I’m still riding my 1984 evo softail, my dad bought it in 1986. I was 16 years old. Now I own it!! I think about my dad every time I ride it!! Rip dad, I miss you everyday!!
I have a 98’ Herritage Springer 95th anniversary edition that belong to my brother whom recently passed away. He had the bike for over 25 years till his death and now I have it. I am honored to have it…he loved this bike more than anything, stayed with him through a couple divorces and his last wife said she knew my brother would have wanted me to have it… It hadn’t ran in years, he was dying of cancer. I spent six hours on Sunday cleaning out the carburetor and tanks, replaced the battery and got her running again. Really like the sound of the carburetor idle versus my 2019 Road King Special with 114 fuel injection system. I miss my brother and will take care of his bike till my turn comes and I’m dead… At 35:29 he showed the white Heritage Springer, very first year it was introduced, my brother’s was the very next year, It’s dark brownish purple color with gold/tan lines. He chromed out the entire bike, also added screamin eagle six speed transmission, sprockets after he had the engine rebuilt and replaced all factory parts with SS parts, oil pump, cam, cylinder heads.
That’s awesome that you get to ride with your pop every time you take it out. You have one of my bucket list bikes. Last of the kick starts. Cherish it well.
@@MattLaidlaw not a Harley family ( dad still remembered AMF era and his entire lifetime after refusing to ride/buy use-made bike's after his CIA/army service/nam-94 experience with giving rides/help to his bunk-mates-ect and also wouldn't let one be parked in his driveway, my uncle/family's-friend's almost got kicked off and or had to explain he was on a shadow-model 2012~ lolz ) as my ww2 gramp's road a import look-a-like's* ( last one pre-RIP ( left in 2014~RIP ) 50K+miles odometer ( before being sold/inherence/junkyard'd-out ) was a 2004~ kasasky 3G~tank in white and green/flake painting with a sisy-bar+cop-screen ( cop-spec no-bagger knock-off ) for his luggage/jackson-wy&Florida&Nevada/California* runs ) aka not a café/crochet-rockets ( he did have the 4 cylinder model for ~1970's~ that was listed as fastest USA ( and or he snuck out of japan during his airman/navy/maintenance service ) produced/sold at the time, sorry forgot the models-name but is looked a lot like a typical cruising-themed ) and dad's/siblings are/were gold-wing's like GL1800 2L-automatic*? aka yellow-bird models ( one uncle had matching outfits ect for 2002-09~ era ) 1980-2014 years dad's was late-80's pre-93~ as mom made him sell it but after my used KX125/high-school ( sold for my 2000's-16 era wedding-ring, dad's ending up as the family's mid-90's/2000's table lolz ) i got/have the itch, and i like the v6 ( big-block and or boosted models, 440/426hemi platform v8 as much as i like the idea of all-ally indy-engine its to unwieldy for a 1930-80's frame-them'd and to hot as your sitting on top of it ect ) boss-hoss ?LLC? and vallcory/runn aka basically the Honda's crome'd-healthy ( not a primer'd/rustic/murdered out typical types but also that might have something to do with my housing preferences ie i like pre-1920's/Victorian's like 90's Siberia tv-house shown in the first/opening and gingerbread'd, vs someone else's likes of mid century-modern/brutalist themed homes's-ect ) 1950's themed usa cruising bike's and my pick in the video is the 09~ chopper's ( or 4cly indian/crocker-LLC/Harley-seat-spring retro styling types or smoothies-seating vs fat-tire/fender custom-ish look, sorry not a springer front unless it's a 1930~ themed bike like tasseled 4cly ( shaft-drive?'ed and or there was a model of it? ) indy's had ) big-tank/9G~ essence ( buddy had a 80's Harley carb'd-etc ( on bike's/sleds definitely skipping out/pass-hassles on carbs/dizzy's, my concord-class/race-car mag's and mechanical-injection some times get a pass ) and smaller tank/2G~ i don't like the look and or we agree with more gas ( or for me a well done BEV but the livewire and others so-far haven't hit that itch yet for well done cruising-themed yet, the enduro's some are so-so for me look's wise as my local aria's don't have as many ev-dealership's ( or manufactures like BMW-bike's ) yet and or Utah/Idaho priories's gasoline/LPG powered... ) is a welcoming as were not planning on racing, that's what my 69charger is occasionally for after doing daily-drive and or family-duty's ) that sure maybe you didn't like the flotilla-seat/convertible but i do, also some 2-wheeled aero'd motorised models with canopy's ( some retract for convenience/convertible vibe's and or open air motorcycle feeling, and giro's/self-balancing program-ect and setup for extreme-MPG and or MPH ) and cushy interior ( steering is done with a joystick or lever not handle-bars as it's a more relaxed ergonomics-ect ) more so as Hemet-ect not necessary and or raining and or quick drive to work or eggs/milk-ect next would be a enduros themed-models ( not Harleys/Indiana-ect game in my opinions and or not good at it, as there road-going branding-ect, yes usa struggie's SD use to hold to yearly hill-climb but that's a lot like pikes was pre-paved running and not like motoX or baha-1000 or dacar is ect or like some motorcycle rock-crawling events that im not talented enough for and never will become ) only because my off-roading/KX 1994~ isn't legal/pain to getting into the trail's and or i don't have a trailer+space ect anyways thanks for educating me on the other options of model's
My first H-D was a black & gold 2005 Fatboy. Got it from the military exchange when I was deployed to S.E. Asia during the Iraq war. I served 20 years in the Air Force. I really loved that bike but had to sell it for the family. Cheers from North Pole, Alaska! 🇺🇸🎅🏻🎄
Well since no one is talking about the Deuce. I wanted one when it come out, so last year I purchased (for my 75th Birthday) my very first electric start Harley and I love it. Long live the Deuce!
Sales manager in the 90's and the only Softail that didn't have a long line of folks waiting for it was the "Bad Boy." Chrome was king and the Motor Companies first "bobber" didn't hit. Good work, thank's for sharing.
The Sport Glide was a bike that was so close to near perfection, it just needs floorboards and a taller windshield. I love my sport glide with those mods
Great riding bike. Might as well of not had a fairing at all unless you change the windshield. If you do, however, it can be a lot better. Still the style is WAY OFF. Just my opinion.
love my sport glide & first thing i did was get rid of the fairing... so ugly & "gay", handles great, stage 2 helps as well, dechrome some, heaps of positive comments
I bought my first Harley in 2018 and it was the Heritage. The look was everything i thought a Harley was. Still have it. This was an excellent recap of the softtail.
Was worried for a bit but then thrilled to see my beloved Night Train ranked so well. Personally own an 03 and while I’d love the newer six speed, having that 100th anniversary badge is a bit special. And my train is as blacked out as can be, topped of with black Straight risers with a black flat drag bar. No one believes it’s a 21 year old bike when they see it. Keep the awesome content coming Matt!
I wish so bad that Harley would produce a “real” modern softail standard. I love the look of the original softail standard, buckhorn bars, pillow seats, tall sissy bar, the whole deal. The softail standard we have today looks terrible, besides being impractical with the ridiculous 3.5 gallon tank. Harley, produce a real softail standard please, and don’t price it to the moon.
