H-D Softail Low Rider
BBC TopGear India|August 2018

We Say: The Newest Addition To The Softail Line Is Here. Is It Just As Good As The Rest?

Ashok George
H-D Softail Low Rider

To be honest, the last generation of Softails weren’t the most impressive motorcycles. The chassis’ were too ‘flex-y’ and the engine was a bit rough. But ever since we rode the newest generation of Softails, we haven’t had any of these complaints. And this here, is the latest of that same line to arrive in India. Say hello to the Low Rider – the motorcycle that, in Harley’s own words, captures the very essence of the freedom that the brand holds close to its heart.

But what is it? Harley says that the styling is straight out of the ’70s. That means sweeping handlebars, classic cruiser dimensions and some chrome here and there.

At the heart of the matter, the Low Rider is very much a Softail. That means the new chassis and suspension cradling the new Milwaukee-8 motor. The suspension needs some mention here as the updated front and rear makes for a very sporty, yet pliant ride. The rear is a monoshock but with remote preload adjustability. It has more travel than the old Softails, so yay! Special mention for the front-end though. The cartridge-type fork comes from Showa and it gives the Low Rider some very sporty dynamics.

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