2020 Harley-Davidson Softail Standard

As part of the mid-year lineup from Harley-Davidson, the Softail Standard acts as a “blank canvas” cruiser for customizers to lay down some modifications. Harley-Davidson is keeping the Softail Standard basic with only a single color, chopped fenders, mini-ape handlebars, spoked wheels, and a solo saddle. And it’s powered by the Milwaukee-Eight 107 powerplant that we claimed in our first look has “a lot going for it, including healthy gobs of low-end punch (Harley claims 110 pound-feet of peak torque), strong acceleration, and dual counterbalancers to reduce vibes at idle.” ABS does not come standard, but is an option.

The first look of the 2020 Softail Standard details the model, but also dives into just how Harley anticipates what customizations owners will make to the current model. Even back in 1999, the Softail Standard was touted as a customizable cruiser option with “just a little polishing and a few strategically placed chromed goodies here and there, this plain-Jane Softail could be transformed into a pretty cool-looking machine.” Harley’s own Street Bob can serve as Softail Standard competition as can the Triumph Speedmaster.

As covered in the 2020 Harley-Davidson Softail Standard First Look, the only changes include different wheels, tires, and finishes.