Softail

The 1923cc Milwaukee-Eight 117 is the performance-led top engine in later Softail variants, including certain Low Rider S and Breakout versions. It can only be safely identified by a 117/1923 reference or an explicit model designation; without that evidence a vehicle deliberately remains unassigned.

The 1868cc Milwaukee-Eight 114 is the stronger modern Softail engine, used in variants including Heritage, Fat Boy and Breakout. It shares the 2018 frame with the 107 but produces substantially more torque, so always verify displacement in the advert.

A new, stiffer Softail frame with one concealed monoshock arrived in 2018 alongside the Milwaukee-Eight 107. The 1745cc engine is the recognisable entry version of the modern family and feels noticeably lighter and more precise than a Twin Cam Softail.

This final classic Softail generation uses the 1690cc Twin Cam 103B and has stronger pulling power for two-up and touring use. Its frame and rear suspension are still the older design, so a 2017 is not a Milwaukee-Eight despite modern-looking styling.

The 1584cc Twin Cam 96B brought electronic fuel injection and a six-speed gearbox to most Softails. Balance shafts keep the large V-twin relatively civilised, while the engine has a notably stronger mid-range than the 88B.

The Softail gained the balanced Twin Cam 88B, with injection or carburation depending on year and market. It delivers more torque than the Evolution while retaining the classic Softail frame and low seating position.

The original Softail combines hardtail styling with concealed rear suspension and the 1340cc Evolution V-twin. This is the mechanically simple, carburetted generation; FXST, Heritage and Fat Boy versions vary substantially in weight and equipment.