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The Harley-Davidson Fat Bob is a motorcycle that demands attention, with its aggressive stance and robust performance. A member of the cruiser category, the Fat Bob is part of Harley-Davidson’s lineup that caters to riders who are looking for a powerful, muscular bike with a distinct style. Known for its thick tires and bobbed fenders, the Fat Bob embodies the iconic image of a modern American cruiser without compromising on the riding experience.
With the introduction of the Fat Bob 114, the motorcycle elevates its game, offering even more power through its Milwaukee-Eight engine. This motorcycle is not just about looks; it’s engineered to deliver a top-notch ride. Optimized for street performance, the Fat Bob 114 comes with enhancements that are designed to handle urban environments with ease, providing a combination of comfort and command that is appreciated by enthusiasts and everyday riders alike.
Harley-Davidson’s commitment to craftsmanship is evident in the Fat Bob’s detailing. From its innovative LED headlamp to the dual exhausts, every element is placed with purpose. The Fat Bob 114 has also made strides in improving handling, often surprising riders with its nimbleness for a bike of its size. This cruiser finds a sweet spot between traditional Harley-Davidson values and the demands of modern riding, making it a formidable choice for those in search of a motorcycle that’s as thrilling to ride as it is to behold.
Design and Style
The Harley-Davidson Fat Bob represents a bold foray into the marriage of traditional Harley ethos with modern sensibilities. It’s immediately apparent in the signature LED headlight, encased within a horizontal strip that exudes a futuristic aura rarely seen in cruisers. The Vivid Black paint option is a classic choice for enthusiasts, but it’s the contrast of chrome and dark elements that accentuates its robust features.
Wheels are an essential aspect of the Fat Bob’s persona, with fat tires that not only enhance the bike’s aggressive stance but also promise a planted feel on the asphalt. These characteristics intertwine to set the Fat Bob apart as a cruiser with a penchant for the assertive.
The Fat Bob’s design incorporates:
LED Headlight: A modern touch that offers bright, efficient illumination.
Chrome Detailing: Adds a brilliant contrast to the dark styling elements.
Softail Frame: Provides a rigid and responsive riding experience.
Harley-Davidson’s implementation of the Softail frame complements the Fat Bob’s high-torque engine, marrying power with agility. This frame’s design enables a tighter, more grounded ride, while the easily adjustable rear suspension provides customization to the rider’s preference.
In every curve and contour of the Fat Bob, Harley-Davidson’s commitment to blending tradition with modern technology is evident. The bike’s styling does not compromise on being cool; it stands with confidence, asserting Harley’s relevance in a rapidly evolving motorcycle landscape.
Engine and Performance
The Harley-Davidson Fat Bob is equipped with a powerful Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine, designed to deliver robust power and performance. This engine’s impressive torque output and refinement in power delivery set the Fat Bob apart in the cruiser segment.
Milwaukee-Eight 114 Engine Specifications
At the heart of the Fat Bob lies the Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine, a 1868cc V-twin powerhouse that is both raw and refined. It features a bore x stroke of 102 mm x 114 mm, which allows the engine to produce substantial power across a wide rpm range.
Torque and Power Output
This engine generates a pavement-rippling 118 ft-lbs of torque at just 3500 rpm, providing brisk acceleration off the line and plenty of pulling power for overtaking maneuvers on the highway. The precise figures for horsepower are not generally advertised by Harley-Davidson, but the focus is clearly on the torque that’s available right from the low end.
Transmission and Drive
Coupled with the Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine is a six-speed transmission that transmits power to the rear wheel through a belt drive. This setup ensures a smooth delivery of power and maintains the classic Harley-Davidson feel, with firm and engaging gear changes.
Fuel Economy and Consumption
Despite its powerful engine, the Fat Bob maintains a reasonable fuel economy estimated to be approximately 47 miles per gallon (mpg), varying with riding conditions and styles. This figure represents a balance between the spirited performance of the Fat Bob and the practical aspect of fuel consumption for longer rides.
Riding Dynamics
The Harley-Davidson Fat Bob 114 presents a robust riding experience, typified by its impressive handling characteristics, meticulously-tuned suspension, and authoritative braking system.
Handling and Agility
The Fat Bob 114’s handling is a testament to its well-engineered design, with a wheelbase and rake conducive to stability at speed, yet surprisingly agile for its class. Its riding position allows for easy control, adding to its nimble nature, especially in urban environments. Harley-Davidson’s focus on lower center of gravity enhances cornering clearance and agility, enabling a more confident lean into curves.
