2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S
New for 2016
Both modern and a throwback, the 2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S boasts power to spare as it becomes the first non-CVO Harley equipped with the Screamin’ Eagle® Air-Cooled Twin Cam 110B™ engine.
All the Style and All the Substance
Harley-Davidson spared no effort on every detail -- every inch -- to get the 2016 Softail Slim S cruiser just right. From the new engine's power and counter-balancing to the advanced features and the classic, military-inspired design, this motorcycle delivers not only a powerful ride, but an experience to remember.
Looks are important, but Harley-Davidson knows looks aren't much value if they aren't backed by substance, and every part of this motorcycle is state-of-the-art. The Screamin’ Eagle® Air-Cooled Twin Cam 110B™ packs more power than previous models in this size, and the anti-lock brakes and cruise control deliver modern features with deceptive simplicity.
Powertrain and Performance
For the first time, Harley-Davidson brings the Screamin’ Eagle® Air-Cooled Twin Cam 110B™ engine to its standard Softail Slim S and similarly-classed Fat Boy S. The engine has a total displacement of 110 cubic inches and a high-flow air cleaner for increased breathing capacity. Its large, four-inch pistons provide approximately 109 pound-feet of torque, giving the engine a much praised bottom-end muscle.
This is an engine built for raw power, which outputs approximately 80 horsepower at between 4700 and 5400 rpm. Acceleration has been measured at 0 to 60 mph in under 5 seconds and approximately 250 feet. An engine of this size that's built into a motorcycle frame this light (712 pounds) means even experienced riders might be in for a surprise (and a good one).
More power doesn't translate into a rougher ride. The Screamin’ Eagle® Air-Cooled Twin Cam 110B™ features advanced counter-balancing to temper engine vibration, and the Six-Speed Cruise Drive® transmission makes shifting through all six gears as smooth as possible.
The engine size to weight ratio, increased displacement and torque and smooth counter-balancing all result in a rocket of a motor, but a contained one for maximum ease of driving and efficiency.
Gas mileage is approximately 43 mpg, combined city and highway,* and the total tank capacity is five gallons.
Features and Trims
The 2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S motorcycle cruiser starts at $18,499** and comes with many modern features standard.
The H-D® Smart Security System adds security and peace of mind, with automatic arm and disarm of the bike's security system, which is triggered by a hands-free fob. Riders simply walk away, and it locks down.
Giving consideration to wrist fatigue, the 2016 Softail Slim S comes with electronic cruise and throttle control, giving users a break to enjoy the ride. The cruise control functionality is the hallmark of simplicity; it allows the rider to set speeds with just the press of their left thumb.
Also featured is an old-fashioned, cat-eye console with a touch of digital modernity. Below the speedometer is a small digital display, which enables the rider to toggle between several gauges, including fuel and rpm indicators, a clock and more.
Essential to the rider experience is leg and foot comfort, and the 2016 Softail Slim S provides classic half-moon foot boards specially designed to offer the best in vibration isolation. This trim also includes a heel-toe shifter.
The low-slung seat is situated so whether they're tall or short, no rider will have difficulty placing their feet to the ground during stops.
Design
When it comes to style, the 2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S is all about back-to-basics. Vivid Black is the dominant color, with a little Olive Gold Denim as an additional option.
The standard paint scheme is all black with a cool black gloss on the engine parts. For the graphically inclined, a Harley-Davidson bar and shield medallion adorns the side of the fuel tank. The Olive Gold Denim option adds a military theme and replaces the bar and shield graphic with a bold American star.
Black Hollywood handlebars provide a distinctive retro flourish (as does the cat-eye console), and it's hard to miss the all-black dual shotgun exhaust pipes in the rear. The rear profile itself is basic and no-nonsense, illustrated by a clipped rear fender and a tail light integrating both stop and turn functions, and the license plate is side-mounted.
In keeping with the retro design, all modern features are tucked safely out of eye-view. The rear shock absorbers and anti-lock braking system are under the seat and inside the wheel hub, while the digital control features are integrated nicely within the console and handlebars.
For maximum comfort, hand controls are ergonomically designed to make almost anything a thumb press away.
Safety
The 2016 Softail Slim S comes standard with anti-lock brakes and a front braking system, requiring less lever force for full braking. Dunlop tires, a front premium touring tire and a rear cruiser tire give excellent grip in both wet and dry conditions.
Bottom Line
With the 2016 Softail Slim S, Harley-Davidson takes things to the next level and shows that innovation and honoring the past aren't necessarily separate. The 2016 Softail Slim S is the future while still preserving the bedrock values Harley customers have enjoyed for decades, all in a ride built for the ages.
Come visit Test Nissan to learn more or request a test ride to get a feel for the 2016 Softail Slim S in person.
*EPA estimates. Mileage may vary depending on driving habits and conditions.
**Prices list are the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price for the vehicle and options chosen by the buyer. These prices do not include transportation, taxes, title, other options, dealer installation costs or other charges.
Image: Harley-Davidson