Harley Davidson Heritage Softail Vs Road King
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- Опубліковано 29 сер 2024
- Had a comment on another video asking what is better the Harley Davidson Heritage or Road King Standard. So, thought I would share my thoughts with all of you and how I landed on the Road King. To start, I have to share my experience as a re-entry rider and what I have learned that lead me down to a decision between the Road King and the Heritage.
Great comparison on Matt Laidlaw channel:
• Softail Chassis (Herit...
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I subscribed to your channel because we ride the same motorcycle and I enjoy your honest videos. I got my first street motorcycle in 1967 and I've had one every day since. In 2003 I bought my first road king and immediately rode from Florida to out west on a 35 day 6500 mile trip and loved it. I got into street Glides, road glides, ultras after that. Sold my 2019 cvo road glide and bought a new Road King,,,,and I love it. Back to basics, enjoy seeing my headlights and front wheel again. I had a Heritage, it's a nice bike but not really a long distance motorcycle. The "type B" motor is smooth at idle, but definitely not fun over 65mph. It was a 2012 and that year Harley had spoke wheels that had a special sealing rim flap so it was tubeless!!! Only did it one year and yes,,,you are just out of luck if you get a nail in your tubed tire. I carry the "stop & go" kit with me. It has plugs that seal the hole and an air pump.
Keep up the good videos!
Thanks for subscribing! I look forward to taking a long road trip like you have... maybe 2022.
I hope to do a ride like that someday! I currently have a 21 Heritage and I know it would make the trip, but I feel like the Road King would be better suited. I love my Heritage and can't imagine giving it up, but you never know what the future might bring. I definitely see a Road King in my future. Why the hell is Harley still putting the 107 in the Road King Classic???? That's my preferred model.
When I was young and ETS'd out of the Army I rode my Kawasaki CSR 750 back to South Florida from Ft. Carson, Colorado. In February. In a snowstorm. Froze my ass off. I know a smaller bike is capable, but now I am older and a little wiser.
I have an ultra and a street bob 114. I did my to Sturgis 2 up on the bob and I really enjoyed it. Handles so well. Tossed on a cheap ebay windshield and some leather throw over bags from the res. Cost me $250 for both. Grabbed a lightly used hammock seat for $200. Amazing ride.
I have found myself in the same dilemna. I have just about made up my mind to go with “the king” but I want one in chrome with a 114. C’mon Harley, listen to all of us.
That would be awesome... Chrome and a 114... let me know when you get the Road King... you will not regret it.
Hoping the 2023 models come out with a Road King standard with a 114 and 120th anniversary badge!
You can get the King in a police model with the chrome just like I did and it has the 114 with extra torque and power
The Heritage Softail Classic is by far the best looking and smooth running HD there is,I love my 03 Heritage 100 year anniversary model
I love the Heritage... I have not test rode one yet but I hear the same compliments on it from various years. Take care and stay safe!
@@CageFreeMoto just rode 710 miles and it was a smooth ride,from Ohio to N Myrtle Beach
It’s all about riding position for me. The way you sit down IN a heritage just feels so much better to me. For the trips I want to take I know it’s not the best choice but I just can’t get over how much better the heritage feels
I love the Harley Davidson Heritage, and I’ve heard it suits many riders due to its size, fit, and ease of handling around town. That’s why it's important to sit on the motorcycle yourself to get that feeling which tells you, “This is the one.” Thanks for sharing!
I owned an 016 road king. I traded it for a 23 Heritage. Boy what difference. At 932 lbs, I had a problem holding up the Roadking. The Heritage comes in at a little over 700 lbs, and I can balance it with just my legs.
I've owned 18 different bikes in my life and I bought a 2021 Road King and It is the best bike I have ever owned. I take 2-3 long trips every year plus I enjoy riding locally with it. I think it's the best cruiser out there. It does what it was built for amazingly. Thanks for the vid!
Well said! Thanks for sharing!
2 years ago I bought My first H-D. I visited two stores and test rode 6 Heritage bikes, solo and with my wife. I was certain I was buying the Heritage. One salesman asked me to just try a Road King to tell the frame differences. 10 secs on that bike and I KNEW that was the bike. I didn’t say anything to my wife, took her for a ride, she said “If you are going to get one, this is the bike!” We just loved it. Far more room when 2 up, great for distance, 6 gallon tank vs 5 gallon. It has great balance and so comfortable.
