Bike: Harley-davidson Softail FXDR
The latest release from the iconic Milwaukee-based marque blends fresh style with tradition
HArley-davidson is known for launching new models with unerring regularity. Apart from all the updates, changes and colour options, most owners tend to personalise their bikes to the nth degree, which means it is unlikely you’ll ever find two Harleys that are exactly alike. In the next few years, Harley will roll out radically sporty-looking new models, including a fully electric motorcycle dubbed the Livewire.
For now, though, we get a taste of what’s to come in this recently released FXDR. A member of the Softail range, which has elbowed the Dyna and V-rod ranges out of the limelight, it incorporates some elements that will feature in future Harleys. Well, except for an electric motor.
From an aesthetic point of view, the FXDR is a real headturner. Even the fat two-into-one exhaust, enhanced by striking, deep copper-coloured heat shields, looks spot-on. Braking comes courtesy of a proper triple-disc setup (the best we have experienced on a Harley); the 114 engine (with four-valve heads) is the largest Milwaukee-eight available; and the bodywork and wheels are finished in a combination of black denim and gloss black. The solo seat (with a small storagecompartment cover) trims the bodywork right down and leaves the massive 240-section Michelin Scorcher to enhance the rear.
Engine power is 67 kw but the more important figure is peak torque (160 N.m). Mass has been reduced through the wider utilisation of aluminium and plastic, and the ground clearance has been greatly improved, allowing for steeper lean angles. Still, the FXDR doesn’t turn particularly quickly or sharply due its extended front-fork rake. The suspension is firm but can be adjusted. The seat height is nice and low, and the handlebars are set for a slightly forward-leaning riding position (with matching forward foot controls). While higher bars would suit a more laid-back cruising stance, the current ones look fantastic.
Upside-down front forks, the hidden rear monoshock of the Softail family, the two-into-one exhaust system and, finally, a forward-facing, free-breathing air cleaner all add to the appeal. Add a solo saddle, those forward controls and a cast aluminium swing-arm, and the picture is perfect.
As the bars are of the clip-on variety, they are adjustable. Of course, it’s an impossible task to provide a riding position to suit everyone, which is why, in the ideal world, the firm should offer buyers a choice of bars and footpegs. Taller riders may find the oversized air filter intrusive but our only real gripe is the clunkiness of the transmission, a perennial Harley issue.
If the FXDR’S 3,9-second 0-100 km/h time is not quick enough for you, optional Screaming Eagle tuning is available in four stages. The standard pipe produces a pleasing soundtrack: enough to be widely heard but not to the point of being obnoxious. The dragster-looking forward-pointing air cleaner adds attitude without being too uncomfortable on your knee.
Meanwhile, the instrumentation (which includes a fuel gauge, clock, odometer, two trip meters, speed, revs and gear indicator) is intentionally minimalistic, but doesn’t lack any information and is easy to read. The indicators are self-cancelling, lighting is by LEDS and there is no ignition switch: if you have the key with you, just thumb the starter button. The fuel tank is unique to this model and holds nearly 17 litres, for a cruising range of about 330 km.
On the road, the FXDR turns heads, which is arguably its raison d’etre. No, it’s not the ideal cruising machine. Rather, it’s better suited to touring country roads, admiring scenic mountain passes or, alternatively, traversing the urban jungle while your nose follows a rich smell of roasted coffee.
Love the torquerich engine and looks Wilhelm Lutjeharms