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2008 Harley-Davidson Line Up: 105 Years in the Making!
Throughout their history, Harley-Davidson (H-D) has had its ups and down, but has experienced a steady incline since the late 80s. Now celebrating 105 years in the game, the iconic American motorcycle brand continues to show why they’re on top by offering 38 models, 14 anniversary specific models, three new ground-breaking models and four new Custom Vehicle Operation (CVO) models. Most would think designating one model to recognize a 105th Anniversary would be sufficient. Obviously the folks at H-D missed that memo and continue to show and prove that rebellious spirit of bikers. The H-D brand is all about passion and when Bill Davidson, Motorcycle Product Development Director (pictured above with BikeRhythms’ Leon L. Brittain) shows up to a press launch you can see this passion starts at the top and permeates throughout the brand.
 To signify this momentous occasion, H-D chose a striking copper and “Vivid Black” paint scheme, Cooper seat inserts, gloss black cast wheels, tank Cloisonné with copper “Bar and Shield” logo and serialization for their anniversary models. Included models are the Sportster, Dyna, VRSC, Softail, and Touring models – one to suit your own style.
Additionally, H-D is now offering Anti-lock brakes (ABS) on all 2008 VRSC and Touring models with select Touring models rolling off the assembly line with ABS now standard. ABS was first offered on police-issued units and proven so effective it is now being offered on the consumer level. In keeping with the clean look of their bikes, the ABS system was designed to be discreet and as transparent as possible and makes a remarkable difference in emergency braking situations as demonstrated on a closed course. ABS on a bike works in a similar fashion as it does on cars by rapidly “pumping” the brakes. You may think that would may cause more problems with maintaining control on a bike, but the reality is the stopping distance and control are greatly improved.
With such a heavy line up of models, let’s focus in on previewing the highlights of the new joints – the Rocker, the Rocker C, and Fat Bob.
 Let’s start with the FXDF Dyna Fat Bob. No, not Fat Boy, Fat Bob. With dual headlights, “Slash Down” shotgun exhaust, new tank, blacked out fork sliders, full coverage chrome rear shocks, V-shaped drag bar, a 16” 130mm front tire and 16” 180mm rear tire with a bobtail fender, all of which makes the Fat Bob’s name deservingly so. The profile is aggressive and borderline intimidating. However, the ride and cornering was surprisingly agile for this thick new bully on the block.
The FXCW Rocker and FXCWC Rocker C models are without doubt a departure from H-D’s typical line up with their chopper’esque style, hard tail custom look, 38 degree fork angle, stretched fuel tank and suspended rear fender over a fat 240mm tire. What distinguishes the Rocker and Rocker C apart is the Rocker C offers a trick 2-in-1 passenger seat that hovers mysteriously above the rear fender. To my dismay, I found this slick feature to actually take away from the ride comfort due to a modification of the main seat’s position in order to accommodate the trick passenger seat. However, I was able to pilot the Rocker with ease as I was able to position myself comfortably in the seat while allowing my legs to stretch out. Yes, the Rockers are a departure for H-D, but let’s not forget the VROD was a stark departure also. Can lighting strike twice? Only time will tell, but I think a new storms ‘a brewing.
Check us out for full reviews of the Rockers, Fat Bob, and other 2008 models in the coming months. Meanwhile, enjoy the photos of the 2008 lineup.
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Rocker |
FLHR Road King |
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FLTR Road Glide |
FXD Fat Bob |
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With ABS |
With out ABS |
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Rocker C |
Rocker C 2nd seat |
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VRSCD Night Rod Special |
30th Anniversary VRSC |
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