New Harley-Davidson Softail Standard could just be the ticket

Harley-Davidson has just made it that bit easier to get onto a Milwaukee-Eight Softail with the announcement today of the new Softail Standard model, billed as the ‘essential Harley-Davidson cruiser experience’.

Priced at $21,495, the new classic and minimalist styled Standard comes in at a full $1000 less than the previous entry-level 107ci Softail, the Street Bob.

The beauty of the range is, of course, the brilliant Softail chassis for a more comfortable, stress-free ride as well as the superb Milwaukee-Eight four-valve powerplant with better flowing cylinder heads and a dual knock sensor for the 10.0:1 compression ratio. Not to mention the trademark stronger torque and acceleration that exemplifies the all-new engine.

This new model will be your ‘blank canvas’ to style and accessorise to your heart’s content and your Harley-Heaven dealer has factory-approved customisation packages ready-to-go.

For example, you can add the ‘Day Tripper Custom Package’. Which retains the classic bobber style with the added versatility of a 21-inch detachable sissy bar with pad so your bestie can join you on the ride. It includes footpegs and mounts as well as forward foot controls. There’s also a cool black leather Swingarm Bag.

If you need a bit more, there is also the ‘Coast Custom Package’ featuring Softail Quarter Fairing, black anodized aluminium Moto Bar handlebar and matching 5.5-inch tall riser as well as a two-up seat. The ‘Touring Custom Package’ will see you neat and sweet for longer rides and the ‘Performance Custom Package’ will give you all the grunt and growl of the bigger, more expensive machines thanks to a Screamin’ Eagle Pro Street Tuner as well as high-performance pipes and air cleaner.

Motorweb tests the Softail on Sydney streets. (R Eime)

Any way you look at the new Softail Standard, it’s unmistakably a Harley-Davidson and your ticket to freedom.

As you read this, the first shipment is on its way from Milwaukee, so stay in touch with your favourite Harley-Heaven dealer and be among the first to test ride this new beauty.