100% agree, the present model looks like crap ,the 84 Softail Standard was one of their best looking bikes ,they have gone down hill with crap styling ,crap color schemes ,black engines ,
So build what you want to see. It ain't hard. There was a time when bikers didn't choose to be helpless and it's no coincidence the ideas Willie G adopter were proven outside the company. There's no easier motorcycle to customize or have modified. If you build one you can ditch the complex electronics and everything else annoying about new machines and by picking the parts get a considerably better motorcycle practical to ride for life.
@@trailruntim Different wheels bolt right back on then you can sell the stock wheels. If you wait until a tire change you can mount tires on whatever spoked wheels you prefer and do the swap easily at home.
@obfuscated3090 I don't know who you are talking to, but your "choosing to be helpless" comment is unnecessary. My point is that Harley produced a bike called the Softail standard, but it doesn't look like a Softail standard. I know customizing a bike is possible.
I’ve said it before and will again: Matt, you’re the go-to man for HD info. You do your Dad and Grandpa proud by continuing the Laidlaw lineage. I’ve relied on some of your previous videos when riding touring class for the last decade. Because of age, I stepped (what I originally thought was down) up and went with an FLHCS last summer. Hands down the most nimble handling; best power to weight ratio bike I’ve ever owned. Thanks for a great Softail Summary video! 👍🍻
As a 2023 Sport Glide owner I think your comments on this bike were a little harsh, but I guess they are made with an American perspective. The Sport Glide is, however, ideally suited to the twisty roads and lanes that we have in the U.K. hence it’s continuing popularity here and in Europe as well.
I do know it’s very popular in the UK and Other parts of Europe. Like I said the bike is really good. I just think the naming and the fairing were a miss. Yes, I can be passionate about my Harley-Davidson feelings.
@@MattLaidlaw Thanks for your reply Matt, from the comments it seems lots of people (like me) have rushed to the defence of the Sport Glide!😄 Love your videos, especially the tours, keep up the good work!
They are made with Matt's Southern California perspective. Obviously he felt it worthy to convert into a Coast Glide. Which HD then basically copied most of for the LRST. Ironically, a 2018 Sport Glide should have been a 115th Anniversary Edition.
I took a second job to get my 08 Night Train, I bought it in 2011. It only had 91 miles on it, and it had never been titled. Awesome bike, I would like to get a 2004 Night Train…
HOW DARE YOU MATT! The sport glide is the underdog. Now everyone wants the LRST but before that we were putting a memories shades on the sport glide and making them cool and versatile. I’m personally offended 😂
I've already put 60,000 comfortable kms (37,000 mi) on my 2022 Heritage. 4 1/2 inch travel on the rear and 5 1/2 on the front. Never bottoms out. Good ground clearance. Have done off road moto camping with my BMW buddies with no issues on the dirt. I also think it's one of the easiest bikes to ride for a 70 year old fella like myself. I plan on riding this thing till I can't ride no more!
How I feel about my 2023 Road Glide. Put 25k miles on it in one year. Got a 124 top end build done at 15k miles. Bike has 27k on it now. Going in for a built bottom end and a few other things to bulletproof it a bit. I plan to keep that bike for the rest of my life it’s the best bike I’ve ever ridden or owned. I do love my road kings tho. Have had a 2019 before the RG.. Have an older one now .. a 2008 with cams and some 16” Carlini bars .. sometimes I just want to ride a regular motorcycle. The RG is more like a space ship
I have a 19 sport glide, absolutely love it, can't understand what your saying yes I agree with the fairing that's it. I club styled my sport glide, it's unbelievable machine. Best Harley ever , that's right, ever made in my opinion. And a number 1 sold Harley in Europe.
I have a 2023 Heritage Anniversary and she currently has a Stage 1 which woke the 114 motor up... The "fit and finish" is beyond amazing... The paint .. PHENOMENAL... The 120 Anniversary paint on this "New American Classic" sets the bar high for future Harley "Classics" but I am sure the Motor company can and will achieve it.... just need a new CEO...
Those that own them, fully appreciate them, and there's a lot of us out there. Just look at all the comments! I think in Matt's region of So Cal, they missed the mark a bit with some customers.
If the sport glide didn't sell a lot, if you keep it all stock and keep good care of it for 15 or 20 years.That bike will be worth a s*** ton of money someday.It will be very desirable because not many were sold
Matt, Harley made around 330 FLH shovels in 1985. No Softail was ever powered by a shovel however, in the 1985 model year, they made three, EVO powered, four speed bikes based on a modified twin shock shovelhead chassis. The EVO powered Super Glide, Lowrider and Wide Glide models were probably a backup plan, if the new Softail bombed in the market. For 1986 the Wide Glide was the last of the kick start, four speed bikes available.
Correct. I own a factory produced 1985 Super Glide which is all shovelhead running gear with an EVO engine and four speed transmission. Great machine which I have enjoyed riding for the last 26 years all around Australia. Together with the Low Rider and Wide Glide versions they are rare models and modern Harley riders mistakenly think they are Dynas. However, a factory manufactured shovelhead in a softail frame would be the holy grail for Harley collectors and I have never heard of one.
That was the bike I wanted for years , ended up settling for a 06 night train when my money got right ( damn the luck).. still have it too ( 87,000+ miles later)
When the motor company resurrected the FXRT's name plate, "Sport Glide," they should've put the fairing that's on the Low Rider ST on it instead of that detachable mini batwing fairing. I believe it would've gone a lot further. After refusing to black out the Fat Boy (with the exception of the 30th anniversary edition), and putting on that ugly, square, headlamp bezel, the Sport Glide was my only favorite bike in the new Softail frame lineup. Talk about wasted potential. Those tuning fork wheels weren't that bad.
Nice lineup, Matt. It’s me again from aebleskiver-country, Denmark. I’ve got the Sport Glide - and I love it. Even the fairing and the wheels. In my eyes, it is spot on. I obey your view in terms of f…ing with the history. But that aside, it is a nimble ride with a bunch of versatility. At the end of the day, we all get out, and live the HD dream. Keep up the good content Matt. When I hit SoCal some time soon, I’ll make sure to visit you guys
As a nightrain owner, HD building an icon collection would be pretty cool. Like you say each to your own, I appreciate all bikes….but a nightrain is the bad mofo bike! The grandpa of the breakout! IMO a better rear guard than the Deuce! Love your videos Matt, from Australia 🇦🇺
I (was) an aussie owner of a 2008 Night Train, just blacked out a bit more than stock, lowered rear. Bought it in 2013 and had it for nearly ten years before trading in on Lowrider ST ( Black) in 2023 It was THE black bike and I miss it dearly. I had an 2010 iron 883 before that so have always liked the blacked out bikes. A Night Train Icon bike would be something. I always said if they did a Night Train version of current softails, I'd seriously consider it. Loved the rear guard as well.
Agreed. I’ve got a super blacked out anniversary edition Night Train that gets a lot of compliments. From “looks like a factory badass chopper” to “there’s no way that bike is 21 years old “.
