2021 Harley Davidson Fatboy | First Ride Review
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- Опубліковано 6 вер 2024
- 2021 Harley Davidson Fatboy | First Ride Review: What a treat this one was! Having ridden very few Harley's to date I was thrilled when Harley Davidson UK contacted me to ask if I wanted to ride the brand new for 2021 "Fatboy"! Here's how I got on....Links as promised:-
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I own a fatboy ,a gsa , and a street scrambler and I agree TMF. I do love all my bikes and each has it's own feel good factor. Have fun riding everyone and stay safe.
First accident on Saturday. Van pulled out in front of me, didn’t see me. Ended up in A&E, nothing broken, though my 797 is and I’m walking around like a cowboy now. The codeine and ice compress is helping in the management of the pain. New bike on the horizon..though not just yet. 🤕
Sorry to hear that. Get well young man.
Walkin' like cowboy? Sorry to hear that you hurt the old 'wedding tackle'.
Don’t despair there’s plenty of mares to go round gunslinger...
Man that sucks - get well (and back biking) soon. :>)
Get well soon!
I rode my boss’s Harley with a Springer front fork years ago and remember what it was like from the saddle: I could see the scenery reflected on both sides of the chrome headlight and watched the springs compress and extend as it moved over the irregularities in the road. I love the look of all old bikes (British, Japanese, German, whatever) but I’m a lousy mechanic. Owning a Harley is like owning a brand new 1957 Chevy but with ABS, fuel injection, solid electrics and a warranty. Not wanting to pay the premium price has kept me on my old Bonneville and my Burgman. Cheers from the colonies.
Cheers!
I am a massive Harley fan and have a Street Glide CVO. I had a 2019 Fat Boy 114 for 6 months and was really disappointed. The tyres are too big, it handled like a pig, grounded on every corner and the brakes are rubbish. Why do you want to ride a bike where you have to be worried about grounding, stopping and every corner. Great looking and in a straightline but that sums it up.
Best audio you’ve had in a while - whatever you did, setting up that mic in your helmet, keep it up!
Great Review buddy. Harley Davidson will always divide opinion, but most negative impressions are based on experiences of old models from decades ago, the M8 motor is sublime, Liquid cooled, counter balanced, twin plug heads and light years ahead of the old Twin cam..... and best of all, Nothing holds it's value like a Harley Davidson.
It’s not liquid cooled. It can be twin cooled on the limited but yes you are right on your other points. In terms of smoothness and reliability anyone who says otherwise obviously has never ridden a new one before,
@@antoniocampos6627 If it's a Milwaukee 8 engine mate, they have liquid cooled cylinder heads... there's a small radiator down on the front lower corner of the frame and if you follow the plumbing it runs up in to the heads, admittedly it's not conventional liquid cooling but it has been key in bringing the running temperatures down on the large capacity v-twins and you're right, so many people who still malign Harleys should perhaps ride an M8, they are night and day over a twin cam aye? ... PS sorry for the hijack TMF, hope you're well buddy!
@@Moonfleet41 the way you worded it I thought you meant liquid cooled such as say the new sportster S or like a BMW or Honda. That’s what most people think when someone says liquid cooled. But yeah I know what you mean. It’s a whole new engine. I’ve ridden almost every H-D produced from 2015 up from the smaller street 500 up to the CVO tri-glide and everything in between and compared to the twin cam or the evo before that you would think it’s a whole different company making these engines.
Look even better with badly sprayed tough black all over it
After owning a fatbob 114 for 2 years I can easily get 50+ mpg when out crusing around and mine is stage 1, as for the sound there are a crazy amount of both aftermarket end cans and full systems for the Harleys probably more than any other bikes out there,
I've owned many different bikes over the years and nothing else really feels like a Harley :)
The Harleys do have abs and they use magnetic wheel bearings so you don't have to have the normal abs rings on the wheels.
Great review again :)
Look forward to seeing how you get in with it.
@@Bradshaw812 Harley sells their own cans and tuner for the '21 don't they? Screaming Eagle parts?
I was looking at one of these, but then realised I could get a Triumph Rocket III Roadster that returns 155hp and 165ft lbs of torque for £10k less. Put a new airbox, a free-flowing exhaust and a tune on it and you increase those numbers by about 30 on each, the bike is just an absolute monster. That being said I do think the Fat Boy is aesthetically beautiful and I wouldn't say no if someone wanted to part with £20k and give me one as a present!
Really do you really need one and are you serious about this
@@sarahconnor6563 serious about what?
@@ironlionmotorcycles ohh not you lee am sorry 😞
@@sarahconnor6563 no problem!
@@ironlionmotorcycles okay thanks are you available on hangout for more chat
When I was in college and just started riding bikes, this was my dream bike and all because of terminator 2 ..... I was riding a kawasaki eliminator 125 at the time and even had the jacket he has in the film 🤣 looks like an absolute stunner of a bike. If I had the cash, I'd have one of these as a second bike
Are you sure about those fuel economy figures? 19mpg seems way too thirsty - Harley claims 47mpg on its website. I own a 2020 and it's a very economical bike. Great review BTW.
I have a 2017 Road King and I average 18 to19 km per litre so around 50 mpg. Mine is the 107 cube motor but I wouldn't imagine there would be a world of difference so you are absolutely correct .
My Sportster 1200 (carburetor) does over 50mpg. Great bike.
