2021 Harley Davidson Softail Slim Review - Is the bike too big for a sportster rider?

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3 жыл бұрын

This is the 2021 Harley Davidson Softail Slim Review that includes softail slim first ride and walkaround. Watch my first ride and review of 2021 harley softail and I will answer if Harley Softail Slim can be your first bike. This was the largest displacement that I had the pleasure of riding from Barnes Harley Davidson Dealership in Victoria, British Columbia and at first I was nervous trying it out since I come from a Sportster background with few months of experience riding my 2020 Harley Iron 883 and as well as 2021 Sportster 48 and 2020 Sportster 1200 Roadster. This motorcycle review is meant to be delivered from the point of view of a new motorcycle rider who is looking for that Big Twin harley experience because someday, we will all want to get there. I got a taste of it and I loved it! This was a new rider on big twin experience. 2021 Harley Softail Slim was the most comfortable motorcycle I have been on and it's power delivery did not disappoint. The floorboards were a little funky but in the end, I understood its appeal.
I know what you are thinking.. why would I want to get motorcycle review notes from a beginner? Well maybe your friends or family members who are new at riding are interested in getting the Softail Slim and they are curious if they can handle it or you are here just because you love supporting all riders because you are just a really good person!
Either way I thank you for coming and at the least, leave a comment! Like and Sub if you really liked it!
#2021harleydavidson #softailslim #motorcyclereview
Motorcycle: 2021 Harley Softail Slim and 2020 Harley Sportster Iron 883
Instagram: KS_MOTO_CAFE / ks_moto_cafe
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Пікірлер: 210

@KrakensGarageandAdventures 2 жыл бұрын

This was a really good comprehensive review. What I like about it was the comparison to your Iron. The Softail Slim is a great "next" bike for a Sportster owner. With that said, there's nothing like sportster and you will own a few in your lifetime as you graduate to other bikes. Well done. Eric

@glucosebandit4674 3 жыл бұрын

I just stumbled upon you and this is easily the most helpful review I've seen on the Softail Slim! I'm riding a Yamaha Bolt R Spec right now and I'm thinking about getting something bigger. Thanks dude!

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

Hey I am glad you found the video useful! Just be sure to read my pinned comment where I update some of the facts I needed to correct. Also what other big bikes were you looking at? Yamaha Bolt R Spec is a great bike; basically a sportster with better everything lol. Cheers man!

@bobbnoll1656 2 ай бұрын

Fantastic review! I just got a 2020 Softail Slim a week ago and of the multiple bikes I’ve owned it’s definitely become my favorite!

@599Dan 2 жыл бұрын

Best review I've seen yet of a Harley Softail Slim. I have owned a Harley 48 and currently own a Softail Slim your review is spot-on

@KSMotoCafe 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Dan! This was still early in my KZfaq career and I think I improved how ai review a bike a bit more. I just tried a Softail Standard that I compare the Slim to a lot; as well a bonus review with a stage 1 kit- be sure to check those out when you get a chance!

@pizzajake427 3 ай бұрын

Great review! As a former owner of multiple Harley's being without one for 4 years now, I have been wanting to get back into it again and the Softail Slim is top on my list! Something comfortable to ride back and forth to work (25 miles each way). The Slim is definitely a great price too.

@rossweatherbee3995 3 жыл бұрын

Good review, l enjoyed the ride. I really love my soft tail Heritage, the floorboards come in handy for the long cruises.

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

I now understand why you are so much happier on the softail lol

@SinisterClutch 3 жыл бұрын

Great looking bike and I'm sure it's a lot of fun to ride with that M8 107. Great review 🤘😎

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks man - M8 engine is something else for sure! Very smooth power delivery - almost too smooth for Harley haha. I cant wait to try the 114 bikes!

@dereklinville7151 Жыл бұрын

I had a 2013 Soft tail Slim and honestly it was the best motorcycle I owned. I am 5'2" with a 28" inseam. It was a heavy bike but when you rode it you really didn't notice it because it was so well balanced. Mine had a 103 with a 6 speed transmission and I was amazed at the acceleration. It had awesome handling and the suspension was really good as I hardly felt any bumps even going across railroad tracks. I loved that bike and it is going to be hard to beat it. The downfall of anything was the instrument cluster in which I had to take my eyes off the road to see how fast I was going.

@KSMotoCafe Жыл бұрын

oh nice the twin cam Slims are so cool!

@Kaegis 11 ай бұрын

Agree....I test rode a 2017 Slim S 110 and damn was that an impressive machine!

