2018 Harley-Davidson Softail Fat Bob Review | MC Commute
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- Опубліковано 26 жов 2017
- It’s another commute with Zack! As usual, please feel free to suggest a bike you want to see featured here. If we get enough comments, we’ll send him home on that one next.
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It’s no secret we’re always trying to get our staff to work a little harder. Especially the ones that always seem to have too much to say. “Write it down!” we always shout at each other. Zack Courts is a classic case, always arriving to office after his commute with a bunch of opinions about the bike he’s riding. Too much this, not enough that, and occasionally has some decent insights that we thought might help consumers or entertain enthusiasts. So we strapped a camera and microphone to his helmet and told him to turn it on when he leaves his house. A lot of him talking in his helmet is complaining about drivers, yelling at red lights, and wondering why billboards aren’t more expensive. But sometimes he actually talks about the bike, and those are the parts we keep. Got a bike you would like to see discussed? Let us know and we’ll send him home on that one next.
Full story here: www.motorcyclistonline.com/mc...
This bike by the numbers:
Base Price: $16,999
Displacement: 1753cc (107ci)
Measured Wet Weight: 675 lbs. (306 kg)
Fuel Capacity: 3.6 gal. (13.6 liters)
Seat Height: 28 in. (711 mm)
Measured Power: 72 @ 4620 rpm
Measured Torque: 100 lb.-ft. @ 2200 rpm
For a full rundown on the 2018 Softail models, check out: www.cycleworld.com/harley-dav...
For a video of the dyno run and a graph of power, go to: www.cycleworld.com/2018-harle...
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To be honest, it's not a bad bike, it just shouldn't cost that much.
12k is max imo. 17k no thanks
How much is it?
Exactly
Why? There are premium finishes and materials used all over this bike. Most of what you find on this Harley will be a metal of some type when those same features are usually plastic on the bikes you are referring to. It's true that you aren't getting traction control and an upgraded display/electronics like cruise control and rider modes (and that is literally all you could be talking about) but you are getting metal...everywhere. All about what is important to you I guess. I could really care less if I have the ability to switch between "urban" and "sport" and if my speed limit is digitally presented. Who cares as long as I can see how fast I'm going. However, when I touch my bike it's nice for it to not feel like a toy. I get it though, people are used to items being throw away quality. Nobody expects anything to last any significant amount of time these days. Most of our goods are produced as cheap as possible (although they look great at first) and then consumers just toss them when done.
@@suburbanhobbyist2752 All the things you have listed also apply for other bikes like the Indian cruisers or the "Harley stile" bikes from Japanese manufacturers. But they are all Cheaper. At least here in Germany Harleys are more expensive Because they are Harleys not because they are bedder than comparable Bikes.
A great bike! Just love it. Thanks for the vlog!
It’s a Great bike. I Love mine. I’ve been lucky to have owned quite a few Harley’s over the years, loved them all and still do. But this one does it for me I love it soooo much. Well done Harley this is the all in one Harley Davidson, Fun, Fast, Looks Ace, Handles Great, So comfy it’s got it all. It’s my every day Harley. Some people don’t like the change but what I say is You love your choice of Harley and I love mine This One. Each to there own. Ride One.
FAST?????
How is it for long range trips? Wind? Gas mileage? Seating?
“Look out society, I’m riding a Harley Davidson” 😂 Great review.
Love the turn signal buttons on my HD's One of my favourite features coming off an Aprilia.
Hey Zack!!! You rock brother... Give Got me addicted to MC Commute... I admire your style of crazy, funny, intelligent rant... All the best guys!!!
YEEEEEEEEESSSS, I'M saving this one for Saturday breakfast, it's gonna be fun.
Harely Davidson, the only company that people will watch a 14 minute video on. Simply to write hate comments about 😂😂.
Same with 🍏
Is it really a surprise that everyone hates pretentious douche-bags? We need to make sure they know they aren't welcome in society because they're stupid and suck.
Ha! I love the HD blinker system. Love the look of the Fat Bob too, demo'd a 114 and thought it was pretty sweet.
