LAB395-2025 Harley-Davidson Cruiser Lineup | Ride and Review-Austin, Texas Trip

In this episode, we talk about the 2025 Harley-Davidson Cruiser lineup. I had the opportunity to attend the press event in Austin, Texas, and ride these new cruisers. Keep in mind I only got a few hours with these bikes, but I give you my impressions of the six cruisers that were upgraded. All six received the Milwaukee-8 117 engine and rider safety enhancements. 

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Test Ride Impressions

Street Bob 117: A Lightweight & Agile Cruiser

• Ideal for shorter riders: At 5'8", I found the ergonomics to be comfortable with mid-controls and a well-positioned handlebar.
• Analog Speedometer with Digital Readout: Displays essential ride data, including RPMs, fuel range, and tire pressure monitoring.
• Torque & Power: The Classic variant of the Milwaukee-Eight 117 delivers 98 horsepower and 120 lb-ft of torque, making it a punchy yet easy-to-handle ride.

Breakout 117: A Bold & Stylish Power Cruiser

• Fat rear tire: While it adds to the aggressive look, it makes handling a bit heavier, especially in corners.
• Forward Controls & More Vibration: Riders experience more road feedback through handlebars and pegs.
• Custom Variant Power: 104 horsepower and 126 lb-ft of torque, with a more rev-happy powerband.
• Single Front Brake Setup: Works well but lacks the stopping power of dual-disc setups.

Fat Boy 117: Classic Comfort & Power

• More Comfortable for 5'8" Riders: The handlebar placement is better than the Breakout, allowing a more relaxed posture.
• Floorboards Instead of Pegs: Adds comfort for long-distance cruising.
• Lean Angle Considerations: 25.6-degree lean angle limits aggressive cornering but suits the bike's cruising nature.

Low Rider ST & Low Rider S: Performance-Oriented Cruisers

• High Output Variant: 114 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque, delivering a more aggressive ride.
• Inverted Front Forks: Improve handling and front-end stability.
• Low Rider ST vs. S:
  
  • ST: Features a club-style fixed fairing and saddlebags for light touring.
  • S: A more stripped-down, performance-driven variant.
• Ergonomics: At 5'8", I found the bars well-placed and mid-controls comfortable, but longer trips might benefit from forward controls.

Heritage Classic: The Underrated Tourer

• Classic Styling: Traditional Harley look with leather saddlebags and a detachable windshield.
• Most Comfortable Seat in the Cruiser Lineup: Ideal for long rides.
• Perfect for Touring: Though classified as a cruiser, it's a mid-level touring bike with great wind protection and relaxed ergonomics.

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Safety & Rider Aids

Advanced Rider Safety Enhancements

All 2025 Harley-Davidson cruisers come with modern rider safety aids:

• Cornering & Straight-Line ABS & Traction Control
• ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System)
• Drag-Torque Slip Control

I had the chance to test these features in controlled conditions, and they proved highly effective in preventing full loss of traction.

Upgraded Handlebar Controls

• Cruise Control Now Standard across all cruiser models.
• Refined Switch Housings: Mode selection, turn signals, and traction control toggles are more intuitive.

Cable Clutch vs. Hydraulic Clutch

Harley continues to use cable-operated clutches, which require periodic adjustments. While functional, I strongly prefer the consistency of a hydraulic system, which would be a welcome upgrade in future models.

Final Thoughts: Which 2025 Harley Cruiser is Right for You?

Best for Performance Riders: Low Rider ST / Low Rider S

• If you priori