Motorcycle specifications Harley-Davidson1690 SOFTAIL DELUXE FLSTN 2017 Special deluxe menu

disappearing from the Harley catalog in 2008, the Deluxe returned in 2011 with ABS, a more attractive price tag, and the same big twin. Over the years, the twin has grown and evolved, finally adopting the High Output configuration in 2016. At the heart of the mechanics, 1690 cm3 of displacement, specific camshafts, better breathing, a little more power, and a nice slice of torque of 132 Nm. That was last year. Since then, the twin-cylinder's breath has been revised downwards, now capping at 125 Nm, or 12.7 mkg, at 3,000 rpm. The impact of new standards? 2016 also saw a greater appreciation of cruising with the acquisition, as standard, of cruise control.

the Softail Deluxe is an invitation to the finer things in life. A deliciously retro machine that's always ready to please. With its whitewall tires fitted to beautiful spoked rims, and its elegant two-tone paintwork, the Harley captivates the eye and invites you in from the past. The Softail's styling is inspired by the post-war era. Chunky mudguards, chrome galore, stylized blinkers and triple-lensed eyes, the Deluxe uses its charm to provoke envy. It starts with a tender, posterior-friendly seat. The imposing speedometer grafted onto the tank clearly displays the km/h of the ride, something you couldn't care less about on the machine's (rather well-designed) handlebars. The trick is to let the American twin take you along in complete relaxation. Forget about attack! This isn't a Dyna Sport, and the bike's philosophy doesn't really lend itself to that - just like the footrests that rub in every corner. Too much optimism on the left and the kickstand flirts severely with the pavement, all the while having taken care to jostle the bike.

the Softail Deluxe rides smoothly and handles with ease. Handling is good, and can even be effective when winding without brutality. The rear shock absorbs large irregularities poorly, and the brakes don't really want to work - the 2015 upgrades are committed to improving things a little. The Moco reinforces the system's willingness and capabilities. The front disc is enlarged from 292 to 300 mm. The caliper and master cylinder are redesigned, with the latter also benefiting from a performance-enhancing design. The high-friction pad material reduces lever effort by almost half. Harley claims 40% less for optimal braking.

there's more work to be done in the bowels of the mill. More present, more generous, equipped with a 6-speed gearbox, the latest-generation twin 103 B acquits itself much better than its predecessors. It'll take the 400kg man-machine package on any trail with ease and muscle. It gives even more depth, and that taste that makes a machine endearing and/or characterful. The charm works and doesn't let go when you get off the bike. Is it her gaze or yours that's most captivating?

M.B
(manufacturer's photos)