HARLEY-Davidson has unveiled an exciting new motorcycle aimed at the upcoming generation of riders.
The American giants introduced the stunning Fat Boy Gray Ghost model, marking their fifth addition to the Icons Collection, which is typically celebrated for its minimalist design and custom-style appeal.
Credit: Harley Davidson
Credit: Harley Davidson
Credit: Harley Davidson
As reported by MCM, this new limited-production motorcycle pays tribute to the original Fat Boy and features a highly reflective surface that is said to surpass traditional finishes in durability.
This aesthetic is familiar to Harley fans, as it first appeared on the Fat Boy Gray Ghost in 1990.
Commemorating 35 years of the Fat Boy lineage, the new limited-edition model showcases a polished metallic finish achieved through Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD), eliminating traditional painting or chroming techniques in favor of a lightweight metallic layer.
Equipped with a 1923cc Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine producing 101bhp and 122lb.ft of torque, it also features upgraded suspension, selectable riding modes, and the complete range of safety features including cornering ABS, drag-torque slip control, and various driving modes.
Harley’s Vice President of Design, Brad Richards, commented: “The original Fat Boy model transformed the aesthetics, proportions, and silhouette of a 1949 Hydra-Glide into a modern version for a new audience.”
“Those riders appreciated our post-war design heritage while also being attracted to the sleek simplicity of contemporary industrial design.”
The Fat Boy was inspired by a custom Softail built in 1987 at the Harley-Davidson Montreal dealership, crafted by general manager Duc Dufour and technician Denis Lavoie.
This custom bike featured a lowered rear suspension, a fiberglass front fender, and wide handlebars, and was subsequently sent to Milwaukee for inspiration.
This news comes as the brand’s leadership hinted at the development of smaller motorcycles in a new series launch.
The motorcycle legends could shift towards a focus on small-capacity bikes, introducing more affordable models designed to attract new riders.
The company’s executives indicated to MCM that they intend to enter the low-capacity segment, especially after discontinuing the entry-level Forty-Eight and 883 Sportsters in Europe.
Harley-Davidson is mainly recognized for its large cruisers but also offers a selection of lightweight models available internationally.
The single-cylinder X440, produced by Hero MotoCorp for India, is an excellent example and offers an economical starting price.
Moreover, smaller offerings from competitors like the Honda GB350S and Triumph Speed 400 have gained significant popularity in the UK following their launches, and the US company is eager to capture part of that market.
Harley-Davidson closures in 2024
There are over 650 Harley-Davidson dealerships across the United States.
However, several stores have closed for various reasons throughout 2024, some without any justification.
Here is a list of some Harley-Davidson locations that have shut down this year along with the reasons for their closure:
A location in San Francisco closed in June 2024 after 110 years due to ‘chaos’ brought by new management.
Miracle City Harley-Davidson in Titusville, Florida, shut its doors in September 2024 with no stated reason.
Harley-Davidson’s historic location in New York City ended operations on September 28, 2024, with the owner citing economic challenges.
Reiman’s Harley-Davidson in Kewanee, Illinois, ceased operations in October 2024 after the owners sold to the Walter Brothers Harley Davidson dealership in Peoria, Illinois.
Another Illinois dealership closed in November 2024.
Additionally, the dealership in West Bend, Wisconsin, will temporarily close for the season from November 2 until April 1, 2024.
Looking ahead to 2025, Hideout Harley-Davidson in Missouri has announced it will close by the end of March.