@MrTwofishes 3 жыл бұрын

I've been thinking about a softtail slim as a first bike and this video wound up in my que. Great review, really great info. I laugh at you censoring the speedometer on the highway .

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

So cool that you are in search of your first bike! I love that feeling - I researched the crap out of my Iron 883 before getting it. I was just frustrated to not be able to watch any decently edited reviews by a new rider because generally new riders are busy learning and being safe on the road. I am still testing out other bikes for "beginner rider" reviews while I still can wear that badge - so let me know if there is a bike you are curious about!

@Jonathan-L Жыл бұрын

The good thing about the Slim is that it's easy to ride at low speed, especially in the city, so you can enjoy the cool factor of the Slim. The crossbar on the handlebar is great for strapping on a dry-bag (roll bag?), or mounting a storage box (eg a plastic ammo box, which I have put on my FLS). A pair of Metzeler Cruisetec tires make the bike so much better to ride. The Slim is a great messenger bike homage model, easy to ride as a 'daily driver'. Warning: Owning a H-D may overtake other priorities in life.

@saralivinghutch 2 жыл бұрын

Awesome review! Just bought this bike TODAY! excited to put some KM’S on it! Cheers!

@KSMotoCafe 2 жыл бұрын

yo~~~ congrats on your new bike!! To this day this has been the smoothest and most comfortable ride!

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching my biggest bike review yet! Let me know in the comments below what you thought of it! edit: few fact updates - thanks to my viewers with ample knowledge of motorcycles! 1. Pre 2018 Slim models were 103ci engine vs 104 mention in the video 2. Terminator rides Fat Boy 80ci* Twin Cam 3. Front suspension is covered forks versus inverted forks 4. To be clear, wet weight is 671lb (in the video I verbally mention 700 or over 700)

@82106167 3 жыл бұрын

The Fat Boy used in Terminator 2 is a 1991 Fat Boy. That was an 80CI Evolution Softail model. The Twin Cam wasn’t introduced until 1999

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

@@82106167 thanks!

@midnightmc3096 8 ай бұрын

Terminator Fat Boy was an eighty inch Evo, not a Twin Cam, jeez. Covered or un-covered forks has zero to do with being inverted or not.

@KSMotoCafe 8 ай бұрын

@@midnightmc3096 yes - I cleared that in the edit portion of the comment

@midnightmc3096 8 ай бұрын

@@KSMotoCafe Should be on the screen. Nice ride-along otherwise

@DeeMack_Janeofalltrades 10 ай бұрын

Love it! This is the bike I chose for my first motorcycle! Zero experience too, so nothing to compare it to, but I love it. I am 5'6", 140lbs. Thanks for the detailed review, I was interested to learn some things about my Harley.

@KSMotoCafe 10 ай бұрын

oh man you got a beauty of a bike! it is a shame that HD dropped this from their line-up because it is such a comfy, stylish bike!

@DeeMack_Janeofalltrades 10 ай бұрын

@@KSMotoCafe If you knew me, you wouldn't be surprised that I went for the Slim vs a smaller starter bike! My only issue is in the ergonomics of the seat, foot boards, and handle bar reach. If I ride more than 45 in, I get a wicked burn under my left shoulder blade. Im told that I am all legs and no torso so I am sure it is in the reach for the bars! I am getting new bars installed next week! I also installed the Hogworkz engine guard with highway pegs, and that makes the ride more comfortable for me.

@mattgarfield9858 3 жыл бұрын

I’m a new rider and I bought this for my first bike and don’t regret it one bit👌🏼

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

hell yeah! Good on you and congrats for getting the big twin as your first bike!

@jeffdriggs2895 2 жыл бұрын

You nailed it…..again! Great review! What you are learning, different bike, different function! That’s why I have 3 bikes, love em all! Currently the 883 is in shop getting 1200 upgrade! Style and handling stays same, power climbs! Ride safe !

@KSMotoCafe 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Jeff! Are you getting the S&S 1200 kit installed or Hammer Performance?

@jeffdriggs2895 2 жыл бұрын

Screaming eagle, my local dealership, House of Thunder, in Morgan Hill, California has been great to my son and I, so they earned my business . Am adding Vance and Hines tho😂😂 hope to have bike back tomorrow , Saturday at the latest , I’ll let u know! Keep up the great posts!

@KSMotoCafe 2 жыл бұрын

@@jeffdriggs2895 man check back to keep me posted! I have been thinking about doing the 1200 kit but the price is a bit steep here in Canada.

