As part of the Harley-Davidson’s plan to launch 100 high-impact motorcycles by 2027, the company introduced eight new cruisers at its annual dealer meeting last night. Each model has been redesigned from the ground-up and features the Milwaukee-Eight engine, all-new frame and advanced technology.
To build excitement, the company partnered with celebrity and motorcycle enthusiasts around the world to be among the first to experience the new models. Each will reveal the new bikes to their fans with unboxing sessions across their social media channels. Check out #FreedomMachine to see who’s involved and what happens next.
Who’s ready to see the 2018 #FatBob? Watch @rustybutcherusa unveil it ➡ https://t.co/hnCbpZTNdu
#FreedomMachine #FindYourFreedom pic.twitter.com/xL3Yeyc5g2— Harley-Davidson (@harleydavidson) August 23, 2017
“The new Softail models are the result of the most extensive research and development program in the company’s history,” said Paul James, manager of product portfolio, Harley-Davidson. “Thousands of hours of testing were put into the complete redesign of these new cruisers. We focused on taking the total rider experience to a higher level, where authenticity, heritage and soul meet the modern edge of technology for a ride that must be felt to be believed.”
The aggressively styled 2018 Softail models merge the hard-riding performance of the Dyna line with the custom look of the Softail line. With stiffer and significantly lighter frames to harness the torque of the new dual-counterbalanced Milwaukee-Eight 107 and 114 engines, each bike is faster, lighter and handles better than any Big Twin cruiser predecessor, according to the company.
“The new 2018 line-up reflects our mission to attract current riders and inspire new ones,” continued James. “These bikes were designed to celebrate the universal pursuit of independence, authenticity, individuality of riders, with innovations that deliver an unbeatable riding experience for them on the open road.”
New technology features on each model include Daymaker Signature LED Headlamps, an integrated USB charging port, improved electrical system charging, new instrumentation and fuel tanks.
The new Touring models included redesigns of the top-selling Street Glide Special and Road Glide Special models and three new top of the line Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO) models powered by the new 117 c.i.d. Milwaukee-Eight engine, the most powerful ever offered by the company.
The eight new Softail models include Fat Boy, Heritage Classic, Low Rider, Softail Slim, Deluxe, Breakout, Fat Bob and Street Bob.
