المدة الزمنية 9:23

Why Harley Riders are the WORST Riders.

بواسطة MCrider - Motorcycle Training

249 356 مشاهدة

8.8 K

تم نشره في 2023/08/04

Why is it that Harley Davidson riders seem to struggle with their riding skills more than riders of other brands of motorcycles? Is that an accurate statement or a bad stereotype? Let's talk about it this week on MCrider. BECOME A MEMBER GET INSTANT ACCESS TO THE FORUMS AND FIELD GUIDE http://www.MCrider.com/Member Do you like MCrider and want to get more training, get involved, and help MCrider grow? SUBSCRIBE to MCrider on YouTube http://www.MCrider.com/subscribe WATCH EVERY MCRIDER VIDEO EVER RELEASED http://www.MCrider.com/watch SIGN UP FOR THE WEEKLY MCRIDER NEWSLETTER http://www.MCrider.com/email MCRIDER MERCHANDISE Hats and keychains: http://www.MCrider.com/hat MCrider Reflective Decals: http://www.MCrider.com/decal t-shirts: http://www.teespring.com/stores/mcrider LET CONNECT http://www.facebook.com/MCRiderSkills/ https://twitter.com/mcriderskills LEARN MORE about Kevin and MCrider, hear my story and how this thing called MCrider started http://www.MCrider.com/eye SHOP ONLINE with these links and a portion of the sale will support MCrider http://www.MCrider.com/amazon I will see you on the road, Kevin at MCrider