Initially I wanted the Deluxe but then it was canceled so like you I was looking at the Heritage. And also like you, once I sat on a Road King I knew it was the one. It seemed to just standup on its own and I even looked to see if anything was on it to hold it up. And it had a similar to the Deluxe (at least I thought so) but way more features that mirrored the Heritage. As you can see, I was sold and been happy ever since.
Take care and stay safe!
A video that is really different from ours is presented. A lot of information and numbers are listed that are of no deep benefit, but this person provided information that is more like deep or of a psychological nature, and this is what we need and not just presenting numbers that are already present on the bike company’s website. Thank you very much.
Thanks for the kind words and happy you found value in this video
Fantastic review, thanks much, in 73 and looking at a heritage for the weight difference. I used to ride a goldwing, but I like the v twin and not all the electronics, but just a clutter free of the latest gizmos 👌👍 keep up the good reviews
Couldn't go wrong with either bike . Went with the heritage classic ! Weight was the big factor . Plus don't ride two up often . If did would for sure gone with the RK . Being 69 years old , bad knees , bad back , and arthritis made the less weight important . Had a 2001 RK , wish it had the 6 speed trans . Ride on , ride safe !
I love the heritage... has everything I would want. I just selected the RK because my wife may ride with me a few times and I really hope to go on long road trips across the US.
Stay safe!
I've had my '99 Heritage Softail for 10 yrs now, and wouldn't trade it for any other bike! Love that EVO motor! Most dependable motor ever built! I've had a number of Harley's and been riding for 47 yrs, and by far, my favorite bike is my Heritage!
I have heard nothing but good things about the EVO engine
Lack of power tho?
@@ALEXdaG Just noticed I had a missing word in my previous reply and just edited. Are you saying the EVO lacks power?
@@CageFreeMoto idk if evos lack power lol I’m asking but i assume so. My tc88 lacks power and i figure the older you go the less power. My gripe with the tc88 is only 5 gears and it works harder at highway speeds than id like
@@ALEXdaG Ah yes, you are correct. A guy I rode with had one and burned more fuel keeping up with 6 gear baggers. And that was due to the engine working harder. Time for an M8 :)
I bought a 2021 Heritage Classic in the Billiard Teal. I added rear floorboards and a nice wide backrest for my wife. I love the motorcycle, but knowing what I know now, I’d diffidently gotten a Road King if I had it to do over. It’s a better ride, more room for two-up riding and bigger bags. Just my two cents. Love your videos!
I went from a sportster 48 to a road king special. My 48 was great around town soon as I started going farther I noticed I need more. I am thin person and push the road king just fine. It is intimidating because it’s a heavier bigger bike but it’s all about technique and skills. The heavier bike is less forgiving when going slow speeds to me but I just practice riding and it gets easier and rides so smooth. So I go around town and to work to get used to it. Next year I would like to go farther distance. But good video except I don’t think size really matters only when your feet sit and plant is mainly my concern but I can plant both feet down on the ground so no big deal. You got a bike just go practice is all then it gets easier if anyone was thinking of switching.
Totally agree! The Road King is much heavier but you cannot feel it when riding. As you said, you feel it when going slow and practice will build your confidence. Practicing slow will prepare your for quick maneuvers when needed. Happened to me at a gas station, riding slow and a car cut me off to get to the pump. So, we all need to practice.
Congrats on the Road King Special, they are very very nice.
@@CageFreeMoto thanks 🙏
You really can’t go wrong with either bike.
I bought a 2018 heritage mainly because the road king comes in a 107 and weighs more. I also prefer the blacked out look. The RK special is beautiful but you get less for your $ (lose the windshield, highway lights, engine guard)
I have taken the Heritage from Michigan to Atlanta through the Smokies and rode all day with issues. I am jealous of the Road King bags.
Well said! And yes, I wish the Road King standard had a 114 option. Stage 1, here I come. That said, I mostly ride alone and never felt a lack of power from the 107.
@@CageFreeMoto you are right about the 107. The difference between the 107 and 114 is pretty nominal. The 107 is plenty of engine.
@@3ruffians10 you're right , the 107 is plenty. I've had a 114 and 117 CVOs,,,,I can't tell much difference.