@jeffdriggs2895 2 жыл бұрын

1200 conversion is complete, and I immediately notice the pull! Quicker throttle response, and bike really moves! I added Vance and Hines slip ons as well, bike sounds like a beast! I spent $1200 on kit, and it was another $900 to install, so still under the price of stock 1200. All said, including slip ons, in bike for $2600. He keeps the styling of the 883, so I think $ well spent! Carried my 260lbs easily, so he gonna fly on it! Merry Christmas, and keep your posts coming!!

@KSMotoCafe 2 жыл бұрын

@@jeffdriggs2895 Amazing! that is amazing price too - where I am they want about $4.5k for parts and labor(in Canadian dollars). But I am seriously contemplating doing the same upgrade but DIY to learn how to and also save money haha. Thanks for coming back to update man! Enjoy that 1200!

@johnolson6005 3 жыл бұрын

I used to live in Victoria do it was nice to see the city again and I'm looking to get a HD so this video helped thank you

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

Yes sir - I absolutely love living here. Moved here two years ago from Ontario, so having an entire year to ride was a big motivator to get my bike license! I just uploaded my thoughts on the new Pan America, LiveWire, and Fat Boy, so hopefully I give you more insight of the new bikes :) cheers

@PsychicMysticMavenBoutique 3 жыл бұрын

Ur Review Rocked!! 🤘🖤

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

glad you likes it!! thank you

@IronBornRider 3 жыл бұрын

Great review bro. I rode my neighbors softail deluxe and that thing handled like a boat. I was not ready for that lol.

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

lol yeah these are definitely not "slim" bikes! Have you tried any other big twins since then?

@IronBornRider 3 жыл бұрын

@@KSMotoCafe Only my friends softail street bob. I do want to test ride the low rider s, a dyna street bob and the road glide as a future potential bike.

@fastrabbit22 2 жыл бұрын

Great review, very, very helpful!

@KSMotoCafe 2 жыл бұрын

thank you for watching!

@IronDundee 3 жыл бұрын

Nice review mate, that bike is nice, and definitely different to the sportster.

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

I now see how some veteran riders who have been riding a big twin harley for a while come back to a sporty and love the fun. This ride made me appreciate my Iron more!

@BDL.1010 Жыл бұрын

Thank you for the entertaining info. I’ve made my decision to get a slim

@KSMotoCafe Жыл бұрын

it is a beauty of a bike!

@rozlynn_r73 3 жыл бұрын

You’re so underrated! I love these videos! Remember me when you’re famous and get the recognition you deserve! :)

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

Wow Roz thank you for the support! Help me out and get the word out haha. Glad you enjoyed the review :)

@Crittermoto 3 жыл бұрын

Great review.

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks man! I just checked the weather forecast and next week sucks!! get those rides in today and tmr!

@robertedwards5916 2 жыл бұрын

Very nice review!

@KSMotoCafe 2 жыл бұрын

thanks!

@richardmout 3 жыл бұрын

i've got it ( the slim 2018) and it's my first motorbike but it's a pleasure to ride it, she very confortable and sweet . Thx for that video. kiss from France

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

Great choice! I agree with you, it is the most comfortable bike I have been on - merci beaucoup!

@denniscornejo7517 3 жыл бұрын

Did you have experience riding prior? I have 0 experience and I'm debating whether starting with a sporty or the softail slim. Get mixed reviews from other but they've also been riding for years.

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

@@denniscornejo7517 you found the right channel Dennis! I had zero riding experience prior (except knowing how to ride a bicycle) to going on MSF course and zero experience in driving manual. For me, the 883 was a perfect blend of a beginner bike and something to grow into. After riding about 6 months now, you can tell that I have expanded my riding experience quite fast and everyone is different but this was all due to my 883. With a "smaller" bike, you get to learn more on how to control the throttle and take on corners. Sportsters are very forgiving bikes. I would say 1200 sportster is also in that category but depending on where you are from, the 1200cc might be slightly more expensive from insurance POV. My advice is, start with a used sportster and then once you got the skills down, search for that second bike with more perks. You may lose some $$ during trade in but it is worth it if you value lessons learned from the "smaller" bike. If you want the best bang for the buck sportster - check out my Roadster review. edit: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/sLOSdJOh0q26mGQ.html

@denniscornejo7517 3 жыл бұрын

@@KSMotoCafe Thank you! It's good to get the perspective of a newer rider. Starting with a sportster was the way I leaning at first but other got in my head about it lol good content btw. Keep doing what you're doing!

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

@@denniscornejo7517 thanks for the support! I figured there wasn't enough "new rider" impression videos out there because when I was searching for my first bike - all I wanted to see was someone who I could relate to and see how he or she felt on the specific bike while riding. Don't get me wrong, the experienced reviews are great when they speak about the specs and what that means to a mechanic but I could never get the feeling whether a new rider could handle the bike. hope you stick around to watch more of my videos - cheers!

