Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail Classic: Powerful cruiser

Retro meets modern in the Harley Davidson Heritage Softail Classic

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The Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail Classic is a good mix of the traditional and the modern. The term "softail" refers to motorcycles that have a hidden rear suspension system. It's basically a hardtail that is made soft with rear suspension.

The looks are definitely retro but extremely apt for the modern world. This bike is powered by a high output twin cam 103B engine, which is basically a 1690cc engine with a low-end torque. Long-distance travelling is more about torque and less about horse power. Peak torque of 130Nm comes at around 3000rpm. One also gets the comfort of cruise control.

The fuel tank, for example, is an old-school one with a modern 3-D medallion on its side that is glass-inlayed. With its leather saddles, studded seats, laced wheels and white walled tyres, it scores high in looks. The saddlebags also get new sag-preventing interior supports.

The console mounted on the fuel tank displays the odometer along with an ancillary display for gear and rpm. While the speedometer is loud and clear, the rest of the digital displays could have been brighter and larger.

The rider's position in the Softail is extremely comfortable with large footboards to plant the feet. It has tall handlebars and an option for a two-up seat. The pillion seat is detachable too.

The high output twin cam 103B engine is quick on its feet and the low-end torque is very evident when you twist the throttle. It's an electronic throttle control, so there is no cable cluttering up the handlebars. The engine is mated to a six-speed transmission. The Softail comes with standard anti-lock braking system, which means the giant bike comes to a halt very fast.

HARLEY-DAVIDSON HERITAGE SOFTAIL CLASSIC

Engine: 1,690 cc air-cooled, high output twin cam 103B
Transmission: 6-speed
Torque: 130 Nm @ 3000 rpm
Fuel tank capacity: 18.9 litres
Fuel economy: 17.85 kmpl (city & highway combined)
Weight as shipped: 333kg
Min ground clearance: 131mm
Price: Rs 16.89 lakh (ex showroom Delhi)

 

Reports: Motown India; www.motownindia.com