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الكلمات

MCrider

Motorcycle

Motorcycle class

Motorcycle training

Motorcycle skills

Learn to ride a motorcycle

How to ride a motorcycle

Ride a motorcycle

Beginner motorcycle tips

Advanced motorcycle tips

Motorcycle tips

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تعليقات - 1869

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@MCriderقبل 9 أشهر Become a Member of MCrider and help me continue to make videos just like this.
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@jamesmcgrath1952قبل 9 أشهر I'm now 71 years old. While I still ride (I have 5 bikes), I no longer ride Harleys. 500 or so Lbs is my limit these days. Hey, I have to be realistic. id="hidden2" class="buttons"> To quote Dirty Harry, "A man has to know his limitations. " Ride safe, everybody. ....وسعت 575
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@FreeSwimmerقبل 8 أشهر 48 years ago I got my 1st motorcycle. A 1973 Yamaha125 Enduro that always stayed in the dirt.. I then got a 1979 Husky 250 Dirt Bike and then was racing id="hidden3" class="buttons"> a 1985 Honda CR 250 Dirt Bike .. My 1st streetbike was a 1991 Harley Softail Custom. I felt the difference, obviously, but had attained the skills to adapt quickly. 9 Harleys later and still loving it. Hope to be riding many more years. Glad to hear your still enjoying 2 wheels.. Happy Labor Day to all !! ....وسعت 7
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@raymondlong3024قبل 9 أشهر I'm a 20 year Harley rider, and these are some of the most true statements I've ever heard. I generally myself meet 1-2 new riders every year and id="hidden4" class="buttons"> see the allure people have, and tell them be careful, start on a smaller bike, 750-900, and learn to ride before trying desperately to kill yourself on something larger than you can handle or have experience at, it doesn't come overnight. Even myself at this stage have backed down from the touring street glide I had to a heritage, I'm older now and need a little less weight to handle, the ride is still there, and without the beast to move around. good video. ....وسعت 20
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@johneverett3947قبل 9 أشهر Been riding for 55+ years and you’re 100% correct. Any time a friend or family member decided to get a motorcycle I pushed for classes, a midsize motorcycle and part of the purchase price was full gear. Have a brother in law who decided he wanted a Harley and is one of those people who knows everything. I said NO get something small and the gear, did he listen of course not. First time out of his driveway, thankfully with a helmet but unfortunately with no leathers. He took out two parked cars and got road rash from his ankle to his shoulder on his right side. Two weeks in the hospital and six months of misery healing. Not the way to start. And what is it with all these cruiser riders and passengers that insist on short helmets, t shirts and shorts, makes me cringe. ....وسعت 167
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@ReifferMadnessقبل 9 أشهر Well said! I currently ride an Ultra Classic, and I also pursue training and advanced riding courses because I want to master that motorcycle. I'm id="hidden6" class="buttons"> actually attending a motorcycle rodeo prep course starting next month because I want to compete in a rodeo. One of the most important things I've learned along my journey is that I am the only one who is or can be responsible for my safety while on two wheels. Control what I can control and be prepared for what I cannot control. That mindset is not universal among riders, so we have people who end up in overly risky situations that could have been avoided. Additionally, and I don't say this lightly, Harley Davidson is not in the business of cultivating safe, responsible riders.they are in the business of selling motorcycles. ....وسعت 14
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@sweetdrahthaar7951قبل 9 أشهر I’ve got a quick story about bad motorcycle riders. I had ridden both dirt and street for decades, and was thinking about demoing some bikes. Found out you’d had to have an M designation on your license. So I got on my Honda trail 90 and headed up to the high school where cops had cones set up and a stopwatch to run people through their course. Guys on Harleys and new super bikes, we’re falling and dropping their bikes all over the place. I went through there on that trail 90 without dabbing a foot. I had guys offering me 50 bucks to let them ride my 90 through the course. I had things to do and couldn’t hang around, but it was amazing to me that most of the people there didn’t know how to ride. I’m not kidding. Most of them did not know how to ride.! ....وسعت 34
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@flexjoeقبل 9 أشهر Amen. I ride an Indian. At 19, I totalled one bike. The elderly lady who cut me off said she never saw me. At this time I realized that the only person id="hidden8" class="buttons"> responsible for keeping me (and my bike) in one piece. is me. After this, I take absolutely NOTHING for granted. Thanks for the info and Ride safe everyone! ....وسعت 147
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@RPO767قبل 9 أشهر Very good summary and well presented too. Great points that I absolutely agree with.Thank you. When I learned to ride back around 1970 a 350 was a big id="hidden9" class="buttons"> bike and a 500 or 750 was huge. I learned, fell, raced, wrenched and crashed on small bikes 125-350cc for many years (some before I could get a license) before I could afford or even considered a larger motorcycle. It seemed like a natural progression and I beleive it was ultimately the safest. I'm actually returning to smaller vintage bikes now. It seems that a lot of folks don't even consider smaller bikes but they can easily be as much fun or more so if ridden in the proper environment. Ride safe.have fun. ....وسعت 17
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@dyates6380قبل 9 أشهر I can't deny this. I have a Harley and I was a brand new rider. I took my time BIG time. Mine is a 2005 soft tail that I got for a great price, and id="hidden10" class="buttons"> I'm a big guy, but I was very cognizant of the fact I was NEW and had to go very slowly. I have been riding three years now, and I still am very aware of the size and weight of the bike. Sir, you are so correct. ....وسعت 54
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@jamesstead1496قبل 9 أشهر I ride a Triumph Rocket III Roadster . It's been my bike since ' 16 . I'm 61 now and still have a heartbeat for the bike. I've had some id="hidden11" class="buttons"> instances where I have had idiots and animals intervene with my riding and I was just lucky to get ahead of chaos with them. Your videos have already made me more aware of potential problems with the growing class of idiots on the road these days. I think everyone should take a look at what you offer. Keep up the work you do. I certainly appreciate it !! ....وسعت 9
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@terrythornock6468قبل 9 أشهر Excellent briefing Sir, as usual!!!!!
I’m 63 next month and a 100% Disabled Veteran and Above Knee Amputee due to a car turning into me while on my Yamaha Road Star 1600 on June 18, 2005. I had ridden 17 years.
I stayed off the bikes for 5 years and then bought my 2011 HD ROAD KING CLASSIC and had a Pingel Shifter put on it. I still ride that bike today, some 58,500 miles later.
I believe every word you said!!!!! ....وسعت 5
