A Close look at Willie G's Fat Boy: Past and Present
Designed by Willie G. Davidson and Louie Netz, the Fat Boy debuted in 1990 with the defining characteristics of the front and rear solid-cast disc wheels and the first use of the shotgun exhaust. Here is our ode to this unique bike that evoked not only nostalgia but patriotism.
1. 1990-Grey Ghost Zinger
Designed in part by Willie G. himself, the original Grey Ghost had a run of 4,440 units. A gray monochromatic Softail frame offset by a few well placed yellow highlights that Willie calls "Zingers" around the rocker covers, ignition switch, primary inspection plate cover, timing cover and within the winged tank emblem.
The original design sketch of the star,"USA" the HD name and a pair of wings as a tank emblem was nostalgic and patriotic signifying "Americana".
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2. 2003- Little Boy/Fat Man Retro Cruiser
By 2003, rumors of the name had been circulating for this Retro Cruiser. The name Fat Boy is supposedly a combination of the code names "Little Boy" and Fat Man" which were the first two bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The color was named after the "Enola Gray", B29 bomber that dropped the first bomb.
Shrouded in myth Willie G, commented, those big, fat, solid wheels just say "Fat Boy. Sure it was a risk but it worked beautifully.
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3. 2005-Birth of the Screamin Eagle
After 15 years in production, it was time for a new kid on the block. The Screamin Eagle 103 Stroker 5-speed which cranked 100ft. lbs. of torque. 50-plus chromed polished goodies, braided controls and sporting a stunning two-toned paint scheme. 2005 saw the production of 3,400 units and 2006 3,770.
The 24K Gold-plated tank emblem was a classy touch for that anniversary year for the non-CVO models.
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6. Present and Future Fattys
The modern day Fatboy is sometimes hardly recognizable. The engine started as an 80ci single cam 5-speed Evolution, progressing on to the 88ci in 2000, picked up an extra cam and 6 speed in 2007 at 96ci to 103ci in 2017.
There is an endless supply of both genuine and after market accessories to suit your ultra modern or ultra vintage taste.
Willie G has overseen over the years. The Cafe racers, Knuckleheads, Softails, FatBoys, Electra Glides, Dyna Glides, Sportsters, and other assorted V-Twins. This will always be my favorite HD.
>>Join the conversation about the Fat Boy: Past and Present in the Harley-Davidson Forum!
For help servicing your bike, check out the how-to section of HDForums.com
