2018 Harley-Davidson Softail line-up revealed

Harley has merged the Dyna line with the Softail range under the 2018 series. The new Softail range now includes Fat Boy, Heritage Classic, Low Rider, Softail Slim, Deluxe, Breakout, Fat Bob and Street Bob. All the bikes get 'Daymaker' signature LED Headlamps, an integrated USB charging port, improved electrical system charging, new instrumentation and fuel tanks.

Harley claims the Softail bikes are up to 15.8 kg lighter than the previous generation models. The new chassis is 34 percent lighter and the bikes employ Milwaukee 8 engines which offer 10 percent quicker acceleration from 0-60 mph (0-96.5 kmph). They also come with a counterbalancing system for a refined ride.

There are two engines under the Milwaukee-Eight Big Twin range – Milwaukee-Eight 107 and Milwaukee-Eight 114. The former is a 1,753 cc V-twin which churns out 147.7 Nm of torque at 3,000 rpm. The latter is a 1,868 cc V-twin motor which generates a massive 161.3 Nm of torque at 3,000 rpm.

All the bikes come with the 107 engine. However, the Heritage Classic, Fat Bob, Fat Boy and Breakout get the Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine as an option. The engine mates with a 6-speed transmission.

Aesthetically, the bikes get a classic hardtail look, with the frame line going from the steering head all the way to the rear axle. The monoshock is hidden beneath the seat and is adjustable. The front end gets improved forks from Showa. Prices start from USD 14,499 for the 2018 Street Bob.