Instantly recognisable as a Harley-Davidson and dripping in nostalgia, the 2025 Heritage Classic harks back to the brand’s roots, while receiving an old fashioned spoonful of technological updates that ensure it remains relevant.
One of the stars of the recent 2025 Harley-Davidson Softail launch, it was heralded by many who spent time aboard this cruiser as one of the best and most versatile models in the line-up. That’s an opinion that’s hard to argue against.
The Heritage Classic remains a real eye catcher, with classic retro charm and a bevy of custom touches, including a comfy rider’s seat and detachable windscreen. The LED headlight assembly gives the perfect nod to the past while embracing tech, too.
This is the first year that Harley-Davidson has provided a complete LED lighting package, including indicators, on any model in the Softail range, but it’s the seamless integration of new and old that makes this bike so special.
From its optional spoked wheels (an absolute requirement on this bike) to five solid colour options, including the dual-tone Whiskey Fire/Vivid Black combination adorning our test bike, the Heritage Classic looks iconic.
Not everything is perfect though and the panniers, although pleasing to the eye, are a let down. Their storage capacity isn’t brilliant and care is needed when closing them. We had a couple of mishaps with this and found ourselves pulling over to fasten them correctly.
The Heritage Classic features new hand controls that looks-wise take a little getting used too, but the buttons themselves are still nice and large, and easy to engage, even in thicker winter gloves.
We particularly like the new design of the cruise control function, which seems a lot more robust, while still having simple operation. With the addition of riding modes, the tacho has been updated, with the 5.0-inch TFT display now showing additional information.
On the road, the Heritage Classic provides the perfect platform for cruising; a plush seat, floorboards to stretch the legs out on and a windscreen to minimise wind buffeting. The combination makes it the standout across the Softail range.
Paired with the Street Bob, they form part of what Harley-Davidson calls its Classic range, with this version of the 117 Milwaukee Eight producing just under 68kW and 156Nm. Power delivery is perfect for cruising.
You’re never in a rush on this bike, and improved ground clearance means it’s a joy to tip in and out of corners. Those riding modes we mentioned include Rain, Road and Sport, and each influences the available throttle response and power output.
Road delivers a smoother riding experience with less aggressive throttle and we spent a fair bit of time cruising around the NSW Central Coast, utilising this mode. Out on the back roads, Sport brings all of the Milwaukee Eight muscle to life and is a lot of fun.
Rider comfort is at the core of upgrades though, and that means new four-valve heads, oval intake ports, and a revised aluminium intake manifold for smoother airflow and improved combustion.
Add to the mix a reworked air/oil cooling system, circulating oil through frame-mounted coolers and the cylinder heads, and you get better thermal/heat management, which is especially evident in stop/start traffic.
The rear suspension scores an upgrade, with straight rate springs replacing the previous setup for a vastly improved ride. Gone are the spine jarring effects of hitting a bump at speed, replaced by a notably softened experience.
The result is improved performance, whether you’re pushing hard through the bends or just cruising and taking in the sights. Quality finishes, upgraded suspension, more power and a more comprehensive electronics package are standouts on the Heritage Classic.
The combination makes the 2025 edition of this Harley-Davidson icon a thing of beauty. Pricing starts at $39,995 ride away in Billiard Grey, with laced (spoked) wheels requiring you to dip into your pocket for another $750.
The colour scheme on our test bike adds a further $845. The 2025 Heritage Classic is backed by a 2-year unlimited kilometre warranty. You can find out more on the Harley-Davidson website or by talking to your local dealership.
Our test bike was provided by Harley-Davidson Australia for independent review purposes. Exhaust Notes Australia has not been paid to review this bike. Pictures courtesy of Incite Images.