@TheMrEdmonds 3 жыл бұрын

Great review brother! Try out the FatBob 114 next! You won't regret it! Essentially a jacked sporty!

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

Oh man Fat Bob is the dream bike of mine! It will take a lot of discipline to not trade my iron in after that review ride haha

@TheMrEdmonds 3 жыл бұрын

@@KSMotoCafe I went from a 1200 sporty to the fat bob! Was the best decision I've made!

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

@@TheMrEdmonds awh so jealous!!

@stevenburton7922 4 ай бұрын

Good review

@dixiedoo5876 3 жыл бұрын

I'd like to upgrade to one after I get more experience on my sportster. I'm very petite 5'2" 98lbs and with a reduced reach seat this bike fits me to a tee. I love the floorboards on it., it's just a comfortable bike all around. You did a great job on this review thanks for sharing.

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you Dixie Doo. I believe the slim has the lowest seat height out of all HD line up. The floor boards also give few additional inches for your foot to rest but give that they are fwd controls, it might be a reach for some people. Strangely enough, after this review, I somehow have fallen more in love with my sportster! The characteristics of the sportster that some people see it as flaws, I come to adore it. I am in the process of doing a 3500km 883 owner's review soon, so I hope you sub to watch it when it comes out! Thanks for watching :)

@dixiedoo5876 2 жыл бұрын

@@KSMotoCafe I somehow missed your response from 9 months ago, I just watched this review again and ran across my earlier comment. Your review on this bike is so thorough I'm gonna look for your updated review of your sportster. I just fell in love with my sportster again too. 🤣 I finally found a comfy solo seat with a high back and we just put a set of Led Sled floorboards on it. I just adore these floorboards, it's the best money that I've ever spent on it, they were worth every penny! 👍 I have neck and back issues stemming from a horse buck-off where I fractured my neck, back and a few other bones. 😬 I can now ride much longer distances mostly because of my new foot position. I still plan to get a big Twin of some sort but I'm in no rush right now. I plan to always keep my old sporty, It has alot of sentimental value to me. My hubby has done alot of work customizing it to suit me. I've always loved Sportster's and I've never understood why so many folks bad mouth them. 🤷‍♂️ It's nice to hear a moto vlogger speaking highly of them.

@KSMotoCafe 2 жыл бұрын

@@dixiedoo5876 Thanks for coming back! So much has changed on my channel since 9 months ago and I too fell back in love with my Iron! I cover them in detail for "Battle of the Sportster" series lol

@dixiedoo5876 2 жыл бұрын

@Honest Bud Thanks so much for your response. I'm sorry I had missed it, when you first replied. I appreciate all of the information as it's very helpful to hear about what other lighter weight folks have done to improve their comfort. I've heard great things about the Legends suspension system. Were you able to get your reach bars yet? If so, how have they worked for you? I sat on a 2016 model. It had ape hangers but I don't remember what kind of risers it had. I could reach the bars on it which kinda surprised me. The reach seat was really nice. I haven't ever ridden a slim but I would like to test ride one at some point. I'm fairly sure that I will like it and want one. 😜👍

@KSMotoCafe 2 жыл бұрын

@@dixiedoo5876 I ended up getting a 4" curved riser (HD used) and it made the ride so much easier on my lower back because it is more upright. I am not a fan of ape hangers because the handlebars vibrate too much!

@simongilbert2704 3 жыл бұрын

good review ,,, your bike looks bigger in the comparison ;;; i think the slim looks the best bike out there , whereas 12 months ago i thought it looked daft - with spoked wheels odd seat chopped fenders , === how opinions change, now i see it as clean looking with smooth styling with reassuring stance and just about the right level of kit ---- no stupid modes or daft gimmicks [in my opinion]

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

I agree with you! few years ago I considered any softails to be a dad bike but now that I am a dad, they all look great now haha. Thanks for watching! What do you ride now?

@inkybug1 2 жыл бұрын

First thing to go for me on my bike was the hand grips..stock ones are like fly paper..had a time with that..got real nice ones from Harley...no issues since..then I changed the breather on mine of course when I put the bike through stage 1 (SE Open Oval style) ..stock breather was burning my leg during the summer and of course it really opened the bike up to air..before it was like the bike trying to breathe through a drink straw...also put V&H big radius pipes on...oh man..sounds sweet and loud now..definitely opened up to faster response and haul ass attitude..looking at cams now..I love the 40ish style profile of this bike..and overall loving this bike!!!

