Jeremy Webb takes the Harley-Davidson 117 Low Rider Softail for a scenic spin. Here's his honest verdict.
Harley-Davidson’s 2025 117 Low Rider Softail shakes off the staid stigma of the American marque. It is a bike that can be used for everything from the Cruiser it sets out to be, to a daily commuter or a sportier weekend wonder. In all riding scenarios, it impresses and delivers. Discover Jeremy Webb’s honest verdict below…
"Ayyyy!" says 'The Fonz', often with a thumbs up. I imagine him standing outside the diner with this beautiful Harley-Davidson 117 Low Rider Softail. Those of us of a certain age will remember Happy Days on TV, and for most of us, it was an introduction to the American way of life set in the 1950s.
The main character, 'The Fonz', was a young biker, and naturally, he rode a Harley-Davidson: an icon for the USA and within motorcycling globally.
In 2025, Harley-Davidson continues manufacturing iconic motorcycles that combine classical looks alongside the latest technology. The Harley-Davidson 117 Low Rider Softail is a brilliant example of this. Not only does it look beautifully sleek, it has a staggering motor and the latest rider aids.
The Harley-Davidson 117 Low Rider ST has the High Output Milwaukee Eight 117 V-Twin, which delivers exceptional performance and allows riders to power through country corners and crunch motorway miles. It is smooth, with the handling belying the hefty look. Elsewhere, the low centre of gravity provides the rider with a balanced machine that can be easily manoeuvred.
The Softail has a cartridge-style 43mm inverted fork with cultivated damping and 5 inches of travel. The front end provides good feedback, while the rear shock has 4.4 inches of travel, smoothing most road surfaces.
The Harley-Davidson 117 Low Rider Softail has twin discs for secured, confident braking, and a chassis that allows you to ride the bike aggressively.
As for its engine, the model relies on the High Output M8, which produces 114 hp and massive torque. When you turn the throttle in Sport mode, it’s an experience like no other —the bike thrusts forward, pumping adrenaline through your body. Standard and Rain modes also exist, altering the power output to match weather and riding conditions. These are easily engaged using the Mode switch on the right handlebar cluster.
While the Harley-Davidson 117 Low Rider Softail is heavy at 327kg, its centre of gravity is low, meaning you always feel confident and in control. Beyond this, the bike is agile with the ability to change direction easily.
Although the bike can take on country curves at a decent pace, most owners will use the model as a cruiser - and for good reason. At cruising pace, the rider can enjoy the powerful exhaust noise while simultaneously making the most of a leisurely ride. Ultimately, this is what owning a Harley-Davidson is all about.
On longer journeys, the Harley-Davidson will eat up the miles. Thankfully the machine’s design is such that riders will cruise in style, sitting upright on a comfy saddle and with decent protection from the fairing (so long as you keep below 70mph). The display is simple, with the classic circular unit centrally located on the bars. What’s more, there’s an option for cruise control, which is always a nice touch and can be useful during longer rides.
In short, the Harley-Davidson 117 Low Rider Softail is a lot of bike that delivers plenty of performance and gallons of pleasure. Whether ridden for cruising or commuting, it certainly packs a punch and delivers on all fronts. Visually, it’s a gorgeous bike that’s pretty much guaranteed to turn heads wherever you go (be prepared for long chats). It really is a bike that’s easy to fall in love with.
Starting price, £21,295
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