2025 Harley Davidson Model Predictions

Summary

In this video, the host speculates on Harley-Davidson's future motorcycle lineup, focusing on potential changes to the Softail series and touring models. With the 40th anniversary of the Softail and a possible new gauge system, the host predicts updates to modernize the line. Discussions include the possibility of a facelift for the Limited and Road Glide Limited, and the potential introduction of a street-focused Pan America model. The host also considers which models might be discontinued due to slow sales and the impact of the touring bike price drop.

Takeaways

• 🕒 The video discusses the possibility of changes in Harley-Davidson motorcycle models, particularly around the midyear and end of the year.
• 🎨 Harley-Davidson is celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Softail, hinting at a potential special edition or changes to this model line.
• 📉 The Softail lineup is perceived as stale, with the Low Rider S experiencing a slowdown in sales, possibly due to more competitively priced Touring models.
• 🛠️ The presenter suggests that a new gauge system, similar to the Sportster S, could modernize and enhance the Softail lineup.
• 💸 There's skepticism about a price drop for Softail models, but a slight reduction could make them more appealing, especially in comparison to Touring bikes.
• 🛣️ The Road Glide and Street Glide models might receive a facelift rather than being discontinued, despite speculation about their future.
• 🏍️ The Tri Glide and RG3 models are expected to get new fairings, aligning with the modernization of Harley-Davidson's motorcycle designs.
• 📉 Certain models like the Softail Standard and Road King Special are predicted to be discontinued due to slow sales and close competition from other models.
• 🏁 There's a potential for a new Pan America 'Street' model, influenced by the customization trends and performance seen in the Hooligan class racing.
• 🔮 The video concludes with speculation on future models, including a possible Street-based Pan America, based on current trends and historical patterns of model development at Harley-Davidson.

Q & A

What is the significance of December for Harley-Davidson models?

December is significant because it's when carryover models are revealed, providing clues about which bikes will not receive changes other than color updates.

Why might Harley-Davidson not release a midyear bike this year?

The speaker speculates that the absence of a midyear bike could be due to the company's strategy to streamline offerings under the Hardwire program initiated by the CEO.

How does the Softail lineup's staleness affect sales?

The Softail lineup has become stale, leading to decreased sales, especially with the Touring bike prices coming down, offering a closer price point and perceived better value.

What is the author's opinion on the future of the Softail lineup?

The author is skeptical about a brand new Softail model but suggests that a new gauge system, similar to the Sportster S, could add excitement and modernize the lineup.

Why might a price drop for Softail models be unlikely?

A price drop is considered unlikely due to the close pricing to the Touring models, which offer more features and are perceived as better value.

What changes does the speaker predict for the Limited and Road Glide Limited models?

The speaker predicts a facelift for these models, including the possibility of new fairings, rather than them being discontinued or replaced by customizable versions of the Street Glide or Road Glide.

Why does the speaker think the Tri Glide and RG3 models will receive new fairings?

The speaker believes these models will get updated fairings to modernize their look and because Harley-Davidson is unlikely to continue producing the Rushmore fairing for anything other than parts.

Which models does the speaker think might be discontinued?

The speaker thinks the Softail Standard and Road King Special might be discontinued due to their close pricing to other models with more features and slower sales.

What is the significance of the St models for Harley-Davidson?

The St models were introduced as a performance bagger option, born from King of the Bagger race bikes, offering a taller sit and bigger engine.

Why does the speaker believe a street-based Pan America model might be introduced?

The speaker notes a trend of Pan America customization towards street biking, Harley-Davidson's investment in the model, and the company's history of creating models based on customer modifications.

What does the speaker think about the future of CVO St models?

The speaker is unsure if CVO St models will continue, but they believe they might stick around for at least another year due to Harley-Davidson's investment in the model.