Yes, he said mpg, which I am sure meant to say 19.98 km/l = 47 mpg
Speaking as an American, I think there are few reasons people over here don't like them and a big part is a lot of the owners more than the bike. Harley owners as a group tend to (or have the perception) of being antisocial and a big part of that is removing all muffling from the exhausts. There are plenty of Harleys in the US that are obnoxiously loud and the police here seem to do nothing about it. Next is that Harley riders also tend to be against the idea of wearing proper safety gear. If they wear a helmet at all, it's a fiberglass beanie that meets the minimal legal requirement.
Finally, for a long time Harley as a company didn't advance their technology in a meaningful way. The Pan America has changed this but most of their bikes are still old tech. Reliability hasn't been the best either.
Also, from my experience, HD owners are an arrogant bunch who look down their noses at any bike that's not a Harley. Pfft.
Honestly, besides *looking* vintage, the Milwaukee 8 and Twin Cam motors are about as advanced as any air/oil BMW motor of the same year
@@gregorysteffensen3279 I wouldn't go that far. The earliest BMW air/oil engine wasn't overhead cam, but it was close with the side cam design and it was 4V (Twin Cam was 2V I believe). In 2010 BMW went to full DOHC on the air/oil ones and now those are only used on the retro bikes. They went to the wet head design 2013 for the non-retro bikes. Besides, the BMW engines have always put out more HP by quite a bit.
@@rj9617 I've met many who weren't, but yeah there is a fair bit of that attitude.
Not that I don’t think so but you make an 💡 idea
As someone who really dislikes cleaning bikes, this Harley might be my worst nightmare haha. It does look great. Thanks for the video, Andy
Yeah, I avoid chrome like the plague.
Lol👅👅👅👅👅
Really? I love pulling the bike out into the sun with a pint of iced coke on the side and get the Autoglym metal polish out
@@EazyDuz18 not a good idea. You are damaging it. Clean and wax is best.
@@EazyDuz18 If you haven't already, look at Stuart Fillingham's channel. He covers chrome care.
Having a Harley changes your life for the better
I can entirely understand that.....
Hm had a Fatboy 08 and a softail de luxe 11..its not something special whit they.whit stock exhaust it bad.and they don't chance enything for me..not whort the money. Kawaskis vn 1700 sound much better.had tre of that
Had my 88 cu. inch 2002 Road King for 10+ years. Will never sell it.
Re-the brakes on the Fatboy, you have to use a different braking technique with them than you would on a more conventional bike. A Harley specialist advised this to me……When braking, you are supposed to use both the front and the back brakes together. As you know, there’s only a single disc up front but also a large disc at the back (compared to the norm). And no two finger braking on the front lever either, you are supposed to use your whole hand! So while the front disc alone is no match for most other motorbikes, the Harley is not intended to be used that way. Always, both brakes! Hope that helps!
I’ve found that with my sportster, stops really well with both brakes
Yep…..I found the same when testing the Fatboy! And of course, that’s how they are intended to work from the get go!
It aint about the speed and it aint about the handling. Its about how it makes you feel. The fatboy is too expensive for me, ive got a sportster. Easy to maintain too, once you get used to its foibles.
Good to see Harley trying to spread the love. Great first ride
Sounds like you’re getting the bug Andy, it’s not only about how they make you feel whilst riding, but also enjoying ownership that you can customise to you’re own taste, performance and sound effects. Easy to work on and minimal depreciation if you buy well 2nd hand. I caught the HD bug last summer, my experience of owners and dealers has been very welcoming. Start making space in the garage, you know it makes sense ....
Yes 🙌 it real makes sense andy
Any relation to John Connor??
@@TheMissendenFlyer
She's obviously his mom, but she doesn't known who he is because he isn't born yet.
Clearly...
now we are talking ,, i did not think you would like a harley,, glad you do, there is a lot of chrome extras inc rear foot pegs mirrors switch gear etc , it is not needed but it is nice to personalise your ride,, as for fuel === 40 plus , the same as most big bikes , making nearly 180 to 200 miles poss.
I admit to being a drainage ditch pump with wheels detractor, you surprised me with this overwhelmingly positive review. In my defence I ride all year and see these things wobbling around with fashion/lifestyle plastic folk onboard when the sun is out.
I too ride all year round, on an H-D Super Glide. Not a problem. I have also sat on lane three at close to three figures for mile after mile. Not a problem. I too laugh at the Summer weekend warriors on all makes, particularly the BMW world adventure wanna be's. Ho hum.
@@superglide6680 Fair play to you. You are a rarity amongst rarities being an all year rider but on a HD. The machine in these circumstances becomes irrelevant, as does the comments I made in relation to yourself. You are just one of "us".
I have operated heavy farm machinery, and also a Harley Sportster. The Harley was slower to manoevre and more cumbersome, I wouldn't really class them as motorbikes.
Perhaps sportsters are, or were, from the 1980s! I don't know, never ridden one. They were sort of the starter bike for chicks. I've had harley touring motorcycles for the last 25 years, and they are as responsive as I'd want them to be. My first bike was a '67 Triumph Bonneville, have an M8 StreetGlide Special now. I'll stay with H-D, as the engineering is so well done, and it just 'feels right' riding one. What do you currently ride?
To be properly cool you must reach down to find neutral with your hand.
I know that HD will get some flak for being what it is. I think the biggest thing about them is nostalgia and the fit and finish. Paint is usually top notch and the controls are built to feel purposeful.
Harley should be using Brembo calipers, but they aren't set up to be sharp. They can bring the speed down quickly, but like the shifter, you have to use it like you mean it. Harley isn't about finesse as much as it is about the result.
