(SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA) 21st August 2019: High bars and horsepower define the new Harley-Davidson® Low Rider® S model, a cruiser that takes a performance-first approach to customizing. The Low Rider® S is built around a Harley-Davidson® Softail® chassis enhanced by premium suspension components tuned for aggressive riding stoked by the unrelenting power of a muscular Milwaukee-Eight® 114 engine, with styling cues inspired by the US coastal build scene and Harley® heritage.
“The look of the new Low Rider® S is really rooted in the legacy of the pre-Dyna® FXR models of the 1980s, which have a devoted following that 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.”
Hard-Edge US Coastal Style
Raised hand controls are a defining element of the US coastal custom influence. The Low Rider® S 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 colour-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.
All bright finishes are replaced with black finishes for an aggressive look. The powertrain, primary cover and tank console are finished in Wrinkle Black; the derby cover, intake, and lower rocker covers are Gloss Black. Mufflers and exhaust shields are Jet Black. Forks, triple-clamp, riser and handlebar, and rear fender supports are Matte Black. The LED layback tail lamp has a smoked lens. The five-gallon Softail® fuel tank features an iconic Harley-Davidson® graphic. Radiate cast-aluminium wheels (19-inch front and 16-inch rear diameter) are finished in Matte Dark Bronze for an intriguing contrast to the motorcycle’s dark components. Two solid color options are available: Vivid Black and Barracuda Silver.
The Softail® Foundation
The Harley-Davidson Softail® frame is a foundation for performance. 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 rolls on high-performance Michelin Scorcher 31 tyres.
Milwaukee-Eight® 114 Muscle
The Milwaukee-Eight® 114 (114 CID; 1868cc), the only engine choice for the Low Rider® S, 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® Stage Upgrades from Harley-Davidson® Genuine Motor Parts & Accessories are available to boost engine performance even further.
The 2020 Low Rider® S model has a base price of $27,995 AUD / $29,995 NZD.
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Notes to the Editor:
* Prices listed are the Manufacturer’s Rideaway pricing for base models. Options such as color are available at additional cost.
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