@@MattLaidlaw The current crop of idiots at Harley Davidson would just screw up any revival of the Night Train. And as the owner of a vivid black 2007 Night Train, that would really piss me off.
I think anybody wanting to learn about the Softail range needs to see this video. Matt does a great job bringing the history into the narrative. I believe you nailed it Matt! So hard to pick a number one Softail from the line up. However, given your scoring criteria, one would have to agree with you for choosing the Heritage. That said, here's my weird thoughts. My favourite Harley is the Fat Boy, but the one I would 'buy', is the Softail Deluxe in all its nostalgic glory. ( I own a 2020 Pearl White M8 Deluxe ) Reckon I need to also buy a Fat Boy, one day.
Love your histories Matt. As a Johnnie come Lately to Harley(2017 - no one rode in my family) I've watched every video of yours numerous times(what an education). That said this is one of your very better videos. My fav bike is the Heritage Classic modeled after Jamie's blue Heritage. Had a zipper cam added so it does 112 HP and max 137 foot lbs of Torque with a dyno tune. Bike rocks. Thanks for all you do!
An other GREAT presentation Matt! Your delivery is second to none. Love the clips of Caplan & Todd too. I still think Laidlaw should be Milwaukee's West Coast official showroom.
Excellent review!! Got to say, in my personal opinion, you nailed it with your top choices…I rode other brand bikes for a couple decades until I woke up and got a Heritage…I’ve been a very happy Harley rider ever since. Thanks Matt…you do a great job with your videos but I think the best ones are your histories. 👍👍
Hey Matt, as a sport glide owner I agree HD missed a trick with the mini batwing fairing and it should have the ST fairing on instead, everything else I love about it. That’s why I’m doing my very own coast glide with it this winter… it’s going to get the fairing it was always meant to have! Watch this space!!! Great history lesson on all the others too well done
You have a good eye, Matt. Have been riding Softails since ‘99 and have no qualms with your list. Fact is, everything you said about the ST springer rings true out here in the Great Plains. Been listening to it for years.😊
I had an FXDR and that bike got more looks and more compliments than any Harley I ever had and way more attention than any of my friends Harleys. It did handle like garbage though.
I don’t agree on the sportglide it depends really on the market, in Europe with they’re nimble streets in the alps the sportglide does a great job, thats why i chose it.
Great video ! My favorite 3 softails all fall within your top 5 - the Deluxe, the Fat Boy, and the Heritage. Recently saw a Heritage without the windshield and bags, and with whitewalls and Fatboy handlebars. It looked absolutely awesome. Gotta say, though, the Fatboy is my all time favorite - the pre-2018 versions, that is.
Absolutely loved my sport glide. Fantastic all around bike and perfect with the forward controls. The Low Rider ST didn’t do it for me. I debated trading in my sport glide until I rode the low rider st
I bought my first Heritage new in 2023. It's by far my favorite Harley to ride. It's a great bike for overnighters. I have a 13 Street glide that just sits in the garage now.
Strong argument regarding the Sport Glide, though I love the way that bike rides. I've never owned one but experienced it on a DEMO day. As always thanks for the great content from a true Harley Purist. It is very much appreciated!
You realize he's 91, just 10 years older than the average Harley owner? If you want one, start looking at the used market. There soon there will be 3,000,000 bikes on the market as Boomers quit or die.
Great list Matt. You got number 1 exactly right. I’ve owned a 2000 and 2018 Heritage. Went to a 2021 Street Glide in 2021. Owned the street Glide for 13 months and traded it for a 2022 Heritage. I love the Heritage and will never own anything else.
Excellent job as always, Matt! I had a 2000 Heritage, a couple bikes briefly in between, and now a 2012 Heritage. For a single medium-sized rider, it can't be beat.
Great video! Love the History. I actually traded my 2018 Roadglide Ultra for a 2024 Heritage Softail Classic. I rode a softail custom and an evo fatboy for years and when I bought the Roadglide Ultra I missed just being behind some chrome bars and lights and that more raw feel. The Fltru is a great bike but I never used the radio or the navigation anyway. I decided I prefer the basics. These newer softails with the M8 and the new frame are Awesome!
I wish you would have included the Blackline. It’s such a gorgeous bike and one of the original Dark Custom. I know it was only manufactured for 3 years but its look was so mean and classy at the same time. Hey at least you didn’t put it on the “worst” list!
My current bike is none other that a 2023 Heritage Softail. Never thought I would want one, didn't really like the retro style, but it's the most comfortable bike Ive ever owned.
100% agree that the Heritage softail is #1, it's a classic Swiss army knife of a bike. Love mine still crushing miles on it. Don't be afraid to be different in a crowd off followers. Choppers and Heritage all day..
Folks need to understand that Laidlaws caters to a rather unique subset market in Southern California. The Sport Glide wasn't a great seller, maybe in California.... Obviously Matt didn't hate it, he used it as the basis for the Coast Glide, which won the HD Custom build show bike event that year. With that, the Low Rider S was further modified with the 117, solid frame mount fairings, and the Sport Glide bags came over, too. The Sport Glide probably should have come with dual front disc brakes, also. IMHO, Matt and his team showed HD what the Sport Glide could evolve into in the USA market. I look at Matt as the chief designer of the LRST, Harley just copied it from him, took the best of his ideas and put it in the LRST. I should also add that Matt's review of the Sport Glide he did on UA-cam way back when heavily influenced me into test riding a Sport Glide and buying one. No regrets. No one mentions it, but I absolutely loved the chrome 2 into 1 exhaust on my Sport Glide. Quiet, efficient, and made the M8 107 a real torque monster cruiser right off of idle. Accidental starts in 3rd gear from a dead stop without stalling were easily possible with the stock exhaust.
Good morning 🌅, Matt , I purchased my first HD sportster 1994/5 . Them FXR , 1998/9 , Then my first new DEUCE, 2000, I spent a lot of money on it big bore kit , exhaust two into one, sadly in 2019 with around 50,000 miles on the clock, I had to sell it, I had been very very stupid. I had been scammed by my ex female partner., But the outcome was, I managed to move to France, and two months ago I managed to purchase a secondhand deuce 2003 model carb , this was not running 100% misfiring, so I spent roughly 2 months putting new ignition new belt new jets in the carburettor and rebuilt it, as now all up and running illegal on the road, and at my age it is great to be back on the road again riding free. I’m now approaching 73 years young., Great review on the rundown of your bikes over the years, Just a great shame that HD has lost its loyalty to its customers, from old dude living free in France
I live in the UK and own a Sportsglide for over 4 years and have 28,000 miles on it. I get you reasons but the bike is a great allrounder. I have running boards and a Memphis Shades Road Warrior fairing and Saddlemen explorer seat, and last year did over 2700 miles on it to Budapest and back in 16 days. I have also owned two Fatboys. The new one I dislike. We have twisty roads in Europe and the Sportsglide handles them well. Apart from that a great video.
My first Harley was a 1999 FLSTF Fatboy in Seafoam Green and Birch. The bike was great. The Laidlaw Coast Glide is one of the best looking bikes I've ever seen.
