The Harley-Davidson Softail family is a cornerstone of American motorcycling, renowned for its classic “hardtail” look that harks back to vintage choppers, while secretly housing a modern, comfortable hidden rear suspension. For U.S. riders, Softails offer that iconic Harley-Davidson style and rumble, combined with improved handling and comfort for today’s roads, whether cruising city streets or hitting the open highway.
Iconic Style with a Clever Secret
The defining characteristic of the Softail is its ability to blend old-school aesthetics with modern engineering:
- “Hardtail” Look: The genius of the Softail frame is that it hides the rear shock absorber(s) beneath the seat, making it appear as if the bike has a rigid, unsprung rear end – just like the custom bikes of the 1940s and 50s. This gives it a clean, uninterrupted line from the fuel tank to the rear fender.
- Milwaukee-Eight® Engine as a Centerpiece: Most Softail models are built around the powerful Milwaukee-Eight® engine, a modern V-Twin that contributes significantly to the bike’s classic yet muscular presence.
- Diverse Styling within the Family: The Softail lineup includes a variety of models, each with its own distinct personality:
- Softail Standard: The stripped-down, bare-bones bobber, often seen as a canvas for customization. It features a classic solo seat, blacked-out components, and a focus on essential riding.
- Fat Boy®: Famous for its solid disc “Lakester” wheels and massive 240mm rear tire, giving it an unmistakable, imposing presence.
- Heritage Classic: The retro-styled touring cruiser, featuring detachable windscreen, saddlebags, and often chrome accents, evoking a vintage touring vibe.
- Low Rider® S / ST: These models bring a performance-cruiser edge, with blacked-out styling, often a handlebar-mounted fairing (on the ST), and a focus on aggressive riding dynamics.
- Street Bob®: A minimalist bobber with mini-ape handlebars, often chopped fenders, and a focus on a raw, rebellious attitude.
- Breakout®: Characterized by its long, raked-out front end, wide rear tire, and drag-bike inspired styling.
Powerful Milwaukee-Eight® Engines
The Softail family is primarily powered by Harley-Davidson’s potent Milwaukee-Eight® V-Twin engines, offering different displacement options:
- Milwaukee-Eight® 107: This 107 cubic inch (1,746cc) engine delivers strong low-end torque, typically around 110 lb-ft at 3,000 rpm, providing crisp throttle response and that signature Harley-Davidson rumble. It’s found in models like the Softail Standard.
- Milwaukee-Eight® 114: A larger 114 cubic inch (1,868cc) version, offering even more power and torque, usually around 119 lb-ft at 3,000 rpm. This engine provides more commanding acceleration and is found in many popular Softail models like the Fat Boy and Low Rider S.
- Milwaukee-Eight® 117: For the most performance-focused Softail models (like some versions of the Low Rider S/ST or Fat Boy Gray Ghost in recent model years), the 117 cubic inch (1,920cc) engine might be available, offering the highest torque figures in the lineup, sometimes up to 128 lb-ft.
- Smooth Operation: All Milwaukee-Eight engines feature dual spark plugs per cylinder and a single internal counterbalancer to reduce vibrations, contributing to a smoother ride without losing the classic V-Twin feel.
- 6-Speed Cruise Drive® Transmission: All Softails come with a smooth-shifting 6-speed transmission, designed for comfortable cruising on the highway and responsive acceleration when needed. Power is delivered to the rear wheel via a low-maintenance belt drive.
Modern Handling and Hidden Suspension
The Softail chassis was completely redesigned in 2018, bringing significant improvements to ride quality, handling, and comfort:
- Hidden Monoshock Rear Suspension: This is the core innovation. A single, coil-over monoshock absorber is cleverly placed out of sight beneath the seat. This design offers crucial rear suspension travel (typically 4.4 to 5.1 inches depending on the model) for a much smoother and more controlled ride than older rigid frames, while preserving the hardtail aesthetic. The preload for this shock is often easily adjustable, sometimes even by hand, to accommodate different rider weights or passenger loads.
- Lighter and Stiffer Frame: The modern Softail frame is significantly stiffer and lighter than previous generations, which translates directly to improved agility, better lean angles (typically around 28.5 degrees for many models), and more confident cornering.
- High-Performance Front Suspension: All Softail models feature a 49mm telescopic front fork with dual-bending valve technology, providing excellent damping performance and a comfortable ride.
- Braking: Softail models typically feature disc brakes on both front and rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is often an optional extra on some base models (like the Softail Standard) and standard on others, providing enhanced stopping power and safety.
- Lean Angle: The improved chassis allows for greater lean angles compared to older cruisers, enhancing the riding experience on winding roads.
Key Features and Technology
While embracing classic looks, Softails incorporate modern conveniences:
- LED Lighting: Many models feature Daymaker® Signature LED headlamps and often full LED lighting for improved visibility and a modern touch.
- Digital Instrumentation: A digital display, often mounted discreetly or integrated into an analog speedometer, provides essential information such as gear indication, odometer, fuel level, clock, and range.
- Keyless Ignition and Security System: Standard on many models, offering convenience and added security.
- USB Charging Port: A USB charging port is often found, allowing riders to power their devices on the go.
- Optional Rider Safety Enhancements (RSE): While not standard on all Softail models, some higher trims or optional packages might include advanced safety features like Cornering Enhanced ABS (C-ABS), Cornering Enhanced Traction Control System (C-TCS), and Drag-Torque Slip Control System (DSCS).
Fuel Economy (MPG)
Fuel economy for Harley-Davidson Softail models varies slightly depending on the specific engine and model, but generally, riders can expect:
- Milwaukee-Eight® 107 models: Approximately 47 miles per gallon (MPG) combined city/highway.
- Milwaukee-Eight® 114/117 models: Generally similar or slightly lower, around 45-47 MPG.
- Fuel tank capacities typically range from 3.5 gallons (like the Softail Standard) to 5 gallons (like the Fat Boy or Heritage Classic), offering a good cruising range.
Price in the U.S.A. (MSRP)
The Harley-Davidson Softail lineup offers a wide range of pricing depending on the model, engine, and selected options. For 2024-2025 models, the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for Softails in the U.S. typically starts around $15,999 for the Softail Standard.
Other popular models fall into higher price brackets:
- Street Bob®: Starting around $15,999 – $16,999
- Low Rider® S: Starting around $19,999 – $20,000+
- Fat Boy®: Starting around $22,599 – $23,000+
- Heritage Classic: Starting around $22,999 – $23,000+
- Breakout®: Starting around $23,099 – $24,000+
- Low Rider® ST: Starting around $24,199 – $25,000+
These MSRPs are for the base color (often Vivid Black) and do not include destination charges (typically $700-$800), dealer preparation fees, sales tax, title, or registration fees, which will vary by state and dealership. Optional ABS, security systems, and special paint colors will also add to the final price.
The Harley-Davidson Softail family continues to be a cornerstone for the brand in the U.S., delivering that coveted classic aesthetic with the benefits of modern comfort, performance, and technology, making it a compelling choice for a wide array of American riders.