Being widely touted as a class defining "Power Cruiser", Harley’s new 114" M-8 FXDR (with inverted front forks) headlines a MY2019 announcement that, were it not for the recent "More Roads" strategy unveil, would probably be attracting criticism for lack of adventure with investors clicking "sell".
That said, the share price did twitch in the right direction on the announcement day, closing up over 2% at $43.41; whether or not it will sustain or mark genuine momentum remains to be seen.
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| Check out the lean angle! Seen here in white (because no motorcycle should ever be brown!), the chassis, lightweight components and exhaust have been designed and clearanced to emphasize the intent of Harley’s new FXDR - a 114" M-8 Softail |
"The all-out performance of the new 2019 Harley-Davidson FXDR sets the pace for Harley-Davidson's new 2019 motorcycles, accessories and gear that deliver fresh style, thrilling performance and advanced technology," says the company’s news release.
"Less than a month after announcing plans for future product in new-to-the-brand categories and a commitment to advance its heavyweight Touring and Cruiser models, the Motor Company introduces a suite of new products that will continue to inspire people around the world to experience the exhilaration of riding a Harley-Davidson motorcycle."
In addition to the FXDR, that "suite" revolves around a new Boom! Box GTS infotainment system for select Touring and Trike models; an all-new electronic Reflex Linked Brake system for the Tri-Glide Ultra and Freewheeler that incorporates ABS, Traction Control System (TCS), Drag-Torque Slip Control System (DSCS) and a linked front and rear braking system; a new premium Touring suspension technology for the trikes that includes pre-load adjustment and selected extensions to standard availability of the 114" M-8.
Three CVOs offer "advanced technology, exclusive components," the new Boom Box GTS and the top of the line 117" M-8.
Beyond that it is the "performance, style and technology from Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Accessories" that is pimped, including the 7" ‘Daymaker’ adaptive LED headlamp with patented sensors and electronics to determine lean angle; a new ‘Dominion’ Collection, "individual accessory components for almost unlimited custom options" (in gloss black anodized and bronze powder coated base colors); EPA compliant "performance-enhancing" Screamin' Eagle stage upgrades that "are engineered to generate specific torque and horsepower gains"; a new 4.5-inch Screamin’ Eagle muffler for the Sport Glide and a new timer cover and inserts for the M-8.
However, the new FXDR is genuinely interesting, not least as another extension to what can be achieved with the M-8 Softails - even within the constraints of factory design and production engineering.
The upside down forks? The single most effective and important genuine handling and performance upgrade known to mankind. But, if you really do hope that it will be bought by riders who like to "lean in", the big fail is the missing steering stabilizer - to work with the cornering clearance you’ve given the bike? There could be trouble ahead, especially since having discovered pre-load adjustment for the tourers, where is the improved compression and rebound dampening when it finally looks like there’s a stock Harley on which they would be a boon.
The aim, clearly, is to appeal to those who still ‘dig’ streetfighter styling, handling and performance, and to give a nod to where mono shock designs such as the FXR and Dyna might have gone. Whether it will convincingly fill the so-called "American Muscle Bike" void that Harley and Indian both missed with the V-Rod and Victory respectively remains to be seen. That said, the jury is still out on whether or not that is a design and handling niche that really exists among riders in the United States, but the FXDR should sell well in Europe – just as the Sport Glide has.
Oh, and sorry guys, but those paint jobs? Not really very "go fast," are they? When’s the last time anyone did a track day on a chocolate colored bike? Where’s the red paintjob to match the ‘R’ – oh, of course, silly me, I forgot - that’ll be the spring limited edition special to get the inventory cleared!