For me, the Softail Custom is what I think of when I think of Harley. Added a one owner 2009 Softail Custom to my garage 10 months ago. Almost 100 percent stock with a few extra chrome parts added.
My first bike , 1985 Softail … 4 speed chain drive , rigid mount motor . It was a beast … I bought a ‘23 Heritage and man I’ve got to be honest , it is without a doubt the best riding Softail I have ever been on . The monoshock is perfect when correctly set to your weight . Matt , your videos are without comparison, EXCELLENT! 🫡
My first Harley was a evo Softail custom. I agree with opinions on the names from each respective frame family, now labeled as softails, this was a strange move as well. For me the Deluxe is best Softail ever made. Great work as always 👊🏼
As an owner of a 2018 Heritage Anniversary I think you nailed it. I also love the springer front end and I've actually' been looking at these recently. I almost bought a Fat Boy Lo back in the day. I really loved the satin finish over the chrome. Personally though I prefer the older headlight over the newly styled one. I think you misspoke at 34:47 though when you said they came out with a 7 speed transmission. Great video Matt. I also think you hit it on the worst ones. Not that they were bad bikes, they just didn't really fit into the Softail style.
I was really surprised you didn’t mention the “Bad Boy” in the springers. Im currently looking for one and they seem to be really sought after. Great video thanks Matt!
Like my Softails 🤘 had a few…. Sold my ‘14 Heritage - too much chrome to keep clean Sold my ‘08 Cross Bones - got an offer I couldn’t refuse Still have my ‘10 Cross Bones -it’s bone stock and runs great 🤘 Thanks for the Upload Matt 👏 Regards from South Africa
Good job mate, doing something that’s not your normal but still getting results. People who put you down or judge you are only jealous, and I am fairly certain they can’t do what you. Everyone to their own.
Awesome video. Matt covered them very well. My favorite has always been the Heritage - it's the do anything Softail. It's rarely compared to any other Softail, but you will find people comparing them to the Road King - another do anything motorcycle with nostalgic influences and both fine motorcycles.
Been loving Harleys my whole life. I too am a purest. This video rocks. Excellent list, although subjective. The Springer was mentioned of course but no mention of the Bad Boy which is super popular and in high demand. I have read and heard mention of a shovelhead Softail but have never seen one in person or pictures. I don’t believe they exist from the factory. EXCELLENT WORK MATT THANKYOU!!!!!
I m sure that they just wacked 1984 shovel motors in until they ran out.Evos from then on. Mate bought new Low rider which needed both Shovel manual for the engine and evo manual for all running gear gearbox primary ,switchgear and electrics.,
Aww, poor Sport Glide. It was my 2nd pick choice between the Fat Boy 114 or the sport glide and building a 124ci stage 2. I really like the Sport Glide's style. I love the mini fairing and lamp design it's legitimately the only fairing style that I like. Well I liked the 2024 Street Glide fairing too. So it's one of 2. And I loved those wheels. Different strokes I guess. Put floorboards on it and it'd be an ideal bike for me. But the Fat Boy won my heart. I love riding my Fat boy, I describe it like driving a monster truck... but instead it's a motorcycle. I love it.
Sorry Matt had to take the thumbs up back, The og 1984 has to be number one!!! It started the 40 year anniversary. Number 6!! Really??? You have no soul, or appreciation of the birth of the softail! My friend. 1984 softail was revolutionary!! It literally changed HD.
Haha. Fair enough man. Number 6 isn’t too bad. There’s just so many more popular bikes than the FXST. For that reason it can’t be number 1. It isn’t a coveted bike.
So your rating is for most popular, not best. You being sales manager, now I get it!! Whatever makes more sales!! Got it. Now it makes sense. Best of luck.
I’m still riding my 1984 evo softail, my dad bought it in 1986. I was 16 years old. Now I own it!!
I think about my dad every time I ride it!! Rip dad, I miss you everyday!!
👍 Great bike, dont let her go!
I have a 98’ Herritage Springer 95th anniversary edition that belong to my brother whom recently passed away.
He had the bike for over 25 years till his death and now I have it.
I am honored to have it…he loved this bike more than anything, stayed with him through a couple divorces and his last wife said she knew my brother would have wanted me to have it…
It hadn’t ran in years, he was dying of cancer.
I spent six hours on Sunday cleaning out the carburetor and tanks, replaced the battery and got her running again.
Really like the sound of the carburetor idle versus my 2019 Road King Special with 114 fuel injection system.
I miss my brother and will take care of his bike till my turn comes and I’m dead…
At 35:29 he showed the white Heritage Springer, very first year it was introduced, my brother’s was the very next year, It’s dark brownish purple color with gold/tan lines.
He chromed out the entire bike, also added screamin eagle six speed transmission, sprockets after he had the engine rebuilt and replaced all factory parts with SS parts, oil pump, cam, cylinder heads.
😮😢@@highwayman1218
That’s awesome that you get to ride with your pop every time you take it out.
You have one of my bucket list bikes. Last of the kick starts. Cherish it well.
This is why you have the absolute best channel on UA-cam. Love the history that only you can share. Awesome video!
Thank you sir. This type of comment is a huge compliment!
Well said! Matt, you bring so much history and credibility to your video commentary. Fantastic video mate!!
FXSTD is an unfortunate name. Marketing didn't think that one through? lol
Just FXSTD? No. More like ALL these weird af HD letter code names.
As always an absolute brilliant lesson in motorcycle history. Thank you Matt!
Thank you sir. I appreciate you taking a look.
