2025 Harley-Davidson Cruisers: 6 Softails with Personality

2025 Harley-Davidson Cruisers

The 2025 Harley-Davidson cruiser collection introduces six refreshed Softails powered by H-D’s Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine tuned to match the character of each model. The cruisers include Street Bob, Heritage Classic, Low Rider S, Low Rider ST, Fat Boy, and Breakout.

Each Harley-Davidson cruiser is powered by one of three Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine variants, delivering a range of power outputs tailored to different riding preferences.

The Classic cruiser variant (Street Bob and Heritage Classic) offers smooth torque delivery, ideal for relaxed cruising. The High Output variant (Low Rider S and Low Rider ST) delivers exhilarating performance for those seeking a more spirited ride. Harley’s Custom cruiser variant (Breakout and Fat Boy) provides a balance of power and comfort.

Besides the engine and performance upgrades, all the 2025 Softails have recalibrated suspension components, which optimize ride quality and reduce harsh dives when running over rough road conditions or during heavy braking. Seat heights, however, are unchanged from the 2024 models.

Seat height woman rider harley softail cruisers

I am blessed with a 5-foot-7-inch height and 32-inch inseam which makes “flat-footing” all the cruisers no problem, as you can see here. From top left, clockwise: Heritage Classic, Low Rider S, Low Rider ST, Fat Boy, Breakout, Fat Bob.

All the Softail cruisers now include LED lighting, including turn signals. Hand controls include new functions, such as ride modes and traction control, and have a new tactile feel to them.

Because of the new button design, switching ride modes can be done by lifting with the right thumb as well as pressing.

adjustable brake lever Harley-Davidson cruisers

Finally, riders with short fingers can bring the brake lever back toward them by simply turning this reach adjuster knob.

All the lighting is now bright LED, including turn signals.

I love how the outer ring of the turn signal lights up on the Street Bob. It’s very easy to see, an important safety feature.

All the 2025 Harley-Davidson cruisers are now equipped with USB-C ports.

2025 Harley-Davidson Cruiser Rider Safety Enhancements

All 2025 Harley-Davidson cruisers come equipped with H-D’s Rider Safety Enhancements, which are designed to maximize traction without sacrificing performance. The electronic safety systems include selectable ride modes, cornering ABS and traction control, cornering drag torque slip control, and tire pressure monitoring.

Tricia Szulewski 2025 Harley-Davidson cruiser traction control

Testing the electronic traction controls in Road, Rain, and Sport modes on a Street Bob with outriggers, it was pretty cool to experience how the system adjusts to reduce skidding, even in a corner or under heavy braking.

Beyond preset ride modes, riders can manually adjust settings to tailor the bike’s performance to their preferences.

Milwaukee-Eight 117 Classic Cruisers

The 2025 Street Bob and Heritage Classic models get the Milwaukee-Eight 117 Classic variant with a flatter torque curve for predictable and stable power. Four percent more power and one foot-pound more torque doesn’t sound like much, but with the ride modes, this setup is a noticeable boost over its 114-inch predecessor. The two-into-one exhaust and round air cleaner found on these models is classic cruiser styling.

Starting at $17,199, the Street Bob is the entry level to Harley’s cruiser line. It maintains its bobber styling with a mini-ape handlebar and chopped fenders.

The Street Bob has long been a favorite of mine, with its comfortable and easy-to-ride ergonomics. In fact, I often encourage new riders with natural ability and confidence to consider this as a first bike over the unruly Sportster. However, with the boost of power the 117 Classic delivers, it could easily get away from a new rider.

The Heritage Classic retains its nostalgic essence and comes with a mix of black and chrome and either 9-spoke cast wheels or the tubeless laced wheels shown here.

The Heritage remains one of the strongest do-it-all-well cruisers in the industry. Whether just taking a day cruise, or riding across the country, this bike doesn’t let you down. It’s well-placed removable windshield, easy reach to handgrips, and roomy floorboards create a comfortable “rider triangle.”

I could ride the Heritage all day, every day. The extra boost in power from the 107-inch I tested in 2022 is certainly welcome, especially when travelling with buddies on baggers.

Lighter than a bagger and easy to control, the Heritage Classic remains one of women’s favorite touring motorcycles. The new two-into-one exhaust allows room for riders who may want to replace the stock saddlebags with larger ones for long tours.

Harley-Davidson Heritage Classic rear riding

Starting at $22,999, and now with more power and safety features, the Heritage Classic is a great buy for riders who want to tour comfortably.

Milwaukee-Eight 117 High Output Cruisers

Tuned for 10% more horsepower and 2% more peak torque than the Classic cruisers, the High Output variant is found on the 2025 Low Rider S and Low Rider ST. This variant includes an efficient two-into-one exhaust and a new Heavy Breather intake that’s designed for more aggressive riders who seek performance in the higher RPM range.

The Low Rider S is a sporty cruiser with an aggressive stance. Starting at $20,499, the 2025 models come in black trim and five premium paint options.

The Low Rider S footpegs are a bit high which is fun for shorter jaunts in twisties, but this sporty riding position is cramped and gets tiresome for longer rides. A solo seat is standard on the Low Rider S.

