For those seeking a motorcycle with the classic hardtail look but equipped with a functional rear suspension, Harley-Davidson delivers with its Softail model. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Softail series.
The Softail chassis was originally conceived by engineer Bill Davis, who designed it as a custom modification for his old-school Super Glide equipped with dual rear shocks. Harley-Davidson acquired the rights to Davis' design and introduced the first Softail model, the FXST, in 1984. The introduction of the FXST came during a transformative period for the company, including the end of the AMF era and the beginning of the Evolution motor era, which was featured in the FXST as one of the first EVO-powered bikes.
Today, the Softail lineup remains robust and diverse. While the series has traditionally prioritized style over performance, some of Harley-Davidson’s most dynamic models are Softails. Notable examples include the Fat Bob 114, equipped with an inverted fork and a powerful 114ci Milwaukee Eight engine, and the Low Rider ST, featuring aggressive styling, a Milwaukee Eight 117ci engine, and a USD fork.
The Softail range also includes the Softail Standard cruiser, the Street Bob bobber, the Low Rider S club-style bike, the Pro Street-styled Breakout, the retro Heritage Classic 114 and Fat Boy 114 models, and the Sport Glide tourer.