Well said same here Matt
@@MattLaidlaw not a Harley family ( dad still remembered AMF era and his entire lifetime after refusing to ride/buy use-made bike's after his CIA/army service/nam-94 experience with giving rides/help to his bunk-mates-ect and also wouldn't let one be parked in his driveway, my uncle/family's-friend's almost got kicked off and or had to explain he was on a shadow-model 2012~ lolz ) as my ww2 gramp's road a import look-a-like's* ( last one pre-RIP ( left in 2014~RIP ) 50K+miles odometer ( before being sold/inherence/junkyard'd-out ) was a 2004~ kasasky 3G~tank in white and green/flake painting with a sisy-bar+cop-screen ( cop-spec no-bagger knock-off ) for his luggage/jackson-wy&Florida&Nevada/California* runs ) aka not a café/crochet-rockets ( he did have the 4 cylinder model for ~1970's~ that was listed as fastest USA ( and or he snuck out of japan during his airman/navy/maintenance service ) produced/sold at the time, sorry forgot the models-name but is looked a lot like a typical cruising-themed ) and dad's/siblings are/were gold-wing's like GL1800 2L-automatic*? aka yellow-bird models ( one uncle had matching outfits ect for 2002-09~ era ) 1980-2014 years dad's was late-80's pre-93~ as mom made him sell it but after my used KX125/high-school ( sold for my 2000's-16 era wedding-ring, dad's ending up as the family's mid-90's/2000's table lolz ) i got/have the itch, and i like the v6 ( big-block and or boosted models, 440/426hemi platform v8 as much as i like the idea of all-ally indy-engine its to unwieldy for a 1930-80's frame-them'd and to hot as your sitting on top of it ect ) boss-hoss ?LLC? and vallcory/runn aka basically the Honda's crome'd-healthy ( not a primer'd/rustic/murdered out typical types but also that might have something to do with my housing preferences ie i like pre-1920's/Victorian's like 90's Siberia tv-house shown in the first/opening and gingerbread'd, vs someone else's likes of mid century-modern/brutalist themed homes's-ect ) 1950's themed usa cruising bike's and my pick in the video is the 09~ chopper's ( or 4cly indian/crocker-LLC/Harley-seat-spring retro styling types or smoothies-seating vs fat-tire/fender custom-ish look, sorry not a springer front unless it's a 1930~ themed bike like tasseled 4cly ( shaft-drive?'ed and or there was a model of it? ) indy's had ) big-tank/9G~ essence ( buddy had a 80's Harley carb'd-etc ( on bike's/sleds definitely skipping out/pass-hassles on carbs/dizzy's, my concord-class/race-car mag's and mechanical-injection some times get a pass ) and smaller tank/2G~ i don't like the look and or we agree with more gas ( or for me a well done BEV but the livewire and others so-far haven't hit that itch yet for well done cruising-themed yet, the enduro's some are so-so for me look's wise as my local aria's don't have as many ev-dealership's ( or manufactures like BMW-bike's ) yet and or Utah/Idaho priories's gasoline/LPG powered... ) is a welcoming as were not planning on racing, that's what my 69charger is occasionally for after doing daily-drive and or family-duty's ) that sure maybe you didn't like the flotilla-seat/convertible but i do, also some 2-wheeled aero'd motorised models with canopy's ( some retract for convenience/convertible vibe's and or open air motorcycle feeling, and giro's/self-balancing program-ect and setup for extreme-MPG and or MPH ) and cushy interior ( steering is done with a joystick or lever not handle-bars as it's a more relaxed ergonomics-ect ) more so as Hemet-ect not necessary and or raining and or quick drive to work or eggs/milk-ect
next would be a enduros themed-models ( not Harleys/Indiana-ect game in my opinions and or not good at it, as there road-going branding-ect, yes usa struggie's SD use to hold to yearly hill-climb but that's a lot like pikes was pre-paved running and not like motoX or baha-1000 or dacar is ect or like some motorcycle rock-crawling events that im not talented enough for and never will become ) only because my off-roading/KX 1994~ isn't legal/pain to getting into the trail's and or i don't have a trailer+space ect
anyways thanks for educating me on the other options of model's
1996 Softail Springer is what made me want a Harley!
unpopular opinion - the Sport Glide detachable fairing looks way better than the fairings on the current S and ST Low Riders.
Indeed!!! 👍👍
Matt, Harley Davidson is glaringly missing people like you that have a history and skin in the game with HD.
Best softails to me:
1) Deluxe
2) Heritage
3) Crossbones and Springer
Worst:
1) sport glide
2) standard
3) fat bob
I thought the Deluxe was a rip off. The Heritage was cheaper. Take off the bags & windshield, put on apes and now you have a Deluxe.
The Nighttrain was sick.
Love mine
Still ride mine ( 06 )
The Night Train is just the epitome of V-Twin cruisers. It stands the test of time.
My first H-D was a black & gold 2005 Fatboy. Got it from the military exchange when I was deployed to S.E. Asia during the Iraq war. I served 20 years in the Air Force. I really loved that bike but had to sell it for the family. Cheers from North Pole, Alaska! 🇺🇸🎅🏻🎄
Thank you for your service. Cool Bike for sure. Enjoy Alaska!
The 15th Anniversary. One of my best friends had one in Silver.
Well since no one is talking about the Deuce. I wanted one when it come out, so last year I purchased (for my 75th Birthday) my very first electric start Harley and I love it. Long live the Deuce!
Deuce is a cool bike! #8 on my list.
Sales manager in the 90's and the only Softail that didn't have a long line of folks waiting for it was the "Bad Boy." Chrome was king and the Motor Companies first "bobber" didn't hit. Good work, thank's for sharing.
I was going to include the Bad Boy in my Springer conversation. Thanks for the comment!
Interesting, didn't no that. One of my favs and very rare and hard to find.
Dang, now the bad boy is one of the most sought after, in regards to classic softails. Not the modern softails.
@@ericnay7733same with the fxr. At first you couldn't sell them at 40 cent to the dollar
@@MattLaidlawI loved my Bad Boy, had it for 15 years
The Sport Glide was a bike that was so close to near perfection, it just needs floorboards and a taller windshield. I love my sport glide with those mods
Great riding bike. Might as well of not had a fairing at all unless you change the windshield. If you do, however, it can be a lot better. Still the style is WAY OFF. Just my opinion.
love my sport glide & first thing i did was get rid of the fairing... so ugly & "gay", handles great, stage 2 helps as well, dechrome some, heaps of positive comments
I’ve got a 2000 FXST with 67650kms - Crane cam, Mikuni carb and I wouldn’t swap it for anything - a fan from Australia
I bought my first Harley in 2018 and it was the Heritage. The look was everything i thought a Harley was. Still have it. This was an excellent recap of the softtail.
Great bike!
Was worried for a bit but then thrilled to see my beloved Night Train ranked so well. Personally own an 03 and while I’d love the newer six speed, having that 100th anniversary badge is a bit special. And my train is as blacked out as can be, topped of with black Straight risers with a black flat drag bar. No one believes it’s a 21 year old bike when they see it. Keep the awesome content coming Matt!
The 100th Ann Night Train is a thing of Beauty
The greatest Harley Davidson youtube channel in the world
Thanks Brother!!!!
I wish so bad that Harley would produce a “real” modern softail standard. I love the look of the original softail standard, buckhorn bars, pillow seats, tall sissy bar, the whole deal. The softail standard we have today looks terrible, besides being impractical with the ridiculous 3.5 gallon tank.
Harley, produce a real softail standard please, and don’t price it to the moon.
100% agree, the present model looks like crap ,the 84 Softail Standard was one of their best looking bikes ,they have gone down hill with crap styling ,crap color schemes ,black engines ,
HD definitely ruined the current Softail Standard by taking the spoke wheels away.
So build what you want to see. It ain't hard. There was a time when bikers didn't choose to be helpless and it's no coincidence the ideas Willie G adopter were proven outside the company. There's no easier motorcycle to customize or have modified. If you build one you can ditch the complex electronics and everything else annoying about new machines and by picking the parts get a considerably better motorcycle practical to ride for life.
@@trailruntim Different wheels bolt right back on then you can sell the stock wheels. If you wait until a tire change you can mount tires on whatever spoked wheels you prefer and do the swap easily at home.
@obfuscated3090 I don't know who you are talking to, but your "choosing to be helpless" comment is unnecessary. My point is that Harley produced a bike called the Softail standard, but it doesn't look like a Softail standard. I know customizing a bike is possible.