It will be nothing like the rest of your fleet, but I hope you enjoy the experience, even if it ultimately doesn't fit your needs.
I had to come back for a second viewing, because the latest of FortNine's amazing videos (Why Millions Buy Harley-Davidson Motorcycles) has given me a whole new perspective for enjoying this one again! 😎👍
That was a really good video. I finally understand potato-potato.
I had a 2020 BMW GS and 3 weeks later, I sold it and bought a HD Street Glide (WOW) I agree 100% makes you feel different as other bikes. I also sold it and bought a Fat Boy. Honestly, didn't like it at all. You need to work that bike in order to drive it. Sold it and bought a BMW GS 2019 with many extras! Enjoy it but I am now thinking in buying another HD FAT BOB! What is going on in my head, I wish to know..All I can say is that no matter how good the bike is (performance or long distance) if the bike doesn't get into you, there is no way to feel good about driving the bike. Loved your review!! hope this help!! Cheers!
"Engineering masterpiece" is a novel way of describing it. I rode one a couple of years ago and it felt like a tractor - genuinely curious, if you took the branding off the bike would you have been impressed at all?
Not to mention crap brakes, poor handling and vibration that makes your eye balls shake, no thanks.
Have to agree, I took a 2012 out from the dealer, and it felt like a bloody tractor! more like a barn built 80's V-Twin lol, and for me, the whole Euro emissions thing killed Harley's? the newer Ones just don't sound right? love the V-Rod Night Rod, but sounds aweful compared to the older models? A Harley needs to sound right (even with after market exhausts the new Ones don't) so I would never buy a modern Harley... just for that reason really.
Same with me and a Road King. Worst bike I’ve ever ridden. I told the dealer it was crap. He said “if you’re used to Jap bikes try this” It was a V-Rod, a really impressive machine.
The newer Milwaukee 8 engines (came in about 2017 I think) are very smooth
Yeah, harley engines are more suited to agriculture. Air cooled, lots of shaking. You ever see one stopped in traffic? The whole thing shakes.
I find that the "feet forward" riding position is great for admiring your image in the mirror at the dealership, but not much else. To me, if I can't get my weight up off the seat when going over big bumps, potholes, or railroad crossings, I'm just a passenger, not a rider. I think the feet forward thing came about to allow really low seats while still giving you a place to put your legs, but none of my bikes have ever let me put both feet flat on the ground at stops and I don't see why I'd have to.
Really so that 😎
😂 cool are you a Harley Davidson motivational speaker
@@sarahconnor6563 No, but I'm currently unemployed, do you think they would hire me?
In 2019 I've ridden a Harley Ultra glide from Orlando, FL to Los Angeles, CA in a 2 weeks span. Since then I just love Harleys. I get all the fuss about them. But I still think they are overpriced. But one day, I will own one.
Look for a unmolested used bike. I bought my 2014 Street Glide Special for $10,500 in Dec. 2019 and it's awesome.
They make up for it when you Sell them used they hold their value Here in the us we can run A complete heads system A Two into one with no baffle, nothing else can imitate the sound through the mountains, I keep at least 1 EVO or Shovel Head that I can tune easily no electronic equipment needed? And the sound at idle is unique My newer fatBoy I run Header and stage ! kit but you can not get that loaping sound I changed cam shafts and it idles with a lope? I have rode all kinds and a Harley is not a sport bike I have always been addicted to the sound the 2021 Fat Boy Sounded well it did not make a sound that I could take Gotta have the Harley sound? They are as reliable as any other I have owned But you have to take Care of it aluminum is not steel so when you tighten bolts on a Harley you can torque them Metric I found out the hard way The screws and bolts are easily stripped? The transmission on a Harley Clunks because it is like an automobile tough. IThe only Tap Bike I owned that had that Klunk was a 1979 Yamaha 1100 special .
Great review.Coming from a naked to a Harley now I’m in my 50’s and I’ll never go back.Fatboy is probably my favourite for looks,but I opted for a Sportglide,as better handling and has detachable hard bags and fairing.So cruiser and bagger in one.I have put on stage 1 S+S exhaust (sounds amazing)and air cleaned with stage 2 cam and it is a truly amazing piece of kit.If you get chance give one a try,particularly with stage 1+2.
I had the same debate with myself, and chose the other way. I looked at several Sportglides but chose the Fatboy. I do admit it's a bit of an inconvenience not having bags.
Here in France HD riders wave,in the UK most go around as if they were invisible😘
I wave and nod at everyone on my Harley in the UK and most none Harley riders pretend like they’ve not seen you, if I take out any of my other bikes it’s a different story.
@@RICHARD10195 generally, HD riders are the only ones who don't wave (Germany-based rider here). So I'm afraid I've also gotten a bit less jovial in return-I apologise to all waving HD riders😬👋
In the US pretty much everybody (on a motorcycle) waves to everybody. Not all HD riders will wave to metric riders though. Although most will if you wave first, LOL.
You’ll find that as the bike breaks in and you get used to it, neutral is very easy to find.
And HD stands for “hundred dollars.” Want a little chrome add-on? Hundred dollars. Some leather tassels? Hundred dollars. 😆
Years ago when I had my Buell I had a recall notice and got a Harley Night train soft tail as a courtesy bike from the dealership for the day. I took it out on a 150 mile run and I have to say that apart from nearly shitting myself the first few times I decked out the bike in corners I had a hoot! Loved the riding position, the engine sound and the general feel of the bike. Like you, I had a big grin when I got back and wasn't overly keen on my own bike when it came time to take it home! (Buell XB12-R)
I don't think I could own one as my only bike and I don't think I'll ever have two bikes as I don't have much spare cash but I would ride on any day if given the chance.
