SOFTAIL MODELS UPDATES HARLEY-DAVIDSON 2012

The Softies get a smaller, less visually apparent exhaust and heated O2 sensors, and the tubeless Chrome Profile spoke wheel mentioned above for the touring line is also an option for the Softails.

Harley's new, optional laced wheel, as seen here on the 2012 Softail Heritage Classic, allows use of tubeless tires. The new wheel is available as an option for the 2012 Touring family (except the Ultra Limited) and 2012 Softails.

Switchgear controls (High/Low Beam, Start button, Trip/Horn, etc.) receive a new “ergonomic” shape. Rather than having a smooth, rounded surface, the switches now have a slight concave shape at the top for improved tactile feel that better allows a rider to differentiate between the top and bottom of the switches. Additionally, a Flash-to-Pass button has been integrated to the left switchgear housing. Think of the pass toggle on most Euro bikes – same idea.
The Softail Fat Boy and Fat Boy Lo have a revised handlebar with less rise and milder bend in the grip area compared to model year 2011. The new shape reduces reach to the bar by 1.25 inches. Lastly, the Fat Boy Lo saddle is now also on the Fat Boy.

Sportster models updates

All Sporties will roll on Michelin tires in 2012. The Forty-Eight also gets slightly revised fuel tank graphics.

The flattrack racer replica XR1200X rolls on Michelin’s Scorcher 11 tires, while all XL models have the Scorcher 31 tire set.  Sportster side covers are now either gloss black or denim black depending on the main color scheme.

Dyna models updates

The biggest news for the Dyna line other than the TC103 and addition of the Switchback is an updated and improved ABS.
While ABS on Dyna models is functionally equivalent to ABS on the other model lines that receive ABS, Harley tailored the system to the Dynas by way of reduced dimensions for a single electro-hydraulic control unit. And expanded diagnostics capability for the system means Harley could use one control module for both the front and rear brakes rather than separate units for each brake set.

Here’s the Switchback stripped of its quick-release windscreen and hard saddlebags. With this bike as the only all-new model for 2012 from Harley it seems even the mighty Motor Company is remaining conservative as a dark cloud continues to linger over world economies.

Dyna bikes also enjoy an updated and more compact ECU and new electrical system. The electrical system is a CAN (Controller Area Network) system (BMW has used this type of system for a while), which uses less wiring and allows a high rate of data transfer – useful for complex systems like ABS that communicate lots and lots of info in the blink of an eye to the bike’s brain.
The new ergo-friendly switchgear seen on the Softails is also on Dyna models, as well as a new LCD tripmeter that now also includes a combo GPI/RPM indicator as one of its functions.