Quick Analysis
Harley Davidson Fat Boy
11.5 pts
Unweighted: 8 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
Street Glide
12.0 pts
Unweighted: 9 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Air-cooled | Liquid-cooled heads, air-cooled cylinders |
| Displacement | 1,923 cc | 1,923 cc |
| Engine Type | Milwaukee-Eight™ 117 Custom | Milwaukee-Eight® 117 V-Twin |
| Power | 103 HP / 77 kW @ 5020 rpm | 107 hp @ 5,020 rpm |
| Torque | 168 Nm @ 3000 rpm | 175 Nm @ 3,500 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 18.9 litres | 22.7 litres |
| Mileage | 18.18 Kmpl | — |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 315 | 368 |
| Seat Height | 675 | 715 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual-channel ABS | Dual-channel ABS (Cornering Enhanced) |
| Front Brake | Disc | Disc |
| Front Suspension | Dual-bending valve 49 mm telescopic with aluminum fork triple clamps, dual rate spring | 47 mm Inverted 1x1 Front Forks |
| Rear Brake | Disc | Disc |
| Rear Suspension | Hidden, free piston, coil-over monoshock; 43mm stroke, hydraulic preload adjustment | 3 in. (76.2 mm) Dual Outboard Emulsion with Preload Adjustability |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 160/60 R18 | 130/60 B19 |
| Rear Tyre | 240/40 R18 | 180/55 B18 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Cast aluminum (Lakester) | Cast aluminum |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | LED | LED (integrated in Batwing fairing) |
Other Specifications |
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| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Blue.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Billiard-gray.jpeg |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Grey.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Blue-burst.jpeg |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Whiskey-fire.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Brilliant-red.jpeg |
| Bike Image 4 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Iron-horse-metallic.jpeg |
| Bike Image 5 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Mystic-shift.jpeg |
| Bike Image 6 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Vivid-black.jpeg |
| Cluster | Analog with LCD | 4-inch TFT touchscreen |
| Color Options | Billiard Gray | #6B7074 Vivid Black | #0F0F10 Blue Burst | #1E4D8C Whiskey Fire / Vivid Black | #7A2D1B, #0F0F10 | Atlas Silver Metallic | #B6B8BA Billiard Gray | #6B7074 Blue Burst | #1E4D8C Brilliant Red | #A01824 Iron Horse Metallic | #5A5A58 Mystic Shift | #4B4F59 Vivid Black | #0F0F10 |
| Cons | The Weight Is Impossible to Ignore – Parking, reversing, or making tight U-turns requires more effort than on most motorcycles. The bike feels considerably lighter once moving, but the weight is always present at low speeds. Not a Motorcycle That Enjoys Tight Corners – The Fat Boy is happiest on flowing roads. When the road becomes tight and twisty, its size and geometry become more noticeable. Wind Hits You Directly at Highway Speeds – Without a fairing or windscreen, long highway rides can become tiring because the rider takes the full force of the wind. Can Feel Warm in Traffic – Sitting in slow-moving traffic on a hot day makes the large V-twin's heat more noticeable around the legs. Passenger Comfort Is Average – The stock setup feels more focused on the rider. For frequent two-up riding, many owners look at accessory seats and backrests. Not Built Around Practicality – There is no meaningful storage space, and carrying luggage usually requires additional accessories. Running Costs Are Higher Than Average – Tyres, servicing, insurance, and genuine accessories can all add up compared to smaller motorcycles. Requires Some Experience to Get the Best Out of It – The combination of weight, engine size, and physical dimensions can feel intimidating for riders who are new to large-capacity cruisers. Floorboards Touch Down Earlier Than You Might Expect – Riders who push harder through corners will eventually find the limits of the cruiser-style setup. | Heavy at Low Speeds – Despite improvements over the years, the Street Glide remains a large touring motorcycle, and its weight is noticeable during parking manoeuvres, U-turns, and stop-and-go traffic. Batwing Fairing Adds Steering Weight – Because the fairing is mounted to the forks, some riders may notice additional weight through the handlebars at lower speeds compared to a frame-mounted setup. Engine Heat in Urban Traffic – The Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine can generate noticeable heat around the rider's legs during prolonged periods of slow-moving traffic. Premium Ownership Costs – Purchase price, insurance, servicing, tyres, and genuine accessories can make ownership significantly more expensive than most