I remember the pictures of the Night Train and loved the name and looks. I wish that bike and the Softail Deluxe models were in production today.
The fuel mileage you quoted must be off. They get 40 mpg all day in North America, and that’s with the smaller gallon. Should be close to 50 with the imperial gallon.
I've heard 35mpg, but then it probably depends on how hard you ride it.
Just like my breakout it doesn’t have traction control which isn’t a problem as long as you remember in the wet because that big back tyre soon spins up
You ask how people can't find it beautiful, "It's Americana personified" you say, and THAT'S why some of us don't like the aesthetic. Not all of us are into pipes and chrome and over-the-top design features! It's too flashy and loud to be "beautiful" to my eyes, striking? Yes. Beautiful? No.
But as you said at the start, HD divides opinion so it will always have that going for it! ;)
Glad you get the whole sense of theatre around riding Harley’s, they are great fun. The indicators cancel after sensing you lean and then come upright again, they will also cancel after a set period of time. Like the stand, Harley’s have lots of handy real world bits of engineering like that. The dealers will sell you a stage one conversion = loud pipe, air filter and chip. I imagine most new Harley’s are sold like this, mine certainly was.
Yes it defo needs a bit more shout!
When I hear (don't hear?) a standard harley with restricted pipes I always think "blimey, what's up with them? Are they only riding that because they have to?" I wonder what ‰ of harleys stay on standard pipes?..
@@robbikebob id say under 5 percent. I've often heard that the rarest bike on earth is a 5 year old, bone stock Harley.
Harley Davidson. Yesterday's technology at tomorrow's prices.
I like HD bike a lot. So, I went to visit a local HD dealership and they wanted to charge me a lot over MSRP. So, I eventually bought a 1/12 scale model and I have become a happy owner now ever since.
Harley indicators are just simply dangerous. I own a V-Rod and the self cancel takes too long to cancel, it takes a good 30-40 yards of increased speed for them to cancel. If you've come out of a turn and there's another junction in front of you, don't want to give the impression you're about to turn again, the only option to cancel is to press the indicator again that causes the system to reset and think you are going to make another turn, so you have to press twice to actually cancel. Meantime you spend far too long looking down checking your indicator is off rather than eye balling the vehicle waiting to pull out that junction. Love the rest of the bike though :-)
True , one of the few gripes I’ve had with my dyna wideglide is the annoying self cancelling indicators. I’m sure lean angle cancels them as well as the time delay.
I'd like the older one from the 90s. Had a go on one back in 2003. It didn't handle, brake or go very well but I loved it.
Harleys are always form over function hence they weigh so much. Very nice design details that are not always for the benefit of the ride. The wheels look great and probably weigh twice as much as normal wheels. Unspurng weight is a bad thing unless your looking to flatten tarmac.
Just like precious metals Harley price their bikes by the kilo.
I have one of these and I nod to all bikers but the hate is annoying. I spent many years in the 90s riding on sports bikes and tourers and having gotten older realise my limitations and slower reaction times. I'm just a biker who plods along enjoying the ride but not chasing down the next car.
We shouldn't be hating any types of bikers ,everyone has their reason for the bike they ride.
Good review and enjoy the next 2 weeks with it.
Amen to that!
When you ride big cruisers, you can and should use both brakes to stop aggressively. There's no worries about the rear ends of these things lofting off the ground. Once you learn to use it correctly, you can stop really quick on them. But it is different than smaller sportier bikes.
A heel shifter makes shifting much quicker, more enjoyable, and easier to find neutral. Unfortunately, they come with a peg that sticks out too far and takes up floorboard space. I made my own shorties out of a bolt and some o-rings.
Agreed, you use the rear brake much more on a Harley than you would on a sports bike.
@@whiskywhippet It's probably not as bad an idea as it used to be. Prior to all the electronics, it was downright dangerous to use a rear brake when braking hard on sporty bikes. If the rear wheel was touching the ground at all, it would often send them fishtailing away.
Hopefully, the modern ABS fixes that.
With big cruisers, using both is necessity if you need to stop them quick.
I've been riding for almost 50-years and I love my 2020 Fat Boy. I put a 131" kit in it to wake it up a bit more and I'm grinning ear-to-ear.
Love that Shark helmet too
If you want to know why Harley's have a bad reputation you need to stop looking at the bike and start looking at some of the owners.
When having a ride with a man you look
When with a woman you never
You mean like the sports bike assholes who lane split at 80-100 mph,do wheelies and front wheel hops through busy pedestrian crosswalks, full out throttle between traffic lights, can't attend bike night without the cops shutting it down half the time because of assholes drag racing, doing burnouts, and stunts on small residential street, drug use, and violence? You mean those riders? Take your bs opinions and stick em in your ass
I own this very bike, a '22 model however. I've owned many bikes over the years - Hondas, Yamaha's and a couple of Harley's. This one is my absolute favorite to date.
Thanks for sharing!
Almost 400 kilos and only 1 front break disc. That metal hump looks nice on display.
I bought a Harley Dyna new in 2006 and still have it and love it. I have also had other bikes during my ownership of the Harley and loved them also. For some reason the Harley has stayed the test of time.
You’ll be hanging out with Shadetree Army before you know it…!!!
I do love how HD make chunky gears and buttons… Proper analogue motoring! 🤘
Definitely wouldn't fancy living with one but you've got to be glad they still exist, they're a bit of a dinosaur but undoubtedly the real thing. The massive clunk from the gear change made me smile throughout the review. Loved the way you were obviously thoroughly enjoying yourself.