I’ve said it before and will again: Matt, you’re the go-to man for HD info. You do your Dad and Grandpa proud by continuing the Laidlaw lineage. I’ve relied on some of your previous videos when riding touring class for the last decade. Because of age, I stepped (what I originally thought was down) up and went with an FLHCS last summer. Hands down the most nimble handling; best power to weight ratio bike I’ve ever owned. Thanks for a great Softail Summary video! 👍🍻
Hell yeah, I have three of the limited bikes you mentioned: El Diablo, the Moo Glide, and the 30th Fat Boy
What!? Wow man. Very nice 👍🏼
Just need to pick up a Hydra Glide or a Springer.
Love the Heritage/Deluxe.
As a 2023 Sport Glide owner I think your comments on this bike were a little harsh, but I guess they are made with an American perspective. The Sport Glide is, however, ideally suited to the twisty roads and lanes that we have in the U.K. hence it’s continuing popularity here and in Europe as well.
I do know it’s very popular in the UK and Other parts of Europe.
Like I said the bike is really good. I just think the naming and the fairing were a miss.
Yes, I can be passionate about my Harley-Davidson feelings.
@@MattLaidlaw Thanks for your reply Matt, from the comments it seems lots of people (like me) have rushed to the defence of the Sport Glide!😄 Love your videos, especially the tours, keep up the good work!
They are made with Matt's Southern California perspective. Obviously he felt it worthy to convert into a Coast Glide. Which HD then basically copied most of for the LRST. Ironically, a 2018 Sport Glide should have been a 115th Anniversary Edition.
Check original FLHS.
@@MattLaidlaw I always thought they short changed the Sport Glide by not building it with a 114
I took a second job to get my 08 Night Train, I bought it in 2011. It only had 91 miles on it, and it had never been titled. Awesome bike, I would like to get a 2004 Night Train…
HOW DARE YOU MATT! The sport glide is the underdog. Now everyone wants the LRST but before that we were putting a memories shades on the sport glide and making them cool and versatile. I’m personally offended 😂
Bring back the Springer Softail,and make a retro Sportster from the 60's 70's.
I've already put 60,000 comfortable kms (37,000 mi) on my 2022 Heritage. 4 1/2 inch travel on the rear and 5 1/2 on the front. Never bottoms out. Good ground clearance. Have done off road moto camping with my BMW buddies with no issues on the dirt. I also think it's one of the easiest bikes to ride for a 70 year old fella like myself. I plan on riding this thing till I can't ride no more!
How I feel about my 2023 Road Glide. Put 25k miles on it in one year. Got a 124 top end build done at 15k miles. Bike has 27k on it now. Going in for a built bottom end and a few other things to bulletproof it a bit.
I plan to keep that bike for the rest of my life it’s the best bike I’ve ever ridden or owned.
I do love my road kings tho. Have had a 2019 before the RG..
Have an older one now .. a 2008 with cams and some 16” Carlini bars .. sometimes I just want to ride a regular motorcycle. The RG is more like a space ship
I have a 19 sport glide, absolutely love it, can't understand what your saying yes I agree with the fairing that's it. I club styled my sport glide, it's unbelievable machine. Best Harley ever , that's right, ever made in my opinion. And a number 1 sold Harley in Europe.
I have a 2023 Heritage Anniversary and she currently has a Stage 1 which woke the 114 motor up...
The "fit and finish" is beyond amazing... The paint .. PHENOMENAL... The 120 Anniversary paint on this "New American Classic" sets the bar high for future Harley "Classics" but I am sure the Motor company can and will achieve it.... just need a new CEO...
My sport glide had to be on the bad list! Damm it. It’s ok I’ll be the person with something actually different
Those that own them, fully appreciate them, and there's a lot of us out there. Just look at all the comments! I think in Matt's region of So Cal, they missed the mark a bit with some customers.
If the sport glide didn't sell a lot, if you keep it all stock and keep good care of it for 15 or 20 years.That bike will be worth a s*** ton of money someday.It will be very desirable because not many were sold
Best suited to UK roads😊
I’ve had a 2003 anniversary FXST and a 2005 Heritage Classic springer. Love them both. Both lowered.
I learned so much from this. Thanks Matt!
Right on, thanks for watching Mickey!
I’ve owned two of your three worst and have loved them both 🤷♂️
Like I said, it isn't necessarily because they were bad bikes. There was a lot of criteria that I judged the bikes on.
@@MattLaidlaw fair enough, it is a great vid and I learned a few things. Keep up the great content..
I had a 2018 Sport Glide and I absolutely loved it 😂
Haha, like I said it's a good bike. Just had a couple HUGE MISSES about it. My Opinion.
Matt,
Harley made around 330 FLH shovels in 1985.
No Softail was ever powered by a shovel however, in the 1985 model year, they made three, EVO powered, four speed bikes based on a modified twin shock shovelhead chassis.
The EVO powered Super Glide, Lowrider and Wide Glide models were probably a backup plan, if the new Softail bombed in the market. For 1986 the Wide Glide was the last of the kick start, four speed bikes available.
Correct. I own a factory produced 1985 Super Glide which is all shovelhead running gear with an EVO engine and four speed transmission. Great machine which I have enjoyed riding for the last 26 years all around Australia. Together with the Low Rider and Wide Glide versions they are rare models and modern Harley riders mistakenly think they are Dynas. However, a factory manufactured shovelhead in a softail frame would be the holy grail for Harley collectors and I have never heard of one.
That was the bike I wanted for years , ended up settling for a 06 night train when my money got right ( damn the luck).. still have it too ( 87,000+ miles later)
First class review on the softails and good choice for the Breakout Matt
Great segment Matt! Currently on my fourth Softail with my '17 Deluxe which I will keep forever!!
When the motor company resurrected the FXRT's name plate, "Sport Glide," they should've put the fairing that's on the Low Rider ST on it instead of that detachable mini batwing fairing. I believe it would've gone a lot further. After refusing to black out the Fat Boy (with the exception of the 30th anniversary edition), and putting on that ugly, square, headlamp bezel, the Sport Glide was my only favorite bike in the new Softail frame lineup. Talk about wasted potential. Those tuning fork wheels weren't that bad.
Nice lineup, Matt.
It’s me again from aebleskiver-country, Denmark.
I’ve got the Sport Glide - and I love it. Even the fairing and the wheels. In my eyes, it is spot on.
I obey your view in terms of f…ing with the history.
But that aside, it is a nimble ride with a bunch of versatility.
At the end of the day, we all get out, and live the HD dream.
Keep up the good content Matt.
When I hit SoCal some time soon, I’ll make sure to visit you guys
Great video, (but I’m not letting my Road King watch it).
Haha, 😝
As a nightrain owner, HD building an icon collection would be pretty cool.
Like you say each to your own, I appreciate all bikes….but a nightrain is the bad mofo bike! The grandpa of the breakout!
IMO a better rear guard than the Deuce!
Love your videos Matt, from Australia 🇦🇺
I (was) an aussie owner of a 2008 Night Train, just blacked out a bit more than stock, lowered rear. Bought it in 2013 and had it for nearly ten years before trading in on Lowrider ST ( Black) in 2023
It was THE black bike and I miss it dearly. I had an 2010 iron 883 before that so have always liked the blacked out bikes.
A Night Train Icon bike would be something. I always said if they did a Night Train version of current softails, I'd seriously consider it. Loved the rear guard as well.
