Harley-Davidson® Softail® History
Among all the iconic motorcycles Harley-Davidson® has released in its century-plus of business, the Softail® stands out. With the look of Harley®'s beloved hardtail bikes, but with a finely tuned rear suspension hidden within the frame, the Softail® has a classic look with contemporary performance. Here at Durango Harley-Davidson®, we carry the latest Softail® models, like the Fat Boy®, Heritage Softail® Classic, and Breakout®. Stop by our Durango, Colorado today to schedule a test ride!
Developing a Legend
While most motorcycles start on the design studio drafting desk, the Softail® came about in a much more interesting way. In the 1970s, an engineer named Bill Davis began to modify his 1972 Harley-Davidson® Super Glide so that it could have rear suspension. Davis' trick was to hide the suspension in the bike's frame so it would continue to look totally stock. The results were quite successful, and Davis attempted to sell the design to Harley. At the time, the parties couldn't come to an exact agreement, but eventually Harley® bought the design, modified it, and introduced the FXST Softail® in 1983.
Current Softail® Models
The Softail® family continues to be one of Harley-Davidson®'s most well-loved motorcycle families. The company currently offers six distinct Softail® models that range from the nostalgic to the innovative in their respective designs. Each of these bikes continues Harley®'s tradition of making motorcycles that lead pack in style and performance.
Softail® Slim
The Softail® Slim has a low riding posture and thinner profile that's perfect for smaller riders. Just because it cuts a narrower path doesn't mean it does so meekly. The Softail® Slim features Harley®'s snarling High Output Twin Cam 103B engine that puts as much power to the pavement as you can handle.
Softail® Slim S
The Softail® Slim S is beefed up, brawny version of the Softail® Slim. With classic bobber design, this bike looks like it's just rolled out of the custom shop. You can also choose military-themed graphics if you want to show your patriotism with your ride. The Screamin' Eagle Air-Cooled Twin Cam 110B engine that comes in the Softail® Slim S also happens to be the most powerful engine Harley® puts in a cruiser, so you can be confident rides as mean as it looks.
Fat Boy®
One of the most recognizable Harley®'s on the road is the Fat Boy®, a big bruiser of a bike with a massive engine and stout frame. The Fat Boy® is powered by the High Output Twin Cam 103B engine for power that you can feel. Many will recognize the Fat Boy®'s distinctive solid rim chrome wheels, but everything on this bike gives off the vibe of a classic American muscle bike, from the big front forks and massive headlight, to the chrome mufflers, to the wide and sturdy rear wheel.
Fat Boy® S
The Fat Boy® S is for those who can't help but stand out from the pack. With a dark, sinister design and the classic big frame of the Fat Boy® model, this bike looks like it's ready to get in a fight (and win). Thanks to the Screamin' Eagle Air-Cooled Twin Cam 110B engine, this bike has power for days.
Heritage Softail® Classic
The Heritage Softail® Classic is a throwback to another era of Harley®'s. With wide, swept fenders, white wall tires, detailed leather work, and chromed-out components, this bike always turns heads. This bike also comes with a two-up seat arrangement that means you can bring a passenger on whatever adventures you'll surely take.
Softail® Deluxe
Whereas the Heritage Softail® Classic is boisterous throwback, the Softail® Deluxe is more about a reserved nostalgia. This is the perfect bike for weekend rides or touring to the next big rally. With wrapped fenders, white wall tires, and other touches of classic design, this is for the true fans of old-school Harley® design.
Breakout®
The Breakout® is a Softail® reimagined for the modern rider. While it maintains the original Softail® concealed suspension and basic chassis, this bike looks like it lives a flashy lifestyle. Big turbine wheels practically tear up the asphalt, while a mix of finishes including chrome and glossy black paint gives the bike an unforgettable custom look.
Ready to give a Harley-Davidson® Softail® a ride? Stop by Durango Harley-Davidson® today. We carry the latest Softail® models and we can help you find the perfect one for your. We proudly serve customers from Alamosa, Montrose, and Cortez, Colorado, and Farmington, Bloomfield, and Aztec, New Mexico. We'd be proud to serve you, too!