2018 Harley-Davidson Fat Bob receives mixed response
A major new direction for Harley-Davidson was announced today with the Dyna chassis essentially dropped entirely and a lot of the previous Dyna models now rolled into an all-new Softail range.
While the move to drop the twin-shock Dyna platform from the range has been met by howls of disgust by many Harley faithful, it seems clear that the Milwaukee manufacturer wanted to improve the dynamics of their range and that this was the most sensible and cost efficient way forward to accomplish that feat. Dyna lovers best go out this week and secure one of the last of the 2017 Dyna models if these new 2018 machines don’t float their boat. Who knows, the last of the current Dyna models could actually become a modern collectible, especially if Harley never brings the Dyna based platform back in any future model years.
The move to 107 cubic inch (1746cc), and 114 cubic inch (1868cc) engines in the mainstream models, and a 117 cubic inch (1923cc) donk for the extra special COV models, also signals that H-D is not resting on their laurels.
Judging by social media reaction it seems that the updated Fat Bob is going to be a favourite amongst the Harley faithful in 2018. Despite the disgust expressed by some at the dropping of the Dyna platform. The move to a single taillight at the rear has also raised a few eyebrows, as it was somewhat a signature design cue of the previous Fat Bob models.
The 107 cube Fat Bob is expected to arrive in Australia around October and will sell from $27,495 rideaway, with the 114 cube engined model commanding a $2755 price premium for a sticker price of $30,250 inclusive of all on-road costs.
Harley claim 145Nm of torque for the Milwaukee-Eight 107 while the 114 boasts 15Nm more.
For 2018 the Fat Bob is 10kg lighter and features vastly improved monoshock rear end suspending the new style Softail frame.
Preload adjustment will be breeze thanks to a handy hydraulic adjuster knob nestled behind the rear header.
A welcome improvement in available lean angle is also quoted by Harley and the front end is graced by a variation of the better specification USD forks recently adorning the touring line-up.
The 2-1-2 upswept exhaust is designed to stand out via a bold bronze finish on the headers before terminating in a pair of stacked mufflers on the right hand side of the machine.
An asymmetical graphic on the 13.6-litre fuel tank adds yet another touch unique to the Fat Bob.
As does the cast 16″ rim shod with a chunky 150/80 front tyre. A 180/70-16 hoop graces the rear of the machine.
Seat height remains very low at 710mm helping to ensure the low-slung look of the Fat Bob continues.
2018 Harley-Davidson Fat Bob Specifications
- Engine – Milwaukee-Eight 107 – 1,746 cc – 145 Nm
- Engine – Milwaukee-Eight 114 – 1,868cc cc – 160 Nm
- Transmisson – 6-Speed Cruise Drive, Belt
- Seat Height – 710mm
- Fuel Capacity – 13.6 litres
- Tyres – 150/80-16 (F), 180/70-16 (R)
- Dry Weight – 296kg
- Colours – 107 Black Denim, Red Iron Denim, Bonneville Salt Denim
- Colours – 114 – Vivid Black, Industrial Gray Denim