Suspension Setup
At its core, the suspension system of the Fat Bob is crafted for a blend of comfort and performance. The front suspension employs inverted forks which, combined with the easily adjustable rear suspension, work in harmony to provide a responsive and smooth ride across various terrains. The motorcycle’s precise suspension setup absorbs roadway imperfections without compromising the bike’s inherent stability.
Braking System
Braking on the Fat Bob 114 is entrusted to a sophisticated system designed to match the motorcycle’s vigorous performance. Both the front and rear brakes are engineered with precision, offering potent stopping power that is essential for a bike of this caliber. The brakes engage smoothly, instilling confidence across both high-speed scenarios and congested city rides, ensuring safety and control.
Comfort and Ergonomics
The Harley-Davidson Fat Bob distinguishes itself from other Harley Davidsons with ergonomic features designed to accommodate riders during both short bursts and extended journeys. Particular focus on the seat design and positioning of the handlebars and footpegs contributes to an aggressive yet comfortable riding posture.
Seat and Seating Position
The pillion seat on the Fat Bob is crafted to offer substantial support and comfort. Riders generally find the seat height optimal, providing a confident footing at stops due to a lower center of gravity. The seating position is tailored for a commanding ride, allowing the rider to sit into the bike, rather than on top, which enhances the overall stability and control.
Handlebars and Footpegs
Handlebars are positioned to encourage an upright riding stance, affording the rider with a natural grip that ensures minimal strain over longer rides. The footpegs are placed to align with the rider’s posture, offering an intuitive placement that complements the ergonomic design of the motorcycle. The set-up of grips, rake, and trail combine to provide responsive handling characteristics that are appreciated across various riding conditions.
Safety and Technology
The Harley-Davidson Fat Bob 114 incorporates cutting-edge safety and technology features to ensure a sturdy and secure riding experience. With a focus on reliable stopping power, innovative security systems, and enhanced visibility, it stands out as a modern cruiser that prioritizes rider assurance.
Advanced Braking Systems
The Fat Bob is equipped with 300mm disc brakes that provide substantial stopping force, an essential aspect of motorcycle safety. These brakes are paired with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), ensuring that the rider maintains control during sudden stops by preventing wheel lock-up.
Traction Control and Security Features
Traction control technology on the Fat Bob 114 maintains grip under acceleration and across varying road surfaces, contributing to overall ride stability. Security is bolstered with a factory-installed security system, featuring keyless ignition for added convenience and theft protection.
Lighting and Visibility
Visibility is a critical safety component, and the Fat Bob 114 addresses this with a prominent LED headlight that delivers bright, white light, significantly improving night-time visibility. The LED lighting is not only durable but also ensures that riders are conspicuous on the road, both day and night.
Specifications and Trim Levels
The Harley-Davidson Fat Bob is a motorcycle that commands attention with its robust appearance and performance-centric engineering. It features a distinctive upswept exhaust system and a bold, muscular design with fat tires.
Under the hood, the Fat Bob comes with two primary engine options. The earlier models such as the 2018 version were available with a 107ci engine. However, moving into 2020, the motorcycle only offers the more powerful Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine, known for its hefty torque delivery.
The weight and dimensions are integral to the Fat Bob’s handling characteristics. It has a wet weight that ensures a steady and planted ride, imbuing the rider with confidence through city streets or open roads.
For those seeking a tailored riding experience, the Fat Bob makes use of preload adjustable rear suspension. This versatility ensures that riders can adjust their setup to match their weight, riding style, or road conditions.
Safety is elevated with the incorporation of dual disc brakes at the front, offering strong and consistent stopping power. In terms of ground clearance, the Fat Bob is adept at handling diverse terrains while ensuring the ride remains composed.
Dimensions:
Length: Varies by model and year
Seat Height: Low and accommodating
Ground Clearance: Optimal for cruiser segmentation
The Fat Bob maintains a respectable stance on the road, a testament to its thoughtful engineering and Harley-Davidson’s commitment to producing motorcycles that are both thrilling and reliable.
Additional Features
The Harley-Davidson Fat Bob 114 is equipped with a variety of features that enhance its performance and rider experience. In terms of equipment, this model boasts a dual exhaust system, contributing to its aggressive sound and styling. This complements the Fat Bob’s signature muscular look and feel.
For handling precision, the Fat Bob 114 is outfitted with an inverted cartridge fork, which offers improved response and control, especially in turns. The suspension system also includes preload adjustment capabilities, allowing riders to tailor the bike’s setup to their individual weight and riding style, adding to the comfort of the Softail chassis.