Agreed. I’ve got a super blacked out anniversary edition Night Train that gets a lot of compliments. From “looks like a factory badass chopper” to “there’s no way that bike is 21 years old “.
Yea, the Night Train is a bad ass bike. It might be time to resurrect that one.
@@MattLaidlaw
The current crop of idiots at Harley Davidson would just screw up any revival of the Night Train. And as the owner of a vivid black 2007 Night Train, that would really piss me off.
Great stuff, Matt. Always enjoy the history, explanations and detail.
I think anybody wanting to learn about the Softail range needs to see this video. Matt does a great job bringing the history into the narrative. I believe you nailed it Matt!
So hard to pick a number one Softail from the line up. However, given your scoring criteria, one would have to agree with you for choosing the Heritage.
That said, here's my weird thoughts. My favourite Harley is the Fat Boy, but the one I would 'buy', is the Softail Deluxe in all its nostalgic glory. ( I own a 2020 Pearl White M8 Deluxe ) Reckon I need to also buy a Fat Boy, one day.
Loved this video. Absolutely NAILED IT bro!! Great job. Thanks for the amazing tribute to the Softail.
Love your histories Matt. As a Johnnie come Lately to Harley(2017 - no one rode in my family) I've watched every video of yours numerous times(what an education). That said this is one of your very better videos. My fav bike is the Heritage Classic modeled after Jamie's blue Heritage. Had a zipper cam added so it does 112 HP and max 137 foot lbs of Torque with a dyno tune. Bike rocks.
Thanks for all you do!
An other GREAT presentation Matt!
Your delivery is second to none. Love the clips of Caplan & Todd too.
I still think Laidlaw should be Milwaukee's West Coast official showroom.
It was nice to see you appreciated the original Softail bikes, being a 1988 FXSTC owner.
Like I said, I respect the past. 🤙🏼 gotta account for all 40 years.
Excellent video! I remember when the first Softails came out. I wanted one so badly! Hard to believe it's been 40 years.
Excellent review!! Got to say, in my personal opinion, you nailed it with your top choices…I rode other brand bikes for a couple decades until I woke up and got a Heritage…I’ve been a very happy Harley rider ever since.
Thanks Matt…you do a great job with your videos but I think the best ones are your histories. 👍👍
Hey Matt, as a sport glide owner I agree HD missed a trick with the mini batwing fairing and it should have the ST fairing on instead, everything else I love about it. That’s why I’m doing my very own coast glide with it this winter… it’s going to get the fairing it was always meant to have! Watch this space!!!
Great history lesson on all the others too well done
You have a good eye, Matt. Have been riding Softails since ‘99 and have no qualms with your list. Fact is, everything you said about the ST springer rings true out here in the Great Plains. Been listening to it for years.😊
Thank you sir. I appreciate the comment. Take care
great video and i love the history! Can't wait for you to come out with a video for the Dyna!
Coming soon!
I had an FXDR and that bike got more looks and more compliments than any Harley I ever had and way more attention than any of my friends Harleys. It did handle like garbage though.
I don’t agree on the sportglide it depends really on the market, in Europe with they’re nimble streets in the alps the sportglide does a great job, thats why i chose it.
Amazing video and history as always Matt. Now, I would really love to see your Dyna list.
Coming in the future. Stay tuned.
The Sport Glide is quite popular here in Australia. Sells really well.
Sells well all over Europe and Great Britain, too.
Great video ! My favorite 3 softails all fall within your top 5 - the Deluxe, the Fat Boy, and the Heritage. Recently saw a Heritage without the windshield and bags, and with whitewalls and Fatboy handlebars. It looked absolutely awesome. Gotta say, though, the Fatboy is my all time favorite - the pre-2018 versions, that is.
Hey Matt, I’m still riding my FXSTS I bought from your Grandpa and Dad in 1990. Love this bike!
Absolutely loved my sport glide. Fantastic all around bike and perfect with the forward controls. The Low Rider ST didn’t do it for me. I debated trading in my sport glide until I rode the low rider st
Great video and history of the Softail. Nicely done Matt!
I loved my Sport Glide. I agree, the fairing was horrible. I put a Memphis Shades Road Warrior Faring on it. But I did love the Mantis wheels though.
I bought my first Heritage new in 2023. It's by far my favorite Harley to ride. It's a great bike for overnighters. I have a 13 Street glide that just sits in the garage now.
Love all the info you put into these Matt!
Thank you sir! Glad people are enjoying them
Strong argument regarding the Sport Glide, though I love the way that bike rides. I've never owned one but experienced it on a DEMO day. As always thanks for the great content from a true Harley Purist. It is very much appreciated!
We need Willie G to buy the company back now🤷♂️
You realize he's 91, just 10 years older than the average Harley owner? If you want one, start looking at the used market. There soon there will be 3,000,000 bikes on the market as Boomers quit or die.
This was definitely a great and well thought out video. I enjoyed your selections and all the history that you shared with us all. Thank you!
Thank you! Thanks for watching.
Great list Matt. You got number 1 exactly right. I’ve owned a 2000 and 2018 Heritage. Went to a 2021 Street Glide in 2021. Owned the street Glide for 13 months and traded it for a 2022 Heritage. I love the Heritage and will never own anything else.
Been riding my 2019 softail slim for 2 years now and I still love it. Good to know it made your top ten 🎉🎉
Excellent job as always, Matt! I had a 2000 Heritage, a couple bikes briefly in between, and now a 2012 Heritage. For a single medium-sized rider, it can't be beat.
Great video! Love the History. I actually traded my 2018 Roadglide Ultra for a 2024 Heritage Softail Classic. I rode a softail custom and an evo fatboy for years and when I bought the Roadglide Ultra I missed just being behind some chrome bars and lights and that more raw feel. The Fltru is a great bike but I never used the radio or the navigation anyway. I decided I prefer the basics. These newer softails with the M8 and the new frame are Awesome!
I wish you would have included the Blackline. It’s such a gorgeous bike and one of the original Dark Custom. I know it was only manufactured for 3 years but its look was so mean and classy at the same time. Hey at least you didn’t put it on the “worst” list!
Hey Matt. Thank you so much for all the history and your opinion . Kind regards .West coast Vancouver , British Columbia ,Canada.
My current bike is none other that a 2023 Heritage Softail. Never thought I would want one, didn't really like the retro style, but it's the most comfortable bike Ive ever owned.
The dealership I worked at when the FXDR came out celebrated its 3rd birthday at the dealership before it sold insanely discounted
100% agree that the Heritage softail is #1, it's a classic Swiss army knife of a bike. Love mine still crushing miles on it. Don't be afraid to be different in a crowd off followers. Choppers and Heritage all day..