motorcycles on the road. Less Practical in Congested Cities – The motorcycle's width, weight, and large turning radius can make navigating crowded urban environments more demanding. Wind Management Not as Effective as the Road Glide – While the Batwing fairing provides substantial protection, some long-distance riders prefer the airflow management and highway stability offered by the Road Glide's frame-mounted fairing. Crosswinds Can Be More Noticeable – The fork-mounted fairing may transmit stronger wind effects to the handlebars in certain riding conditions, particularly on open highways. Limited Agility on Twisty Roads – The Street Glide is designed primarily for highway touring, and its size becomes apparent when riding aggressively through tight corners. |
| Detailed Overview | Even among Harley-Davidson’s own motorcycles, the Fat Boy has always been difficult to mistake for anything else. The solid-disc Lakester wheels, broad fuel tank, chunky tyres, and low stance give it a silhouette that looks substantial from every angle. While many cruisers rely on chrome and visual complexity to create an impression, the Fat Boy’s design is built around simple, oversized elements that have remained part of its identity for decades. The motorcycle is based on Harley-Davidson’s Softail platform, which uses a hidden rear suspension arrangement beneath the seat area. From the side, the frame still resembles the rigid hardtail cruisers that inspired it, but underneath there is a modern monoshock setup responsible for absorbing road imperfections. The front suspension uses telescopic forks designed to support the motorcycle’s considerable weight while maintaining stability over varying road surfaces. A 1,923cc Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-twin engine sits prominently in the center of the motorcycle. Rather than encouraging riders to explore the upper reaches of the rev range, the engine develops much of its performance lower down, which influences how the Fat Boy behaves in everyday riding. The motorcycle can accelerate with relatively little throttle input, and the six-speed gearbox allows the engine to remain relaxed during highway travel. The large displacement and V-twin configuration are also major contributors to the motorcycle’s mechanical character and riding feel. Dimensionally, the Fat Boy is a substantial machine. Wide tyres at both ends, a long wheelbase, and a low seat height all contribute to its proportions. The low seating position places the rider close to the ground, while forward-mounted foot controls create the stretched riding posture commonly associated with large American cruisers. Combined with the wide handlebar, the rider’s position is very different from what would be experienced on a roadster or sport motorcycle. The Lakester wheels remain one of the defining visual features of the Fat Boy. Unlike conventional alloy wheels, their solid-disc-inspired design creates a unique appearance that has become closely associated with the model over the years. Alongside the broad tyres and muscular bodywork, these wheels play a significant role in shaping the motorcycle’s overall identity. Technology is present, although it is integrated more discreetly than on Harley-Davidson’s touring motorcycles. Modern versions include selectable riding modes, traction control, and ABS, with certain markets also receiving cornering-sensitive rider-assistance systems. Instead of a large touchscreen display, the Fat Boy uses a compact instrument setup focused primarily on essential riding information. An 18.9-litre fuel tank sits above the engine and forms one of the largest visual elements of the motorcycle. Lighting throughout the motorcycle uses LED technology, while the overall design remains intentionally uncluttered. There are few body panels, minimal visual distractions, and a clear emphasis on exposing the mechanical components that define the motorcycle. The Fat Boy’s specifications reveal a motorcycle shaped around traditional cruiser principles: a large-capacity V-twin engine, long-wheelbase chassis, low seating position, and substantial physical presence. Although modern electronics and engineering have been incorporated over time, the underlying layout remains closely tied to the formula that has defined the model for decades. | The Harley-Davidson Street Glide is one of the most recognizable touring motorcycles in the world, largely due to its distinctive Batwing fairing and long, low-slung silhouette. Positioned within Harley-Davidson’s Touring family, the motorcycle is built around the requirements of long-distance road travel while incorporating modern electronics, integrated luggage, and a large-capacity V-twin engine. Although its appearance is closely tied to Harley-Davidson’s heritage, the current