Harley Davidson is perhaps the most infamous and well-known motorcycle company ever - like ever since the introduction of motorcycles into the common buyer's market. With a distinct riding style, the virtual innovation of the Chopper, and a brand that has since established a culture, Harley produces quality bikes and has amassed a cult following. I mean, just check out this Harley Softail that has transformed into a checkered chopper - it's awesome.
Despite having many high-selling models, do we think that the new Softail is really worth buying? When compared to other models on the market today, is Harley the best option?
Let's find out if it is worth buying the Harley Davidson Softail today...
What is the Harley Softail?
The Harley Davidson Softail frame was designed to look similar to the rigid frame of the traditional bikes, but still offering the luxury and the comfort of rear suspension, making a more comfortable ride for longer distances and making the Softail accessible to a wider target audience.
The shock absorbers used on the Softail are placed either along the axis, behind the transmission, or under the seat, getting them out of the way and enhancing comfort even more.
So, what Harleys use this comfort-friendly frame? There have been many models, like the Softail Standard, Springer Softail, Heritage, Night Train, Deuce, Fat Boy, Slim, and many others. With the production of so many models using this frame, it obviously is popular in today's market.
Despite competition from the model of the same company, the Harley Sportster, the Softail still has a loyal following - although we do love this one of a kind 1969 Harley Davidson XLH Sportster.
So, with the popularity and the production of numerous models under the Harley Davidson name, is this type of motorcycle really worth the money?
Maybe not - the Vibration
Since the Softail models used by Harley do not have rubber-mounted engines, they have more vibration to the rider than other models, somehow reducing the comfort of this comfort-centric bike. However, they know that the comfort is reduced, so Harley has added a counterbalanced version of the Twin Cam engine, trying to reduce the vibrations during riding.
Maybe not - the Softail Crossbones
If you are just solely focused on aesthetics, then the Crossbones could be the bike for you. Loved by Harley riders purely for the exterior style, this bike doesn't have the benefits that a Softail model usually entails. It doe not have a smooth ride, the handling is uneven and clunky, and the shifting leaves a lot to be desired.
With an uncomfortable ride, which is totally against the traditional Softail vibes, this Softail is not only extremely expensive at around $13 grand, but totally not worth the limited features and lack of comfort.
Maybe - The Nostalgic Design
Many riders will love the features that are included in this traditional and nostalgic style, such as those featured on the Softail Deluxe and the Softail Slim. Although, other bikes in the Harley lineup, like the Sportster, contain a more modern look, huge rims, various color options, and a sleek look. The worthiness of the Softail just depends on what you are looking for - traditional vs. modern.
Maybe - The Power
The Softail wins out of a lot of Harley bikes in terms of power and performance. Using the High Output Twin Cam 103B engine, the Softail provides more power, quicker acceleration, enhanced torque, and over 103 cubic inches of displacement for a high-performance and intense ride.
Not to mention, if you decide to pay a pretty penny and upgrade to one of the "S" models, you can upgrade your already-powerful engine even more to a Screamin Eagle Air-Cooled Twin Cam 110B, providing even more power and torque than the 103B engine.
Maybe Not - Weight & Terrain
Despite the Softail choosing to change their shock absorption methods to enhance the abilities to remain smooth over various terrain, they didn't really hit the nail on the head. The shock is different from a traditional shock and moves outwards when the tires run over bumps. This sounds good, but this reduces the ability to remain comfortable and smooth over multiple bumps - i.e. riding down a trailhead or construction, pot-holed road.
Further, the weight of the Softail isn't amazing when comparing the weight versus performance versus comfort ratio. The Softail is much heavier than other options, especially when comparing this model to the Sporster, which rings in similarly in terms of performance and popularity.