I have a MASSIVE soft spot for Harley's and can see me having one eventually. They have style, noise and for someone like myself who isn't a Chrome-sexual, you can get black models👌
*chromosexual 😂
I understand the complaints people have of Harleys being way overpriced for the sort of “low tech” you’re getting, but I feel like it’s not a bike you buy based on spec sheets but by emotion. The level of detailing and artwork is unreal and makes me think the rider must’ve gone to great lengths to custom design their bike, but it’s not, it’s rolled off the dealership floor! I’ve heard the comparison before of Harleys being effectively the “hot rods” of the motorcycling industry, and I totally agree. So ya, I get it, ultimately you are paying a LOT of money for what might be low tech, but you’re also paying for all the intangibles most other bikes don’t offer. Great review! Not a Harley fan myself, but the change of pace was nice to watch 😊
Nice one Ben - I agree, it’s not all about the tech but an emotional connection…
Did you notice the terminators harley had a skinny rear wheel so he could do a wheelspin.
The first Fatboy's made had the skinnier wheels like in the movie, then increased in size over the years.
@@sirrideabit651 they were proper skinny then, pointless calling it a fat boy, I thought it would be one of them movie type magic things to try and trick you, like Tom cruise in mission impossible when his bike tyres change from dirt to road😂
@@Andy-hi7bo no idea either with the name, my mate bought one of the first models and wasn't happy when they came out the with bigger tyres.
Yes, it's an accessory seat. The OEM seat looks much better and is very comfortable though not plush.
Been considering the fat bob 114 lately, I don't hold with all this crap brakes, underpowered stuff that a lot of people say when they talk about Harley's, it's a cruiser not a sports bike and it's all about the torque and how the bike makes you feel for me. The thing that has always put me off is ground clearance on European roads, I know you have to adapt your riding but there's always those days when you want to push on a bit and that's when it doesn't work for me. However been using the BMW connected app on my 1250 gs recently and after a normal relatively quick ride it showed my max lean angle as 31 degrees and I didn't particularly feel like I was doddering around. On the fat bob I possibly would've scraped the pegs once or twice but not too bad, on the Fatboy it would be a different story which is too limiting for me.
I'm at the cheaper end of things I have had an old XV1600 (poor man's Hardly) and a R1100GS for years. No point in a lazy cruiser if you want to ride it like a normal bike, you will scrape or run wide often. But it is a real laugh a minute and for me much comfier than the GS. I liken the XV to a fairground ride, such fun at slower speeds. The GS is just dull at normal speeds compared to the XV, it is all so easy, the bike goes around corners with little thought. The XV, well you need to inform it a corner is coming up and manage it all the way around. I'm sure there are more modern cruisers that can do everything, but for me the charm is in the different riding experience they offer. Accept that and enjoy the ride.
Nice to see a positive review. I ride a Harley (Street Bob) and I have to say I absolutely love it.
Good to hear!
When I last rode a HD, that engine was incredibly hot. How did you find the heat from the Fatboy? Nice bikes. Biggest upgrade is brakes. I was always told if riding in a group, put the HD at the front. Never have one behind you. Nearly 400kg and single disc front. Stopping power is scary.
Total horseshit. I ride with groups of Harley's all the time and they stop just fine.
There is your answer. Groups of "harleys". they all brake the same. In mixed groups of lighter bikes with more braking potential the Harleys come up short. Ride more in mixed biking groups before you come out with defamatory language and comments please. @@guffinator70
I enjoyed your review. My brother has a Fat Boy and he let me try it a few years ago. Up to that point the biggest bike I had ridden was a Ninja 650.. I didn't have any trouble and I found it a blast to ride !. I would definitely consider one but it couldn't be my only bike because I like riding on narrow twisty roads in mountains here in NorCal. I'd also have to get different gear. My flashy textile Dainese kit didn't quite look right on it...lol
Yes you have to have vaguely the right gear for any given bike don’t you - I draw a line at chaps and tassels though (at least when I’m out on the bike)….
Harley's definately fall into the marmite category.
Ride one I did now own two
Marmite what !!!!👁
@@user-sv6qq8tp9x I have ridden several. Spent a week riding a Fatbob around Hawaii. Really enjoyed it but at the end of the week I was happy to return it.
@@sarahconnor6563 either you love Harleys or you don't. Like marmite (or vegemite where I live)
Just to say I love how your microphone pick up sound notes. On your video it sound like real thing, mean and deep. When I heard it in person it stole my soul and your video reproducing it very good. On other reviewers video it sound like a moped. Also thank you for remain silent when you started it so I could hear that engine music. Thumbs up.
My pleasure!
My bike mates would lynch me for this....I like it, looks great, sounds great. That bike is not about performance, its about presence and posing.
Agreed - and ultimately how happy it makes you feel….
I may have missed it, but I don't believe that you mentioned how easy it is to adjust the rear suspension. Large knob on the right side. Your bike was set on 2 which is, probably, pretty close to ideal for one rider of your weight. Twist it up a bit and see how you like it on that same road. Over here in the wild west there is, sometimes, discussion as to what effect high cross winds might have on those solid wheels. It seems that it can be an issue. Also, since you are a novice when it comes to riding H-D bikes, please note that the "new" Softail platform is a vast improvement over the previous iteration. You would not have liked an earlier Fat Boy at all. Another thing that puts off some potential buyers of the big twin Harleys is the fact that they require three different fluids at service time. Not an issue for those of us who are used to that, however. We like to fiddle around with our scoots.
