
Would look a tad better with a bit more contrast in billet silver like the Road King Custom.
Thinking of trading up my old 09 RK for one of these... I'll just have to add the windshield mounts for LD riding. What a beautiful bike... I just wish they made it in 114.
I'm a heavier guy 5'9 275 and I was looking at this or a Fatboy S. Both of your videos were great would you recommend this bike or the fatboy?
Dude riding without gloves hey I love your rebellious side 👍🏻great color and no chrome best looking so far
Nice ride! I would trade in my LowRider S for the RKS in a heartbeat. Sadly, in Germany, all 2017 Road King Special were sold out after 13 days.. If I would order one now, I would get one at the end of the year..
Great video your videos are the best I'm definitely in the market for one of these!
Amir they are cool motorcycles. You'll like it.
Matt Laidlaw thanks I ride a 1200 sportster right now and it is not comfortable for long trips I'm a bigger guy I definitely need something more bigger and comfortable
Wondering if you can add a detachable windshield ?
Yes you can, hardware is not blacked out, but you can get them blacked many places before you install.
hi just a quick question the red colour for that bike is it a candy apple deep red or a lighter red
Troy Fitzgerald it's like an apple red minus the candy. Then add a really heavy 70's flake to it.
Even though this is to much for me (beginner) i still cant wait to get my first harley. Great video as always matt
Trucker Bam thank you
Thanks for the video. I have been waiting for someone to put one out on this bike. I'm a minimalist and use that word a lot when talking about bikes so I laughed when you said it. I'm short and haven't been interested in a touring bike until this one. I love my XL1200C but it's not great for 2 up long trips. That Road King Special would look perfect next to it in my garage...hmmm...
I’m in the market for a road king special. Do you think that Harley will offer the 114 in the road king in the future?
Hi Matt. This bike has other shocks than the normal Road king. Is it possible to install normal Road king shocks on this bike? Are the riding characteristics then the same between the two bikes?
+Yvonne Graaf Yes and Yes. It's the same frame. The rear wheel is two inches larger which affects the ride a bit but yes they will ride very comparable.
Will it be possible to add front windshield - maybe the smoke shield like on the 13-14CVO RK?
gorgesswg yes. You'll be able to add a windshield.
Matt, have you done a video like this for the 2018 Road King Special? If not, would you? I'm thinking about making this a purchase option. Thanks for a ll the great content you provide!
Different colours...
Matt I ride a heritage now but I'm already looking for my next bike in 2 years. What are your thoughts on this bike compared to the heritage. I do a fair amount of 2 up riding and my wife is 140 pounds and I'm 200
You do a great job I am up near sf but would consider buying my next harley from you. It is so great how you discuss bike fit and which bike is appropriate for the rider. Harley dealers could learn a lot from you.
I raced a road King special against a stage two street glide (also with the Milwaukee 8). He pulled on me way harder! Can't wait to trade my G-SXR 600 for the Road King special although money might be tight.... the Stage upgrades might come a bit slow ;)