Harley-Davidson Softail models 2018 in the driving report

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Harley-Davidson Softail models 2018 in the driving report

Four in one go

For the company’s 115th anniversary, the US company is offering completely new Softails. With more punch and much better chassis, the previous Dyna and Softail series are now merging with one another. We tried four 2018 Softail models in Barcelona.

Harley-Davidson is setting off a real model fireworks display for 2018! Perhaps the biggest update in the company’s history leads to the newly developed Softail generation – the third since its premiere in 1984. It combines the previous Dyna and Softail series in a single platform. This includes the eight types Deluxe, Fat Boy, Low Rider, Softail Slim, Breakout, Fat Bob, Heritage Classic and Street Bob. The last four models are available for the driving report in four files. First of all clarify the basics: Now the Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine with 1,745 cm³ displacement (107 cubic inches) also fires the Softails; with 87 instead of 75 HP nominal power and a nominal 145 instead of 126 Newton meters. The new V2 made its debut in the Touring series a year ago. It now replaces the Twin Cam generation in all Big Twin types. From now on, only one camshaft located below controls a total of eight valves in the two towering cylinders via four bumpers and maintenance-free hydraulic valve lifters.

Harley-Davidson Softail Heritage Classic in the driving report

What can the new Harley tourer do?

Bigger is better

The Softail engines are characterized by two calming balance shafts, the tourers only have one. Bigger is better: Four of the new Softails are powered by the Milwaukee Eight 114 engine with 1,868 cm3 (114 cubic inches) for an additional charge. More driving dynamics! In addition, all 2018 Softails have completely redesigned frames and swing arms (the latter in two widths) – designed closely around the XXL two-cylinder. The new chassis should save six or eight kilograms in weight and at the same time be significantly (torsionally) stiffer! In addition, the new frames get by with a fifth fewer welds and half as many individual parts as before.

Curtain up for four fat American bikes

All of this is crowned by new, individually tailored forks and central struts from Showa. Yes, you read that right, the classic stereo struts of the Dynas have had their day. Hasta la vista, Dyna! But the pairs of struts of the predecessor Softails that were previously placed horizontally under the gearbox and subjected to tensile loads end up on the rubbish heap of model history. Instead, the triangular swing arm is now supported on the top of the frame: The solo shock absorber is invisible in cantilever design under the seat. The hardtail look is retained. All new types are already waiting in stores for younger customers too – stylishly refined in their design, equipped with USB charging stations and garnished with very individual LED headlights. For better seeing and being seen. All Harleys now have a four-year factory warranty. Curtain up for four fat American bikes: let the rides do the talking!

To the individual driving reports of the 2018 Softail models:

Chopper / cruiser

Harley-Davidson Softail Fat Bob in the driving report

Good vibrations?

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Chopper / cruiser

Harley-Davidson Softail Street Bob in the driving report

The affordable big twin

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Chopper / cruiser

Harley-Davidson Softail Breakout in the driving report

More experience per kilometer!

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Tourer

Harley-Davidson Softail Heritage Classic in the driving report

What can the new Harley tourer do?

read more

Chopper / cruiser

Harley-Davidson Fat Boy (2018) in the driving report

Successor to the Terminator bike

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Price comparison of the Harley Davidson Softail models

Used Harley Davidson Softail models in Germany

The Softail and Dyna model series are among the classics at Harleys. Whether you prefer the old models or the new irons is up to you. But regardless of that, a look at the used motorcycle exchange is definitely worthwhile. There you will find both older and new Harley Davidson Softail models in top condition and at low prices: Used Harley Davidson Softail models in Germany

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