Harley-Davidson Softail Standard returns for 2020
The popularity of Harley-Davidson’s Softail Standard in the Australian motorcycle market defied trends and confounded critics. Years after the basic Softail model was discontinued from the US and other countries, local devotion to the model ensured it remained part of the Australian range.
Last offered here in 2015, the Softail Standard was essentially replaced by the Softail Slim from 2016 onwards; its departure no doubt felt by longtime Softail fans. When the Dyna models were merged into the Softail range for 2018, most of those same fans probably figured the Softail Standard was gone forever, but now it’s back.
Announced in February, the MY20 Softail Standard (FXST in Harley speak) doesn’t mess with what was a winning formula for Harley-Davidson in the past, with a simple package that’s ripe for customisation.
Eight Power, Light Weight
Of course, the main difference between the new Softail Standard and the last version officially released here is the Milwaukee-Eight engine, which is only offered in 107ci (1746cc) capacity in this application, but that’s a decent upgrade on the Twin Cam 103B (1690cc) last seen on a Softail Standard here in 2015.
For comparison’s sake, the Twin Cam 103B’s output was 132Nm back then, while the current Milwaukee-Eight 107 delivers 145Nm at the same 3,000rpm maximum.
Another key change is the reduced weight of the new Softail Standard. At 297kg wet, it’s around 20kg lighter than the MY15 FXST thanks to the latest Softail frame design and rigid-mounted powertrain.
Just the Essentials
Harley calls the revived Softail Standard “the essential Harley-Davidson cruiser experience: a lean bobber profile steeped in attitude”.
Defying current trends of adding more bling and more colour options, the new Softail Standard will only be available in Vivid Black for the tinware, but this is offset with a chromed shotgun exhaust and wire wheels, polished triple trees, bright fork legs and chrome mini ape bars.
On the Milwaukee-Eight 107, the predominantly black finish is highlighted with a restrained selection of bright trim on the likes of the rocker boxes and timer cover, with the overall look and finish something of a throwback to the Softails of old.
A 19-inch front and 16-inch rear wire spoke wheel pairing pays homage to the 21/17 combo of old, while a compact digital instrument panel set into the handlebar riser keeps the front end clean and uncluttered.
Front suspension features Harley’s current dual bending valve technology, while the monoshock rear is the latest unit, too, with adjustable preload.
The slim front fender and bobbed rear fender are familiar, but the latter has been given a more extreme docking in this application, while single disc brakes are fitted at each end, with a 4-piston caliper up front, a 2-piston floating caliper at the rear and standard ABS.
A solo saddle is standard, too, with a two-up seat optionally available.
As with most of the current Harley range, there’s a wide range of accessories available through the Genuine Motor P&A catalogue, but for the Softail Standard, some of these accessories have been combined into themed ‘accessory packages’.
Pick a Pack
From launch, the MY20 Softail Standard will be available with a choice of four different accessory packages, defined as follows:
Day Tripper Custom Package:
Combining classic bobber style with next-level versatility by adding a pillion and a 21-inch detachable sissy bar with pad for a passenger, this package also includes passenger foot pegs and mounts, forward foot controls and a black leather single-sided Swingarm Bag.
Coast Custom Package:
Capturing elements of the performance-oriented West Coast style, components of this package include a Softail Quarter Fairing, black anodized aluminum Moto Bar handlebar and matching 5.5-inch riser, a Bevel two-up seat and passenger foot pegs, plus BMX-style foot pegs from the 80GRIT Collection.
Touring Custom Package:
Outfitting the Softail Standard model for the long haul, this package adds a comfortable Sundowner two-up seat and passenger foot pegs, a 14.5-inch detachable sissy bar and backrest pad, a 14-inch-high light smoke quick-release windshield and detachable saddlebags in classic black.
Performance Custom Package:
A Screamin’ Eagle Stage II Torque kit for the Milwaukee-Eight 107 amplifies throttle response and mid-range acceleration, while a Screamin’ Eagle Pro Street Tuner dials it in. Completing this package are a free-flowing Screamin’ Eagle Heavy Breather Performance Air Cleaner and Screamin’ Eagle Street Cannon mufflers for a deep-bass exhaust note. This factory-engineered performance upgrade retains the original equipment factory warranty when installed by an authorised Harley-Davidson dealer.
NOTE: Harley-Davidson says availability of these packages will vary from dealership to dealership.
Starter Softail
At $21,495 ride away ($22,750 NZ), the Softail Standard is the cheapest entry into the Big Twin range, priced below the Low Rider, Street Bob and even the Softail Slim in the Softail family. That pricing also makes the MY20 Softail Standard marginally cheaper than the last version sold here in 2015.
See your Harley-Davidson dealer for availability and further details.
