SEX on wheels. If it’s still okay to say that, then that’s the only euphemism we can use to describe the pure beauty of the 2020 Harley-Davidson Breakout 114. From its long, sleek, low hung stance to its phat 240mm rear wheel, it is simply pure beauty.
Perhaps Harley-Davidson describe it best, calling it ‘long lean muscle taken to the modern edge’. Having dominated the cruiser market with this bike since its inception as a CVO exclusive in 2012/13, its launch as a Softail variant saw sales boom and popularity grow.
Loaded with attitude, it hints at its ability to jump up and kick you in the arse. That big rear tyre is the perfect example. It’s imposing and brutal, with a rear fender design that highlights its large proportion.
Add a 130mm front rim that is almost fully exposed, except for some minor dressing by a sleek slimline front fender, and the stance is one of a serious cruiser. It’s not without some controversy though.
The shift from the twin-cam model to the Milwaukee Eight (M8) power plant has seen the fuel tank reduced to 13.2-litres. The apparent reason, to showcase the muscle, and highlight the new motor and chassis.
And when you possess 114 cubic inches of American muscle, why the hell wouldn’t you want to show it off. With 1868cc and 155Nm of torque, the numbers look tough, especially when paired with its unmatched curb appeal.
There’s some subtle niceties too, like the LCD speedo that has been nestled seamlessly into the handlebars. It’s a nice touch, and leaves just a centred fuel cap on the tank to interrupt the gorgeous paintwork.
On the road, the new Softail frame is good, very good indeed. There’s no argument anymore about Dyna versus Softail frames, because the new frame is better than both (let the hate start now).
Before you ask, yes we have ridden both and we will stand by our statement. We’ll even say it again. The new Softail frame is better.
Offering a seat height of 665mm with 115mm of ground clearance the Breakout is low. Measuring 2,370mm long, with left and right lean angles of 26.8 degrees, this is certainly not Harley-Davidson’s ultimate cornering monster. But it is fun. Lots of fun.
Although it’s not going to keep up on the bends with bikes like the Road King Special or FXDR, the Breakout still offers a heap of fun for the rider. And let’s face it, you don’t buy a Harley-Davidson Breakout for track days.
We ventured out through Kulnura on the NSW Central Coast and onwards until we reached Wollombi Tavern to really test it out. The run provides the best open 100km/h bends and tight 25-45km/h turns around.
This is where the new Softail chassis, with its rear mono-tube shock, really shined. The Breakout felt stable and planted through the corners, without giving you the feeling your spine was going to come through the top of your head every time you hit a bump.
It still felt a little more raw than Harley-Davidson’s touring model offerings, but all in all gave good rider confidence. The lower stance of the Breakout does provide for regular scraping of the forward foot pegs though, and you might go through a few pairs of boots.
That’s the nature of this bike though. The upside of such a sleek, muscular design, is that it will attract attention (it certainly did at Wollombi Tavern).
Our test bike was finished in stunning Stilletto Red and had a real nice glimmer in the sunshine, but you could choose Midnight Blue, Barracuda Silver, River Rock Grey Denim, Performance Orange, Zephyr Blue/Black Sunglow, and traditional Vivid black.
Pricing for the 2020 Harley-Davidson Breakout 114 starts at $34,350. It seems a little expensive, but can you put a price on being the envy of friends and family, by one of the best looking motorcycles on the market.
Our test bike was provided by Harley-Davidson Australia. For more information on the 2020 Harley-Davidson Breakout 114, please contact your local Harley-Davidson dealer.
Harley has lost its appeal due to incredible cost. People want to ride cheap. 34k for a bike of this class is disappointing
I can maybe see this price on a trike. But for a production bike. Its lunacy. These prices are going to reduce sales big time. Its a beautiful bike. But its still a motorcycle. I can buy a 2014 breakout with custon pipes. 6k miles. For12.5. Why would l pay 35k.
35K represents significant investment in your motorcycling noting that this is Australian pricing. A second hand Breakout still is showing remarkable resale value here in Aus with twin cam models still fetching 25 – 30K and M8 models a little more. It is also worth noting here in Aus that the Breakout is the best seller in the cruiser market segment.
I have 2015 grey breakout with 15150 miles. Brand new front tire battery and oil change. Asking 14k
Hi Joe, Australian prices are significantly different than those in the U.S and I am presuming this as you are stating miles – good luck with the sale,what will be your next bike purchase
M8 ride quality is light years ahead of the TC model.
Absolutely the chassis feels so much more solid and predictable when riding, and the new motor is pretty good too.