Harley-Davidson Softail Breakout 117 2023 vs. Harley-Davidson Softail Fat Boy 114 FLFBS 2020

The Harley-Davidson Softail Breakout 117 2023 and the Harley-Davidson Softail Fat Boy 114 FLFBS 2020 are both chopper/cruiser motorcycles from Harley-Davidson. While they share some similarities, there are also notable differences between the two models.

In terms of the engine and drivetrain, both bikes have a V-twin engine. However, the Softail Breakout 117 has a larger displacement of 1923cc compared to the Softail Fat Boy 114's 1868cc. This results in the Softail Breakout 117 having a higher power output of 101 HP compared to the Softail Fat Boy 114's 94 HP. The Softail Breakout 117 also has a higher torque of 167 Nm compared to the Softail Fat Boy 114's 155 Nm. Both bikes have a belt drive transmission.

When it comes to the chassis, the Softail Breakout 117 has a steel frame with a backbone type frame, while the Softail Fat Boy 114 has a steel frame with a double cradle type frame. The Softail Breakout 117 has a rake of 34 degrees and a trail of 145mm, while the Softail Fat Boy 114 has a rake of 3 degrees and a trail of 104mm. These differences in chassis design and geometry can affect the handling and stability of the bikes.

Harley-Davidson Softail Breakout 117 2023

In terms of braking, both bikes have a single disc front brake. However, it is worth noting that the Softail Breakout 117 has been criticized for its brakes not being able to keep up with the performance of the engine. The Softail Fat Boy 114 does not have traction control available, which can be demanding when combined with the powerful acceleration and limited grip.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Softail Breakout 117 has a narrower front tire width of 130mm compared to the Softail Fat Boy 114's 160mm. Both bikes have an 18-inch rear tire diameter and a 240mm rear tire width. The Softail Breakout 117 has a longer wheelbase of 1695mm compared to the Softail Fat Boy 114's 1665mm. The seat height of the Softail Breakout 117 is slightly lower at 665mm compared to the Softail Fat Boy 114's 675mm. The Softail Breakout 117 is also slightly lighter with a curb weight of 310kg compared to the Softail Fat Boy 114's 317kg. Both bikes have the same fuel tank capacity of 18.9 liters.

Harley-Davidson Softail Fat Boy 114 FLFBS 2020

In terms of strengths, the Softail Breakout 117 is praised for its powerful 117cc engine, attractive clean and sleek design, excellent starting point for customization, improved ergonomics, classic American cruiser styling, excellent wheel design, and good resale value. The Softail Fat Boy 114 is praised for its charismatic and fascinating V-twin engine, strong and emotive engine start, relaxed seating position, high-quality overall appearance, attention to detail, and numerous customization options.

In terms of weaknesses, the Softail Breakout 117 is criticized for its brakes not being able to match the performance of the engine, mediocre chassis, and the additional cost of traction control. The Softail Fat Boy 114 lacks traction control, which can be demanding when combined with the powerful acceleration and limited grip.

Overall, the Softail Breakout 117 and the Softail Fat Boy 114 are both impressive chopper/cruiser motorcycles from Harley-Davidson, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two will ultimately depend on personal preferences and priorities.