Well done on Harley for getting behind you. Its getting folks like you on them thats likely to improve their sales. They’ve missed off the main wooden handled fatboy accessory though….
I bought a new FatBoy in 2018, 8500klm's in 5 months, so different from any other bike iv'e owned. I then bought the H-D Sport Glide. 31,000klms in 14 months, Iv'e gone from "Why would you ever buy one of thoes?" to .... I really get it.
Lovely machine, most people do a Stage 1 straight away, which is an exhaust & free flow air cleaner, that unleashes the beast Then there's Stage 2 which is a cam upgrade, then there's Stage 3 & 4, 4 being larger cylinders & a CNC ported head. The fuel figure you quoted were a bit off, generally it'll do about 40 - 50 might. When I ride my Fatboy lo it always puts a smile on my dial, all the best 👍
How’s the back these days, Geoff? 😎
@@garya3056 still bad Gary, I wouldn't mind so much but all the doctors are anti opiate , so you're always in pain. All the best Gary
@@geoffozevans4500 sorry to hear that, Mate… I’m getting older faster than I prefer to myself, but the Fatboy gives me the smiles as well. Stay safe. 😎
@@garya3056 thanks Gary, one gets used to the pain, but it's draining at times, 👍👍
@@geoffozevans4500 agree it never goes away. Come to think of it, neither does my mother-in-law. 🙄
So glad you liked it I was worried you weren't really sold on the breakout. I had a few harleys and only sold the last one because I financially needed to. It is a great brand and the feel good factor of the bikes are unrivalled. I've owned better handling bikes and much faster ones but as an ownership proposition i think they are superb and I cant wait to own another one.
You totally missed the opportunity to throw out some old Arnie classic quotes there TMF! :-D
Harley-Davidson forward controls riding guide: 1) Make no plans to turn -- they are called "highway pegs" for a reason; 2) If you're riding with an equestrian posture like the straight-backed postman dutifully making his rounds (and you know you are, TMF), you're doing it wrong; 3) Embrace big iron in the American bearhug it demands -- always listen to "Sweet Home Alabama" before departing.
Oh, and there are more aftermarket exhausts for HDs than teacups in Britain. Most with ample "aural glory" to shatter windows, knock over small children and cause their grandpas to wonder when they recommissioned the Howitzer.
Re (2) so what is the posture I should be adopting aboard a Harley?
With the poxy front brake maybe you should be listening to "Don't Fear the Reaper"?!!
Yummy mummy can't even drive out of a carpark without mounting the curb. 😂
Proved she is good at mounting though.
Looking at the kerb, I don't think this is the first time this has happened
To busy getting a close-up of "the man in black".... :-D
In case someone hasn't said it already the name Fat Boy came from the original atom bomb. First Fat Boy in 1990 is painted grey with yellow stripe like the bomb and now collectable. I love these bikes but not so sure about the new headlamp style. I am lucky to have a Ducati and a Harley and ride the Harley more often.
I’m not sure Harley Davidson motorcycles have a bad image persé, it’s the the pseudo 1% Motorcycle Club image that some riders like to cultivate, it just puts the average rider off. I’m partial to a Road King, having had 2, they are a great machine for long distance relaxed touring or a Sunday jaunt for a bacon butty and mug of tea. My experience of after sales has been second to none with UK dealers, and if you can see past the Leather chaps and skull & crossbones paraphernalia, HD bikes offer a good ownership experience.
What's wrong with the 1% biker that it would b enough to put u off a bike?
@@johnyoung8495 he's talking about 1%er wannabees. Not the real deal
@@kwak1k he's been watchin too much "sons of anarchy" crap
@@kwak1k correct
@@johnyoung8495 never watched that Hollywood shite
I’ve had four different Harleys over the past 30 years, a Super Glide, Dyna Wide Glide, Road King and an Electra Glide Ultra Limited. They are great dependable bikes if you take care of them. Unfortunately, its become all about the Harley lifestyle and not the bikes. I sold them all and, now to use your words Andy, I ride a Big ole Tiger 1200 which I absolutely love. I admit I miss the bike nights and going by the local Harley shop more than I miss the bikes. It’s all about the image more than the bike, but make no mistake they are awesome bikes for what they are. They still set the standard for cruisers. Can’t wait to see what you think after having it a while.
Nice review Andy. It was called Fatboy from the names of the 2 atomic bombs dropped on Japan during WWII - "Fat Man" & "Little Boy".
Fuel wise - you will get 40+ mpg from the Fatboy. I have ridden 225 miles before the reserve light comes on. They are very economical and have a very good range.
Mpg should be about 44. Everyone changes the pipes for more sound. Performance cam adds a big bump in power.
Great review and that's my feeling around HD. I've had many sports bikes (and still have an R1) from a k3 gixer thou to a Diavel a few years ago and my Breakout 110 shredder is my favourite bike of all time, you never stop grinning 😁. I'm a volunteer Bloodbiker too so ride lots of BMW machines and HD still is most enjoyable to roll out on plus the community is amazing, lots of banter and lots of laughs but all at speeds that will help keep your licence in tact in the UK lol 👍
I agree; a beautiful bike. Lots of retro character and as you walk away from it, you look back and like what you see. I have a Slim, which is similar but with a thinner rear wheel. Both models harken back to the post World War 2 era in appearance. The bike is very versatile and can be used for all day riding as well as around town. Add a Quick disconnect windshield and a sissy bar for luggage and you're ready to travel long distance in comfort and style. I'd be curious to see what you think of the Slim. Thanks for the review
I think the headlight is hideous. The rest of the bike looks great, if you’re riding through California or Nevada. Makes BMW seem cheap!