generation combines traditional styling cues with contemporary technology and rider-assistance systems. Power comes from Harley-Davidson’s Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine, a large-displacement V-twin that serves as the centerpiece of the motorcycle. Unlike high-revving engines commonly found in sport motorcycles, this powerplant is tuned to produce substantial torque at lower engine speeds. The result is a riding experience that emphasizes relaxed acceleration and effortless highway cruising rather than frequent gear changes or high-RPM performance. The engine is paired with a 6-speed transmission, allowing lower engine speeds during long-distance travel and helping maintain a comfortable cruising character. A defining feature of the Street Glide is its Batwing fairing. Mounted directly to the front forks, the fairing houses the motorcycle’s lighting system, instrumentation, and windscreen while also providing wind protection for the rider. The design has been a signature part of the Street Glide identity for decades and contributes significantly to its visual presence. Compared to naked motorcycles or smaller touring models, the fairing helps reduce wind pressure during extended highway riding, which can lessen rider fatigue over long distances. The chassis is designed to support touring duties while carrying passengers, luggage, and additional equipment. Suspension components are tuned to handle the motorcycle’s substantial weight and maintain stability during highway riding. The overall dimensions and wheelbase contribute to a planted feel at speed, while the riding position remains relaxed through the use of wide handlebars, floorboards, and a spacious seat. This layout places the rider in a comfortable upright posture intended for extended periods in the saddle. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes at both ends, supported by modern electronic safety systems. Recent generations of the Street Glide incorporate cornering-enhanced ABS, traction control, and additional rider-assistance technologies that work in conjunction with onboard sensors. These systems are designed to provide support under varying riding conditions and improve overall control during braking and acceleration. Technology has become a major part of the Street Glide package. A large TFT touchscreen display serves as the motorcycle’s primary interface, providing access to navigation, ride information, audio controls, smartphone connectivity, and vehicle settings. Riders can pair compatible devices through Bluetooth and access communication and entertainment functions directly through the system. The display also allows customization of various motorcycle settings depending on rider preference. Storage capacity is another important aspect of the motorcycle’s touring credentials. Hard saddlebags are integrated into the design and provide secure space for carrying luggage, riding gear, and travel essentials. The motorcycle is also designed to accommodate a passenger comfortably, with ample seating space and ergonomics suited to long-distance travel. The Street Glide combines a Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-twin engine, a fork-mounted Batwing fairing, modern rider-assistance technology, integrated luggage, and touring-focused ergonomics within a package developed primarily for highway travel. While its styling remains rooted in Harley-Davidson’s traditional touring identity, the underlying specifications reflect a modern grand touring motorcycle intended to cover long distances while providing comfort, storage capacity, and technology for both rider and passenger. |
| Expert Review | The Fat Boy has always been a motorcycle that prioritizes presence as much as performance. Even by cruiser standards, it feels substantial, whether you're looking at it parked or riding it down the road. The Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine suits the character of the bike perfectly, producing the kind of effortless torque that allows you to ride without constantly thinking about gear selection or engine speed. What stands out most is how planted the motorcycle feels once it's moving. The wide tyres, long wheelbase, and considerable weight create a sense of stability that encourages a relaxed riding style rather than an aggressive one. At the same time, those same traits mean the Fat Boy asks for a bit more effort in slow-speed situations and doesn't feel particularly eager when the road becomes tight and technical. The riding experience is less about chasing performance figures and more about the way the motorcycle delivers its power, carries its weight, and settles into a steady rhythm on open roads. Modern electronics have improved safety and usability, but they remain secondary to the traditional cruiser