Harley-Davidson Australia and New Zealand have taken one of their most popular and best-selling models in our region, the Softail Breakout performance cruiser, and given it a blacked-out treatment. Announced in August, this cosmetic package will only be available in Australia and New Zealand, with arrival in these markets expected in October.
It should be noted that this model’s Black Denim paint and blacked-out treatment is additional to the MY26 Breakout colour range that includes Vivid Black, Dark Billiard Grey, Iron Horse metallic and new-for-2026 Blood Orange and Teal Thunder. Those other colour options are only available with chrome engine trim and detailing, though - if you want the blacked-out treatment on your Breakout’s engine, exhaust and other parts, this upcoming model is the only way to get it.
Described as a “striking new look for the iconic cruiser” and “a darker, more assertive aesthetic designed for riders who want to stand out from the crowd,” the blacked-out Breakout features satin-finish Black Denim paint on the fuel tank, mudguards and selected cycle parts. Complementing this is a satin or gloss black finish on items that are normally chromed, like the rocker boxes and air cleaner for the Milwaukee-Eight 117 v-twin.
The Breakout’s 2-into-2 exhaust, rear mudguard brackets, oil tank, handlebars and risers, mirrors, headlight and indicator shells, tank console and fuel caps are also finished in black. The treatment continues on the Breakout’s signature 26-spoke alloy wheels, with the normal contrast cut treatment replaced with an all-black gloss finish.
Instead of tank badges, the blackout model gets Blackline-inspired decals in red, which provide one of the very few contrasts to this model’s all-black finish.
This new cosmetic package for the Breakout is broadly similar to the ‘Deadwood’ model that Harley-Davidson announced in July and presented at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in August. That model also features Black Denim paint and extensive use of satin and gloss black on the engine, exhaust, trims and bolt-on parts. It even uses the same tank decal. But where the Deadwood is based on the Softail Heritage Classic and will only be released in the USA and Canada, the blackout treatment for the ANZ market will only be available on the Breakout.
Beyond its paint and detailing, the blacked-out Breakout is unchanged from the standard model. Power comes from the Milwaukee-Eight 117 v-twin (Harley’s largest engine outside of the CVO range), producing 77kW (103hp) at 5,020rpm and 168Nm at 3,000rpm. This 1,923cc engine features a 103.5mm x 114.3mm bore x stroke, 10.3:1 compression, a Touring Intake and performance-tuned 2-into-2 exhaust system. A six-speed Cruise Drive transmission and belt drive completes the driveline.
The steel tube cradle frame features dual-bending 49mm telescopic forks with dual-rate springs and the Softail’s signature hidden coilover rear shock. A 34-degree rake provides the low-slung stance, accented by a 21x3.5-inch front wheel and 18x8-inch rear with a fat 240mm wide tyre.
The Breakout’s braking package is made up of a single 300mm front disc with fixed four-piston caliper, while the 292mm rear disc uses a floating two-piston caliper. Cornering ABS is standard.
Beyond the Cornering ABS, other tech features include Traction Control, and Drag Torque Slip Control, both of which are cornering enhanced, and tyre pressure monitoring. Selectable riding modes (Road, Rain and Sport), a USB-C plug and full LED lighting package are all standard, too. The 4-inch (102mm) circular gauge features an analogue speedo and digital display for the odometer, ride mode, fuel level and other essentials.
Rider-friendly features include Cruise Control, an adjustable brake lever and comfortable seat (665mm high) with pillion pad.
According to Harley-Davidson ANZ, the new black-trim Breakout will broaden the appeal of what’s been a very popular model in both markets, catering to riders seeking a more performance-inspired factory-custom option.
Inspired by the stripped-back styling and rebellious spirit of Harley-Davidson customs, the blacked-out Breakout will be available through authorised Harley-Davidson dealerships across Australia and New Zealand from October, 2026. Interested riders can register interest in the upcoming model via their authorised Harley- Davidson dealership.
See more at: harley-davidson.com