You mean without issues right? Not trying to be rude just want to clarify as I own a softail myself.
Good input on riding style regarding choice of motorcycles when looking at the Heritage and Road King and have found both capable of Touring. I've owned both newer and older models. King me again lol, on Road King 2021 presently. Thanks for sharing, Ride on
Thanks for sharing your experience! It's great to hear your perspective on both the Heritage and Road King. The Road King 2021 is a fantastic choice! Keep enjoying the rides, take care and stay safe!
I always liked the Heritage...a friend of mine has one that he's had for years & it just epitomized what a motorcycle should look like, but I wound up with a Road King, which pretty much is a Heritage with hard bags & different forks & headlight...after having the Road King for a few years now, I made the right choice...I may complain about it not being as dependable as my Hondas, but it's just so awesome to ride...
I love the Heritage, but went with the road king because of the touring frame and my stature. Just hit a year with the RK and zero regrets, comfortable on long rides and for me it works well for a commute to work (once a week as I work from home).
The Heritage is a great Motorcycle and I would have went with it, but I think the RK scalable as my riding was going to have more road-trips and who knows, I may have looked to convert from the Heritage to a touring model.
Take care and stay safe!
I love the vintage look of the Heritage but I really miss the RK Classic. IMO the most beautiful vintage looking Harley ever produced. I hope that they bring the model back into production. I’m 61 and old school. I love chrome more than the blacked out bikes.
I get my first Harley from Laidlaw’s , after 2 year I get my second one motorcycle …. Is good to see motorcycle reviews like this
Congrats on your first Harley! I would want to shop and buy from Laidlaws, they are very transparent.
Had 12 heritage, great bike. Sold it to get 18 RK. once I got the king the way I wanted it, just a bigger bike. Like the bigger bags, and have to say, the heritage 114, I think, is the best bike HD has. Rides like a metric.
Thanks for sharing! I also like the heritage and with a 114 and a lighter bike... must be fun. I will need to test ride one :)
Very good video and very good comparison of the two motorcycles. I’m a lot like you because I came from a Suzuki C50T Boulevard which is a lot like the Kawasaki Vulcan 900 that you rode. I was trying to choose between the Road King and the Heritage and I rode both bikes and liked them both. I ultimately went with the Heritage with a 114 motor and I’ve had it for about a year and I’m very happy with it. I just came back from a long road trip from my home in Georgia to West Virginia and it was very comfortable. My only complaint is that the bags are kind of small and I’m sure the Road King bags hold more cargo in addition to looking better than the bags on Heritage. But I like the lighter weight to the Heritage and I don’t think you can go wrong with either bike. Again great video. Ride safe on your beautiful Road King.
Thanks for the kind words. I actually have been subscribed to you while (Big fan) looking for my first motorcycle (re-entry to riding again) and was leaning towards the c50t or c90, it just so happens the Vulcan 900 was a great deal that I could not pass-up.
I really like the Heritage and yeah the 114.. woohoo!. But because I am a big guy and wanted to go on long rides it was suggested that the Road King is my best bet and like you I am very happy with it.
Take care and stay safe!
I have my first bike ever vulcan900 and I love it.. after a 6 or 7 months I'm looking now for the same dilemma. Heritage or RK.
I'm 56 y/o and my knees are not like a marathon runner, so u think that weight will be a big factor at the time to choose.
This week will be test rude both at my local harley dealer and see which one fits me better.
Great channel.. thank for your honest thoughts
I LOVE my 2019 FLHR
I love this bike man
Best bike for all situations
Zero complaints on the Road King and so happy I got it. I drive it work, about 1.5 hours through traffic one way. I take it on the northern California mountains with twisties and just around town for errands. I am with you! The BEST bike for all situations!
Take care and stay safe my friend!
I really like the the older version of the Heritage. I really dislike the bags on the newest version. I still do not understand the so called "hubcap". Dual discs. Road King is more versatile. Both are too cramped for someone over 6'.
Yes, the saddlebags and seat were aspects I didn't like about the Heritage. To be honest, I'm also not fond of the stock seat on the Road King with the buttons along the side. At 5'10", I find the Road King to be a good fit for me, but it does feel a bit cramped with a passenger.
