Harley-Davidson Softail Low Rider [2021-2022] Review: A Modern Muscle Cruiser With Timeless Soul

Introduction

The Harley-Davidson Softail Low Rider S (2021-2022) represents a fascinating crossroads in motorcycle engineering - a machine that honors Harley's cruiser DNA while embracing contemporary performance expectations. Built around the iconic Softail frame, this model generation combines minimalist styling with the raw, unfiltered character of the Milwaukee-Eight engine. Over two days of riding through winding backroads and urban sprawl, I discovered why this bike continues to captivate riders who want traditional aesthetics without compromising modern rideability.

Design Language: Industrial Chic Meets Functional Aggression

Harley's designers nailed the balance between stripped-down aggression and premium detailing. The blacked-out 43mm USD fork (a first for Softails) and contrast-cut aluminum wheels create immediate visual impact, while the 2-into-2 offset shotgun exhaust maintains that classic profile.

The 710mm seat height (27.9 inches) creates an accessible yet planted stance. Harley's new mid-control foot positioning surprised me - while looking aggressive, it actually allows decent legroom for my 183cm frame. The 308kg (679 lbs) wet weight disappears once moving, though slow-speed maneuvers require some bicep work.

Color options like Midnight Crimson Red add depth to the darkness, but the real story is in the details: LED lighting that maintains a retro bulb appearance, speedometer integrated into the handlebar clamp, and hand controls that finally feel modern without losing that HD tactile click.

Engine & Performance: Milwaukee-Eight Muscle

At the heart beats the Milwaukee-Eight 114 V-Twin - 1868cc (114ci) of air-cooled fury producing 94 HP (69 kW) and a colossal 161.4 Nm (119 lb-ft) of torque at just 3,000 RPM. This is not a rev-happy engine, nor does it pretend to be. The power delivery is exactly what HD devotees crave - immediate, chest-thumping acceleration from standstill that tapers off around 5,000 RPM.

The six-speed transmission features crisp shifts once warmed up, though finding neutral at stoplights remains a HD tradition. Fuel injection has come a long way - no more surging at partial throttle that plagued earlier EFI models. The 5L/100km (47 mpg) consumption means decent range from the 18.9L (5 US gal) tank, though I'd recommend the optional extended tank for touring.

What surprised me most was the thermal management. Despite being air-cooled, the engine never cooked my legs even in 30°C traffic. Credit goes to improved oil cooling routing and cylinder head finning.

Ride Experience: Controlled Brutality

Harley's chassis engineers deserve medals here. The all-new Softail frame (introduced in 2018 but perfected here) provides 28% more torsional stiffness than previous generations. Combined with the USD fork and Showa rear shocks, this creates a cruiser that actually enjoys corners.

On twisty roads, the 145mm (5.7") of trail keeps the front end planted without fighting the bars. The 110/90-19 front and 180/70-16 rear Dunlop Harley-Davidson Series tires provide surprising lean angles - I dragged pegs much later than expected. Braking performance from the 4-piston front caliper (single 300mm disc) and 2-piston rear could use more initial bite, but ABS intervention is smooth when triggered.

The riding position walks a perfect line between control and comfort. The pulled-back bars put your shoulders in a natural position, while the seat (firm at first) proved supportive during a 4-hour marathon ride. Wind protection is minimal - expect to fight buffeting above 110 km/h (68 mph).

Competition: How It Stacks Up

1. Indian Chief (2021+)

• Power: 111 HP from the 1890cc Thunderstroke
• Weight: 332kg (732 lbs)
• Advantages: More tech features, better wind protection
• Low Rider Edge: Lighter, more agile, superior aftermarket support

2. Yamaha Star Eluder

• Power: 113 HP liquid-cooled V-Twin
• Weight: 425kg (937 lbs)
• Advantages: Full touring package, smoother engine
• Low Rider Edge: Pure cruiser character, easier customization

3. Honda Fury

• Power: 52 HP from 1312cc V-Twin
• Weight: 304kg (670 lbs)
• Advantages: Radical chopper styling, Honda reliability
• Low Rider Edge: Far superior performance, modern features

The Low Rider S carves its niche by offering modern performance in a package that still feels authentically Harley. It's the choice for riders who want to keep one foot in tradition while having a bike that can actually attack a canyon road.

Maintenance: Keeping the Thunder Alive

As MOTOPARTS.store's resident wrench, here's what every Low Rider S owner should know:

Fluids & Filters

• Engine Oil: Requires 4.75L (5 US qt) of SAE 20W-50. Change every 5,000km (3,100 mi)
• Primary Chaincase: 1L (1.06 qt) of HD Primary Fluid every 16,000km (10k mi)
• Transmission: 830ml (28 oz) SAE 80W-90 gear oil - upgrade to synthetic for smoother shifts

Critical Components

• Spark Plugs: Dual NGK setup (CR9EB & CR9EIX) - check gap every 12,000km
• Tire Pressures: 2.2 bar (32 psi) front / 2.8 bar (41 psi) rear - crucial for handling
• Belt Drive: Inspect tension every 8,000km - our store carries Gates Carbon Drive kits

Common Upgrades

1. High-flow air cleaner (+8-10% torque)
2. Adjustable rear suspension (stock shocks lack preload adjustment)
3. Braided steel brake lines for improved feel
4. LED auxiliary lighting kits

Long-Term Ownership

This generation Softail benefits from Harley's improved quality control. Key areas to monitor:
- Exhaust Flanges: Check for leaks during oil changes
- Fork Seals: The 43mm USD design is robust but collect debris
- Battery Tender: Essential if storing more than 2 weeks

Our MOTOPARTS.store team recommends upgrading to a lithium-ion battery (-2kg weight savings) and installing a oil pressure gauge kit for real-time monitoring.

Conclusion: The Essence of Modern Harley

The 2021-2022 Softail Low Rider S isn't just another cruiser - it's a statement about where Harley-Davidson can go while staying true to its roots. The combination of traditional V-Twin character with modern chassis dynamics creates a motorcycle that's equally at home blasting down Route 66 or carving up mountain passes.

While not perfect (the suspension could be more adjustable and the tech package lags behind Japanese rivals), it delivers something more valuable - soul. This is a bike that makes you want to ride just for riding's sake, to feel that torque surge through your spine, and to start every gas stop conversation with "Nice Harley, man."

For owners looking to personalize or upgrade their Low Rider S, MOTOPARTS.store offers everything from performance cams to custom seat solutions. Because while this Harley comes great from the factory, the real joy is making it uniquely yours.

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Specifications sheet

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