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@user-ik7fk4ss1qقبل 9 أشهر I taught myself on a 650cc single cylinder Suzuki Savage over the course of a few months, staying in my neighborhood first, getting used to controlling id="hidden13" class="buttons"> by muscle memory, low speed turns, u turns. Then I began heading out around the main block of my area at 0430 when there wasn't a soul on the road. I gradually increased my distance as I got more and more comfortable on the little bike. Watched videos, practiced tips, and by about 3 months on I went and bought what I wanted, a used 05 Dyna Wide Glide. It was a lot more bike than the 650 Suzuki, but I did the same thing. Played cool and spent a lot of time getting used to curves and low speed stuff and comfort and relaxation at higher speed roads. I dropped it due to a panic braking event that wasn't even needed, I just got scared and mashed the front brake at 55, locked it up and dropped immediately, shattering my collarbone resulting in surgery with a plate and 11 screws. I was back on the bike before the doc even told me I was allowed to lift anything. That was a very hard learned lesson about emergency braking without ABS and how/when to properly split front/rear brake application. I still throw u turns and stuff on my small neighborhood streets and hit parking lots between two parking spaces to keep the low speed skills up, stay upright and counter lean, take heavier curves with a bit more speed and practice controlling lean angle with throttle, occasionally drag pegs. Knowing your limits and intentionally pushing yourself in safe ways to become a better rider is very important even apart from taking courses, which is the best way to get better. ....وسعت 4
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@robertclark9قبل 9 أشهر I rode Harleys for 30yrs. After I retired, and because of numerous arthritic issues, I bought a Suzuki 650 Burgman Executive. The CVT is perfect for me. id="hidden14" class="buttons"> Just twist and go, with plenty of power. Younger riders like to make fun, but don’t realize that my first bike was a 65 Electra Glide I purchased in 1975 at age 20. I was riding Hogs, when their Dads were only a twinkle in their grandads eye. I simply love to ride. Whatever bike I’m on. ....وسعت 205
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@markcraig3702قبل 9 أشهر Great video Kevin, As usual ,You are spot on. I have been riding motorcycles since is was 8 years olds, I am now 66 and ride a 2018 Honda Goldwing DCT id="hidden15" class="buttons"> and a 2008 Harley Night Rod. I see new riders going straight from the MSF class and jump right on a brand new Road Glide or Street Glide. They will spend hundreds of dollars on accessories and parts for their bike and will not even think about training or even practicing. You see some of these same people at bike night events duck walking their bikes through the parking lot struggling to keep the bike upright , then watch in horror as that $35,000 motorcycle hits the asphalt when they try to turn into a parking spot and hit the front brake with the bars turned as low speed. The best investment any new rider can make is in training and making time to practice. It make riding not only safer for the rider, it also make the experience much more enjoyable. ....وسعت 3
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@user-vm1iv3qz3qقبل 9 أشهر I started riding as a kid on a 50cc dirt bike and have owned many bikes in my 60 years. I traded in my street Glide for a smaller Heritage Classic this id="hidden16" class="buttons"> year. Just not doing those really long rides extended rides anymore. But yeah. Didn’t start on a big bike and I’m still learning and practicing after all these years. Great channel. ....وسعت 6
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@motomichael4775قبل 9 أشهر You're spot on Kevin, and I too have witnessed riders that aren't ready for the larger bike they bought. Too bad ego prevents so many from working id="hidden17" class="buttons"> their way up to the larger CC motorcycles by way of riding smaller bikes first. I've noticed those who hone their skills on smaller motorcycles before getting progressively larger bikes is their skill level and for that matter, their love of riding is much-much greater. There's no fun to be had while riding scared, especially while worried that you'll damage your bike.
I am an advocate for tiered motorcycle licensing. If everyone starts out small bike, then there's no stigma riding a small bike. ....وسعت 3
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@geoffc3191قبل 9 أشهر As a former owner of two Harley Davidson’s over 11 years in the U.K., I enjoyed this guys pitch. Having been on an Eaglerider tour in the old Wild West, I saw a couple of classic examples of what he was talking about when a novice rider who has just passed the (U.K.)test, goes ‘large’ for the first time, with scary consequences. The point is well made; when a rider says they’ve got 30 years experience, is that really just one years experience that they’ve merely repeated 30 times? Training is of more value that the safest riding gear and best helmet you can buy. During my 11 years on a Harley, I never regarded myself as a ‘Harley rider’, but a motorcyclist who happened to be riding a Harley; there’s a big difference. And training isn’t a ‘one off’, it’s a continuum. ....وسعت 4
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@mtblantonjrقبل 9 أشهر I can partially agree with this. I went from a 2001 Yamaha FZ-1 to a 2006 Ultra Classic. There was a learning curve due to the massive weight difference. id="hidden19" class="buttons"> However, the large touring bikes have quite a low and balanced center of gravity. As long as u don’t grab the front brake with the wheel turned at a slow roll, you should be ok if you take the time to get used to the difference. Challenge yourself by riding different terrain safely. Living close to the NC mountain area, learning to take curves on a cruiser was a fun experience, albeit much different! ....وسعت 4
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@markanderson5077قبل 9 أشهر I concur. I was an MSF coach for 12 years. We recommended new riders buy a used metric bike in the 500-750cc range and ride for a year. At the six month id="hidden20" class="buttons"> point, take the BRC II or Advanced class. After a year, the metric bike could be sold or traded for what you have in it. Harley's low-end torque is unforgiving and a challenge for a new rider. Harley does their own version of the MSF BRC on their Street 500's. Personally, after taking the MSF course in 1991, I rode a Sportster for a year, then traded up to an FXR. I rode it for 15 years then went to a Street Glide, and now an Ultra Limited. I take a course every year, the last with Tampa, FL PD, their weekend police MC course. I also practice breaking and swerving every time I go out. Skills are perishable. ....وسعت 207
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@peterhessedal8539قبل 9 أشهر My friend and I used to argue about this with his dad and brother all the time. His dad used to complain that sports bikes are too dangerous. We responded, id="hidden21" class="buttons"> that they handle better, turn better, brake better than larger bikes. Its rider attitude, not the bike that makes it dangerous. ....وسعت 4
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@carlwalker2017قبل 9 أشهر My first bike was (and still is) a Road King Classic. I did exactly as you recommend against. Anyway, almost 50K miles later I think I’ve got the hang of it. But if someone asked me how to learn to ride, I’d tell them to watch your vid. Ride safe everyone. ....وسعت 7
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@skippyjf68قبل 9 أشهر I have been riding on and off for 25 years on < 500cc bikes. I recently moved up to the heavyweight touring bikes, 1st an 89 Gold Wing, now a 17 Street id="hidden23" class="buttons"> Glide. You are correct, it's almost like starting over again. Thanks to you and a few other chanels like yours, I have begun to re-learn and sharpen my skills. Thanks for your continued un-biased support and info. Stay safe. ....وسعت 1
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@rammyifyقبل 9 أشهر I am from India and Harley street 750 is considered a entery level motorcycle to the big boys club. While I love to ride these big motorcycles, I have id="hidden24" class="buttons"> more fun and stay relaxed on smaller 400-500cc motorcycles. Thay are a lot forgiving and easy to maneuver. I love your quote 'If the CC of the motorcycle outweighs your talent, it is trouble'. I will always remember this thanks for making this video ❤❤❤ ....وسعت 3
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@scottschrader1630قبل 9 أشهر The biggest thing I learned after 54 years on two wheels I think came from you . Counter steering ! I have a he'll of a time explaining this to young id="hidden25" class="buttons"> and old hard headed rider who think I'm full of crap ! As with all your blogs you are right on the spot! Ride safe ! Best wishes to all who follow your lead ! ....وسعت 1
