
LAB395-2025 Harley-Davidson Cruiser Lineup | Ride and Review-Austin, Texas Trip
In this episode, we talk about the 2025 Harley-Davidson Cruiser lineup. I had the opportunity to attend the press event in Austin, Texas, and ride these new cruisers. Keep in mind I only got a few hours with these bikes, but I give you my impressions of the six cruisers that were upgraded. All six received the Milwaukee-8 117 engine and rider safety enhancements.
SUPPORT US AND SHOP IN THE OFFICIAL LAW ABIDING BIKER STORE
Test Ride Impressions
Street Bob 117: A Lightweight & Agile Cruiser
- Ideal for shorter riders: At 5'8", I found the ergonomics to be comfortable with mid-controls and a well-positioned handlebar.
- Analog Speedometer with Digital Readout: Displays essential ride data, including RPMs, fuel range, and tire pressure monitoring.
- Torque & Power: The Classic variant of the Milwaukee-Eight 117 delivers 98 horsepower and 120 lb-ft of torque, making it a punchy yet easy-to-handle ride.
Breakout 117: A Bold & Stylish Power Cruiser
- Fat rear tire: While it adds to the aggressive look, it makes handling a bit heavier, especially in corners.
- Forward Controls & More Vibration: Riders experience more road feedback through handlebars and pegs.
- Custom Variant Power: 104 horsepower and 126 lb-ft of torque, with a more rev-happy powerband.
- Single Front Brake Setup: Works well but lacks the stopping power of dual-disc setups.
Fat Boy 117: Classic Comfort & Power
- More Comfortable for 5'8" Riders: The handlebar placement is better than the Breakout, allowing a more relaxed posture.
- Floorboards Instead of Pegs: Adds comfort for long-distance cruising.
- Lean Angle Considerations: 25.6-degree lean angle limits aggressive cornering but suits the bike's cruising nature.
Low Rider ST & Low Rider S: Performance-Oriented Cruisers
- High Output Variant: 114 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque, delivering a more aggressive ride.
- Inverted Front Forks: Improve handling and front-end stability.
- Low Rider ST vs. S:
- ST: Features a club-style fixed fairing and saddlebags for light touring.
- S: A more stripped-down, performance-driven variant.
- Ergonomics: At 5'8", I found the bars well-placed and mid-controls comfortable, but longer trips might benefit from forward controls.
Heritage Classic: The Underrated Tourer
- Classic Styling: Traditional Harley look with leather saddlebags and a detachable windshield.
- Most Comfortable Seat in the Cruiser Lineup: Ideal for long rides.
- Perfect for Touring: Though classified as a cruiser, it's a mid-level touring bike with great wind protection and relaxed ergonomics.
CHECK OUT OUR HUNDREDS OF FREE HELPFUL VIDEOS ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL AND SUBSCRIBE!
Safety & Rider Aids
Advanced Rider Safety Enhancements
All 2025 Harley-Davidson cruisers come with modern rider safety aids:
- Cornering & Straight-Line ABS & Traction Control
- ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System)
- Drag-Torque Slip Control
I had the chance to test these features in controlled conditions, and they proved highly effective in preventing full loss of traction.
Upgraded Handlebar Controls
- Cruise Control Now Standard across all cruiser models.
- Refined Switch Housings: Mode selection, turn signals, and traction control toggles are more intuitive.
Cable Clutch vs. Hydraulic Clutch
Harley continues to use cable-operated clutches, which require periodic adjustments. While functional, I strongly prefer the consistency of a hydraulic system, which would be a welcome upgrade in future models.
Final Thoughts: Which 2025 Harley Cruiser is Right for You?
Best for Performance Riders: Low Rider ST / Low Rider S
- If you prioritize aggressive handling, power, and sportier ergonomics, these models are for you.
Best for Classic Cruiser Fans With Windshield: Heritage Classic
- If comfort, traditional styling, and a versatile ride are your priorities, this is an excellent choice.
Best for Aggressive Styling & Chopper Look: Breakout 117
- If you want bold styling with a fat rear tire and strong acceleration, the Breakout is a head-turner.
Best Entry-Level Cruiser: Street Bob 117
- A lightweight, easy-handling bike with great ergonomics for shorter riders.
Best for All-Day Comfort Without A Windshield: Fat Boy 117
- With its plush seat and floorboards, the Fat Boy is perfect for relaxed cruising.
Conclusion
After two full days of testing the 2025 Harley-Davidson cruiser lineup, it's clear that each model caters to different riding styles. Whether you're looking for a performance machine, a laid-back cruiser, or something in between, Harley's 2025 lineup has something for everyone.
If you found this review helpful, be sure to check out my in-depth video review on YouTube below, where I take each of these bikes for a test ride and break down their features even further!
The 2025 Harley-Davidson cruiser lineup has arrived, and I had the opportunity to test ride and review six models in Austin, Texas. At first glance, the changes may seem minor, but after extensive hands-on experience, I can confidently say that each bike offers a unique riding experience. Whether you're a seasoned rider or looking to purchase your first cruiser, this guide will help you choose the right model for your needs.
NEW FREE VIDEO RELEASED:
Sponsor-Ciro 3D
- CLICK HERE!
- Innovative products for Harley-Davidson & Goldwing
- Affordable chrome, lighting, and comfort products
- Ciro 3D has a passion for design and innovation
Sponsor-Butt Buffer
- CLICK HERE
- Want to ride longer?
- Tired of a sore and achy ass?
- Then fix it with a high-quality Butt Buffer seat cushion?
New Patrons:
- Dave Miller of Canton, Ohio
- Gary Gros of Waveland, Mississippi
- Norrie Masson
- Mike Selberg of Yakima, Washington
- Kawika Manaba of Dublin, California
- Jeremy Korbal of CDA, Idaho
HELP SUPPORT US! JOIN THE BIKER REVOLUTION! #BikerRevolution #LawAbidingBiker #Bikaholics #RyanUrlacher
🛒 SHOP IN THE LAW ABIDING BIKER STORE 🛒
https://shop.lawabidingbiker.com
😎 BECOME A MEMBER AND GET BENEFITS 😎
https://www.patreon.com/lawabidingbiker
📹 GET PREMIUM MOTORCYCLE TUTORIAL VIDEOS 📹
https://www.lawabidingbiker.com/buyvideos
🎬 WATCH OUR MOTORCYCLE DOCUMENTARY FILMS HERE🎬
https://www.lawabidingbiker.com/motorcycle-documentary-films
💰LEAVE A FLAT DONATION 💰
https://www.lawabidingbiker.com/donate
📱SHOP AMAZON RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS 📱
https://www.amazon.com/shop/ryanurlacher
📺 SUBSCRIBE TO OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL 📺
https://goo.gl/EtxUnW
🎙CHECK OUT THE WEEKLY PODCAST 🎙
https://www.lawabidingbiker.com/app
ⓕ FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK ⓕ
https://www.facebook.com/lawabidingbiker
🐦 FOLLOW US ON TWITTER 🐦
https://twitter.com/LawAbidingBiker
📷 FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM 📷
https://www.instagram.com/LawAbidingBiker
🙈 FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK 🙈
https://www.tiktok.com/@lawabidingbiker
Fler avsnitt från "Law Abiding Biker | Street Biker Motorcycle Podcast"
Missa inte ett avsnitt av “Law Abiding Biker | Street Biker Motorcycle Podcast” och prenumerera på det i GetPodcast-appen.