Harley-Davidson Freewheeler 2018 — Specifications

Imagine a trike that is more than just a motorcycle tricycle, but that displays a clearly rebellious character. This is the Harley Davidson Freewheeler, a machine that changed the game in Europe upon its arrival in 2018, notably with the introduction of the Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine. It doesn't resemble its big brother, the Tri Glide Ultra, often likened to a land yacht. The Freewheeler, on the other hand, has the spirit of a hot rod. Its lines are streamlined, stripped of superfluous luxuries, and its wet weight of 507 kg represents a notable relief compared to other Harley trikes. This approach also translates to a more accessible price tag, around €30,000 at the time, a difference that attracts a different audience.

The heart of this machine is its Milwaukee-Eight 1747 cc V2 engine. With 87 horsepower and, above all, a torque of 150 Nm available from 3250 rpm, it doesn't seek ultimate performance but authority. The sensation is one of constant traction, a propulsion that relies more on the engine's muscularity than on its rotational speed. On the road, with its wheelbase of 1670 mm and its 205/65 rear tire, the Freewheeler offers unparalleled stability. But what surprises, for a trike, is its relative agility. The 12-inch mini-ape handlebar and a seat height of 700 mm give a more engaged, almost classic custom riding position, which breaks with the sometimes sluggish image of trikes. Consumption, around 6 liters per 100 km, is reasonable for such a displacement.

What is appealing about this Harley Davidson Freewheeler, especially if you are considering a used Freewheeler, is its dual positioning. It opens the doors to the trike world for B license holders, offering a safe and spectacular alternative. But it also targets the Harley purist traveler who wants the custom spirit without the compromises of a two-wheeled machine, with the practicality of an integrated trunk capable of holding two helmets. Compared to a Honda Gold Wing or even other trikes on the market, the 2018 or 2019 Freewheeler stands out for its less luxurious, more raw attitude. Its braking system, with a six-piston double disc at the front, is effective, but weight remains a factor to master during low-speed maneuvers.

In conclusion, the Harley Davidson Freewheeler is an intelligent proposition. It is not the most versatile or fastest motorcycle trike, its top speed being around 170 km/h. But it captures the essence of the American custom with a dose of pragmatism. For those seeking a massive presence, abundant torque, and the Harley identity without the hassle of balancing on two wheels, this machine finds its audience. Reviews of the Freewheeler often converge on this point: it is a machine with character, which imposes its style on the road. A Harley Davidson Freewheeler trike test ride remains the best way to understand if this fusion between hot rod and trike corresponds to your vision of freedom.