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@aarona.aardvark4171قبل 9 أشهر When I took the MSF class I took it at the local Harley dealership, we did it on the Street 500. After passing the course I wanted something the size of id="hidden26" class="buttons"> the Street 500 for many of the reasons you stated in this video. The only problem was that at the dealership they keep telling me I didn't want the 500 and kept pushing me to a larger cruiser that I didn’t want. Because of that I ended up on a Honda. ....وسعت 120
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@vermhotقبل 9 أشهر You are absolutely correct on all of this ! I’m 54 and started riding dirt bikes when I was 6 or 7 and when I turned 18 I bought a Suzuki 400 and crash it a few times and figured out real quick that the much heavier weight was there ! And been upgrading ever since ! Can never stress to people how important a rider class is ! ....وسعت 1
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@JohnSmith-yk3dpقبل 4 أشهر As a motorcycle police officer, I see all brands of large cc motors (and smaller cc) crash due to lack of formal training. MSF is a starting point or an id="hidden28" class="buttons"> avenue to get your endorsement. When you increase the size of motors, increase your level of training. The advanced traing classes start from about $500.00 up to $1500.00.
You just spent $25 k and up for any top cruiser, spend a couple grand on training. Isn't your safety or life worth that? ....وسعت 2
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@timalscoقبل 9 أشهر My first bike was the Electra Glide Ultra Limited after my learn to ride class. I did realize that I did not know how to ride it. I immediately bought id="hidden29" class="buttons"> the Ride Like a Pro dvd, cones and spent hours at a local school parking lot to learn how to handle it. My wife and I have enjoyed many miles safe and uneventful miles since.
Safe riding! ....وسعت 1
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@raygifford872قبل 9 أشهر I personally knew a couple of guys who took the MSF course and went out and bought Harleys as their first bikes. Within a few months, both guys told me id="hidden30" class="buttons"> stories about how they "had to lay it down" because someone pulled out in front of them.
Now, I wasn't there, so I didn't see either situation, but I've never laid my bike down to miss hitting a car that pulled out in front of me. I have, however, been lucky enough to avoid at least a dozen accidents where someone has pulled out in front of me while riding bikes both small and large.
I completely agree with this video and have voiced this same opinion on many occasions.
Thank you for putting this out. ....وسعت 8
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@ken2touقبل 9 أشهر You are spot on. Been riding since ‘67. Didn’t really learn to ride with skill until 80.
I still practice when I can and make it a point to an id="hidden31" class="buttons">do difficult slow speed maneuvers as often as possible.
I’m 72 and still ride my ‘07 CVO Ultra Classic.
In 2013 I took a two day skills class with the County of Alameda Sheriff’s Dpt. It was the toughest class ever.
Ride alert, defensively and within your skill level!
Practice often! ....وسعت 1
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@brushcreekقبل 9 أشهر A good friend and coworker wanted a bike and had never ridden. He bought the Harley, had a friend drive it home into his garage, took the MSF to get his id="hidden32" class="buttons"> license and never left his neighborhood. He was scared to death to ride it. 3 years later he sold it with less than a few hundred miles. ....وسعت 43
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@edwardallan197قبل 9 أشهر I am 68. After 5 years on a 450, I got a gl1000 Wing. About 300 more lbs, but very stable. I am having fun, and studying teaching videos like yours. I id="hidden33" class="buttons"> am learning a lot, and picking gradually more challenging routes. I am not cocky, or unaware that I am not a master. yet. ....وسعت 1
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@Wildturkey10121قبل 9 أشهر I totally agree with you on this. I see a lot of people in the HOG chapter that are scary. I worked my way up, and I got a 04 Road King and was really id="hidden34" class="buttons"> shocked at the difference. My previous bike was a Yamaha 850 special and it was light compared to relatively small Road King. I did my MSC class on my Road King and I was so discouraged by the end of it, I thought for sure I failed. I had been riding since I was 12 and finally took my class, at 54, to get my M endorsement after getting my Harley because I was worried my insurance wouldn't cover any incident I may have. Well a lot of practice and 10k miles later, most of it in town riding, I'm more comfortable and still see the areas I need to work on. A lot of it is just stupid mistakes I make for I don't know what reason. The rest of it is my slow speed maneuvering, I'm ok at it and haven't dropped my bike since the class; but, all the drops in the class still float around in the back of my head and I have the very typical slow speed lean issue because of it. I practice everytime I ride, and work on areas I know I need to work on though. I've been invited to take some test rides on newer bikes, but I decline them because of the issues I still have. I just keep updating my old bike and loving the hell out of it. It is much more nimble than I would have thought though, and I'm waiting on new front suspension parts to get that upgraded. I already did the rear and taller bars. I never recommend a Harley as a first or even second bike, it is a third or maybe even fourth in my personal opinion. ....وسعت 3
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@scottmaz4063قبل 9 أشهر I grew up riding motorcycles mini bikes dirt bikes road bikes and even racing. I have a friend who got a harley a fxr. First time out with him he crashed. id="hidden35" class="buttons"> I showed him everything I know and especially to use the front brake to set the front up coming to a turn and to stop. I was going on a trip to the dragons tail with friends. I begged him not to come. Well I heard a bike skidding behind me looked in my mirror, and Yup he crashed into a ditch. Because another friend told him to NEVER USE HIS FRONT BREAK. Took him to hospital to get stitched up then rode back home. He finally listened to me and he's a really good rider now. ....وسعت 1
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@suleimanshaikقبل 9 أشهر Hi Sir. Love the video, I own a HD and it is a heavy beast - agreed. Been following your channel for a while ( some years). Yip, I've learned not to id="hidden36" class="buttons"> rush to my HD and it took me several years and some savings to buy the Bucketlist HD.
I wanted to buy the dropguards, but ti does not seem to ship to South Africa . ....وسعت
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@bostonbruins40قبل 9 أشهر I agree with your learning approach for sure. I would also point out that this is not limited to Harley riders. Many metric new riders want to jump on id="hidden37" class="buttons"> 600 or larger sport bikes. Which creates a whole new set of issues. Those bikes from the factory are capable of accelerating faster than 99% of cars. Which ends really bad for fresh riders. Great thoughts here thanks! ....وسعت 8
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@dennisfariello4852قبل 9 أشهر I made this mistake, however not with a Harley but a big Kawasaki Voyager XII- my dream bike - when I got back into riding after a 30 year hiatus. Took id="hidden38" class="buttons"> the Total Control basic rider class, then three or four months later bought my big Voyager. I dropped that poor bike so many times. Now*, almost 4 years and 50,000+ miles later, and with three or four Intermediate classes under my belt (I take at least one class a year), I can make old Gertrude do pretty much anything I want her to do, at any time, and go exactly where I want her to go. *Most of the time*. *Most things I am really comfortable with. Most situations on the road I am very good at avoiding completely. I ask a lot of my old bike. I commute in Philadelphia traffic and stop-sign-every-block. I also spend a lot of time at turnpike speeds. I also spend time chasing a friend on his Concours 14 through the Pennsylvania mountain twisties. I am NOT, and never will be, a "perfect" rider. Anyway, my point is, I should have gotten a smaller bike and then after a year or so gotten the big Voyager. ....وسعت 29
