New FXSTC Softail Custom cuts a classic chopper profile
The Softail Custom rider's hands fly high in the breeze with the feet reaching forward, while a low-slung saddle provides a relaxed stature and laid-back feel. A signature element of the new Softail Custom is its tufted, 1960s-inspired stepped seat. The raised passenger position features an integrated backrest and new chrome aluminium sissy bar. It's a comfortable rider and passenger seat detailed with chrome buttons that helps refine the long custom theme.
The Softail Custom rider's legs wrap around a classic Fat Bob fuel tank with feet resting on forward controls and hands reaching for polished stainless steel ape hanger style handlebars clamped by new bare knuckled risers. The FX front end features new chrome fork slider covers, with a skinny fender over a 21-inch (53.5cm) chrome profile laced aluminium wheel. Rolling below the wide Bobtail rear fender is a fat, 200mm rear tyre mounted on a 17-inch (43cm) polished slotted disc forged aluminium wheel. Other styling details include the new chrome bullet headlamp housing, a stitched leather fuel tank strap with medallion, a chrome horseshoe oil tank, chrome engine details and rear fender struts, and a console mounted speedometer and ignition switch. A new speedometer face adds a clock feature, a top-gear indicator light and brighter LED indicator lighting.
The Softail Classic is motivated by the new Twin Cam 96B V-Twin. Rigid-mounted in the Softail frame to keep the packaging tight, the Twin Cam 96B is equipped with internal counter-balance shafts that help provide a smooth and powerful ride. The engine is mated to the new 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission, with gear ratios designed specifically to match the torque curve of the Twin Cam 96B, and a tall sixth gear that drops engine rpm at highway cruising speeds. Clutch lever effort has been reduced by 10 percent. Finally, new mufflers on the chrome staggered shorty dual exhaust system are tuned to enhance the lower sound frequencies for a more commanding exhaust tone. The Softail Custom powertrain is finished in black powdercoat with chrome covers.
The FXSTC Softail Custom is available in eight solid and four two-tone colour schemes. The Harley-Davidson Smart Security System, featuring new hands-free fob and auto arming/disarming is fitted as standard. The FXSTC Softail Custom is priced from $28,995.