Great review again TMF. Just got to correct you on the fuel figure, I regularly get 55mpg - 160-180 miles per tank, on my FatBob (same engine)
Thanks for the correction!
That's a hell of an expensive ditch pump.
The only cruiser I would ever buy! So good looking and a decent motor.
Gold Wings, Fat Boys, I think I see a pattern developing.
No not really a pattern - I just like and appreciate all types of bike, not just one genre…
i rode some harleys years ago and did not like them. drove one recently and loved it. perhaps being in my 50s makes a chill ride preferable. it does annoy the hell out of me when folks make them loud as hell. most harley owners will not even consider another bike. doubt they have every even ridden another bike unless it was a dirt bike.
I suppose somebody has to love it.
I have a Shark Drak helmet and its baaad asss
I agree....
I actually did not know that Harley Davidsons stock exhaust doesn’t have that annoying loud sound that you hear every time you see a Harley on the road.
That loud obnoxious sound. It’s one of the main reasons why I never ever looked into a Harley. I like to go on long trips and would absolutely go nuts if I had to sit on a motorcycle for a long period that has an annoying loud sound. The sound of this one is awesome. This is also the very first Harley that I actually like that looks good. It’s very beautiful!
Couldn’t agree more - though to be honest the stock pipes could do with a little more volume…
You've been given a 2021 which, as you've commented, has a lot of chrome in place of the satin chrome of the previous two model years; there's also quite a few upgrades including the seat and mirrors. I have a 2019 Fatboy (not named for the tyres but an illusion to American military bombs and bombers - look at the tank badge) and I love it for all the reasons you give. However, the '21 you have does have a big problem right now; if you look at the end cans you'll see sensors which are new for Euro5. As you pointed to on the exhaust noise many H-D owners change the exhaust almost immediately but the inclusion of the sensor means that the exhausts and end cans so recently developed by aftermarket providers (it's only a 2-3year old model anyway) mean nothing fits other than the stock; neither full systems nor cans only. This was snuck in by H-D and indeed some dealers know nothing of it so if you could, over your test period, do some digging with H-D it would benefit many. At the moment some buyers are shying away from the '21 and looking for old stock '20's as the problem with the exhaust and probably air-filter make a "stage 1" (ask someone!) very difficult at the moment.
Thats true Philip. I've just bought a 21 Fat Boy, and planned an immediate Srage 1 with V&H Eliminator 300 pipes but am told they are not available due to the o2 sensor. It's a waiting game until they produce pipes with the sensor. Frustrating to be in June with no news of suitable pipes.
On another channel the reviewer informed me that a stage 1 is not available for the Euro 5 Fat Boy, is this not true then? How exactly does it work then, if you don't have the sensors does the engine just not work properly/show a fault? Is this just for slip ons, or would you not be able to put full systems on either? If I get a Fat Boy I'd want the V&H Big Radius but I prefer the new chrome look bikes over the satin finish.
@@Snerkler1 - the upshot of my comment, and what I'd like The Missenden Flyer to comment on when he does the more in depth review, is that no aftermarket exhaust in full or part is currently available for a '21 Fatboy . It is not possible to do what is commonly referred to as a "stage one" (air-filter / exhaust) on a '21 Fatboy as it's essentially just re-balancing fuel in and exhaust. It's not currently possible to change either the end cans (such as Eliminator 300's) or the whole system to put on such as the V&H Big Radius. I am not sure what the bike would show the rider if you disconnected and didn't replace the sensors but it seems clear that the changes would almost certainly be beyond current FP3 capabilities which means the input/output equation can't be adjusted. However, without the sensors the bike would doubtless record that they're not there and operating as designed so the risk is run that the bike's warranty may be affected. It would certainly be of interest to many if "Mr Flyer" could use his contacts at H-D to comment on the Euro5 changes such as these sensors as it seems to me that the dealers are currently left hanging - could be wrong of course!
@@Bradshaw812 what a royal pain that is. Obviously reducing emissions is a good thing but I’m not sure in the real world how much ‘we’ are going to benefit between Euro 5 vs Euro 4, but in the meantime manufacturers will lose out as it will be a deal breaker for some not being able to swap out the pipes. I have the M8 engine on my Road King and it sounds terrible (imo) with standard exhausts. I swapped them out for V&H twin slash and it sounds 1000 times better, and that’s without even doing a full stage 1.
@@Snerkler1 I'm told pipes will be available with the o2 sensor eventually, I can't get a timescale. I'm stuck with the stock pipes which are disappointing.
Since you got the bike from HDUK, I guess there is a Pan America in the pipeline.
Good to know HDUK is doing better and smarter marketing than here in the Burgerland.
What's the annual road tax cost on a machine like this?
Strangely, anything over 600 is 96 a year. So a newly passed rider with a ninja 650 or this with 3 times the engine size will all pay the size.
Clearly the government want you to ride a litre bike
Get a stage 1 Screaming Eagle kit for it, Mufflers and hi volume air cleaner with a fuel mapper. You need the fuel mapper cause its tuned really lean to get past the euro-5 standard and your local Harley bloke will tune it properly and the the sucker will fly. Did that on my Street Glide Special.
Even with your enthusiasm I’m still not a fan. But good review as always.
I been riding harleys for over 50 years, and I was hooked from my first ride.😊 I am surprised it took you so long to enjoy one 👍
Christ almighty, do you people in the UK ever have a Sunny Day ???
