2018–2021 Harley-Davidson Softail Milwaukee-Eight 107 (FLHC Heritage Classic)

The 2018–2021 Harley-Davidson Softail Milwaukee-Eight 107 (FLHC Heritage Classic) marks a pivotal chapter in the storied history of Harley-Davidson’s cruiser lineup. Launched as part of a complete ground-up redesign of the Softail platform, this model blended quintessential mid-century American iron aesthetics with a thoroughly modern chassis and powertrain. It represented a deliberate move by the company to consolidate its Big Twin offerings, merging the classic hidden-suspension look of the Softail with the improved performance and handling characteristics previously associated with the discontinued Dyna family. The result was a motorcycle that honored its heritage while delivering a significantly enhanced riding experience.

Redesign and Platform Consolidation

For the 2018 model year, Harley-Davidson undertook its most extensive research and development project in company history, culminating in a completely new Softail frame. This new chassis was significantly lighter and stiffer than its predecessor, providing a more responsive and dynamic ride. The most notable change was the move from the traditional twin under-engine shocks to a single, easily adjustable monoshock concealed beneath the seat. This fundamental change allowed for increased cornering clearance, improved damping performance, and a more comfortable ride without sacrificing the iconic hardtail look that defines the Softail line.

This new platform also served as the new home for the Milwaukee-Eight engine, which had debuted in Harley’s touring models the previous year. The introduction of the 107-cubic-inch V-Twin to the lighter Softail frame created a powerful and agile cruiser.

Differences from the Pre-2018 Model

The 2018 Heritage Classic was a dramatic departure from the Twin Cam-powered model it replaced. The key differences include:

Engine: The move from the Twin Cam 103B engine to the Milwaukee-Eight 107 brought significant performance gains. The new engine featured four valves per cylinder, dual spark plugs, and a higher compression ratio, resulting in quicker throttle response and a substantial increase in low-end torque. Furthermore, the Milwaukee-Eight incorporated dual internal counter-balancers, which drastically reduced idle vibration for a smoother experience without losing the characteristic V-twin feel.
Chassis and Suspension: The all-new frame was reportedly 34% stiffer and contributed to an overall weight reduction of up to 35 pounds (16 kg) on some models. The rear suspension was completely re-engineered, replacing the old twin shocks with a monoshock that offered more travel and could be adjusted for preload via a convenient knob, a major improvement over the spanner-wrench system of the previous generation.
* Styling and Features: While maintaining its classic silhouette with full fenders, a large detachable windscreen, and leather-trimmed saddlebags, the 2018-2021 model adopted a darker, more modern aesthetic. It shed much of the chrome and decorative studs of its predecessor in favor of blacked-out components on the engine, forks, and console. Modern amenities became standard, including a signature LED forward-lighting system, keyless ignition, and electronic cruise control.

The Harley-Davidson Softail Milwaukee-Eight 107 Engine

At the heart of the FLHC Heritage Classic is the Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine. This 107-cubic-inch (1746 cc) V-Twin is an air- and oil-cooled powerplant engineered for strong, accessible torque. It delivers its peak torque output low in the RPM range, making the bike feel responsive and powerful during acceleration from a stop and for highway passing maneuvers. The engine’s rigid mounting to the new Softail frame acts as a stressed member, further contributing to the chassis’s overall stiffness and enhancing the rider’s connection to the machine.

Chassis and Handling

The redesign of the Softail chassis fundamentally transformed the Heritage Classic’s handling dynamics. The increased frame stiffness and new suspension components allowed for a much greater lean angle, enabling more confident and spirited cornering. The front suspension features a Showa Dual Bending Valve (SDBV) fork, technology borrowed from racing that provides the performance of a cartridge-style fork with linear damping characteristics for a more controlled ride. Paired with the adjustable rear monoshock, the suspension system offered a blend of comfort for long-distance touring and capability for winding roads, making the bike far more versatile than its earlier iterations.

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2018-2021 FLHC Heritage Classic 107 Specifications