character that continues to define the Fat Boy., 4.4, MotoAutiv Team | The Street Glide has always occupied an interesting place in Harley-Davidson's lineup because it combines the comfort and equipment of a full-size touring motorcycle with a riding experience that feels slightly more connected than some larger tourers. Much of that character comes from the Batwing fairing, which is mounted to the forks and gives the front end a more direct feel through sweeping bends and everyday riding. The Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine suits the motorcycle's purpose well, producing strong torque from low revs and making relaxed highway travel feel effortless. The latest generation has also benefited from significant improvements in technology, with the large touchscreen display and rider-assistance systems bringing it closer to contemporary touring motorcycles. Its size is impossible to ignore in city traffic, and riders stepping up from smaller motorcycles will need time to adjust to the weight, but once moving, the Street Glide feels more manageable than its dimensions initially suggest. Rather than chasing outright performance, it focuses on comfort, road presence, long-distance capability, and the distinctive riding experience that has defined Harley-Davidson touring motorcycles for decades., 4.5, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What type of motorcycle is the Harley-Davidson Fat Boy? A: The Fat Boy is classified as a heavyweight cruiser motorcycle, designed around relaxed riding ergonomics, a large V-twin engine, and long-distance road comfort. Q: Which engine powers the Fat Boy? A: The latest model uses the Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-twin engine paired with a 6-speed gearbox. Q: Is the Fat Boy suitable for long-distance rides? A: Yes. The relaxed ergonomics and torque-rich engine make it capable of covering long distances, although many owners add touring accessories for greater comfort. Q: What is the seat height of the Fat Boy? A: The seat height is approximately 675 mm, making it accessible to a wide range of riders. Q: Does the Fat Boy have cruise control? A: Availability depends on market and model year. Some versions include cruise control, while others may offer it as an accessory. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Fat Boy? A: The motorcycle is equipped with an 18.9-litre fuel tank. Q: Does the Fat Boy have riding modes? A: Yes. Modern versions include selectable riding modes and electronic rider-assistance systems. Q: Is the Fat Boy comfortable for a passenger? A: Occasional two-up riding is possible, but the stock setup is more rider-focused than dedicated touring motorcycles. Q: How is the Fat Boy different from the Breakout? A: The Fat Boy focuses on a broad, muscular cruiser character with solid-disc wheels, while the Breakout adopts a stretched custom-cruiser design with a much wider rear tyre. Q: Does the Fat Boy have traction control and ABS? A: Yes. Modern versions include ABS, traction control, and other rider-assistance technologies. Q: What is the kerb weight of the Harley-Davidson Fat Boy? A: The motorcycle weighs approximately 315 kg in running condition, depending on market specification. Q: Is the Fat Boy beginner-friendly? A: The low seat height helps with accessibility, but the weight, engine size, and overall dimensions make it better suited to riders with some experience. Q: Does the Fat Boy support smartphone connectivity? A: The Fat Boy uses a relatively simple instrumentation setup compared to Harley's touring models, so smartphone integration is limited. Q: What body type does the Fat Boy belong to? A: It is categorized as a cruiser motorcycle, specifically a heavyweight cruiser designed around comfort, torque delivery, and road presence. | Q: What type of motorcycle is the Harley-Davidson Street Glide? A: The Street Glide is classified as a touring motorcycle, specifically a grand touring model designed for long-distance highway travel. Q: What engine does the Street Glide use? A: The latest Street Glide is powered by the Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-twin engine paired with a 6-speed transmission. Q: What is the difference between the Street Glide and Road Glide? A: The primary difference is the fairing design. The Street Glide uses a fork-mounted Batwing fairing, while the Road Glide uses a frame-mounted Sharknose fairing, resulting in different wind management and steering characteristics. Q: Does the Street Glide come with cruise control? A: Yes. Cruise control is standard and is particularly useful during long highway journeys. Q: Does the Street Glide have navigation? A: Yes. The motorcycle features a large touchscreen display with navigation, smartphone connectivity, and infotainment functions. