The Softail® Family

  What is it about the style of a Softail that appeals to riders everywhere? Well, it’s got to be the toughness. Ever since motorcycles did away with the classic “hardtail” design for more comfortable bikes, riders longed for the vintage grit you get on a suspension-less motorcycle. Harley-Davidons® changed the world then, in the 70’s, by introducing the original Softail motorcycle—a bike which hides the rear shocks, giving you both style and comfort. Now, in 2017, the ride has only gotten better. Harley has engineered a new lineup of Softail motorcycles, including the Softail Slim®, Fatboy®, and Deluxe. Each of these draws from the long history of Softail and the even longer history of Harley-Davidson to bring you some of the toughest bikes to ever hit the road, and they’re all available here at Starved Rock HD! We’re right here in Ottawa, IL, near Chicago.

2017 Softail Slim®

Take a step into the good old days when you climb on a Softail Slim. The parts are carefully contrasted on this motorcycle, accumulating into an authentic look that screams classic. The “Hollywood” Handlebars have that retro-style that reminds us of Harley’s long history, while the narrow profile on the rear gives it that bobber look that so many riders love. And of course, those shocks are hidden under the tail, so it has the timeless rigid-suspension look. The look isn’t all there is to this bike though, as it’s got plenty of power to back it up. The High Output Twin Cam 103B™ Engine is perfect down to the smallest component, with high-performance upgrades and a consistent focus on style. It gets over 100 ft-lbs of rear torque, and handles easily too with that premium suspension.

2017 Softail Fatboy®

The “Hardtail” will always be remembered by American riders. It’s a style that’s been cherished since the 60’s, at a time when bikes really started to develop that rugged appearance that we always strive for today. The look was recreated with the Softail, and there might not be a better manifestation of this design than the Fatboy. This motorcycle is big. Really big. And it’s just big enough to highlight all those features that you’ll fall in love with. Just look at the 17-inch wheels, cast in silver, and the 200mm wide rear tire. Those chrome wheels are built with the iconic look of a fat boy, featuring the classic bullet hole disks that evoke attitude and strength. But the real pleasure of a Fat Boy comes out in the feel. That Fat design creates an ergonomic feel on the 1.25 inch handlebars, keeping you fatigue-free even on longer rides. And the seat is enhanced with a narrow neck, taking strain off your thighs as you ride low to ground. You’ll be confident in this powerful posture, but also comfortable sitting atop such a stable frame.

2017 Softail Deluxe

It all starts with an exciting engine. The Twin Cam 103B™ on a Softail Deluxe is what you’re looking for if you want an innovative twist on the classic look. The lightweight pistons let the motor deliver pure strength and plenty of low-end torque, bringing attitude not just to the road, but to everyone around you. Not to mention, that six-speed Cruise Drive® Transmission is optimized for control while you ride, so riders like you have no problem taking advantage of that pristine new engine. The tires play a huge part, too, but not just like the any old slab of rubber. These are Dunlop® Tires, made with a three-ply polyester tread in the front, and an intelligent design in the rear. They’re built both to interpret that engine’s strength smoothly, while also offering you maximum control of the street.