@KSMotoCafe 2 жыл бұрын

yeah man - going stage 1 with a good set of aftermarket exhausts on these m8 engines just brings out the Harley character, it is mesmerizing

@langleyHD 2 жыл бұрын

I am am thinking about trading in my 883 for possibly a Softail Slim..This video was really helpful!

@KSMotoCafe 2 жыл бұрын

Amazing! Yeah the Slim is a comfortable step up from the iron for sure! I also really enjoyed the ride of the Fat Bob as well if you are into something more modern looking and faster speed. :)

@motogem1408 Жыл бұрын

A month after I learned to ride. I rode to Arizona. It was about 1400 mi adventure. The slim is my first bike and I have put many more miles on it.

@KSMotoCafe Жыл бұрын

nice! congrats on your new bike :)

@TheMotoJawn 3 жыл бұрын

The softails are great! Definitely a totally different experience than The sporty. Every time I get off one I dont want to get back on the sporty haha.

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

lol yeah the sporty never felt so crammed after this ride. Incredible difference from the wider handlebars. At least yours is mini-apes lol and have that 1200 powahhh

@jayteesgear 2 жыл бұрын

48 around town pure bliss but thats it. Slim is like a couch

@charlesharper7292 Жыл бұрын

The new generation Soft tails are a lot better than the older ones.

@manmeetsharma2632 2 жыл бұрын

Very good and detailed review 👍. I'm thinking of getting a second bike which wife can ride too mainly around town here in Melbourne, Australia. Two bikes I really like are 48 and softail slim 103. Sportster 48 2014 and above are around 15000 and slim 103 around 18000. I think you get more bike with slim. Changing the gas tank to iron tank on 48 will add another 1000. A lot of reviews says slim is easy to handle at low speeds.

@KSMotoCafe 2 жыл бұрын

just so I am understanding correctly - the second bike is for your wife to ride on her own or for you to ride with her on the back? If it is on her own the 48 is a great choice as it is perfect for a new rider and super nice looking (but the 2.1g gas tank is a no go for me) - as you mentioned, you will have to spend more money to switch out the gastank. If you are looking to have her on the back of the bike, then it is the Slim for sure! I would actually hunt for the Slim S (110ci) if you are looking at the older model. There are a ton of choices in that price margin - check out my other softail reviews like the Fat Bob! That is my fav so far

@manmeetsharma2632 2 жыл бұрын

@@KSMotoCafe thanks for quick reply mate. 👍I'm thinking of getting a second bike which my wife can ride too on her own. I did test ride 48 and really liked it but that stock tank will need to go. The slim s is very expensive here. I will test ride slim 103 also but currently there are none on the market near me.

@Kaegis Жыл бұрын

I test rode a 2017 Slim-S 110 and was an amazing machine. That engine was buttery smooth except slingshotted the bike so easily and the only issue was that you needed to be able to stop the bike in time as well as enjoying the grunt as it was a machine & a half! Haha.

@KSMotoCafe Жыл бұрын

Slim S is a mean machine!

@therocktm2001 Жыл бұрын

Buddy! Haaa I was just at the edmonton location the other day! Looking to purchase my first harley! I'm 5'6 so really have to find something I'm comfortable on! Keep up the video bro

@KSMotoCafe Жыл бұрын

you have tons of options for a cruiser with low seat height! Also right now is the best time to get the best deals

@therocktm2001 Жыл бұрын

@@KSMotoCafe ya but I'll be sad all winter just watching it in the garage till spring! Really like the Night trains

@KSMotoCafe Жыл бұрын

@@therocktm2001 hahah yes that is the flaw of buying it cheaper in winter

@82106167 3 жыл бұрын

Nice review! Actually, what makes all of the big twins feel lighter than expected is their centre of gravity. They’re heavy, but they carry the weight low and are well balanced. My Ultra Classic is pushing 900lb fully loaded, and I find it easier to handle than the small cc Hondas I rode when I was young, especially at low speeds. Yes, Terminator 2 featured a Softail model, the Fat Boy. Harley was just about to retire that model when the movie came out. Their popularity went crazy after the movie, and they’ve kept the model in the lineup ever since.

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

Well I think Harley needs to jump back on Hollywood movies and re-spark the interest of young generation to get a Harley like me! Not Sons of Anarchy though.. Just a classic Harley cameo is all we need haha. Thanks for the info on why the big twins felt lighter, I was thinking maybe it was the fwd controls but what you said makes sense. But when the engine is turned off, boy is it heavy to move lol.

