Harley-Davidson has launched the 2018 Softail family of cruisers in India. The range comprises of four models and prices start at Rs 11.99 lakhs for Street Bob going all the way up to Rs 18.99 lakhs for the Heritage Classic (both prices ex-showroom).
The 2018 Softail models feature major updates to the chassis, suspension and powertrain along with the customary new paint jobs. They are powered by the new Milwaukee-Eight engine, which promises quicker throttle response, more torque, improved sound track and a smoother ride. All the new Softail models are powered by the 1745cc Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine, which delivers 144Nm of torque through a six-speed gearbox.
The Street Bob, formerly a part of the Dyna range, is the entry-level model in the Softail range. It is a stripped down, bobber-style motorcycle, priced at Rs 11.99 lakhs. Next in the range is the Fat Bob, priced at Rs 13.99 lakhs. Targeted at urban buyers, the Fat Bob gets a new twin-pipe upswept exhaust, dual disc brakes at the front and 43mm inverted front forks.
The Fat Boy is a traditional and muscular American cruiser, and features the trademark ‘disc wheel’ at the front. It is priced at Rs 17.49 lakhs. The Heritage Classic is the top-of-the-line model, and features a classic styling inspired by the Harley-Davidson models from 1950s. It also gets modern touches like a detachable windscreen, cruise control and rigid lockable water-resistant saddlebags. It has been priced at Rs 18.99 lakhs.
The Street Bob competes against the Indian Scout Sixty and the Triumph Bonneville Bobber. The Fat Bob competes against the Moto Guzzi V9 Bobber, Indian Scout and the Triumph Thunderbird Storm. The Fat Boy goes up against the Ducati xDiavel and the Triumph Thunderbird LT. The Heritage Classic on the other hand, shares the market space with the Indian Chief Classic.