Getting on a road king is a major step. It’s huge even compared to most touring bikes. It’ll take a little while to get used to. The slow speed stuff will be sketchy at first
Agree. I remember when I first went looking at HD and did not even want to trow a leg over a touring motorcycle as it seemed HUGE and HEAVY. I even had it delivered when I bought it. Having it for 15 months I did take it slow to start and now I am on a road trip from the West coast to the East coast. And by the way, love the challenge of slow speed training.
Stay safe!
@@CageFreeMoto Yes I’d imagine a FLHR standard would be intimidating for a first touring bike. But once you’ve had it for a while you’re gtg. I like a high ride. The handling seems better. The road king 107 is just about perfect. Windshield and lower wind deflectors provide more wind protection that a fairing.
I have a 16 Heritage. I really like it! I do sometime in the near future moving up to the Road King. I don't ever see myself on a fixed fairing bike in the touring group so the only move up is the Road King. I don't believe I'll get rid of the Heritage though. It's just too pretty and looks good solo seat and no bags or backrest.
Totally agree, I would not mind getting a Deluxe in the future and keep the RK. The only thing I like about the fairing is the built in GPS. But prefer the Road King and it's simplicity. Stay safe!
I totally agree with you, I’m for the RK, awesome bike.
yep, plus you can grow with the RK as it is a touring frame. One thing I should have mentioned is that HD does not have a USB like the softails. So I always need to be sure to bring a power brick with me ;)
@@CageFreeMoto
I've seen lots of RK reviews but nobody is showing those lights at night, are they that bad ?
I really have not ridden much (I think once) at night. I can do a quick night ride and post it. It would be good if I get LED's to show before and after but once I have the budget I can upload an update.
Not even a consideration for me, Road King and or SG or RG only but Heritage or Deluxe not even in same similar categories in my opinion.
@@aarsenalfan I love my lights on my 16’ RK, they’re impressive out of the box.
Great video…I have been mulling over all the points that you mentioned on these bikes. Either one could work as I do a lot of shorter 1-3 hour runs, but I do like to tour as well. I know I can tour on the Heritage, but then I think for the money I might as well stick with my Triumph America (I have done multi day camping on that too). We will see where I land and I will be sure to do a video on that decision as well. Ride on!
Happy you enjoyed the video! I like Triumph, is the Triumph America more comparable to an HD soft-tail? Although it looks like the Triumph America has dual shocks, right? it would be interesting to know how they ( Heritage vs America) compare in riding. If you could swing it, maybe a larger touring bike like the Road King and the America for shorter rides or trips.
Oh, and have you seen the new Bonneville bobber chrome edition by Triumph? Talk about eye candy!
Take care and ride safe!
@@CageFreeMoto The Triumph America is probably more comparable to a Sportster 883 although they are completely different bikes. The America has an 865 cc parallel twin vs the Sportster’s 883 V-twin. The America does have dual shocks. One of the definite wins with the America is that I get a decent range of over 300 km (186 miles) on a tank of gas before the fuel light kicks on.
There are a lot of things that I love about the Triumph, but there are many reasons that I am looking at Harley as well for the next bike. I have considered keeping the America for shorter trips and adding the Road King for touring.
Oh, and I agree that the Bonneville Bobber chrome edition is a nice looking bike!
I bought a 19 Heritage when I got back into riding after 30 years. I had considered an Electra Glide or RK, but went with the Heritage after a lot of thought and talking with others. It was the right choice at the right time. A Road King could be in my future, but I realize I would be giving up some things by doing so. I love the 114 and the nimble handling with the Heritage. I’m a one-up rider and don’t take really long trips, although I don’t feel like I would need a different motorcycle to do so.
It sounds like you made the right choice for you. I went with the RK because I have and will be taking long trips, have a series now where I am riding from the west coast to the east coast on the RK. Since you do not take many long trips then you may not need the larger touring frame and still be able to go on your "shorter" trip on the Heritage with no problems.
Wish the RK had a 114 or larger... for sure!
Stay safe and enjoy your trips :)
I am getting my first Harley today. The 2023 120 Heritage Classic Anniversary. One of the main reasons was the weight. And I have not ridden in over 30 years. The bike just felt right.
I have an 01 and 04 Roadking, and i love them.. Friend has a heritage, but I can't wrap my head around it.. Very cumbersome..