Folks need to understand that Laidlaws caters to a rather unique subset market in Southern California. The Sport Glide wasn't a great seller, maybe in California.... Obviously Matt didn't hate it, he used it as the basis for the Coast Glide, which won the HD Custom build show bike event that year. With that, the Low Rider S was further modified with the 117, solid frame mount fairings, and the Sport Glide bags came over, too. The Sport Glide probably should have come with dual front disc brakes, also. IMHO, Matt and his team showed HD what the Sport Glide could evolve into in the USA market. I look at Matt as the chief designer of the LRST, Harley just copied it from him, took the best of his ideas and put it in the LRST. I should also add that Matt's review of the Sport Glide he did on UA-cam way back when heavily influenced me into test riding a Sport Glide and buying one. No regrets. No one mentions it, but I absolutely loved the chrome 2 into 1 exhaust on my Sport Glide. Quiet, efficient, and made the M8 107 a real torque monster cruiser right off of idle. Accidental starts in 3rd gear from a dead stop without stalling were easily possible with the stock exhaust.
Loved this! Thanks for putting it together, Matt!
Good morning 🌅, Matt , I purchased my first HD sportster 1994/5 . Them FXR , 1998/9 , Then my first new DEUCE, 2000, I spent a lot of money on it big bore kit , exhaust two into one, sadly in 2019 with around 50,000 miles on the clock, I had to sell it, I had been very very stupid. I had been scammed by my ex female partner., But the outcome was, I managed to move to France, and two months ago I managed to purchase a secondhand deuce 2003 model carb , this was not running 100% misfiring, so I spent roughly 2 months putting new ignition new belt new jets in the carburettor and rebuilt it, as now all up and running illegal on the road, and at my age it is great to be back on the road again riding free. I’m now approaching 73 years young., Great review on the rundown of your bikes over the years, Just a great shame that HD has lost its loyalty to its customers, from old dude living free in France
I live in the UK and own a Sportsglide for over 4 years and have 28,000 miles on it. I get you reasons but the bike is a great allrounder. I have running boards and a Memphis Shades Road Warrior fairing and Saddlemen explorer seat, and last year did over 2700 miles on it to Budapest and back in 16 days. I have also owned two Fatboys. The new one I dislike. We have twisty roads in Europe and the Sportsglide handles them well. Apart from that a great video.
The sport glide is a great riding bike. Don’t get me wrong. I just think the fairing and wheels were a miss for me. Awesome machine though.
My first Harley was a 1999 FLSTF Fatboy in Seafoam Green and Birch. The bike was great. The Laidlaw Coast Glide is one of the best looking bikes I've ever seen.
🎉❤️🏆#1 Heritage Softail - Great classic old school rock-n-roll looking bike🛵🧑🎤👑 🌞Greetings from Baku Azerbaijan🇦🇿💋🎊
My 100th Anniversary Heritage Softail was one of my favourite bikes
For me, the Softail Custom is what I think of when I think of Harley. Added a one owner 2009 Softail Custom to my garage 10 months ago. Almost 100 percent stock with a few extra chrome parts added.
I do not recall my Night Train having a 7 speed transmission.
My first bike , 1985 Softail … 4 speed chain drive , rigid mount motor . It was a beast … I bought a ‘23 Heritage and man I’ve got to be honest , it is without a doubt the best riding Softail I have ever been on . The monoshock is perfect when correctly set to your weight .
Matt , your videos are without comparison, EXCELLENT! 🫡
Still own my '98 Heritage since '05. The best Harley I've ever owned. Video on my channel.
My first Harley was a evo Softail custom. I agree with opinions on the names from each respective frame family, now labeled as softails, this was a strange move as well. For me the Deluxe is best Softail ever made. Great work as always 👊🏼
As an owner of a 2018 Heritage Anniversary I think you nailed it. I also love the springer front end and I've actually' been looking at these recently. I almost bought a Fat Boy Lo back in the day. I really loved the satin finish over the chrome. Personally though I prefer the older headlight over the newly styled one. I think you misspoke at 34:47 though when you said they came out with a 7 speed transmission. Great video Matt. I also think you hit it on the worst ones. Not that they were bad bikes, they just didn't really fit into the Softail style.
Great history and detail, thanks.!
I was really surprised you didn’t mention the “Bad Boy” in the springers. Im currently looking for one and they seem to be really sought after. Great video thanks Matt!
Hey Matt thanks for the history of the Softail. Very interesting I liked everything you said.
Like my Softails 🤘 had a few….
Sold my ‘14 Heritage
- too much chrome to keep clean
Sold my ‘08 Cross Bones
- got an offer I couldn’t refuse
Still have my ‘10 Cross Bones
-it’s bone stock and runs great 🤘
Thanks for the Upload Matt 👏
Regards from South Africa
Excellent list. I have a 2008 Heritage and a 97 Springer and love them both!!
Great piece. I always learn something from your videos.
Thank you!
Good job mate, doing something that’s not your normal but still getting results. People who put you down or judge you are only jealous, and I am fairly certain they can’t do what you. Everyone to their own.
Really enjoyed this video and the Heritage softail classic along with the Softail deluxe are my favorites.
Awesome video. Matt covered them very well. My favorite has always been the Heritage - it's the do anything Softail. It's rarely compared to any other Softail, but you will find people comparing them to the Road King - another do anything motorcycle with nostalgic influences and both fine motorcycles.
Well said my friend. 🤙🏼
Been loving Harleys my whole life. I too am a purest. This video rocks. Excellent list, although subjective. The Springer was mentioned of course but no mention of the Bad Boy which is super popular and in high demand. I have read and heard mention of a shovelhead Softail but have never seen one in person or pictures. I don’t believe they exist from the factory. EXCELLENT WORK MATT THANKYOU!!!!!
The Shovel head exists from the factory. They are rare. Yes, I should have talked about the BAD BOY! My bad!
I m sure that they just wacked 1984 shovel motors in until they ran out.Evos from then on. Mate bought new Low rider which needed both Shovel manual for the engine and evo manual for all running gear gearbox primary ,switchgear and electrics.,
Nailed it!
I was in total agreement during the whole video.
Former sales rep at OCHD / Capo HD , 2001 - 2003
I appreciate the confirmation. Haha thanks for the comment.
Aww, poor Sport Glide. It was my 2nd pick choice between the Fat Boy 114 or the sport glide and building a 124ci stage 2. I really like the Sport Glide's style. I love the mini fairing and lamp design it's legitimately the only fairing style that I like. Well I liked the 2024 Street Glide fairing too. So it's one of 2. And I loved those wheels. Different strokes I guess.
Put floorboards on it and it'd be an ideal bike for me. But the Fat Boy won my heart.
I love riding my Fat boy, I describe it like driving a monster truck... but instead it's a motorcycle. I love it.
To each their own. Again, I liked the Sport Glide a lot but as I said, I think there were a lot of missed opportunities with it. Enjoy the bikes!
Sorry Matt had to take the thumbs up back,
The og 1984 has to be number one!!! It started the 40 year anniversary.
Number 6!! Really??? You have no soul, or appreciation of the birth of the softail! My friend.
1984 softail was revolutionary!! It literally changed HD.
Haha. Fair enough man. Number 6 isn’t too bad. There’s just so many more popular bikes than the FXST. For that reason it can’t be number 1. It isn’t a coveted bike.
So your rating is for most popular, not best.
You being sales manager, now I get it!!
Whatever makes more sales!!
Got it. Now it makes sense.
Best of luck.