Harley-Davidson Heritage Classic 117 2026 — Specifications

The Heritage Classic is far less "classic" than it appears. If Harley continues to give it that incredibly appealing look of a timeless retro custom, it would surprise more than a few people with the level of onboard technology. 2025 brought a larger engine and much more.

Enthusiasts will quickly realize that the most vintage-looking Softail is transitioning into modernity. Already, the spoked wheels are no longer standard (but still available as an option), and the exhaust systems are combined into a single muffler.

Conversely, the air filter box returns to its former rounded shape. A sly throwback! Because beyond it, the airflow transits to a noticeably reworked block. Cylinder heads reworked, intake optimized, cooling revised...... the Milwaukee Eight is modernizing and increasing in displacement. It is here in its 117 Classic version - 117 for the displacement in Cubic Inches, which is 1923 cm3 (55 cm3 more than the previous model) / Classic is a configuration prioritizing ease of driving and a linear torque curve.

Indeed, the muscle is up. By a little: the M8 delivers 156 Nm, which is... 1 Nm more. Not transcendent at first glance, but the peak torque is available 500 rpm earlier, at 2,750 rpm. More torque distributed in the lower registers; these are sensations that arrive faster. The horsepower takes a hit, dropping from 94 to 91 horsepower. This enormous twin will deliver even more pronounced bursts of power, but more in terms of force than vibrations. Let's remember that the Big Block M8 has become much more refined than its predecessors in terms of vibrations.

But where the Heritage takes the lead over its classicism, it's on the electronics side. The previous model only had ABS as a riding assistance feature. The new one upgrades it to Cornering mode. Three riding modes appear: Rain - Road - Sport, each acting differently on the angle-sensitive traction control, power delivery, engine braking management, and C-ABS. Tire pressure monitoring is also installed - cruise control was already present on the previous model. To access and interact with these new systems, Harley installs new switchgear, a redesigned dashboard; and adds as a bonus small comfort items such as a USB-C port and an adjustable brake lever.

Yet, above all that, the motorcycle manages to claim an identity worthy of the depths of America. It tells a story all its own. Custom for some, cruiser for others, almost a tourer in the end, it is certainly the most travel-oriented of the Softail models. And not just that. At its handlebars or in the village square, it assumes and ensures an attractive power imbued with the scents of yesteryear.

For the uninhibited, there's the Fat Bob; for her, it's the horizon. And in its mirrors, one can glimpse the Hydra Glide from the mid-century. Fortunately, its technical underpinnings are much more up-to-date. Because in addition to its current electronics, the Heritage Classic completely revised its chassis and mechanics a few years ago.

Engine vigor; and driving bravery. It was time to move up a level for road efficiency. The frame benefits from a major overhaul to demonstrate superior efficiency. With a design requiring fewer welds and fewer parts, the carbon steel assembly gains weight and rigidity (+65%). A larger, more rigid fork works in concert with a shock absorber positioned between the seat and the top of the swingarm. The dual shocks under the engine are gone. Like all Softail models, it announces better ground clearance and better handling. In 2025, all these improvements are reinforced by a suspension readjustment (via new springs) for better balance.

This chapter of the Heritage also includes a revised comfort paragraph with lockable watertight rigid saddlebags and a retouched, half-tinted black windshield. Nice for style, but what about visibility? Except that the rider and the Heritage are one step above such considerations.

M.B (photos manufacturer)