2018 HARLEY-DAVIDSON SOFTAILS
FIRST TEST
P96
Softails was to push that diagram
in every direction; one frame, with
eight distinct new models, much
like the old models, only "more."
Compared to the Milwaukee-
Eight in the Touring models, the
Softail version adds a second
counterbalancer (needed on the
rigid-mounted motor), and lifts
the transmission for packaging
purposes (to get the most lean
angle possible, and leave room for
an under-engine oil tank). Much
like all of the Softail clones of the
past couple decades, the new
Softail uses a monoshock hidden
under the seat. Each model has
distinct suspension tuning to fit
its purpose and geometry. All the
models come equipped with a six-
speed transmission and a belt final
drive. LED headlights are standard
on all models, all have a USB
charging port near the steering
neck, and all come with keyless
ignition. The oil-cooled engine
hides its cooler in the space be-
tween the front frame members.
The difference between these
eight fairly distinct models comes
in the peripheral components.
There are a couple places to
put the footpegs, some different
shapes for the seats, differently
angled steering heads, a few
different front wheels/tires (along
with a couple of different rears),
two tanks, a universe of different
possible handlebar bends, and
(of course) window dressing.
That's it, really.
There are a couple of weak
points. The horn is a squeaky
little thing, and the new kickstand
is like a less developed version
of the one everybody else uses.
Harley years ago spent a couple
minutes in a press presenta-
tion talking about the care with
which they choose the notes that
the horn will belt out, but that's
clearly not a priority any longer.
And while their old Jiffy Stand
was awkward and different, once
you got used to it, it was beefy
and sure. I saw at least four
bikes on this launch either hit the
ground or almost hit the ground
due to the kickstand. In all cases
it was probably user error, but it's
a neutral change at best.
Though there are eight new
machines debuting this year, Har-
ley made a point to get us some
decent miles on each (30-50)
on varied roads in the mountains
outside of Los Angeles. These
are by no means complete tests,