So happy I went with the Road King at the end... zero regrets. Would be nice to have two and have them look different.
Ride safe!
I have a 2016 Heritage and a 2010 FLHTK. I love them both but I still want to add a Road King to the mix because it can do it all. It has everything you need and nothing you don’t. Had a 2001 RK Classic that my then wife gave me grief about until I couldn’t take it any longer and I sold it. She hated all motorcycles and refused to ride on it which severely limited the amount of riding I was able to do. I loved that bike and miss it dearly. Thank God the woman I am now married to loves riding with me and is very supportive of my Harley Habit.
Having a supportive wife is very important and happy that you are riding with your wife. One day I have to take mine on a road trip.
Totally agree that the RK is has everything you need and nothing you don’t. I have thought about a Road Glide but I just can't let go the Road King. So we will be together a long time.
Take care and stay safe!
@@CageFreeMoto I can’t blame you for that decision. My 2001 was a RK Classic in Real Teal. Absolutely gorgeous. I hope to find another one. Maybe a different color. The RK Classic is my favorite Harley model. Too bad they cancelled it.
@@coreycallahan7443 Maybe a temp cancel now that the 120 year models are out. Maybe they are back for 2024
@@CageFreeMoto I do hope that’s the case.
@@coreycallahan7443
What are your overall impressions of the 2016 Heritage? Have you made any mods/upgrades to it? I now ride a 2006 Vulcan Classic 900. But I'm seriously considering a 2016 Heritage. Thanks in advance.
Such a bummer the road king standard doesn't come in the 114. It's such a slap in the face if you prefer chrome and the old school look over the special.
TOTALLY AGREE!
I agree with you....and you are more likely to get tired of bad comfort than good comfort.....And if you have a sporty drivestyle the touringbikes is not the first bikes you check out....If the wife is happy and comfortable the trip will be so much more enjoyable....
Totally agree!
I wanted a Deluxe, but they were very few and far between, in the mid west, and if you did find one, people wanted stupid money for them. So I decided I'd get a Heritage Classic. I saved CASH, and was going to pay cash for whatever I bought, so I didn't have to make a payment on it for 4 months out of the year, when it's sitting in the garage, because it's to cold to ride. I just happened, to see a great deal on a Road King, and wasn't even looking at them, or interested in them. But I took cash and went to look at it. When I test rode it, I fell in love. I grew up on motorcycles, I raced dirt bikes, up into my 30's and I bought my First Harley road bike, when I was 17, and rode Harley's since then. The Road King really shocked me at how nimble it was, for such a heavy bike, and how great it rode and handled. I have a 2012, that's a 103 six speed, with ABS, Electronic cruise control, and throttle by wire. I'm so glad, I "Accidently" found the Road Kind. After buying it I have learned, just how much more bike, you get for your money, and I've NEVER been sorry I bought it. It now has 118,000 miles on it, and still rides and runs like a new bike. Doesn't use a bit of oil, and has been absolutely trouble free. I run AMSOIL in it, and am very meticulous about maintenance, and upkeep, which I believe also contributes, to why the bike has stayed so nice and dependable.
Thanks for sharing! I am not a mechanic but have taking the RK to HD for service. Take care, stay safe and happy new year!
Laidlaw also has a great review on the Deluxe - one stock and one 'west coast style'. I, too, most love the Deluxe looks wise. I've heard that it's one of the best handling Softails (along with the Heritage) to boot !
Thanks for sharing! Maybe one day I will get a Deluxe just for local riding, that would be fun.
1-up Haritage…… 2-up Road King hands down. Simply put when you are thinking of adding another person to the back of your motorcycle. The variables start to stack up more luggage, more comfort, etc. great Content, by the way. I also had a discussion with the guys over at Legend suspension and ask them about the differences between the mono shock which comes on the heritage versus the twin shock on the road king and they said that the twin shocks hands down , is going to be better for two up and handling, the mono shock, however, still does an awesome job and it’s still a vast improvement over stock, but at the end of the day twin shocks rule.
Totally agree with your! adding a person, luggage and road trips... that is why I went with the Road King because I may be looking to upgrade just about right now. Take care and stay safe!
Excellent video!! Great job, honest opinion.
Thanks and glad you enjoyed it!