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@MarkPalmer1000قبل 9 أشهر I started riding at age 17 in 1986. My first bike was a Honda CX500, and at 500 pounds it was more than enough bike for a new rider to start out on. I id="hidden39" class="buttons"> took my time learning over a couple of years, and moved up gradually. I see plenty of the advertisements on FB from H-D dealers congratulating new riders who are buying $30k+, 800+ pound Street Queens. I wish those folks luck, but the outcome too often isn’t good for either the bike or the new rider. ....وسعت 1
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@inspector4133قبل 9 أشهر Totally agree. You could have added that those riders who own those expensive, shiny Garage Queens don't ride that much. A few Summer weekends, only id="hidden40" class="buttons"> in good weather don't really make you a good rider. Riding skills are perishable, and you need to ride year round, in varying conditions, and longer distances to gain and maintain the skills and muscle memory that can save your life in an emergency. And the MSF basic class should just be a starting point in your training. Start with a smaller bike to acquire skills and keep attending more advanced classes as you advance your skills. ....وسعت 4
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@storymansworldofdiscovery1831قبل 3 أشهر I got back in after 20 years and bought a 1998 Honda shadow Aero - what are your thoughts on that?
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@jaychoi7569قبل 9 أشهر I’m a brand new rider that took the MSF course at a Harley dealership. We did use those 500cc bikes you mentioned in the video that no one ever rides on the road. Lol. After finishing the course, I decided to buy a Harley since I used their bikes on the course. But I went and bought the 2022 Iron 883 (I was also looking at a Honda Rebel 500) which in my opinion was and is a good starter bike. I’m hoping to continue to learn and become a better rider as the years progress and maybe graduate to something bigger when my skills improve. ....وسعت 1
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@leslopez9738قبل 9 أشهر @MCrider I truly enjoy your videos and the way you explain things for the new riders.
I would love to see you make a video on how to handle a lane id="hidden42" class="buttons"> change on uneven road lanes under construction. This is something that I truly fear because I just don't know what the best approach angle or speed should be when coming from the lower level lane onto the higher ground at high speed.
I'm embarrassed to admit this after riding for over 20 years, lol. ....وسعت 1
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@1966impala100قبل 9 أشهر I rode my 883 sportster for 15 years. I’ve heard all kinds of remarks about it. When it came time to ride long distance most of my friends would bail out regardless of what they rode. I’ve rented large touring bikes and they were great on the highway, but 90 percent of my riding isn’t that. I love my intermediate bike, heritage Softail. ....وسعت 46
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@paulristow9066قبل 9 أشهر This is all great advice. Wonderful video hope people listen. I rode smaller bikes when I was young and fast learned that braking in dangerous situations was a hard skill to learn. Fortunately, being young I survived. 1
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@EasyEd1955قبل 9 أشهر I have maintained my motorcycle license since the age of 16. I've not own a bike since 21. I miss it beyond words.
Currently torn between 600-750cc id="hidden45" class="buttons"> Honda's or jumping to the dream H-D. When I rode a chopped 350 Honda (it was the biggest road ready motosport they made, different frame from the CB or CL designs). There were a lot of smaller bikes on the road, but if you wanted to ride with a large group it had to be H-D.
Torn about buying a used bike, just like a car, how well was it treated? ....وسعت
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@Andrew-nh5zgقبل 9 أشهر Totally agree with the video. I made the jump from a Yamaha Bolt to a Concours 14 and struggled. However, I focused on a lot of parking lot practice and id="hidden46" class="buttons"> the swerving braking skills have help me to avoid some bad situations. I could not image jumping from the BRC onto even a mid sized Harley. ....وسعت 1
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@donlord7804قبل 9 أشهر I enjoy your channel and the perspectives you share are on target, I had put in a while back for one of the reflector helmet stickers you had offered yet id="hidden47" class="buttons"> never received it, If you are still doing that I would love one and be proud to wear it, Thank you for the knowledge you share. ....وسعت
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@boatman222345قبل 9 أشهر I totally agree with your comments regarding the advisability of starting small. Years ago I gave a talk in NYC on selecting a sea kayak appropriate to id="hidden48" class="buttons"> your paddling skill level. After my talk was over an older member of the audience came up to me to say he enjoyed my talk and thought my comments regarding skill levels and kayak design were spot on. He went on to say that he had been a motorcycle salesman for many years and added that these days instead of selecting a small, light, and easily maneuverable bike to learn on new riders often focused upon larger, more powerful and more difficult to handle bikes that more often than not wound up getting them injured or worse. ....وسعت
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@JackTRyanقبل 9 أشهر I started on a 500 cc scooter, went to a 750, then an Ultra Glide. I recommend the progression approach plus the MSF materials. 29
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@christopherstrange3430قبل 8 أشهر Do you make drop guards for Harley cruisers? It appeared on the website that they were only for touring models. Thanks.
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@jefferyosgood9566قبل 9 أشهر You are so spot on and some new riders pride get in the way of common sense. I’ve been riding 50 years and started on a Yamaha 250 two stroke, worked up to a Yamaha 650, Yamaha TX 750 then a Suzuki 1100 and Ninja 900. On the Harley side. Two Road kings, Ultra Limited and just bought a Road Glide Fast Jonnie. Every bike I bought I would spend hours braking and turning until could effortlessly and comfortably grind in my floorboards on every turn. Skill comes from practice and practice makes a confident safe rider. ....وسعت 1
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@Doc_Felixقبل 9 أشهر I fully agree with the thought! Never owned a Harley (rarely drive one - liked them a lot). But the first bike I bought after getting my license on a Honda id="hidden50" class="buttons"> 600cc was a BMW K 1200 LT - 800 lbs. First thing I tried was to drive small circles on the same parking lot on which I practiced with the Honda. That was also the first time I practiced picking up a 800 lbs bike. And I practiced more in the years to come. Moved on to BMW GS 1200 - and always enjoy the opportunity to drive lighter bikes. Learning to handle it in challenging situations is much easier when you can easily hold the bike once it is slow . ....وسعت 1
