Harley Davidson Softail Low Rider S

Harley-Davidson Inc. unveiled a number of new motorcycle models and new technologies for 2020, including the all-new Low Rider S.

The Low Rider S focuses first on performance. This motorcycle places emphasis on power, handling, and enhanced rider control, while maintaining the traditional character of the Harley-Davidson. To accomplish this, the bike will employ the Softail chassis enhanced by premium suspension components tuned for aggressive riding stoked by the power of a muscular Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine.

"The look of the new Low Rider S is really rooted in the legacy of the Low Rider models of the 1980s, that has a devoted following which has spread world-wide from origins in Southern California, and in the recent Dyna-based Low Rider S model,” said Brad Richards, Harley-Davidson Vice President of Styling & Design. “We’ve applied that coastal style and performance-first attitude to the Softail chassis to create a Low Rider S that’s more powerful and agile than ever, with a heavy dose of tough-as-nails attitude."

The Low Rider® S is an all-new blacked-out performance-cruiser with a style that’s as aggressive as its ride.

The Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine (114 CID; 1868cc), the only engine choice for the Low Rider S model, delivers the most displacement offered in the Softail chassis from the factory, cranking out 119 ft. lb. of torque at 3000 rpm.  A dual internally counter-balanced system reduces engine vibration while maintaining the familiar Harley-Davidson feel, while deep-breathing, four-valve cylinder heads and dual spark plugs squeeze the most power possible from every ounce of fuel. The engine is equipped with a Gloss Black Ventilator air intake with an exposed filter element to improve air flow into the engine, and 2-into-2 offset shotgun mufflers for an aggressive, performance look.

Dealer-installed Screamin’ Eagle® Performance Parts Stage Upgrades from Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Parts & Accessories are available to boost engine performance even further.

The frame design is optimized to reduce weight without sacrificing stiffness while maintaining the classic look of a hard tail with a thoroughly modern ride. The rigid-mounted Milwaukee-Eight V-Twin engine contributes to a platform that delivers strong acceleration and responsive handling and braking performance. A single coil-over shock features emulsion technology and an optimized angle between the frame and swingarm for enhanced travel and response. Under-seat hydraulic pre-load adjustment allows the rider to maintain optimal suspension performance for the prevailing load and road conditions.

A 43mm inverted fork stiffens the front end for improved response to steering input. Single-cartridge internal technology responds quickly to inputs and keeps the front wheel planted for improved braking and handling performance. Fork rake is reduced to 28 degrees from the 30-degree rake of the standard Low Rider® model, resulting in more-responsive handling. Dual front brakes with 300mm discs deliver stronger braking performance with less lever effort than the single front disc brake on the standard Low Rider model. Standard ABS (antilock braking system) provides confident braking performance when conditions are less than ideal. The Low Rider S model rolls on high-performance Michelin® Scorcher® 31 tires.

Raised hand controls are a defining element of the coastal custom influence. The Low Rider S model mounts a one-inch diameter motocross-style handlebar on four-inch high straight risers to put the rider in an aggressive and active position. A color-matched mini-fairing frames the headlamp and blocks the wind when chasing down the freeway. A high back solo seat is shaped to hold the rider in place under hard acceleration.