Harley-Davidson Softail: Model Specifications

This article applies to the Harley-Davidson Softail.

I think the Softail in all of its varieties make it my favorite offering from Harley-Davidson. Every Softail owner you talk to will tell you why their particular model is the best. Obviously, it has to be your choice. Let's help you out as you explore your options. You will make some choices for looks; others for performance. Still, more will relate to comfort. Let's take a look. Specifically, let's look at three models: The Heritage Classic, The Softail Deluxe, and, my choice, The Fatboy.

Softail Models

Heritage Classic

Some of the things you notice immediately on the Heritage Classic are...

• The sissy bar
• The windshield
• A wider passenger seat
• Flat turn signals
• Fender lights

You'll also notice that the configuration of the mufflers on the Heritage allow it to sport larger saddle bags than other Softail models.

Now what follows are obviously opinions, but we think they're pretty reliable. The Heritage is perhaps the least common among the Softails. You will also find that it somewhat less expensive. The stock seat on the Heritage is probably a little more comfortable than the ones on the Deluxe or the Fatboy. If you're looking to ride two up and watching your cash, the Heritage might be the better deal, especially if you're looking at a lot of long-haul riding.

One last thing: the studded seats and bags on the Heritage give it a great classic look. You tend to notice when it drives by.

Softail Deluxe

Here's what you'll probably notice first on the Softail Deluxe:

• Bullet turn signals
• Small(er) luggage rack
• Narrow passenger seat
• It sits lower

Some believe that at least one of the reasons for this is the Deluxe is aimed at a smaller rider. This may or may not be true, but I know a lot of wives who love riding their Softail Deluxe. You'll also notice that the Deluxe has the mufflers and exhaust pipes that sit on top of each other. That means the size of the saddlebags you might want to add will be limited just a bit.

As mentioned, the Deluxe sits lower than the Heritage, about 1" lower. The Deluxe's lower lower height along with a different style handlebar probably makes it a better handling bike to ride. However, the shocks are shorter, which may make for a stiffer ride.

While the Heritage comes with the rockin' studded seats and saddlebags, the Deluxe tends to have a little more bling.

FatBoy / FatBoy Lo

While, on the surface, we're comparing three Softail models, we're actually comparing four. That's because when you get to the FatBoy, you'll need to decide between the FatBoy and the FatBoy Lo.

They are basically the same bikes except the FatBoy Lo, as its name suggests, sits lower. The other main difference is in the looks. The FatBoy Lo is a much more "blacked out" version while the stock version of the FatBoy tends to be dripping with chrome, even to the point of adding some nice satin chrome emblems.

The standard FatBoy has a little better suspension because it's not lowered. That may make for a smoother ride, especially if you're going two-up. Because it is lowered, however, the FatBoy Lo might be preferred by a shorter rider.

All four of these models have the same frame, forks, engines and transmissions. The FatBoy is altered a little in the back to accomodate a wider tire. But other than that, the frame is the same. As you have seen, the differences are in the seats, the shocks, the handlebars, the risers and floorboards, and the seat heights. Consequently, before making a choice, you need to test drive all of them and choose which one feels the best to you. The wheels and tires will also make each of them look and feel different. You'll need to decide on the fit, the feel, and the look you want as you make your choice. Keep in mind, of course, that you can modify many of these characteristics to fit your own personal style and taste.

Related Discussions

• 2016 Heritage Classic - HDforums.com
• Heritage Softail Classic vs Deluxe - HDforums.com
• Fat Boy vs Fat Boy Lo - HDforums.com