BREAKING NEWS: Harley-Davidson to Change the Name of ‘Fat Boy’

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Harley-Davidson Big Boned

Bowing to criticism of fat shaming, the MoCo has renamed the popular softail cruiser ‘Big Boned.’

The times, they are a’ changin’. Certainly this has been true for Harley-Davidson, a company that has faced changing times a lot recently. From tariffs to electric engines, the company has learned that it must keep evolving to keep on riding. But recently, industry insiders were shocked at the Motor Company’s latest change.

The iconic Milwaukee, Wisconsin-based motorcycle manufacturer announced that all 2020 Harley-Davidson models onward will change the iconic “Fat Boy” name to “Big Boned.”

Harley-Davidson Motor Company, which has been making legendary motorcycles for 116 years, had been targeted in recent months by vocal protests organized on social media and various boycotting campaigns from individuals and organizations who felt that “Fat Boy” was a form of body shaming. Not wanting to alienate potential new customers, the company chose “Big Boned” as a replacement moniker to appease critics.

Harley-Davidson Big Boned

The Fat Boy came roaring on the scene in 1990, co-designed by Willie G. Davidson. With its front and rear solid-cast disc wheels, shotgun exhausts, and slightly flared fenders, it became an instant classic.

We’re not sure if saying, “I’m riding on my Big Boned” has, well, the right ring to it.

When asked for comment, Harley-Davidson replied, “Look at the date…”

Happy April Fools Day!

Terminator 2 Harley-Davidson Fat Boy

Just kidding! Harley is sticking with its famous moniker, and like the Terminator on his Fat Boy, the bike will be back!

Illustrations for H-D Forums by Pouria Savadkouei

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Longtime automotive journalist S.J. Bryan has been covering the automotive industry for over five years and is an editor with Ford Truck Enthusiasts and regular contributor to F-150 Online, Harley-Davidson Forums, and The Mustang Source, among other popular auto sites.

Bryan first discovered her passion for all things automotive while riding in her parent's 1968 Ford Mustang. The automotive expert cut her teeth growing up riding on Harleys, and her first car was a Chevy Nova. Despite her lead foot, Bryan has yet to receive a speeding ticket.

The award-winning former playwright was first published at age 18. She has worked extensively as a writer and editor for a number of lifestyle and pop culture publications. The diehard gearhead is a big fan of American muscle cars, sixth-gen Ford trucks, and Oxford commas.

S.J. can be reached at sherryjbry@gmail.com.