Harley-Davidson muscles up for 2022

Performance is the theme of Harley-Davidson’s 2022 model range launch, with a host of upgraded motorcycles scoring bigger capacity motors. Today’s early morning unveiling marks part two of the brand’s new bike showcase.

Set to be branded ST variants, a selection of  models are receiving the Screamin’ Eagle treatment, including the all new Low Rider ST, Low Rider S, Street Glide and Road Glide.

All ST models will feature the Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-Twin engine, which offers the most displacement and torque available from a factory-installed, regular-production Harley-Davidson powertrain.

With 117 cubic inches of displacement, the Milwaukee-Eight 117, with precision oil/air cooling, produces up to 172Nm of torque on touring models and 167Nm on Low Rider variants. The engine features a high-performance camshaft and exhaust, and a high-flow intake, tuned to maximise power.

The Low Rider ST is an all new model, based off the successful Low Rider S and is new to the Softail lineup for 2022. Highlighted by a frame mounted fairing inspired by the FXRT and detachable hard saddle bags, it presents a cross country tourer that can easily be transformed to an urban performance cruiser.

The saddlebags ride high and tight, the rear suspension is jacked up, and the handlebar is high. The Low Rider ST model puts the rider in a commanding position on top of the bike, and the riding sensation is direct and reflexive.

The raised fitment of the saddlebags reinforces the performance of the model – the message being that these bags will not limit lean angle when the bike is pushed to the limit.

The shape of the new frame-mounted fairing was developed through CFD (computational fluid dynamics) analysis and real-world testing. Triple fixed splitstream vents help limit rider head buffeting at highway speeds. A six-inch high windshield has a Dark Smoke tint, and the fairing holds a single 5.75-inch LED headlamp.

The lockable, rigid saddlebags feature a sleek clam-shell design that makes them easy to load and unload. The bags can be opened with one hand by a seated rider, and a damping device allows the saddlebag lids to open smoothly. The bags can be removed in seconds with an internal quick-release mechanism. Combined saddlebag capacity is 53.8 litres.

A deep solo seat helps hold riders in place during aggressive acceleration and cornering. A one-inch moto handlebar is mounted on four-inch pull-back risers while a low-profile textured-black console tops the 18.9 litre fuel tank. Instrumentation is presented by a compact digital display inset in the handlebar riser for a custom, “no gauges” look.

Ride and handling are enhanced by the chassis, optimised to reduce weight without sacrificing rigidity. The Milwaukee-Eight 117 powertrain is rigid-mounted in the frame to further enhance chassis stiffness.

A 43mm inverted fork stiffens the front end for a responsive ride, and its single-cartridge internal technology keeps the front wheel planted for improved braking and handling performance. Fork rake is 28-degrees.

Rugged, blacked-out styling includes Wrinkle Black finish on the powertrain, primary cover, triple clamps, top clamp, rear fender supports and tank console. the derby cover, intake, lower rocker covers, and handlebar riser are Gloss Black.

The handlebar is Satin Black. The forks are anodised black. Mufflers and exhaust shields are Jet Black. Radiate cast-aluminium wheels (19-inch front and 16-inch rear diameter) are finished in Matte Dark Bronze for an intriguing contrast to the motorcycle’s dark components.

Both the Low Rider S and Low Rider ST will come standard fitted with the 117 Milwaukee eight powerplant. Both will be available in Vivid Black and Gunship Grey.

The Street Glide and Road Glide ST models pairs the muscular Milwaukee-Eight 117 powertrain with new dark-and-bronze finishes.

Both Harley-Davidson ST touring models feature fairings to limit head buffeting and a low-profile dark windshield. A low-profile tank console with side fuel fill and low-profile engine guard adds custom style and differentiation from other Touring models.

With the purposeful stance of the Screamin Eagle Factory race bike, the Street Glide ST and Road Glide ST model are drenched in black – front end, controls, powertrain, and exhaust.

The only bright bits are pushrod tubes and tappet covers, and machined cylinder fins. Matte Dark Bronze finish on the Prodigy cast aluminium wheels, the colour band on the lower rocker box, timer cover medallion, intake medallion, and the classic script tank graphic provide subtle contrast to dark finishes.

There are two paint options available; Vivid Black or Gunship Grey. The front fender is trimmed for a sporty profile and lighter look and standard-length saddlebags replace the extended bags on Special models.

A Heavy Breather intake with forward-facing exposed air cleaner element reinforces performance-first styling, while the new solo seat gives the ST Touring models a lean and aggressive look.

The highly anticipated 2022 CVO models were also revealed and will be available in Street Glide, Road Glide, Road Glide Limited and Tri-Glide form.

Harley-Davidson’s 2022 CVO range see’s the brand maintain the 117 cubic inch powerplant but a new range of custom colour options introduced. THE CVO range maintains the premium range of accessories on offer for the most discerning Harley-Davidson riders.

Harley-Davidson’s 2022 Street Glide will be offered in Hightail Yellow Pearl/Black Hole with Lightning Silver Two-Tone and Bright Chrome finishes, Envious Green with Black Hole Fade with Flame Pattern and Gloss Black finishes and Blue Steel solid colour and Scorched Chrome finishes.

2022 will see the CVO Road Glide available in finishes that include Wicked Orange Pearl/Black Hole with Lightning Silver Two-Tone and Bright Chrome finishes, Envious Green with Black Hole Fade with Flame Pattern and Gloss Black finishes and Blue Steel Solid Colour and Scorched Chrome finishes.

The CVO Road Glide Limited is new to the Australian market for 2022 and replaces the CVO Ultra Limited.

It will be available in Wicked Orange Pearl/Black Hole with Lightning Silver Two-Tone and Bright Chrome finishes, Hightail Yellow Pearl/Black Hole with Lightning Silver Two-Tone and Bright Chrome finishes and Dante’s Red with Dante’s Black Sunglo Fade Flame Pattern and Gloss Black finishes.

The CVO Tri-Glide will be offered in one colour way, Dante’s Red with Dante’s Black Sunglo Fade Flame Pattern and Gloss Black finishes.

For further information on the 2022 Harley-Davidson range please contact your local Harley-Davidson dealer. This article was first published on Exhaust Notes Australia.