2018 Harley-Davidson Softails on debut

Harley-Davidson is currently launching its all-new 2018 Softail platform in California, with the magnificent twists and turns of America's most populous state already proving to be the perfect setting for the lighter, faster and better handling range.

According to the Softail styling manager, Kirk Rasmussen, the project is Harley-Davidson's "most modern and advanced motorcycle program we've done".

"We've always relied on look, sound and feel, but we need to raise the bar with this project," Rasmussen said.

And that what's Haley-Davidson did, with the new Softail range not only receiving the updated and dual counterbalanced 107 Milwaukee-Eight engine as standard fare (and the 114 version as an option on four others), but there's also updated suspension, lighter and stiffer frames, LED lighting, new instrumentation and a 'cleaner' look. Weight has also been lopped off all the bikes, with power- and torque-to-weight ratios both improving dramatically – the elimination of the old Twin Cam 103 engine also helping out there.

It was also a massive styling exercise, with all eight bikes getting unique tyre and wheel combinations, and the LED configurations are also diverse as well.

Day one saw the media throng make its way from Pasadena to Lake Arrowhead in searing California heat, with Bikesales sampling four of the new Softails: the sporty Fat Bob, Softail Slim, Heritage Classic and iconic Fat Boy. And we were spoilt as well, riding the 114 Milwaukee-Eight versions of the Fat Bob, Heritage Classic and Fat Boy.

On day two we'll ride the Deluxe, Breakout, Low Rider and Street Bob, the latter forming the entry price point for the updated Softail range in Australia.

We'll have a full review on the launch next week, including video, but we'll leave you with a quick critique on the Fat Bob. According to H-D, the machine "encapsulates all that is great about the new platform" – and in terms of acceleration, braking and handling that's just about spot on.

With a steering angle of 28 degrees, the sharpest of the new Softails, a bum stop seat, dual disc brakes, cartridge-style upside-down forks, two-into-one exhaust and a more aggressive ergonomic triangle, the Fat Bob is a tactile, dynamic package – and when you add the excellent 114 Milwaukee-Eight engine into the mix it really is a winner.