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.