Glad to see a fair and honest opinion of the bike according to you the rider. Appreciate your insight.
New H-D marketing slogan at 11:23 : "The Fat Bob: It Beats Walking."
Gecko Lux does it though?
Whenever I see a rev counter on a chopper/custom/cruiser bike, especially Harleys, I think "Wow! They've gone modern!". Excellent video, guys!
The reason the gauge is on the tank is so you can run any bar, fairing, even front end you want.
Torque is what you feel when you accelerate. The pull... Horse power is the product of torque and RPM, mechanical work. So 100 for torque is just a massive feel of power, no matter the gear or speed -considering legal speed limits.
Thanks for the review.
I love MC Commute- always very entertaining and informative. Even (especially) with bikes I'm not interested in.
I agree on the blinker comment. I always turn my blinkers back on after they’ve auto-cancelled 🤣
I like the look with the new headlight. Does the stock headlight work well at night -- both far enough ahead and wide enough for cornering?
The blinkers are great! 10,000 on mine and very happy with it.
Blinkers: Will Shut Off automatically even in straight line after short time, so you simply never have to worry about them and keep on looking at the trafic. Having started with this type of system it was the opposite for me having to get used to remembering to SHUT them off on my then new 2016 Africa Twin and having to look down to be sure I did not forget them! Eventually you get used to either method - simply muscle memory in action eh! Good honest review by the way +1 on louder pipes :)
Peter Brophy True, great point. I'd still prefer a bike with the normal left thumb control that cancel on their own though. My Vmax will cancel them after so many feet or something like that, but doesn't have the weird controls haha.
first time i've test rode a Harley i've found them very intuitive and easy to operate. Second best was BMW but with stupid canceling button.
I would be curious to see the dyno after pipes and a tune. and again after the HP cam.
I really dig your vids, thanks!! Have you guys ever done a ride review of a recent year Yamaha Vmax? Like 2012 and newer? Curious of your thoughts.
So true about the signals !!!
Great video.
I did the fatbob thing for 25,000 miles it was fun to a point on flowing sections of road i would ride with my feet on the rear foot pegs to improve my center of gravity it helped a lot it served me well but had many flaws once it was out of warranty i moved on . The decision was made very easy by the poor after sales service i got from my dealer. I think a lot of viewers would might like to see some entry level bikes on the commute. I am patiently waiting waiting for the Z900RS to hit town.
Hey Zack, horsepower is nothing more than an equation of torque and distance (distance in a motor is rpm). This is why a bike like a Harley doesn't produce high horsepower numbers, they just don't turn the revs. Great videos! Love every one!!
Thank you for a great perspective. So, looks like everyone tend to compare it to X-Diavel or something, but for me the question would be how it would compare to a Triumph Rocket III. Any thoughts? Thank you.
REPLY
The best bike is the bike that puts a smile on your face. Biggest smile is the winner. It's pretty simple. Thanks for the review😁
Go and wash your mouth out with soap for talking sense on a social media platform. What are you thinking Man!
How would a 5’7” flare in this? Would u recommend?
I recently got a Sportster and I fully agree with the blinker spiel. I'm used to the separate controls by now, but half the time I'm still turning the signals back on when I try to cancel. It's a pain in the ass to check every time you make a turn, but it's what you gotta do.
I ride a 2017 soft tail slim s I have the same Issue on the blinkers as well I don’t understand why they have auto cancel on there
What size aerostich do you wear, did you have any special tailoring done?
When looking at HP/TQ numbers a good rule of thumb is the closer the two numbers are the harder the engine is working to turn the crank. When the HP is lower than torque (like some diesel motors) the motor is "working really hard".
Im with you on the blinkers. I rode my buddy's harley and every time i have to check to see if its off or on by cupping the blinker so i can see it blink. Im also huge on canceling the signal. I just finished riding scooters for many years. My recent scoot had a loud audible click relay. Man was that nice!
“...Harley Davidson...beats walking...”
