Harley-Davidson Fat Bob 114 review: first thoughts
It's the black sheep of Harley's 2018 Softail range
VISORDOWN'S Laura Thomson rode the Harley-Davidson Fat Bob 114 in Catalonia this weekend. Here’s what she thought:
‘Harley-Davidson has taken a departure from its chrome-clad classics with its 2018 Softail range, and the Fat Bob is by far the most extreme.
‘With huge tyres, sports bike-like styling and distinct lack of chrome, the Fat Bob signifies the all-American manufacturer’s move into a darker era.
‘The Fat Bob has wide bars, forward footpegs and a deep seat, which provides decent lumbar support, making the bike surprisingly comfortable to ride.
‘While its comfortable, it’s not that easy to control. It takes a decent shove to lean in to bends, thanks to those wide tyres, and the inverted front forks feel wallowy. While the new rear monoshock is adjustable, the front set up is unfortunately not.
‘Where this bike shines is in its styling. It’s dramatic and dark, featuring a host of matt elements, and a new lighting signature, in the form of a horizontal LED strip.
‘It’s the muscle car of motorcycles, think Dodge Challenger on two wheels.
‘I expect it will divide opinion between the Harley purists and the new younger riders the brand has its target firmly set on.’