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@mkruse9928قبل 9 أشهر You are absolutely right! I think, people underestimate, how long it takes to master a bike. I'm writing from Germany and if you want to get a driver's id="hidden51" class="buttons"> license for a motorcycle, you have to attend several hours in practical and theoretical lessons. You can expect to pay about +2000€ (2200$) and it usually will take several weeks or months. The biggest bikes in a german driving school mostly are perhaps 750cc, usually even smaller of course - and because of exact the same reasons that you told. But my point is: I think that even after this thorough training in Germany (which is sometimes a bit exaggerated), no one should choose a giant bike as his (her) first bike. Of course you can do that, but it is much easier and sensible to improve your skills on a smaller bike. Not to forget, that also bigger bikes can me easy to handle. I drive a Honda CB1300 and I think, it is much more easier to handle than most touring bikes (not only Harleys - a Honda Goldwing also is something like a two-wheel-truck). People really should think about it and choose wisely. I think there are many drivers here in Germany, who buy a big Harley because for the same reasons as in the US and make similar mistakes - so your advice can be transferred. I got 30 years of driving experience and I think that I can control my bike - but I also believe that I have to be I must be aware of my shortcomings. And that is the cause, why I am writing this unnecessarily long comment: I always enjoy your videos because they remind me to think and care about my driving practice again and again - especially, when getting older. So keep going, you're doing it perfectly! ....وسعت 2
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@brianfriend6858قبل 9 أشهر I sold Harley-Davidson motorcycles for 2 years. You are spot on. I have so many stories I could tell. The biggest problem I had was trying to convince id="hidden52" class="buttons"> certain customers after qualifying them to consider a smaller bike. Most would get offended. I will tell one example. I had a man come up to and said I want that bike right there. He pointed at a 2008 Ultra completely stock (Not lowered with stock seat). The problem was he was about 5'8" with a 30" inseam. I told him to go ahead and sit on it first. He got pissed and told me he didn't need to sit on the !@&$**@#> bike. Write the #&×÷[!% up!!!! I said ok. We did the paperwork and I rode it to our staging area. I was going to show him how to operate the radio etc and he looked at his girlfriend and said B!$"h, get on. I told that he should take it for a ride first before he put her on it. He told me to shut the F#&k up. He was on his tip toes when she got on. He rode about 5 feet and crashed. She went rolling off and scraped her arm but not bad. He then said, Honey, you might want to drive the car home. I called him out. I said One minute ago she was your B!@#$@. Now she's your Honey! We never saw him again. ....وسعت 109
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@darrinhorowitz113قبل 9 أشهر I’m 72 but when I can’t ride safely I’ll quit. I been on bikes since 1968. I started on very small cc’s.
Great advice. 1
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@zanzerothقبل 9 أشهر What are your thoughts on larger displacement motorcycles that don't have a lot of horsepower. Suzuki's boulevard M50 and C50 comes to mind where id="hidden53" class="buttons"> its a 900cc engine but isn't very fast when compared to motorcycles of similar engine sizes. ....وسعت
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@djh3_88hinskey5قبل 9 أشهر My neighbor just bought his first motorcycle. Yup an HD street glide. Pretty bike, I will say he is approaching it in a carful way. He is in law enforcement id="hidden54" class="buttons"> so I would hope he has his endorsement, which here means you have been to a rider safety course. He is practicing around the neighborhood to get use to the handling and has made a couple rides around our area.
I was in the USAF and they had a regulation you had to go to the MSF course on base to ride. I had been on my big Suzuki GS 1000 dresser for maybe a month or maybe 2. I felt like I accomplished something when I finnished the course on my own bike as big as it was. ....وسعت 1
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@earnestbennettjrbey613قبل 9 أشهر I really like your approach, and the attention getting title.Even more so your content is great, on this subject.
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@leesturgis4841قبل 9 أشهر great video kevin.. thank you for sharing
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@fixedmyharley2637قبل 9 أشهر Kevin, you are 100% right. You hit all the points. I was lucky enough to attend a 2 week motor school 30 yrs ago, and I was properly trained in low speed id="hidden55" class="buttons"> motorcycle handling. I love the physical presentation of my Street Glide, but many Harley riders need with their riding skills. I hope your video inspires someone out there to improve and become a safer rider. ....وسعت 31
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@BlackMountainCyclesقبل 9 أشهر I took my dad to an empty church parking lot when he got his new bagger and had him do a bunch of slow speed maneuverers and emergency braking. He was id="hidden56" class="buttons"> having a blast until his clutch hand was sore lol.
Slow speed practice is a must. ....وسعت
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@dynamicduck8777قبل 9 أشهر I ride a 2019 Road King Special. I got my first bike for my 5th birthday. I probably put 200,000 miles on an old cr250 riding around my farm and with a id="hidden57" class="buttons"> lot of 2 up. When I was 16 I had saved my money from hauling hay and cutting tobacco for 4 years and bought a 1950 HD Hydroglide Pan head that came in 4 boxes. It took a year and a half to put together and even with 10 years of riding there was definitely a learning curve. I rode for over a year before I ever thought about putting someone on with me. I'm 36 and those were the days before smartphones. I tell EVERYONE who says I'm going to buy a bike just like yours to save money for paint for all the drops. When I took the road course there were 28 of us, of which 2 passed. It was all baggers and crotch rockets. All but a few dropped on the offset cone weave, and a few in the sharp turn from a stop. I was honestly surprised how a lot of the guys made it to the court house where they were giving the test. I'm sure most of them gave up and took the msf course just to get the license, but it's sad knowing that they are probably the ones I see on the news every time there's a fatal crash. Please. Please. Please just be honest with yourself and put the ego aside, there's no such thing as a bike wreck without injuries, even if its a fender bender. If I had no experience riding I'm not sure I would even start out on the road now, cellphones make every ride a test of if you're paying attention and it only takes one mistake. ....وسعت 1
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@jeffreyyarko8049قبل 9 أشهر I've ridden for over 30yrs. 1st bike 78 Honda 400,6 bikes and close too half a million miles I stepped up. Finally having time I bought a Kawasaki id="hidden58" class="buttons"> voyager. I weight 160lbs. A heavy bike is a TOTALLY DIFFERENT animal. Thanks to your videos and practice I'm much better at slow speed. Thanks Kevin. Ride hard Ride SAFE! ....وسعت 1
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@RoadCaptainEntertainقبل 9 أشهر Started on a 90cc scrambler when I was 15 years old, I rode on and off road until I wore it out.
Rode dads '64 Duo-Glide for a couple of years id="hidden59" class="buttons"> when I was 17 to 18 years old and liked it.
Had a couple of Honda 305's and 350's.
When I was 38 years old (with 23 years experience) bought a new Springer Softail and I never wrecked it.
I am now 68 years old and the H-D has been parked for 10 years now.
Start small, get good then go big. ....وسعت
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@chrissunde1104قبل 9 أشهر Great video, you make some excellent points.
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@larryzaborowski6441قبل 9 أشهر A Harley CEO once stated "Harley doesn't just sell motorcycles, they sell a lifestyle.". And their membership usually conforms to the group. id="hidden60" class="buttons"> I know of an independent mechanic that avoids Harleys, he says Harley owners have a mindset he doesn't want to deal with. Godspeed to everyone. ....وسعت 20
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@Vanguard1987قبل 9 أشهر What I have witnessed is successful completion of the basic rider course, purchase of the big Harley Davidson, take about a dozen short rides on it and id="hidden61" class="buttons"> suffer through some nervous moments and live to tell the tale, and then basically never ride it again. The act of riding a big motorcycle for an inexperienced person is such an exhausting experience, they end up being less and less likely to actually take a ride. Start on a little Honda and you’ll ride tens of thousands of miles across this country when it’s all said and done. ....وسعت 1
