Man With Prosthetic Leg Rides Harley-Davidson Softail Like a Champ

Just because one is missing a leg doesn’t mean they can’t continue to ride their bike, as this Harley-Davidson Softail owner proves.

The art of riding a motorcycle isn’t something that everyone learns how to do in their lifetime – in fact, more folks haven’t ever ridden one compared to the percentage that actually have. Some people simply can’t ride a motorcycle because of physical limitations as well, though things like trikes and special aftermarket upgrades have come along in recent years, aimed at making motorcycles more accessible for everyone. However, this Harley-Davidson Softail owner doesn’t need have any trouble getting around, even with a prosthetic leg.

As we can see in this short clip from the YouTube channel Floridain, this man was recently spotted riding his Harley-Davidson Softail around – at first, because it’s a nice bike that sounds great. However, the person that captured the scene on camera then realized that the man is missing part of his left leg, which is aided by the presence of a prosthetic. The man has zero problem getting around, regardless, which is something that we’ve seen on more than one occasion over the years.

In fact, this particular topic has been discussed time and time again in the Harley-Davidson Forums, as quite a few riders have experienced the loss of limbs and yet, don’t want to give up their love of riding motorcycles. Luckily, they don’t have to, for a variety of reasons. Some have simply modified their shifters and other controls to compensate, added a side car, or purchased a trike.

There are quite a few challenges associated with being an amputee and riding a motorcycle, regardless, including trouble finding balance, as well as reaching or operating the kickstand or side stand. A good prosthetic will help with some of these issues, or one can opt to install things like a hand lever extender below the tank. Push button shifters and automatic transmissions can also serve as suitable alternatives, and custom prothesis are also available that enable the rider to operate the clutch or brakes –  meaning that you don’t necessarily have to give up your Harley in the event that you lose a leg.

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Brett Foote

Brett Foote has been covering the automotive industry for over five years and is a longtime contributor to Internet Brands’ Auto Group sites, including Chevrolet Forum, Rennlist, and Ford Truck Enthusiasts, among other popular sites.

He has been an automotive enthusiast since the day he came into this world and rode home from the hospital in a first-gen Mustang, and he's been wrenching on them nearly as long.

In addition to his expertise writing about cars, trucks, motorcycles, and every other type of automobile, Brett had spent several years running parts for local auto dealerships.

You can follow along with his builds and various automotive shenanigans on Instagram: @bfoote.