You might not expect such a low-tech-looking motorcycle to work well when the road bends, but the Springer Classic actually provides better cornering clearance than many more modern cruisers and comparable stability when leaned over and dragging. The steering is somewhat heavy, but that is to be expected when you are herding half a ton of motorcycle (731 pounds without fluids) and rider. Not that it really seems to be an issue. We doubt many potential buyers look at this motorcycle and think, "Oooh, twisties!"
More likely they will be thinking about the reaction they will receive, and from our experience it will be hugely positive. Women fawned over it. Men tried to determine if it was something new or just a beautiful restoration (and a few had trouble believing us when we said it was a '05 model). Certainly that aura of mid-20th-century elegance comes through clearly.
The elegance also comes through in the pricing. With a suggested base price of $16,995, the Softail Springer Classic is among the company's pricier standard non-dresser models. Adding ESPFI raises that by $400 (unless you buy a California model, in which case the cost of meeting the emissions requirements is $190 less than the carbureted version), and our burgundy paint (Harley calls it Black Cherry Pearl, and you can also select blue or black-pearl solid colors) adds $285 over basic black or red/black, and blue/silver two-tones add an additional $140. With the pretty wheels, the MSRP for our bike would be $18,155-before charges for California emissions, taxes or any of the many accessories with which Harley or the aftermarket might tempt you. At the time of this writing, we counted more than 1200 accessories for this bike alone on Harley's web site, and the company is constantly devising new ones. Expect to spend $20,000, and the dealer may add a surcharge to that.
Worth it? Only the buyer can decide, but the Softail Springer Classic offers an unmatched measure of nostalgia in a pleasant, casual cruiser.
Specifications
H-D Softail Springer Classic
Suggested base price: $16,995
Engine type: Air-cooled 45-degree OHV V-twinDisplacement, bore x stroke:1450cc, 95.2 x 101.5mm
Compression ratio: 8.9:1
Transmission: 5 speeds
Final drive: Belt
Wet weight: 734 lbs.
Wheelbase: 64.5 in.
Seat height: 27.4 in.
Front tire:MT90-B16 Dunlop 402F tube-type
Rear tire:150/80B16 Dunlop 401 tube-type
Front brake:11.5-in. disc, single-piston caliper
Rear brake:1.5-in. disc, four-piston caliper
Front suspension: Harley Springer leading link, 2.3 in. travel
Rear suspension: Harley Softail, 2 dampers, 4.3 in. travel
Quarter-mile acceleration:
14.26 sec., 92.6 mph
High Points
Most nostalgic styling on a modern motorcycle with great curb appeal; good power and fuel mileage
Low Points
Front brake too nostalgic; rear suspension harsh on bigger bumps
First Changes
Better rear dampers