If this site is your complete barometer, you'll probably end up with a Honda. There will always be issues with bikes, Harley or otherwise, and those with issues will post their issues here in hopes of finding a solution.

I have a 2016 that I am very happy with. I have three friends on 2017 Road Glides who've had zero issues. If I were looking for a new bike, I personally wouldn't hesitate to buy a new one. YMMV.

 

Could be wrong but I would bet that people who are not satisfied will post about something wrong with a bike and those who have no problems probably don't post as much or often.

 

Absolutely true, but perhaps that's because after decades of building essentially the same product, it's EXPECTED that they will be essentially defect free. How many people would post that they went to their favorite restaurant and DIDN'T find a hair in their food? Except for some of the electronics, there's virtually nothing in the last 3 engines that is unexplored territory, certainly nothing that was invented yesterday. Friend of mine had a teensy problem with his M8 trike at around 3k miles- one of the connecting rods came down but it's piston didn't. MOCO made good on it with a replacement engine, but these are the things that will eventually send customers elsewhere. Pretty sure every Harley bike from the start had rods & pistons.

 

I appreciate all the comments, positive and negative. Still after reading through this thread and others like it, I still bought a new M8.

 

2018's no! But maybe in a few years after they have worked out the issues. I was told a long time ago if I were to purchase new, NOT to purchase the first model year, but to wait at least a couple of years. So maybe in 2020/21 I might with one stipulation. The warranty issues need to be resolved. And make certain models look like Harley's instead of ricers.

If I put on something, then those parts if they fail, is on me. If their parts fail, then it's on them. Not if I go with other parts that aren't made or approved of by Harley, then the warranty as a whole is void. However, what about all of those aftermarket add-ons they sell in store (made in China. I have tons) or their apparel (made in Indonesia or China - I have their jacket and vest which are made in Indonesia and boots and gloves that are made in China) At the rate this is going pretty soon if you don't wear only their jackets, vest, gloves, or other Chinese crap it will void the warranty! It's pretty sad when an American Icon sells out to China! (not happy)

 

They lost me a long time ago.

 

I'm looking to buy a new 2018 Heritage? I was told how the new design was so much better than the 2017! Lighter & better handling? As a new rider, your advice is most welcomed! Thank you!

 

After seeing the new bikes in person I change my vote to a yes (one day). You cant base an opinion off pics on a website, gotta check them out in person. They are nice bikes for sure. The fat bob is still wierd but wouldnt mind riding one.

 

570 miles so far and having a blast with no issues so far. I realize not a lot of miles to pass judgment, but loving the M8.

 

Almost 3,000 miles on my 3 week old Heritage. Not a single issue so far. Just many smiles and surprise at the power this thing has. Still loving it.