Keep in mind a new 2022 Heritage classic is about the same price as a Road King, so won't save any money there. but the Road King will have a smoother engine (due to rubber mounts and the larger frame of the touring models), and has dual side exhaust (which will not come with the Heritage..) I'm 5'4" (and light weight) with boots on, and felt the Heritage was limited in the touring compartment, and looked surprising small to me. The two bike will not deliver the same on the hyw rides.. and most the miles I put on my bikes are at 55+ mph roads..something to think about.
Good points :)
Nice job, and a little of your biking history 👍
Got a 2016 RK . Love it
Awesome!!
I think the heritage is the best looking motorcycle in the hd line up especially the nostalgia the heritage brings.
Agree, I love the heritage classic look. I went with the Road King due to the touring frame and recommendation that it is much better on long rides.
It was at least
Once u ride a FLHR for a min…
It doesn’t feel big at all.
It does when u look at it lol
But when on it now it feels just so normal and right.
I rode a buddies bike .. was a smaller Japanese bike.. I felt so weird on it. It felt microscopic and felt like some beginner rider .. yet I hop on my FLHR and pull 18’ u turns and handle it like it’s a tiny bike.
My prior bike was a Fatboy (2009 96TC).. loved it but I put leather bags and did so much hwy riding and commuting to work etc .. road king made sense.
Other day I sat on a deluxe (I love ‘em too man.. ).. I almost flipped it over when I went to stand it up.
IDK if u do this but hop on bike and just turn bars and the bike almost stands up on its own.. RK is 840lbs.. deluxe is like 700.. felt soooo light lol.
I remember about 2 years earlier from getting a Road King I did not want to sit on any baggers at the HD dealer because they seemed so big. But now, the Road King seems to shrink when you ride it because it feels nimble and balanced so well. Have not been on anything smaller but I bet I would get the same feeling as you... so tiny!
@@CageFreeMoto we are lucky to have these bikes
These are dream bikes
The Softail was just too low to the ground for a 6'6" rider, I had a dozen or so and I know.
So you are now on the RK? You probably need an extended seat to stretch out a bit more... but yeah more room on the touring platform for sure.
I think the RK is the better looking of the two but the Heritage is more practical for uk roads. However the RKS is even better looking than the standard RK! Thanks
The RKS is also another great option. I went with the RK Standard as it also looks similar to the Deluxe that I originally wanted.
@@CageFreeMoto yes Deluxe is/was a beautiful bike. Shawn Smoak rides an RK amongst others he own. Worth checking out if you have not already. Thanks again.
Yep, he has a great channel about many motorcycles, plus Can Ams :)
Nice ride. I want one
You will not be disappointed
Have a 2001 Roadking Classic Touring . Beautiful bike . Like riding on a cloud .
Very cool! Do you have the original seat? So far I have zero complaints with mine but we shall see how it is after my upcoming road trip.
Stay safe out there!
@@CageFreeMoto no not the original . The original owner put a mustang seat on it .
It's apples and oranges.... The heritage is not a touring bike and should not be listed as one on the Harley website. Anyone who's done Miles on A lighter weight bike with Softail suspension and compared it to any of the touring models will see the obvious differences immediately.
Totally agree and one if the reasons I chose the Road King is because it is a touring bike.
Bro,I rode my 03 Heritage Softail Classic to North Myrtle Beach this past summer and the bike was amazing,great handling and awesome comfort,never an issue with the motor,I do consider it a touring bike,it was a great trip,looking forward to doing it again next May for Bike Week down there
You nailed it brother! I have Road King Special, larger stature as well😂 6’4”, 270, King is perfect!
You riding 1 south to Half Moon Bay? 84 back to the Valley? I grew up on those rides in the 70’s/80’s
Great content! Thanks for sharing!
Yes I am! Those are great roads and so many great roads off of PCH. Thanks for the kind words!
Good video in my opinion the Road King is the better choice in most cases however another consideration must be brought up for making a decision between them is the weight difference for some people . on another subject I am just curious did you change the pipes on your Road King?
Good point regarding the weight difference! I have not made any changes to the pipes, it is completely stock. Would like the stage 1, however, not approved in California as of yet.