@82106167 3 жыл бұрын

@@KSMotoCafe Watch many of the Marvel movies. Plenty of Harley cameos. Then there’s Indiana Jones Crystal Skull.... 2007 Softail Springer Classic, which already looks so much like a bike in the 1950’s, they only had to bolt on a kick starter to complete the effect. I did watch SOA, just for the bikes :)

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

I gotta rewatch Marvel movies to find these cameos - all I can remember is Audi R8 that Tony Stark drove for really good product placement lol.

@82106167 3 жыл бұрын

@@KSMotoCafe Captain America usually rides one in his own and the Avengers movies. Black Widow rides a Livewire in one, and I think a Street 750 in another. Cyclops rides a VRod in an early XMen film, plus wolverine rides one in one of his movies. Basically, any time you see a motorcycle in an MCU movie, it’s a Harley of some sort.

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

@@82106167 wowwwwww I stand corrected- good job getting Marvel HD! I just test rode the LiveWire for next wk's review too~ thanks for the deets Darrin!

@charlielloyd1534 3 ай бұрын

I Like the Pictures and the Bike.

@roy9161 4 күн бұрын

Single disc Brakes are so old school... I rode a bike with a dual brake system and brakes are really good and even drops speed fast lol 🤤😆.. my safety is important I'll be adding dual brakes for now on

@rozzbourn3653 5 ай бұрын

in the terminator, it was the fat boy. very similar, but larger tires and various upgrades.

@noidreculse8906 2 жыл бұрын

Ok, this is not one of my favorites. I prefer the Street Bob, with foot pegs and mini bars. Not a fan of floor boards, bumped my ankles a lot 😬 Also gauges on the tank 😕 plus digital tachometers are not helpful. I do like your opinions and the music was cool too 🤙🏻

@sugarraynay4153 3 жыл бұрын

I’m a new rider, I love my slim, I trained on a street Harley. I’m 5’4” and it fits me perfect. Better than the sportsters, irons. I thought I’d be intimidated by the power. But noooo! Can’t get enough!!!

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

wow! jealous of the slim! It is such a smooth and comfy ride. Is it your first bike?

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

@Ernesto Amigacho slim is about 1750cc

@sugarraynay4153 2 жыл бұрын

@@KSMotoCafe yes this is my first bike, my uncles talked me into It, being that we’re all short. I’m glad I did. Comfortable smooth ride. The power is awesome. Makes me want to buy a faster bike lol but I know better ha!!

@sugarraynay4153 2 жыл бұрын

I believe this was the Captain America bike 😘

@KSMotoCafe 2 жыл бұрын

@@sugarraynay4153 lol if you want the thrill of a faster bike, you will have to trade out comfort!

@TheClubhouse365 Жыл бұрын

Nice I just got myself a Softail slim

@KSMotoCafe Жыл бұрын

nice!!!!

@charlesharper7292 Жыл бұрын

If Harley had continued this bike into 2022, I would have bought it instead of my 2022 Street Bob. The Street Bob is great, don't get me wrong. I don't care for the bars on the Street Bob. The bars on the Slim are great! Just got a set. I'll have them on soon. The farther away your grips are from the triple tree, the less counter steer feel you have. All the Harleys I've owned ( that I kept), wound up with drag bars. ( Not T bars...) I think the Slim bars will be a great bar on my Street Bob.

@KSMotoCafe Жыл бұрын

Yeah it is a shame that they got rid of it but I think it will make its return like the way the breakout did. HD is taking notes from Disney where they re-re-release same stuff in different packaging but cost way more

@dt3963 2 ай бұрын

What’s the difference between a softail and a softail slim?

@patrickatagi2414 3 жыл бұрын

You have to look at the torque number of a twin versus the horsepower of an inline-four. At a much lower RPM, the Slim has equal torque to a Yamaha R1 at 11,000 RPM. Torque is what makes you get up and go.

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

I think that is what I love about Harleys, the low end torque just feels so good, even on my little sporty. I loved the Slim - especially after testing out the Fat Boy, it is my fav so far in the softail category. I got an ear full about torque vs hp from Steeve HD after this video so I owe him a video about torque vs hp 🤗. Thanks for watching!

@midnightmc3096 8 ай бұрын

Yeah, he totally confuses that, too...

@bernardlesperance742 11 ай бұрын

The front suspension is not "inverted" on the Slim. It kinda looks inverted because of the outer housing of the forks but it's not.