Says a walker
Zack -- I've taken to watching your older stuff 'cause I've missed ya', bro'!
Good review. After an adjustment period I got used to the blinkers. I always cancel them before they auto cancel. You get used to it and I after awhile I never look down to see if it cancelled anymore as it does. Personal preference but you do get used to it.
Did they fix the ignition keys being put next to the engine on Harleys yet?
I love the bars. Totally flat like my MT-01. A bit flat tracker-esque.
Indicators: I prefer a switch on each end. Reminds me of my R1100GS. Works well.
I like this bike apart from the excessive weight and feet-forward stance. My MT-01 weighhs 265 kg wet and tanked up. It produces 89 bhp and 110 ft/lb at 3,750 rpm (crank figures). It will see any sports bike off at the lights.
Excellent video.
Im glad to see this review from you
Regarding turn lights switches, I think H-D does the best ones ever, especially the autocancelling that works perfectly. Great bike overall 👍 Thanks for your video
Nice and chunky, rugged-looking bike, I like it
How are you achieving this great sound quality and helmet mounted action cam?
is it a fish eye thingy from the wide angle lens or the fork is bend...
Backing it in is my favorite part of your ride to work.
Question for the next MC Garage: 70 hp from 1800cc? Are they using cigarette lighters for sparkplugs and a wooden crankshaft or something?
Lars van de Velde 2 large rats.
Seriously. I know they're 'torquey' but my Tuono has a HUNDRED more hp and only 10% less torque. Weighs 200 lbs less. Has Top-spec brakes and suspension. Abs, tcs, corner abs, wheelie control, cruise control, tft display... the list goes on. FOR THE SAME PRICE. I don't 'hate' this Harley. But it needs to be $10-11k
RoadRunner Tuono's an awesome bike.
The worst part is they actually can make less crappy engines. Their 750 is by no means show stopping, but it isn't this bad.
Actually only has 2 less horsies.
BillyJoe1305 it's always been an American thing, compare muscle cars to European cars from the same era, same power outputs, but much smaller engines in Europe...
I test rode the 114 Fxfb yesterday and I thought it was really fun! Big clunky noisy experience
Well , I figure you made some good points.
I like the old BMW indicators which had the buttons on either side of te handlebars but had the separate cancel button on the right side.
The hole M8 NEWLINE up is AMAZING HARLEY WILL LIVE on for ALONG time to come
Any chance of doing the The commute on the Motus?
"watching the Toyota Highlanders go by" .....I had to laugh out loud :)
I'll race you any day for pink slips-------BOZO.
Had my Sportster 17 years and love the engine. But never get used to the indicators and they self cancel at the wrong time quite often. It has been a very reliable bike though, perhaps I got a good one :-)
Rob Edmunds evo was always a solid motor.
Agreed on the indicator control. Hate the fact you also have to sometimes loosen right hand grip to reach the button.. just ruins the throttle control.
which one is to have 107 or 114 cc?
What's the engine braking like on this bike?
Test road this one back in Sep and loved it. But I ride a Drz400sm sooo 2 completely different bikes. Still leaning towards the Fj09 or even the Yamaha Striker
What's with the scrabmbler exhaust?
What did they do to the headlamp???????????
Do you think its a good beginners bike for someone who has never ridden a motorcycle before and I am going to take my msf motorcycle course soon
No. Great big giant No.
Why is the torture so high and hp so low, can it be tuned to have higher hp
Solid bike for people who like low end grunt - and decent looking. I was not a big fan of the cruiser riding position (mainly because it gets uncomfortable over 65 or so unless you have a lot of air control) but I do enjoy the off the line grunt of big cruisers. You have to watch them off the line or they'll walk away from you (up to 30-40 or so).
