Low, mean and definitely a Harley, the Fat Boy is the contentious bad boy of the pack.  It’s the street tough cruiser image that sets this Harley apart from others and is a ‘must have’ for those with the cash. 

It looks like a hardtail, but some clever design tricks hide the rear shocks, which will cosset the bottoms of those in the ‘must have’ category. For some owners this bike will be a fair weather toy, to be taken out from under its cosseted cover in the centrally heated garage only on that rare occasion when either the sun is shining or there is no chance of the temperature dropping below freezing.

Harley has probably over-engineered the image of this particular model more than the motorcycle itself.

However, those who buy the bike to ride it won’t be disappointed.  A new twin cam 1449cc engine with twin counterbalance shafts is available either in carburettor or fuel injected models, giving an impressive 85 ft-lbs of torque at a mere 3000 rpm.

Perfect for the boulevard cruiser and guaranteeing impressive getaways form the lights every time. At first glance its 55bhp seems paltry compared to some smaller capacity machines, but propels this cruiser to 110 mph if needed. The engine is rigidly mounted in the steel tube frame.

Front and rear wheels are distinctive solid discs and with the tree trunk like front forks give the bike its ‘Fat’ image.  Disappointingly for some, this Harley is still only fitted with a single front and rear disc brake, albeit 4 pistons squeeze the disc now, but its still asking a lot to stop the 665lb machine in a hurry.

An amazing range of colours to choose from including two-tones, pearls and candy, so there should be something for everyone amongst them.

Available at Harley dealers now at £13,595 it remains to be seen if the new V-Rod will steal any of the Fat Boy’s thunder.

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Last updated 20/02/02