When it comes to tires, the Fat Bob 114 rides on Dunlops that are specifically designed to handle the bike’s weight and power. The rear tire is robust, contributing to the bike’s traction and performance during acceleration, while the front wheel ensures directional stability and precise steering.
The final drive is characteristic of Harley-Davidson, promoting smooth power delivery to the wheel. In the context of longevity and reliability, the Fat Bob 114 comes with a warranty that provides peace of mind to the owner.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Equipment | Dual exhaust, muscular style |
| Suspension | Inverted cartridge fork, preload adjustment |
| Tires | Dunlop tires customized for performance |
| Final Drive | Smooth and efficient power delivery |
| Warranty | Comprehensive coverage for riders |
Overall, the combination of the Fat Bob 114’s features forms a cohesive package that aligns with Harley-Davidson’s tradition of producing robust and rider-focused motorcycles.
Price and Value for Money
The Harley-Davidson Fat Bob 114 is priced to reflect its position as a premium motorcycle with a robust set of features and a powerful engine. Prospective buyers will find the opening price point around $16,999, which can increase with additional customization and upgrades.
In terms of value for money, the Fat Bob offers a balance between performance and comfort. It carries a fuel capacity of approximately 3.6 gallons, enabling longer rides between fuel stops. Regarding miles per gallon (mpg), the Fat Bob performs adequately for its class, facilitating the exploration of highways similar to touring bikes without frequent fuel detours.
The Fat Bob is not only about raw power and style; its robust construction and comprehensive warranties add to the motorcycle’s long-term value proposition. When considering the lifetime value of the bike alongside the uniqueness of the Harley-Davidson brand, customers frequently justify the investment.
Here is a simple breakdown of the Fat Bob’s financial considerations:
Price: From $16,999
Fuel Capacity: 3.6 gallons
Approximate MPG: Competitive for its class
Warranty and Resale Value: Adds to long-term value
Market feedback suggests that owners find the motorcycle’s performance and styling to be persuasive factors in assessing its value. While the initial price may be higher than some competitors, the Harley-Davidson Fat Bob 114 delivers a distinctive experience that many riders find well worth the investment.
Comparison with Competitors
Harley-Davidson’s Fat Bob 114 holds a distinctive position in the motorcycle market, particularly among cruisers. It boasts a Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine, which provides a robust and responsive feel in contrast to some competitors. Unlike typical sport bikes, the Fat Bob 114 promotes a bold and muscular stance with a high-performance cruiser attitude.
The Fat Bob’s tires are aggressively treaded, contributing to its confident road presence and handling capabilities. These tires are mounted on distinctive rims that complement the bike’s overall aesthetics. In comparison, a other sport bikes typically feature more nimble tires designed for precision and higher speeds, prioritizing performance over the commanding look of the Fat Bob.
In terms of suspension, the Fat Bob is equipped with a mono-shock in the rear, which is more commonly found on sports bikes. This setup not only simplifies the silhouette of the rear end but also improves the riding experience with better handling and shock absorption.
The exhaust of the Fat Bob rumbles with a deep tone that defines the character of a Harley-Davidson cruiser. It differs from the exhaust note of a sports bike, which is usually higher-pitched and more associated with speed and agility rather than the low-end torque emphasis of a cruiser.
Conclusion
Judging from our test ride, the Harley-Davidson Fat Bob 114 stands out as a remarkable machine that combines the robust essence of a traditional cruiser with the performance features typically associated with modern motorcycles. Its muscular stance, innovative design, and the sheer power of the Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine set it apart in the market, appealing to riders who desire a bike with a commanding presence and exhilarating performance.
From its signature LED headlamp to the aggressive tread of its tires, the Fat Bob 114 is crafted with attention to detail and a commitment to quality that Harley-Davidson is known for with its other bikes such as the Fat Boy or Street Bob. Its ability to balance raw power with nimble handling makes it an exceptional choice for both urban environments and open highways. The bike’s styling, with its blend of chrome and dark elements, appeals to a wide range of tastes, offering both a classic and contemporary appeal.
In terms of value for money, the Fat Bob 114 is a significant investment. However, its durable construction, comprehensive warranty, and the prestige of owning a Harley-Davidson make it a worthwhile purchase for enthusiasts. While the initial cost may be higher than some competitors, the unique rider aids, combined with the bike’s performance capabilities and iconic status, present a compelling case for its acquisition.
Comparatively, the Fat Bob 114 holds its ground against sportier models, offering a blend of power, style, and comfort that is uniquely its own. The bike’s design, engine performance, and overall riding dynamics provide an experience that is distinct from typical sport bikes, catering to those who seek the soul and character of a Harley-Davidson combined with modern performance attributes.