Any particular reason why the front blinkers are set on different angles? XD
Harley
The blinker auto cancels at a certain degree of lean. If you're changing lanes then you would have to cancel the blinker on your own. If you make a right turn or left turn then the blinker auto cancels. FYI
Wow so many people don't understand torque curves and powerbands, or the main difference between sport bikes & cruisers. Maybe you should just try riding the bike than picking and choosing from a spec sheet that you don't even understand. Two different riding styles for two different goals.
and what is the torque goal? not trolling really interesting btw
RedboRF you need to google the difference to understand what they both are
RedboRF torque is the actual rotation force produced by the engine measured at the crank or rear wheel. Horsepower is a figure calculated by multiplying the measured torque by the rpm the torque was measure at, then dividing that number by 5252. Engine design and power bands are basically determined by how the motorcycle is to be ridden. High torque low in the rev range for cruisers at one end, and high horsepower high in the rev range for sport bikes at the other with a bunch of options in between. That isn't set in stone, but should get you going in the right direction to figure the rest out.
Yeah, but this is the only cruiser that puts that low amount of power with that big of an engine. Triumph and Indian produce more power with much smaller engines and they have torque too.
@@RaghunandanReddyC not as much torque. Trust me. I have the scout and a 103 twin cam street bob.
The indian produces a lot of power up at higher speeds/rpms
But the harley can pass cars like nothing at regular traffic speeds. My indian cant do that unless im in at like 4000rpm.
Basically riding in 1st gear with the engine screaming.
What's the cheapest/smallest displacement bike that would beat this Milwaukee Eight Harley 0-60? Would it be the SV650/FZ07 or do you think the Ninja 300 could do it?
rckev224
Definitely a 300 can beat this. 300s are 250 pounds lighter.
Bike looks cool!
Good review!
Never been an HD guy but I won a used Heritage Softail Classic and kept it about a year. The exhaust was embarrassingly loud. Otherwise I really enjoyed the ride and it was the only bike I could get my wife on.
What bikes would you buy? Looking for something fun to ride around on...NC700X DCT, CB500F, or what? Open to Suggestions..what do you like Zack?
You've got to do the Triumph Speed Triple again with better road conditions.
Thanks!
Well, after doing my research on Harley's with the 103, 107, 110 & the 114... I was looking for a good handling for what it is, powerful... Especially torque, with slightly less vibration that has newer tech like available cruise control, ABS, digital readouts in the instrument cluster, full LED lighting, and great looks... I have decided to buy a low mile 2019-2021 H-D Fat Bob 114 for next spring. I wouldn't mind a 107 either, but the 114 doesn't cost much more, so that's my choice. I'm glad that's over with lol... It look me like two weeks to decide...
FZ-07 Commute?
Holy shit man, really making a mountain out of a molehill with those turn signals. Owning a HD and a sportbike I'll take the cruiser turn signals. It makes more sense to me, and the auto-cancelling is fantastic.
Iscariot18 how does it make more sense when he outlined the reason it doesn’t make sense? The brake and throttle are on the right handle bar and the left just has the clutch. Also there should be a way to cancel the signal without turning it back on if it auto cancels. There’s a reason why nearly every other motorcycle does it that way.
The way to use the right blinker on a Harley is to reach over with your left hand and use the left thumb - that way you can continue throttling with your right hand without interruption, and your left hand has something to do. It’s like when you play the piano and cross over with the left hand to play notes to the right of the right hand. This has to do with the musical nature of Harley engines.
You gotta try the Sport Glide! It has wind protection, at least.
You CAN cancel a right blinker with your left thumb, two quick touches with your left thumb. Plenty of other bikes besides Harley have self canceling blinks
"As usual, please feel free to suggest a bike you want to see featured here." Anything Zach is riding is worth a watch! Thanks Zach, like the commentary, love your skills. You should do a ride to work with Ari!!! Ride to work together, with your editing chops, I'm sure it could be top notch!!! Keep up the great work Motorcyclist! Thank you. Thank you. Kind of like the Indian/Harley's in Vegas, Eclipse hunting! But do the split video style, cut to whom is speaking while coming to the office!
The VROD, that's the cruiser for us sport bike guys.
The FXR was pretty good, I hear.
How about ridding the Suzuki boulevard M109R?
