2014 Harley-Davidson Low Rider

2014 HARLEY-DAVIDSON LOW RIDER

IGNITION

FIRST RIDE

Harley's iconic Low Rider returns with new style and adjustable ergonomics

Jamie Elvidge

The original 1977 Low Rider was a slammed and sparkling success, and to this day it is remembered as one of The Motor Company’s most iconic models. So there were more than a few disappointed people when the bike left the lineup five years ago.

The Low Rider is back, and the seat height is just 26.8 inches. But in an effort to attract a wide variety of riders to this lower-cost Big Twin, Harley engineers thought beyond simple feeton-the-ground confidence and addressed the entire ergonomic triangle.

Computer modeling and lots of live testing were used to devise a system of adjustments, the simplest of which is the seat’s removable lumbar extender. A 1.5-inchthiclc bolster makes a huge difference. But the real action is in the easily adjustable pivoting handlebar riser that provides 2.4 inches of movement fore and aft. Lastly, footpegs have been relocated 2 inches forward of typical Dyna mounts. Aim for all this? To comfortably fit riders from 5-foot-i to 6 feet and taller.

The Low Rider rides like a Dyna: cruiser sporty and light. But cornering clearance is quite limited: There is just 3.2 inches of rear travel, and even though the new coil-over shocks have a trio of springpreload settings, the ride felt harsh in all three.

Fit and finish are great, and the abundant chrome is complemented by “chunky” cast wheels. Laced wheels and ABS are optional.

By getting more feet firmly planted in the Big Twin range, Harley-Davidson has moved a step ahead.

2014 HARLEY-DAVIDSON SUPERLOW 1200T

The SuperLow 1200T (starting at $11,799) was designed to provide the shorter set with an option for long-haul travel. Ergonomically ideal for riders S-foot-1 to 5-foot-7, this Sporty offers a seat height of 27.6 inches. Hard saddlebags covered in a faux leather, together with mini-floorboards and a claimed 216-mile range, round out the touring package. -JE

HARLEY-DAVIDSON LOW RIDER

ENGINE TYPE

ohv V-twin

DISPLACEMENT

1690CC

SEAT HEIGHT

26.8 in.

FUEL CAPACITY

4.7 gal.

CLAIMED CURB WEIGHT

666 lb.

PRICE

$14,199