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@kickboxingm8قبل 8 أشهر I must say the comment you give are indeed quite to the point. Kudos for the use of the title for the clip had me going as well As you say HD has qu id="hidden62" class="buttons">ite the rep and standard set up when considering a big bulky cruiser. I'm a 31 yo driver and grew up with motor cycles (more specifically Honda Goldwing) and started driving at legal age it is said 18 yo to now riding a Yammie FZ8-S and considering going up a notch to those good ol' choppers. In Belgium the rule is that you can't go higher than 125cc to begin with so the tip to actually start small is and take lessons when you go up if necessary is really valuable. interesting to see these kind of rules don't apply to you guys in the US and how this probably impacts the view that car drivers have of us riders. Really and interesting point of view you shared and definitely food for thought for some of us. ....وسعت
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@beafy2177قبل 8 أشهر I went from riding a dirtbike to a sporster and I was in for a treat I cant imagine new riders going and jumping on a bagger. 1
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@trer1969قبل 9 أشهر I started riding when I was seven.first mini bikes, then graduated to dirt bikes, raced motocross on the weekends for a few years, then on to street id="hidden63" class="buttons"> bikes. Coming up on 50 years of riding now, have always owned at least one bike every day since I started. I'm so thankful I started young and learned the basics in the dirt. Those skills have saved my rear in many a situation over the years. And I have preached your message for decades now.do not start out on a two-wheeled land barge. I've seen so many people in over their heads on H-D's. Some have died.usually overestimating their skills in a tight turn, or not knowing how to emergency-break. Alcohol and not wearing helmets didn't help. Personally, I got bored riding H-D's a few years ago.switched to a Ducati Multistrada. Eventually, it got to where I was barely putting 1,000 miles a year on my bikes. Now I'm averaging around 5,000 miles a year. ....وسعت 1
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@TheBlueDogManقبل 9 أشهر I like a lot of people learned on a small Japanese dirtbike. In fact, I rode dirt bikes into my early 20s. I’ve always felt like having that background made me a much better street rather than my buddies who never rode trail bikes. Still practice practice. I enjoy your videos because of the skills it teaches and it also reminds us. We always should be learning. ....وسعت 1
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@MrEd6066قبل 9 أشهر It's hard to learn anything when you are scared. Scared to try anything for fear of tipping over in the parking lot, scared of what unleashing the id="hidden65" class="buttons"> monster beneath you by accident might do. Consolidating your skills will make the transition much easier. ....وسعت 58
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@richbenoit1840قبل 3 أشهر Last year, at an organized ride, I overheard two 50+ "riders" talking about this " new" thing called countersteering.
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@ozgotsoulقبل 9 أشهر "If your CCs greatly outweigh your talent, you're looking for trouble" - sound advice right there for anyone, regardless of whatever brand you ride I reckon. Great vid @MCrider - many thanks
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@geoffreyshepler4954قبل 9 أشهر Spent a good ten years on my sporty. I finally broke down and bought me bagger. An R18b. I really miss my sportster. 1
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@user-lj8ry6xj6mقبل 7 أشهر Truer words were never spoken. Great content here. I took the MSF course on a little 250CC metric of some kind at the age of 55, and then started out on id="hidden67" class="buttons"> a used Triumph Bonneville T-100. It was the perfect bike to start to build skill. Relatively short wheel-base, not too heavy, lots of torque at the low end and pretty nimble in the curves. I graduated from that to a Triumph Bonneville T-120, and then to a BMW R-1200-RT (which although bigger and heavier was easier to ride than the other two.very well balanced). From my experience it seems like the perfect progression. My ride is so much better for taking this path. ....وسعت
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@mindscramble8248قبل 8 أشهر Started on a 2003 Honda Rebel 250 and was fortunate enough that the riding course I took in west LA had almost nothing but those 250 Rebels to learn on. id="hidden68" class="buttons"> Great bike for my 5' 6" frame around LA and still is.
About a decade later I got my first Harley- a 2020 Street Bob (107). Significantly heavier than the Rebel but considered light for a Harley and it suits me well within the city here.
The Rebel is still going strong, the thing is bulletproof, and I still use it as I alternate between the two to preserve them both. It's working out wonderfully. ....وسعت
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@jbstech70قبل 9 أشهر Great video. I am one who took the class at a Harley Davidson dealership just a one month and a half ago and I passed with an average score. I went back id="hidden69" class="buttons"> 3 weeks later and yes I bought a Heritage. For me, I realized I am not road ready but I have not pushed things. For the last 2 weeks I have practiced going different directions in the neighborhood and I have an empty lot 2 miles away. I bought a set of 24 cones on Amazon and I work on one thing for the week so that I can get used to what I bought and become a better rider. It will take longer but I am fine with that. Great topic and video! ....وسعت 10
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@stevek4449قبل 4 أشهر I was looking at their PanAm ADV bike, but from a DIY perspective, I hate the air filter being under the fuel tank I would have to remove to check after off roading.
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@jamesbrouse9257قبل 9 أشهر Great advice. I started riding last year at 53yrs old. Seemed like the smart thing to do. Took the freeTotal Control MSP in Pa and bought a 1987 suzuki id="hidden71" class="buttons"> gs450l in beautiful condition with 9000 miles for 1800$. Runs perfect, I ride it everywhere and it's the most reliable vehicle I own.
Dont spend a bunch of money on your first bike. Lots of cheap medium sized bikes for sale. ....وسعت 1
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@thomascochran3641قبل 3 أشهر You are a wise man and you speak the truth. Unfortunately, many people do not want to hear the truth. They only hear what they want to hear. A sign of the times! Thank you for your experienced commentary.
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@fischerusarmyقبل 9 أشهر Truth, had a previous sport bike rider purchase a Street Glide 2 months prior to Sturgis Rally. Day one, he dropped it going down a slight grassy hill id="hidden73" class="buttons"> from our Campsite. Zero damage to the bike, but a 100% confidence killer. That one little drop basically ruined his trip and made it harder for everyone else to remain in the flow, while riding. ....وسعت
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@vertigoat7596قبل 9 أشهر Spot on, again. There are 3 big Harley’s sitting in 3 different garages all within 500ft of my house. None of them are ever out. All those guys have the exact same story. Had to have a bike of their dreams, couldn’t handle them and now they are collecting dust. I’m sure that story isn’t exclusive to Harley’s, but it sure seems to be the go to brand. My father was rather offended that I bought a Suzuki. ....وسعت 2
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@QuadeQuickقبل 9 أشهر Kevin, you are one of the few authorities who has the chops to make the title statement. and back it up with common-sense observations. I'm a proud id="hidden75" class="buttons"> Harley owner and have seen much of what you have - a wide skills disparity from one rider to another. Age (or testosterone) also comes into play - both young and old - but that may be a topic for a future video. ....وسعت 36