@@CageFreeMoto I projected this video on my TV screen. I must say I really like the sound of those pipes as stock. I also just like your bike in general. I am probably just going to ride a bike for commuting purposes and around town. I would love to go on a bigger trip but maybe that will come in time. Even though I don't plan on going on long trips I am starting to think that I would still like the road king better than the heritage just because of the size. I am 6'2 240 lb. Thank you for your video I think it was great!
I have a 21 RK ,and yes I plan on changing the pipes . I like loud and louder. I'm running Bassinni muffler's now, I'm going to Vance's slash cut pipes for next summer.
HERITAGE ALL DAY
Thank you for your comment! I completely agree-the Heritage is an excellent motorcycle, and I'm glad it hasn't been discontinued. Everyone I've met who owns one speaks highly of it. Take care and stay safe out there!
The only thing stopping me from buying a Harley…. is “Harley People”.
It’s akin to “I know being a vegan cross-fitter can be a very healthy lifestyle, but I don’t want to be associated with people like you. Give me a burger and a beer, please.”
I totally get where you’re coming from! The Harley community is actually really diverse, with riders from all walks of life. It’s not about fitting a mold, but about enjoying the ride and the freedom that comes with it. Whether you're into burgers and beer or something else entirely, there’s a place for everyone. Ride what you love and find your own tribe!
thank's you for this road trip and your true comments. I live southern region in France where there are a lot of twisty and pretty roads but twisty. So, I love the Road King for the same reasons like you but before taking a decision I 'ld like to know how the road King if you already cruise in these conditions ? Thank you and enjoy
Eric
I have a few videos of me taking the Road King on twisty roads and it handles great. One where I ride on the Little dragon in California and one playlist with 3 videos where it is my first time taking the Road King on the twistes. Check them out and let me know what you think.
Let me know if you have any other questions:)
Great.
Thank you so much!
Going through this dilema now! I badly want a 2012 softail deluxe ember sunglow. But, my wife will want a backrest on it which will destroy it's beautiful looks. Also, she will ride with me most of the time. However, I don't see us riding anywhere beyond 2hrs away. Still, it sounds like the deluxe is not passenger friendly and will likely be very uncomfortable. I see that the 2018 and up is improved including ride quality, but to what extend when you are riding 2up? Also, even a used one for 15k is out of my price range. So, I'm also looking at Road Kings, around a 2012 model. But, it scares me trying to handle that much weight and dealing with the seat height. I'm 5'7". I hate the look of windshields but I do undeestand the benefit. The wind will wear you down quickly! I'm getting to the point that I'm almost ready to give up on buying either one.
It sounds like you're really facing a tough decision when it comes to choosing the right motorcycle that suits both your desires and practical considerations. It's great that you have a clear idea of what you're looking for, but finding that perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality can indeed be challenging.
The Softail Deluxe Ember Sunglow is undoubtedly an eye-catching choice, and it's understandable that you're concerned about altering its beautiful look with a backrest. The dilemma of passenger comfort versus maintaining the bike's aesthetics is a common concern, especially when you anticipate longer rides with your wife.
You're right to consider the ride quality and comfort for both you and your passenger, especially when it comes to extended trips. The improvements in the 2018 and newer models, in terms of ride quality and passenger comfort, might be beneficial, but it's crucial to test these out for yourself and consider reviews from riders who frequently go 2up.
The Road King is a solid alternative, and it's designed with longer rides in mind. While the weight and seat height might be a concern, it's important to remember that handling a heavier bike is often a matter of practice and familiarity. Your height might also factor into the comfort level when handling the bike, so sitting on one and gauging how it feels could give you a clearer picture.
Regarding windshields, you're spot on about their benefits - they can significantly reduce fatigue on longer rides. However, personal preference plays a big role here, so finding a solution that balances aesthetics and functionality might involve some creative thinking.
It's completely okay to feel uncertain and even frustrated in your search. Motorcycle purchasing decisions are personal and often come with a mix of emotions. Take your time, maybe consider test rides on different models, and gather as much information as you can. Ultimately, the right bike for you will become clearer with patience and exploration.
Feel free to keep researching and asking questions. Remember, the motorcycle community is filled with riders who have faced similar choices and can offer valuable insights. Whatever you decide, it's all about finding the ride that brings you the most joy and satisfaction.
Best of luck with your decision-making process! Stay safe!
Windshields are detachable. Personally i love the look of them.
