“The new FXSTC Softail Custom offers the ultimate ride for those who want to kick back with their feet stretched out for a comfortable solo ride, or with a passenger,” so claims the factory. “The new Twin Cam 96B engine and 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission enhances the ride, while the combination of laid- back chopper-inspired style and the comfort of a two-up seat and backrest is sure to stand out on the street.”

Where shall I begin? This is the classic factory custom pulled from the grave and delivered back to the world at large with a pumped engine, an overdrive gear in the transmission, a larger rear tire and higher bars. It’s the improved version of a classic that will never die.

”The Softail Custom goes wide with a 200mm rear tire on a polished slotted disc forged aluminum wheel wrapped by a traditional bobtail fender,” the gods of the factory continue in their detailed literature. “A polished stainless steel ape-hanger handlebar towers over a Fat Bob fuel tank adorned with triple- laid custom decals and embossed leather tank strap.”

“A bullet-style headlamp rides over a standard 21-inch chrome profile laced aluminum front wheel. With chrome details adorning the new powertrain, the only thing the Softail Custom brings from the past is its name. Choose from three solid and four two-tone color schemes, plus three two-tone custom color options.”

All of the above is true. I came from the chopper tribe and to ride a stock bike runs me dangerously close to the curse of Ming da Metal Flake. I immediately saw potential offerings to the god of the torch. We tested this bike as part of the Bikernet Independent Noise Study. We needed to reach out and find a bone stock bike to compare in our effort to point out that all motorcycle noise ain’t bad, and stock bikes are actually dangerous from an awareness standpoint.

You can check out our Noise Study by clicking here: Bikernet Independent Noise Study

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