Harley-Davidson Softail Slim FLS 2017 vs. BMW R 18 2020
Harley-Davidson Softail Slim FLS 2017
BMW R 18 2020
Overview - Harley-Davidson Softail Slim FLS 2017 vs BMW R 18 2020
The Harley-Davidson Softail Slim FLS 2017 and the BMW R 18 2020 are both chopper/cruiser motorcycles that offer unique features and characteristics.
Starting with the technical specifications, the Harley-Davidson Softail Slim FLS 2017 is equipped with a 1690cc engine that has a bore of 98.4mm and a stroke of 111.1mm. It produces 75 horsepower and 126 Nm of torque. The transmission is a belt drive, and the cooling system is air-cooled. The bike has a steel frame with a double cradle design and a rake of 32.1 degrees. The front brakes are single disk, and the front and rear tire diameters are both 16 inches. The wheelbase is 1635mm, and the seat height is 650mm. The kerb weight with ABS is 318kg, and the fuel tank capacity is 18.9 liters.
Harley-Davidson Softail Slim FLS 2017
On the other hand, the BMW R 18 2020 features an 1802cc engine with a bore of 107.1mm and a stroke of 100mm. It delivers 91 horsepower and 168 Nm of torque. The transmission is a prop shaft drive, and the cooling system is oil-air. The bike also has a steel frame with a double cradle design, but the rake is steeper at 57.3 degrees. The front brakes are double disk, and the front and rear tire diameters are 19 inches and 16 inches respectively. The wheelbase is longer at 1731mm, and the seat height is higher at 690mm. The kerb weight with ABS is heavier at 345kg, and the fuel tank capacity is smaller at 16 liters.
In terms of strengths, the Harley-Davidson Softail Slim FLS 2017 offers an authentic look that is characteristic of Harley-Davidson motorcycles. It also has a powerful engine, good brakes, and carries the legacy of the Harley-Davidson brand. On the other hand, the BMW R 18 2020 also boasts an authentic appearance with a beautifully air-cooled boxer engine that is meticulously designed. It offers a pleasant metering and good pull, as well as a wide range of driving modes. The bike is highly customizable with many options for personalization, and it features high-quality and loving details. The precise gearbox and easy handling are additional advantages of the BMW R 18.
BMW R 18 2020
However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses as well. The Harley-Davidson Softail Slim FLS 2017 has a strongly limited lean angle, which may restrict its maneuverability in certain situations. Additionally, some riders may find the sound of the engine to be weak compared to other Harley-Davidson models. On the other hand, the BMW R 18 2020 has a roughly controlled traction control system, which may not provide the smoothest riding experience. Furthermore, the bike does not offer a foot-forward seating position, which may be somewhat uncomfortable for riders with long legs on longer journeys.
In conclusion, the Harley-Davidson Softail Slim FLS 2017 and the BMW R 18 2020 are both impressive chopper/cruiser motorcycles with their own unique features and characteristics. While the Harley-Davidson offers an authentic look and a powerful engine, the BMW R 18 stands out with its meticulously designed appearance, wide range of driving modes, and high-quality details. However, both bikes have their weaknesses, such as limited lean angle for the Harley-Davidson and roughly controlled traction control for the BMW. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's personal preferences and priorities.
Technical Specifications Harley-Davidson Softail Slim FLS 2017 compared to BMW R 18 2020
Pros and Cons in comparison
Pros and Cons in comparison
Harley-Davidson Softail Slim FLS 2017
In our test, Vauli and K.OT were unanimous. No model in the Harley-Davidson range appeals to them as much as the Softail Slim. It embodies 100% Harley history and Made in America. With its look, it could pass for an original from the fifties and also picks up some elements and quotes from that time. Even the single seat was not compromised. The engine is extremely torquey, but jams should be avoided if possible because of the high heat radiation. The brakes work perfectly and the driving dynamics are harmonious due to the two narrow tyres, but severely limited by the lean angle. When it comes to the sound, you should and will upgrade, because an authentic sound also belongs to this authentic look. A motorbike for generations.
BMW R 18 2020
The BMW R 18 is a beautifully made motorbike. Everything about it is genuine. The big boxer will delight friends of the BMW brand, but also friends of extroverted mechanical motorbike technology. In driving mode, the engine is pleasant to dose and thus fits well with the accessible handling. The equipment options are almost limitless. In terms of driving dynamics, chassis and electronics package, BMW is not breaking any new ground. It is a well-made classic beautiful cruiser. The seating position heats up the tempers. During the test ride, however, the journalists coped well with it. It tends to be a little more difficult to sit on the bike with long legs.
Price Comparison Avarage Market Price Harley-Davidson Softail Slim FLS vs BMW R 18
There are a few key differences between a Harley-Davidson Softail Slim FLS 2017 and a BMW R 18 2020. In terms of price, the actual average price of a Harley-Davidson Softail Slim FLS 2017 is about 12% higher. Compared to BMW R 18 2020 there are less Harley-Davidson Softail Slim FLS 2017 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 4 compared to 12. It takes less time to sell a Harley-Davidson Softail Slim FLS with 83 days compared to 134 days for a BMW R 18. Since model year 2012 1000PS.de editors have written 4 reviews for the Harley-Davidson Softail Slim FLS and 39 reviews for the BMW R 18 since model year 2020. The first review for the Harley-Davidson Softail Slim FLS was published on 2/5/2012 and now has more than 11,400 views. This compares to more than 51,900 views for the first review on BMW R 18 published on 12/6/2019.
