Harley Unveils New Softail Models for 2018 Model Year
The eight new Softail models set to be released for the 2018 model year are the result of Harley-Davidson's biggest research and development effort to date.
A New Breed
Harley-Davidson's Big-Twin cruiser lineup has undergone a complete overhaul for the 2018 model year. Gone is the long-standing Dyna range of motorcycles which has now been incorporated into the all-new Softail lineup. Although these motorcycles have received significant redesigns throughout, perhaps the biggest news is that the eight new Softail bikes will receive the new Milwaukee Eight engines that were previously only available in Harley's Touring model motorcycles. In any case, some radical changes have been made to the H-D Big-Twin cruisers.
>>Join the conversation about the 2018 Softail Models right here in the Harley-Davidson Forum!
The Press Overview
A recent press conference at the H-D Product Development Center gave us an overview of the changes that have been made for 2018. As mentioned, the Dyna designation is gone for the foreseeable future as the new lineup of Big-Twin motorcycles will all share a common frame. Speaking of frames, the new bikes all feature a new monoshock frame that is said to be superior in all aspects to Harley's previous Softail setup. The modern frame will house the Milwaukee Eight engine in either 107ci or 114ci displacements depending on model and options. Harley has also ditched the dry sump lubrication system that has long used a traditional oil tank in favor of wet sump oiling.
>>Join the conversation about the 2018 Softail Models right here in the Harley-Davidson Forum!
Chassis Creation
Perhaps the most immediately noticeable feature of the new motorcycles is the redesigned frame. The outgoing Dyna models have long used twin shocks and a traditional swingarm whereas the outgoing Softail models used a unique pair of shocks hidden away under the bike. The 2018 bikes combine the best of both worlds by employing a new hidden under seat monoshock and triangulated swingarm to provide that desirable rigid-look while also improving the bike's handling performance (specifically quicker corner turn-in and increased lean angles). The frame is proclaimed to be a much simpler (50% fewer components) and lighter weight design than those found on previous bikes while also improving upon the chassis stiffness (65% stiffer). All in all, the new chassis design shaves an average of 32 pounds off of these new model motorcycles.
>>Join the conversation about the 2018 Softail Models right here in the Harley-Davidson Forum!
Powerful Powertrain
Although the Milwaukee Eight V-Twin is a bit of old news for the Touring bikes, the new engine brings a whole new level of performance to the Big-Twins. All of the new Softails models will come standard with the 107ci (1746cc) engine that is supposedly 10% quicker in 0-60 mph sprints and a significant 16% faster in 60-80 mph roll-on tests as opposed to the old 103ci Twin-Cam engine. Additionally, the Fat Bob, Fat Boy, Breakout, and Heritage Classic models will also be offered with the 114ci (1868cc) Milwaukee Eight engine option. Because of the twin-counterbalanced engine's reduced vibration, Harley has left behind any thoughts of rubber-insulated mounts and now have the engine rigidly mounted in the frame for all bikes. Not only does this provide a much cleaner engine/chassis look, but it also plays into chassis rigidity and improved handling characteristics.
>>Join the conversation about the 2018 Softail Models right here in the Harley-Davidson Forum!
Noteworthy Features
When introducing new motorcycles, it can be difficult to push forward with modern technology while also retaining the traditional styling elements that have become synonymous with Harley-Davidson bikes, but the H-D crew have managed to do just that. Although the bikes retain classic elements, they all feature new tech including LED headlights, keyless ignition, and security systems as standard, an improved electrical charging system, new instrumentation, and steering head USB port. Besides the Fat Bob with its dual front brakes and 43mm upside-down cartridge forks, the Softail series uses the Showa Dual Bending Valve forks with a single front disc brake. Harley is also offering quite a variety of these bikes as certain models will have either a 28, 30, or 34-degree rake with either a low, standard or high ride height with wide or narrow swingarms. With the parts component commonality among all of the new models, there is going to be an unprecedented amount of parts interchangeability between bikes that will likely alter the game of customization.
>>Join the conversation about the 2018 Softail Models right here in the Harley-Davidson Forum!
The Softail Model Offerings
Eight different models each with unique features will be available for 2018. Fat Boy: Contemporary muscular styling, 160mm front tire/240mm rear tire, Billet Lakester wheels, ABS standard, optional 114ci engine. Heritage Classic: 1950's Vintage-inspired, Detachable windscreen, Lockable/Weatherproof saddlebags, "High" suspension, Cruise Control & ABS standard, optional 114ci engine. Low Rider: Chopper styling, Dual tank mount speedometer, and tachometer, 16"rear/19" front cast aluminum Radiate wheels, 2-2 shotgun exhaust. Softail Slim: Bobber styling, Narrow rear-end, Trimmed front fender, Tuck and roll solo seat, minimal chrome. Deluxe: Classic cruiser styling, Complete LED lighting, Pull-back Bars, White-wall tires, ABS standard. Breakout: Muscular look, "Low" suspension, raked-out 49mm forks, 18"rear/21"front aluminum wheels, riser-mounted digital gauges, Daybreaker headlight, ABS standard, 114ci engine optional. Fat Bob: Sport-oriented, Dual disc brakes, 43mm Inverted forks, 2-1-2 upswept exhaust, optional 114ci engine. Street Bob: Bare-bones build, Riser-mounted digital gauges, Chopped fenders, Smooth 3.5 gallon peanut tank, the lowest price in the Softail lineup.
>>Join the conversation about the 2018 Softail Models right here in the Harley-Davidson Forum!
For help with service of your bike, check out the how to section of HDForums.com