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Street Glide? A: The motorcycle is equipped with a fuel tank of approximately 22.7 litres. Q: Are saddlebags included as standard? A: Yes. Lockable hard saddlebags are standard equipment and provide storage for touring and everyday travel. Q: Is the Street Glide suitable for two-up touring? A: Yes. The motorcycle is designed to comfortably accommodate both rider and passenger during long-distance journeys. Q: Does the Street Glide have riding modes? A: Yes. Recent models feature selectable riding modes that adjust throttle response and electronic intervention settings. Q: Is the Street Glide beginner-friendly? A: Due to its size, weight, and engine capacity, it is generally better suited to riders with experience on larger motorcycles. Q: What is the kerb weight of the Harley-Davidson Street Glide? A: Depending on specification and model year, the motorcycle weighs approximately 368–380 kg in running condition. Q: Can the Street Glide be used for daily commuting? A: It can be used in urban environments, but its touring-oriented dimensions make it more comfortable on highways and open roads than in dense city traffic. Q: Does the Street Glide support smartphone connectivity? A: Yes. Bluetooth connectivity allows integration with smartphones for calls, media, navigation, and other functions. Q: What makes the Batwing fairing unique? A: The Batwing fairing is one of Harley-Davidson's most iconic design elements and provides wind protection while contributing to the motorcycle's distinctive appearance and riding character. Q: Does the Street Glide have traction control and rider-assistance systems? A: Yes. Modern versions include traction control, cornering-enhanced safety systems, ABS, and multiple electronic rider aids designed to improve stability and control. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | STD | 2803000 | STD | 3929999 |
| Pros | Instantly Recognizable Design – Few motorcycles are as easy to identify from a distance as the Fat Boy. The solid-disc wheels, wide stance, and muscular proportions give it a presence that stands out even among other cruisers. Torque-Rich Engine Character – The Milwaukee-Eight 117 doesn't need to be revved hard to make progress. A small twist of the throttle is usually enough to get the bike moving with very little effort. Relaxed Riding Position – The low seat, wide handlebar, and stretched-out foot controls create a laid-back riding posture that suits cruising and long hours in the saddle. Feels Stable on Open Roads – Once the bike is moving, its weight starts working in its favour. It feels planted at highway speeds and doesn't get unsettled easily. High-Quality Finish – From the paintwork to the chrome detailing and metal components, the overall fit and finish reflects the premium nature of the motorcycle. Low Seat Height Helps at Stops – Despite being a large motorcycle, the low seat makes it easier for many riders to place both feet firmly on the ground. Modern Electronics Without Changing the Character – Features such as ABS, traction control, and riding modes work in the background without taking away from the traditional cruiser feel. Comfortable Engine for Cruising – The engine settles into a relaxed rhythm at highway speeds and rarely feels stressed during normal riding. | Excellent Touring Comfort – The relaxed riding position, wide seat, floorboards, and touring-focused ergonomics make the Street Glide comfortable over long distances. Milwaukee-Eight 117 Engine Delivers Strong Torque – The large V-twin engine produces effortless low-end and mid-range pulling power, reducing the need for frequent gear changes. Batwing Fairing Improves Wind Protection – The iconic front fairing helps reduce wind fatigue during highway journeys while maintaining the motorcycle's distinctive appearance. Premium Build Quality and Finish – Paint quality, switchgear, body panels, and overall fit and finish reflect the motorcycle's premium positioning. Modern Infotainment System – The large TFT display supports navigation, smartphone connectivity, media functions, and ride information through an intuitive interface. Strong Highway Stability – The chassis feels settled at cruising speeds, making the motorcycle well suited to extended highway travel. Large Integrated Saddlebags – Hard luggage comes as standard, providing practical storage for touring and long-distance riding. Advanced Rider Assistance Features – Recent models include riding modes, traction control, cornering-enhanced safety systems, and other electronic aids. Comfortable for Two-Up Riding – The spacious seating arrangement accommodates both rider and passenger during long journeys. |
| Starter | Electric | Electric |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6-speed manual |