Unbelievabley weve just had about 5 or 6 days in a row of sunshine.... Very rare haha
@@Grahamvfr and now it's too hot 🔥🤣 roll on winter
I think Harley is making some good machines. I hear their new adventure bike has been a pleasant surprise also. 🇺🇸
Yes getting great reviews everywhere it seems…
Yes. I think it's the Pan American isn't it?
TMF - any chance you can do a review of one please? Would love to know how they stack up against the GS, Africa Twin, Multistrada etc
Its still a no for me. I just can’t get my head around harleys. I think that they are massively out dated. Massive engines that Make almost no power and use massive amounts of very expensive fuel, typically American. For a bike that is designed to be ridden at 55mph. I think Honda’s and other brands make far better cruisers for much less money. We should be looking to a fuel efficient future. We have euro 5 engines that have to be ever more fuel efficient, and yet you can still buy this 🤷♂️. Time to move on Harley!
I'm glad there are still people out there building old school machines for pleasure and not just efficient A to B travel. (that said I really like the Honda Shadow 750 for a cruiser)
Harley have been relying on the image to sell bikes for decades, it's basically Americas biggest cosplay accessory !
@@ImLeuff Harley as a business is dying and has been for a little while now. 10-15 years and they will be done!
@@ian-c.01 look at the numbers and you will see that their days are numbered 😂
@@dean-does-stuff-81 No they'll just get parts made in India to cut costs because there will always be people wanting to be seen on a Harley. Their fan base is so big they could crowd fund the factories and sell bikes at a loss and still keep going for another 20 years, the only thing that will end them is a ban on petrol !
It's not so much a mode of transport, it's more of a lifestyle choice and an image, there are people who will defend that image with their lives and give up everything for it, he brand loyalty is fierce !
@ MissedenFlyer
I love your reviews always a pleasure to watch.
I am currently looking for a second bike and have already had the pleasure of test riding the BMW R 18 and the Road King and Road Glide. All amazing machines, but for me the Road King stands out. More lean angle than all softails, so it can be ridden in a sportier way.
If you ever get the chance to review the Road king it would totally make my day.
For exhausts the systems from Kess Tech and Dr Jekill and Mr Hyde are top notch. however, they are not cheap but fully EU compliant and electronically controllable. If you have to leave early, you don't have to wake up the entire neighborhood.
I also think it's great that you now regularly place a cruiser in your reviews. An underestimated type of motorcycles that can provide a lot of fun in this hectic life with a lot of regulations.
Couldn't agree more! Thanks for watching and for stopping by!
It's not the bikes I don't like ,it's the snobbish Harley culture I don't like !! 🇨🇦🇨🇦
Nothing to be snobby about every harley should be banished to hell. I would feel embarrassed to be seen on one rbhy
all those angry old farts are dead now. We . . your attitude too, set the biker culture.
You mean same as the Uber snobbish BMW culture, the Ducati culture, the Triumph culture and in fact any brand that has a loyal following.
@@morgan98801 Absolutely - I have been riding Harleys over thirty years and find that the 'anti-snobbery' from most riders directed towards Harleys and their owners is quite pathetic - who cares what you ride, the fact that you ride is all that matters !
Haha! It takes a special person to be snobby about a slow, boat anchor of a bike 😆
I totally agree about liking all motorcycles. Not sure why people are so snooty. My bro in law and I hired a Fat Boy and a Fat Bob for a long weekend blatting around Wales and had a blast! The sound of the engine is addictive and you find yourself looking forward to stopping so you can rev off again!
Cool!
The best all round Harley is the Road King.
Harleys always make me smile when I ride one. Good first review, cheers.
“Fat Boy” is an amalgamation of the names given to the two atomic bombs that were dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki - “Fat Man” and “Little Boy” that's where the name comes from they have been trying to distance themselves from this FACT but this is why its called a fat boy.
learn something new...
That’s pretty cool…thanks for the info…
A rather insensitive name really ... in 2021 at least
they shouldn’t change the name….this woke environment we live in is out of control…everything offends everyone….people should grow a thicker skin….just my opinion….I just liked the history behind the name….thanks again….
That’s only a rumor. According to Harley Davidson, TMF is correct. The bike is named Fat Boy because it’s fat. Just like the Fat Bob. itstillruns.com/harley-called-fat-boy-5167584.html
I've test-ridden 3 different Harley models a few years ago. They're ubiquitous here in the States; a very strong community & representation. I have to say, I'm still got the Honda GoldWing at the top & it's on my "Bucket-List". Although both bikes had impressive low-end torque, to me the actual feel of the Harley gave me the impression that it was more, but I think that had more to do with that deep rumble of those 2 big cylinders; when reviewing both bikes' engine specs, the Honda has more & it's delivered down lower, & the torque curve is virtually flat from just off ide up close to the redline. In some ways, it seems to hardly have a need for more than just a few gears rather than the (as I recall) 6. I test rode a Honda GoldWing for a total of 10 days (the Harley dealer didn't have any rentals available) & all I could get was a ride around a rather large block on the Harleys. I'm more interested in a very comfortable long-distance cruiser & after speaking with a few friends who've ridden both & they agree with me; the Harleys seem to be a better boulevard-cruiser. I'll stick with my top choice, the Honda GoldWing.
I've never ridden a 'Wing, but I rode a Valkyrie for a couple of years. Now I own a Fatboy. I don't blame you, if I was doing very long rides I'd go with a Goldwing myself.