Yay 😊 finally the new 2018 Harley Davidson Fat Bob
I always thought a Hardly-Darlington was the ideal bike.....until I owned two. Dull. Great test though :)
Get a V-Rod!
Psh.. did you do any engine modifications to your two harleys? Because if youve ever ridden a harley with a stage 2 cam or stage 4 kit, youd be deleting this uneducated comment lol
@@micahvelli_236 said the man in my mirrors lol
I rode pretty much the full line of new Milwaukee * bikes at a corporate Harley event at a local dealership. the engines are definitely fun but I couldn't get over the awful transmissions. Add to that the wooden brakes and mushy lifeless suspensions on all but a couple of them and I can see why they have a hard time attracting new riders. I sowed up ready to add a cruiser to the (almost full) garage but couldn't find one that wasn't embarrassingly under-engineered. Yamaha's cruisers are a massive improvement over Harleys but I want to ride the big Moto Guzzi before I decide.
Hey Zack! Get a big Guzzi 1400 one day for your commute :)
Alberto Knox should've rode the FXDLS, unfortunately they discontinued it :-(
Though they seem rough, Harley-Davidson transmissions are bullet proof...
How bout testing a VROD on MC Commute?
Pipes!!! Yes, pipes are a must!!! Should come with Screaming Eagle or Vance & Hines option.
I've rode this bike and the Softail Slim recently and they were the first Harley-Davidsons that I actually truly wholly enjoyed. You can poke fun at the numbers, but the Milwaukee Eight is certainly an engine that screams "I am finally moving forward with the times." And that's really what Harley-Davidson is trying to do with this year's models. Their demographic is *dying* and they need to cater to a younger market. I think they're taking a step in the right direction. I know everyone in their arm chairs gives HD all of the crap in the world, but seriously, go try one of these bikes. I'm not gonna say they're the best thing since sliced bread and they're maybe not a $16,000 kind of nice, but they are most positively very interesting and pleasant motorcycles to ride.
Oh great another MC Commute!
Oh weird it's a Harley.... I wonder how the comments are? Oh.... cancer.
I love Harley’s blinker controls
Would love one about the new Goldwing!
This video sums up the thoughts of most 25-30 year old's thoughts. I am 29, I owned a hd once..when I was much younger, went back to more sport bikes. I now am over that, looking for more of a cruiser again, but every time I think about getting a hd again, the low HP, high cost, and many options always make me look else ware. Probably the reason why hd is struggling. The people my age the COULD afford the cost of a new bike, end up buying something else..
Have to ask did you get one
Nice video, Zack. Why not try out the cheaper stripped down street bob? I wonder how you'd like the character of that.
For blinkers it is not a big problem at all when you use it a few days. In fact autoancel is super. You only push the button once and then forget
Top vid 👍
A bike like that at that price shouldn't sound like a sewing machine 😏
HD engines are excellent. They don't generate a lot of horsepower, by design. They're designed to produce lots of torque, over a wide but low RPM band. That "power shape" is great for cruising. You guys are used to peaky crotch rocket engines that spin up to 10K, a completely different "power shape" that is great for racing.
#blinkerrant :-)
I like the new Fat Bobs, they sure do look nice but I agree, I wouldn't choose it over other options. Zack I'd love to see a Commute on the new Honda CB650F!
Liquid cooling?
Love your little comments, man "Lost a little bit of fat, the Bob" :D:D
The headlight is my least favorite part of that motorcycle. However, I do agree that it does look like Bender Bending Rodriguez. :D
yeah but tbh with a top speed of 110..you can comfortably cruise at 90 on this np. that's really all that matters. if you can cruise at highway speeds quickly and comfortably, the horse power doesn't matter. the torque more than makes up for it
I got motion sickness watching this time. Had a few good laughs though.
If it's Harley you are used to this is a Quantum Leap.....I don't know if that's a backhanded compliment or what...but I'd ride it!
Would love to see ducati diavel on MC Commute
The XDiavel is in my opinion a fantastic ride for a cruiser. It's very expensive though.