@KSMotoCafe 11 ай бұрын

yeah I messed that one up :)

@L2fish Жыл бұрын

My girl just bought one. Traded a 2015 Dyna Swithback which she bought 2 months ago. She took a hosing from the dealer which I did not appreciate but she seems to like the Slim better as its smaller for her. Oh and the bike Arnold took was a Fat Boy. I ride a Fat Boy the slim isnt even close

@KSMotoCafe Жыл бұрын

Slim is a great choice! I dunno why the dealer gave her any opinion if she was giving them business. Either way, yeah thanks foe the clarification about Terminator's motorcycle - i corrected that in my next few iterations of videos that he rides a fatboy 😅

@playbackvideoimage 2 жыл бұрын

Loved the side by side review at the end. I am only 5 6 and i was wondering if this bike might be too big for me.

@KSMotoCafe 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks! I try to do the same side by side for all my long motorcycle reviews. As for your question, it all depends on your inseam length. I have 30" and I found it comfortable. Shorter than 30" might feel stretched but not impossible. Best for shorter riders is mid-control

@playbackvideoimage 2 жыл бұрын

@@KSMotoCafe bummer, inseam is 27. I guess the Softail Standard isnt a bad alternative.

@KSMotoCafe 2 жыл бұрын

@@playbackvideoimage I just rode the softail standard for a review (will be editing in the next few days) and yea with your height and inseam, it would be perfect

@barrybarnes96 3 жыл бұрын

How was the suspension on bumps , potholes etc? Jarring or plush?

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

Plush is a good word for the feeling I got. And as a reference, I would rate bumps on my evo sportster as teeth rattling

@Guitarooster52 2 жыл бұрын

If I was to go for a Harley, this would be it.

@KSMotoCafe 2 жыл бұрын

it's a great bike! Too bad they cancelled it for 2022

@maxbrown8563 3 жыл бұрын

I love the style and look of this bike!! I’m 6’4 though.. is the bike for the shorter riders..? Or would it just need a little customising..?

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

The seat height is low but that is with all HD cruisers and it is already fwd control, so I would say if you feel cramped on this bike, only mod that will help less cramping is a taller handlebar. With that said, you should look at their new adventure bike Pan America as well.

@maxbrown8563 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks! Thought that would be the case.

@jeffdriggs2895 2 жыл бұрын

I’m 6’4” 265, have a 2020 Slim and love it! We do kinda look big on it, it handles all well!

@maxbrown8563 2 жыл бұрын

@@jeffdriggs2895 sweet! Appreciate the reply mate

@dp1224able 2 жыл бұрын

I have a 2013 slim and I am 5'11. I did feel a little cramped on mine, so I put an Arlen Ness 3" forward kit on it wich moved the floorboards 3" forward and about 1/2" outward. It made it much more comfortable for me. I also put a Predator seat on it from Drag Specialties that moved me back about 3/4" and down into the bike a little more. The bars are a bit low for me so I do have a set of 2" thick by 12" apes to put on it for spring time. I love my Slim.

@MrPAULONEAL 3 жыл бұрын

The Street Bob would be a better comparison or the Low Rider S.

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

I have been waiting to ride those but they sell those within an hr it arrives on the lot!

@michaeldao1711 10 ай бұрын

What is the brand of your helmet? Thanks

@KSMotoCafe 10 ай бұрын

shoei rf1200

@stuarthull5706 3 жыл бұрын

Good review mate however they are not inverted forks 😂 Like the slim but not a big miles bike more like you said a Sportster on Steroids short hops unless you change the seat as always H-D you can do anything to make it good for you. As a note my 1200C has great front and rear brakes very strong stopping power. Try a sport glide so so good 😊

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

thanks for the correction Stuart! Steeve msg me to correct me on that as well hahaha - to an untrained eye, I was sure it was inverted but turns out it is simply covered forks! Thanks for the info on the 1200C - I have seen them around but haven't had a chance to ride one. They also have a bigger fuel tank too right? Sportglide is on my next to ride list!

@stuarthull5706 3 жыл бұрын

@@KSMotoCafe 1200C has 4.5 Gal tank I have forwards and a Tallboy seat as I’m 6ft the seat is so comfortable over 250 miles in a day no lower back pain!

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

@@stuarthull5706 right on!!

@SB-mw1bg 2 жыл бұрын

Do you prefer riding this to the Standard?

@KSMotoCafe 2 жыл бұрын

I liked the look of the standard more but the slim was more comfortable, so I would go with the slim

@SB-mw1bg 2 жыл бұрын

@@KSMotoCafe thanks KS!

@tonylinardi3089 2 жыл бұрын

Sad Harley discontinued it!

@KSMotoCafe 2 жыл бұрын

yeah it was a sad day when I heard that! The softail standard is the closest feeing I got to the slim

@tonylinardi3089 2 жыл бұрын

@@KSMotoCafe The softail standard is no way near the Slim!