So, thanks for sharing, I have question, when you went on a solo trip on the RK, you mentioned you had no complaints in comfortability, how long or how many miles or could you empty 1 full gas tank before you had to pull off and stretch or from pain on your Road King factory seat?
I have 16’ Roadking & I can get roughly 1.5 hours on seat before I have to pull off and rest my butt , I see other videos where guys get full tanks at 220 miles before they have to cool yo hiney… I want to at least get a full tank in the seat before I’m having to pull off road.. your thoughts and experienced seat length?
Thanks again for sharing!
Riding for hours and at times when on the group ride that went as far as leaving me 1/4 of the tank comfort on the stock seat was not a problem at all. It wasn't until the last 3 days on the road prior to arriving to California is when I felt pain. When alone I went to 1/2 a tank and pulled over for a quick fuel stop, stretch and just a break. Then on my way I went. But my ride from Virginia Beach to California was riding for about 8 hours a day and 1/2 tank or a bit more where I was starting to feel the pain and on the last day it was tough. But that stock seat was great and I think I just did not take the breaks I did early on in the trip. That said, I still have the stock seat but did pickup a new one. I will make a video on this topic and a review on the new seat.
Take care!
You'll resign everything the road king is because it's too d*** heavy for number 1 number 2 the air to just more nimble has more power and it will actually overtake 114 road king heritage has more power and that's what I like more nimble better handling and it doesn't feel like you're gonna fall over when you go on a corner that's really a reason why I picked the heritage it's an awesome bike and I'll take it on a trip this year and I'll go down on 27 3747 100 miles if I decide to you know and just straight through
Congrats on the Heritage! They are great motorcycles and I have heard everyone that owns one loves it. I have even thought if it would be a great 2nd bike for around town or commuting for me. Then, the Road King for long trips. But for now the Road King does that well for me. Thanks for sharing!
Given how much you love the RK standard, I wondered what your thoughts were on the RK special?
The reason I went with the RK standard was the classic look which I have wanted for a very long time. That said the RK special is very nice and has a sportier look. For me though, I knew I was going to be doing some long rides and possibly bring the wife. So the RK standard has passenger floorboards, bigger seat, windshield and the passing lamps. Plus RK special is lightly lowered in the rear, it has a 19-inch front wheel (rather than an 18-incher). Both great motorcycles it just depends on how you plan to use it... which is why I have the standard Road King.
Hi, thank you for getting back to me so quickly. I agree with everything you said, I'd prefer the standard version myself however it's now being discontinued.
I guess you could get used to the special without the windshield, as many brand bikes don't come with one
@@danthechippie4439 Maybe a Road King coming out mid-year part of the 120 year anniversary... who know...hmmm
Try a 5th generation Gold Wing.
Would love to! I need to find one that I can test ride :)
Mine is RK Classic 96”
Just it has 218.811 km (in Spain)
I bet your happy with it! the 96 looks nice and they have not changed much,... that classic look
Have you done a video on your mods to your King?
That is coming soon, prior to my road trip coming at the end of this month, May 2022
After watching 6:30 minutes of talking about 3 different bikes in a general sense but Nothing on any real differences between the two harleys, I gave up watching and to make this point of wasted time here and disappointment. 🤔🙄.
Sorry you wasted your time... I had to share a bit of my journey of getting back into Motorcycles along with what I have learned and my thought process to get to my final two choices of a Heritage or RoadKing. Thanks for your time and wish you the best... stay safe out there :)
@@CageFreeMoto
Thanks and no problem,I just clicked because of the tital is all 👍
Thanks for the feedback as I am learning and now I know that I should mention that I want to share my history that helps folks know how I narrowed down to these two bikes. Will do that for others... really appreciate the feedback.
It depends of the kind of biker.
If you want to keep the bike many years. The RK is the way to go.
It will be an icon forever. No bullshit. No modern look. Just plain old school harley.
That is exactly why I picked the RK. And I can ride around town or with the touring frame it is better for those long trips.
All roads lead to baggers.
Ain't that the truth! The comfort and the bags to carry your stuff plus great for long road trips. Take care and stay safe!
@@CageFreeMoto Exactly. I've decided this is the year I'm getting a Road King Special. Wish they still made them in Deadwood Green, but oh well, black it is! You too my friend.
@@kingcrumpet Keep us posted!