The Low Rider ST is the sportiest cruiser in the line and includes light touring accessories such as a frame-mounted fairing and color-matched hard saddlebags. It starts at $24,199.

As a sporty rider, I have tons of fun whipping the Low Rider ST through curves. I find the slightly bent forward reach to the bars perfect for this style of riding. But just like on the Low Rider S, the high forward footpegs create a riding position that isn’t comfortable for taller riders to maintain for long periods at a time.

Besides the tech upgrades, changes from the 2024 model we reviewed last year are subtle. The clearance the two-into-one exhaust provides allows for symmetrical saddlebags. Keen eyes will also notice its new 4-inch round dash display, which, like on the Street Bob, has been updated from a simple digital display tucked within the handlebar clamp.

The two-into-one exhaust offers more clearance between the bags and the exhaust, allowing the 2025 Low Rider ST saddlebags to be symmetrical.

2025 Street Bob and Low Rider ST get a more traditional analog display with some LCD readouts in a round casing higher up, which is easier to see without removing the eyes far from the road.

Milwaukee-Eight 117 Custom Cruisers

The 2025 Harley-Davidson Fat Boy and Breakout are outfitted with the Milwaukee-Eight 117 Custom variant. This setup includes a two-into-two exhaust and 4-liter touring-style airbox that delivers 6% more power and 5% more torque than the Classic variant. It delivers significantly more horsepower—11%—than the 2024 Fat Boy 114 model.

Harley’s 2025 Fat Boy retains its iconic muscular design. Starting at $22,599, the Fat Boy comes chromed out in four color options.

The limited-edition Fat Boy “Gray Ghost” version is completely chromed out and starts at $25,399.

The Fat Boy's riding position makes me feel as if I am sitting on top of the bike, but it offers a surprisingly comfortable ride. Although my butt is asleep within 20 minutes, I enjoy the Fat Boy’s easy steering and upright position.

Fat Boy and Heritage Classic utilize a tank-mounted 5-inch analog gauge.

Starting at $23,099, the 2025 Breakout is all about grabbing attention wherever it is.

If I’m being honest, the Breakout is one of my least favorite motorcycles I’ve ridden. Designed for those who are drawn to the stretched custom cruiser segment (not me), the fat 240mm rear tire matched to the tall slim 21-inch front wheel makes a bold statement. Everything about the Breakout is about making a statement, and I find the handling and clutch pull difficult. Perhaps this is the appeal to some, though. Taming a beast can be fun.

There’s no denying the Breakout and Fat Boy’s 240mm rear tire is eye-catching.

Though I don’t enjoy riding the Breakout, the seat impresses me with its comfort.

WRN Recommendation

The 2025 Harley-Davidson Cruiser lineup represents a blend of tradition and innovation. With enhanced comfort, advanced safety features, modern technology, and extensive customization options, the Softails cater to a diverse range of V-twin riders who want power, comfort, and style.

Whether cruising, touring, showing, or riding sportily, there's a Softail that fits the bill.

Specs at a Glance: 2025 Harley-Davidson Cruisers

2025 Harley-Davidson Street Bob

Engine Size: 117 cubic inches (1,923cc)
Seat Height: 26.8 inches
Fuel Capacity: 3.5 gallons
Wet Weight: 646 pounds
Colors: Billiard Gray, Vivid Black, Centerline, Iron Horse Metallic, Purple Abyss Denim
MSRP: Starting at $17,199

2025 Harley-Davidson Heritage Classic

Engine Size: 117 cubic inches (1,923cc)
Seat Height: 26.8 inches
Fuel Capacity: 5 gallons
Wet Weight: 728 pounds
Colors: Billiard Gray, Vivid Black, White Onyx Pearl, Iron Horse Metallic, Whiskey Fire/Vivid Black
MSRP: Starting at $22,999

2025 Harley-Davidson Low Rider S

Engine Size: 117 cubic inches (1,923cc)
Seat Height: 28.1 inches
Fuel Capacity: 5 gallons
Wet Weight: 670 pounds
Colors: Billiard Gray, Vivid Black, Brilliant Red, Iron Horse Metallic, Mystic Shift
MSRP: Starting at $20,499

2025 Harley-Davidson Low Rider ST

Engine Size: 117 cubic inches (1,923cc)
Seat Height: 28.1 inches
Fuel Capacity: 5 gallons
Wet Weight: 712 pounds
Colors: Billiard Gray, Vivid Black, Blue Burst
MSRP: Starting at $24,199

2025 Harley-Davidson Fat Boy

Engine Size: 117 cubic inches (1,923cc)
Seat Height: 26.6 inches
Fuel Capacity: 5 gallons
Wet Weight: 694 pounds
Colors: Billiard Gray, Vivid Black, Blue Burst, Whiskey Fire/Vivid Black
MSRP: Starting at $22,599

2025 Harley-Davidson Breakout

Engine Size: 117 cubic inches (1,923cc)
Seat Height: 26.2 inches
Fuel Capacity: 5 gallons
Wet Weight: 681 pounds
Colors: Billiard Gray, Vivid Black, Centerline, Brilliant Red, Midnight Firestorm
MSRP: Starting at $23,099

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2025 Harley-Davidson Cruisers: 6 Softails with Personality

Harley’s cruisers offer more modern tech and gobs of power