@KSMotoCafe 2 жыл бұрын

@@tonylinardi3089 no it is not but it looks the most similar compared to the other softails. Also the stage 1 softail standard was actually a fun ride! I have done the review of them recently if you want to see em

@jayteesgear 2 жыл бұрын

Bad move them ditchin the Slim

@KSMotoCafe 2 жыл бұрын

yeah man - huge let down. Get rid of the Standard or Fat Boy before the Slim!

@jayteesgear 2 жыл бұрын

@@KSMotoCafe Lol. I love ALL those haha.

@nickmurray721 2 жыл бұрын

Great for holding the values for people (like me!) who have one in the garage, but I can’t see myself ever selling!

@charlesharper7292 Жыл бұрын

IMHO, the Slim is nicer than the Fat Boy.

@KSMotoCafe Жыл бұрын

I agree!

@iracolwell7253 3 жыл бұрын

No, I rode one this weekend. I still prefer my 1200 sporty. Softail was to refined and had no soul.

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

lol this is why Harley has such a hard time evolving. I too find the characteristics of the Evo engine unique and loveable. But I also want more refined and efficient engine (like the revolution max) for my next bike. The M8 was super smooth and I liked it but not enough to trade my 883 in. Which year 1200 do you have?

@joseescalona8312 2 жыл бұрын

I would love the softail slim for my second bike, 3-4 more years to make it a reality 😭

@KSMotoCafe 2 жыл бұрын

My goal second bike is the Fat Bob 114 - I just rode it for a review and immediately fell in love 😍. Can't wait to finish the edit to share the enthusiasm haha

@joseescalona8312 2 жыл бұрын

@@KSMotoCafe awesome 😎

@darinsassen617 6 ай бұрын

almost there. you've got 1yr to go. Lots of pre-owned slims available too

@darinsassen617 6 ай бұрын

almost there. you've got 1yr to go.

@darinsassen617 6 ай бұрын

almost there. you've got 1yr to go.

@PeterSmith-or3pq 2 жыл бұрын

cool

@KSMotoCafe 2 жыл бұрын

😎🤟

@Kaegis 11 ай бұрын

I wish Australian veterans got the discount for new bikes. We only get the discount for genuine accessories.

@MrRWager56 3 жыл бұрын

Also, the tires are tubeless.

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

they have inner tubes - giveaway is the spokes wheels.

@MrPAULONEAL 3 жыл бұрын

That statement doesn't hold air...

@MrRWager56 3 жыл бұрын

@@KSMotoCafe I stand corrected, don't know what I was thinking.

@MrRWager56 3 жыл бұрын

Wet weight for a Slim is 671, not really "almost 700 lbs"

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

yes I put that figure up right after the highway. thank you

@luisibanez3600 11 ай бұрын

The sporty compared slim is like a sport car and a truck .😊

@KSMotoCafe 11 ай бұрын

lol 👍

@bernardlesperance742 11 ай бұрын

That's 103 ci and not "104" ci for the 2017 Slim.

@KSMotoCafe 11 ай бұрын

and also mis represented that info too

@midnightmc3096 8 ай бұрын

You keep saying that it's over 700lb's. It's not. It's 671 with full tank of fuel, etc.,. Quite a big difference. You also said several times that it has inverted forks - also wrong. Maybe do a minimum reading-up on specs beforehand. It's just a thought. Have a nice day!

@midnightmc3096 2 ай бұрын

@@tom3539 Never you mind. If you dig sloppy, go for it!

@MrRWager56 3 жыл бұрын

The Slim does NOT have inverted forks.

@KSMotoCafe 3 жыл бұрын

yeah I corrected it in my pinned comment! thank you

@gshock3092 11 ай бұрын

This bike probably isn't any faster than the 1200 evo

@KSMotoCafe 11 ай бұрын

if you are looking for a faster bike, then their new rev max sportsters will please you. Softails are more for comfort and styling. The Fatbob and LRS however are def faster than sportsters

@dry509 2 жыл бұрын

Well, the salesman told me I am too big for a Sportster.

@KSMotoCafe 2 жыл бұрын

how big are you? there is definitely a limit for a sportster before it is unbearably uncomfortable

@dry509 2 жыл бұрын

@@KSMotoCafe 6 feet, 220 lbs.

@KSMotoCafe 2 жыл бұрын

@@dry509 yeah 6' is the point I would recommend to go for a bigger bike or a Roadster/48 Sporty. I know a lot of people who are 6' tall and can comfortably ride a sportster (with some mods).