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@stretmediqقبل 3 أشهر As a paramedic I've responded to a lot of motorcycle wrecks and by far the most common are inexperienced riders on Harleys
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@victorrodriguez-mx9suقبل 9 أشهر I have been a motorcycle technician for 20 years now, and I’ve seen the “new rider blues” on almost every brand of motorcycle. One guy in particular was 1 yard away from a telephone pole to his right (this is just taking off) and he literally went forward “downwards” to his right and broke his clavicle on the telephone pole! Didn’t make it 2 yds up the road from a standing point. Many people want to show off and just eat it around the first corner. Riding motorcycles is a skill of the eyes and the mind. Some people just leave those parts at home before they get on a bike. ....وسعت
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@azurwth01قبل 9 أشهر Good video wasn't sure where u was gonna go with that title lol,I started on a 08 nighster 1200 I spent 2 years on that then went to a 2010 street id="hidden77" class="buttons"> glide and loved that bike, but it definitely was like re learning the skills I was no longer nimble and light. I now have a 2017 street glide and I would say I'm better than average. I watch alot of ride like a pro and practice the things moto man talks about. ....وسعت
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@bernard2012kiwiقبل 6 أشهر UK full motorcycle course and test in the UK was 5 days and finished with a 45 minute test with the examiner riding a motorcycle behind me. I learned so id="hidden78" class="buttons"> much about how to ride a motorcycle in 5 days, it set me up for a life of safe riding and made me a better car driver.
I went straight to a HD Dyna Convertsble ....وسعت
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@tommythompson6602قبل 9 أشهر I also dropped the heritage in my garage when the kickstand didn't latch, luckily didn't damage the bike. After almost 30 years of riding lol
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@BirdArvidقبل 9 أشهر I saw one of these riders just yesterday; tried to do a u-turn with two wide lanes and a couple of yards of run-off to turn into and he sort of kept leaning id="hidden79" class="buttons"> his Harley (no idea which kind it was) on his inner, left foot which looked very uncomfortable, not to mention dangerous and supremely unstylish and wobbly. He did (just) manage to turn the thing around without braking an ankle, and quickly settled into the straightaway looking super-cool with his bare arms straight to the ape-hangers and the nice open pipe exhaust sound. ....وسعت 8
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@mythoughts105قبل 9 أشهر Have a street 500 and agree 100% with you. Started riding again after 15+ years and although have got a full licence still ride the street 500 and practice id="hidden80" class="buttons"> like a newbie. I might keep using it for another 12 months at least before I upgrade my Harley as I get the opportunity to ride occasionally. ....وسعت 1
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@flashgordon6238قبل 9 أشهر Been on Harleys since 1981. Started on a Honda Trail 70 in 1973. then bought a Honda CB350, then bought a 1981 LTD Kawasaki 1000 off the show room floor. id="hidden81" class="buttons"> Fun and Fast bike. Three speeding tickets later I bought my first Harley Davidson Wide glide used from the dealer in Massilion, Ohio. This was to slow me down. Sold the LTD to my brother. Brought the Wide Glide to California in 1984 when I was in the Navy, but sold the it years later after buying a 1992 Fatboy. Sailors with motorcycles had to complete MSF classes. The Fatboy was Orange and Cream and aftermarket fuel injected, but got stolen. Current Harley is a 1999 Fatboy that is identical to the Terminator 2 bike. I've since picked up a 1997 Vmax 1200, a 2012 VMAX 1700 and finally a 2005 GL1800 Goldwing. Been through half a dozen MSF safety classes due to working on a military base. Lots of biker events in the mountains back in the 80s and 90s here in SoCal and plenty of biker babes were available back then. The Rock Store, Neptune's Net, Deer Lodge, Malibu Pier, The Wheel in Ojai, Pine Mountain Inn, Big Bear, The Half Way Station, Camp Scheideck, Highway 33 through Rose Valley. Now with owning four bikes there is less maintenance, but hate paying the registration fees for all 4. ....وسعت 1
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@ewethoقبل 9 أشهر I can say I graduated from MSF and got my Brand New Dream Motorcycle but, luckily for me it was a Royal Enfield Himalayan and honestly it is easier to ride than the 200 KTM Duke I used in class. 1
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@genxray951قبل 3 أشهر a friend of a friend said he was thinking of getting a cruiser bike and he was asking me what i thought, ( he hadn't done much riding and didn't id="hidden83" class="buttons"> even have his endorsement). first thing i told him was if he was serious that he wanted to ride, the first thing he should buy is a helmet gloves jacket and boots. THEN enroll in the MSC and pass, THEN look for a used mid displacement bike, (which would be plentiful and affordable), THEN after riding a while look for a big cruiser.
I get people want the excitement of riding, but so many go about getting there completely bass ackwards. ....وسعت
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@patrickjoy9551قبل 9 أشهر I have had a motorcycle in some form since I was 10. I am now 57 and still have some learning to do. I had Honda's, Yammerhammers and now a Harley id="hidden84" class="buttons"> heritage springer for 20 years. You nailed it. Those Harleys are hefty, even the sportster and they just dont correct like a more nimble brand. I have seen and experienced that first hand. I will always recommend a lighter smaller framed bike for a new rider or even one that has been away from riding for a long time. At least until they get the fundamentals. ....وسعت 1
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@andykober2283قبل 9 أشهر Great segment! After a hiatus of over 30 years and more recently dealing with cancer, I decided to ride again. Took the MSF basic course sponsored by the id="hidden85" class="buttons"> local Harley Davidson dealership and they used the Street 500. Hated the bike, passed the course and purchased a lightly used Honda Shadow 600 to rebuild my skill set. In appreciation to the Harley dealership, I bought my gloves and LS 2 Heritage helmet from them. They are super nice and when I decide to move to a larger bike, I will certainly go back to see them. ....وسعت 4
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@65Maxقبل 3 أشهر My first three motorcycles. a very long time ago. were Hondas. 1. 50CC, 2. CB 350, 3. 80 CC. I don't remember the names of the 50 & 90 but id="hidden86" class="buttons"> all of them were fun. The smaller ones were for around town & the larger for longer rides and commuting.
My first Harley was an '03 883 with 5K miles on it. That was a nice, nimble bike. My second one, after learning well and taking safety classes, was the '05 Ultra Classic. That served its 2-up touring purpose very well. I enjoyed both of them for their designed purpose even riding both on The Tail of the Dragon. even 2-up on the Ultra.
I really wanted the Gold Wing as my touring, 2-up bike but it was too tall and unsafe for my 5'7" frame. The Ultra was my second choice. but happy to make it and join up with so many new, great, and helpful friends. Each has its place and I ride with all bikers on many brands and encourage all to ride respectfully and safely. ....وسعت
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@williamdobbins3131قبل 9 أشهر I didn't have time available for the Mac class, so I tested at DMV. Started with a Honda Magna 700 (1984). Went to a Shadow 1100, then a Yamaha road id="hidden87" class="buttons"> Star Warrior 1700. I'm now on a tracer 9 GT. I mostly commute, and enjoy the light bikes that put function over form. ....وسعت
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@hogwildbowhunterقبل 9 أشهر Hey my wife loves her Harley Street 750!! I my self started on a Honda 70! 1