2018–2020 Harley-Davidson Softail Milwaukee-Eight 107 (FXLR Low Rider)

The 2018–2020 Harley-Davidson Softail Milwaukee-Eight 107 (FXLR Low Rider) marks a pivotal chapter in the history of one of the brand’s most iconic nameplates. Introduced as part of a complete overhaul of Harley-Davidson’s cruiser lineup, the FXLR transitioned the Low Rider from the outgoing Dyna platform to the newly engineered Softail chassis. This move consolidated two of the company’s “big twin” families, aiming to blend the classic hardtail aesthetic of the Softail with the performance-oriented handling characteristics that Dyna loyalists cherished. The result was a motorcycle that honored its 1970s heritage while being thoroughly modern in its engineering and ride quality.

A New Platform: From Dyna to Softail

The most significant change for the 2018 Low Rider was its departure from the Dyna frame, which had defined the model for decades. The traditional Dyna chassis was characterized by its twin external coil-over shock absorbers and a rubber-mounted engine that isolated vibrations from the rider. In contrast, the redesigned Softail platform introduced a lighter, significantly stiffer frame that hid a single monoshock absorber beneath the seat.

This new design offered several key advantages. The monoshock, adjustable for preload, provided a more controlled and sophisticated ride than the old twin shocks, while preserving the clean, uninterrupted lines of a vintage “hardtail” frame. Furthermore, the new chassis geometry and increased stiffness allowed for greater lean angles and more responsive, predictable handling. The Milwaukee-Eight engine was solid-mounted to the frame, contributing to its structural rigidity. To manage engine vibrations—a task previously handled by rubber mounts—the new engine featured dual internal counterbalancers, resulting in a smoother experience, especially at highway speeds, without eliminating the signature Harley-Davidson feel at idle.

The Milwaukee-Eight 107 Powertrain

At the heart of the new Low Rider was the Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine. Displacing 107 cubic inches (1,746 cc), this air- and oil-cooled V-Twin was a major step up from the Twin Cam engine it replaced. Featuring four valves per cylinder (eight total, hence the name), a single chain-driven camshaft, and dual spark plugs per cylinder, the engine was designed for improved power, torque, and thermal efficiency.

Riders immediately noticed the engine’s strong low-end torque, which provided brisk acceleration from a stop. The dual counterbalancers made the powertrain feel more refined, reducing the fatiguing vibrations of its predecessors while retaining the pulse that riders expect. The engine was paired with a six-speed Cruise Drive transmission, offering smooth shifts and relaxed RPMs for highway cruising.

Design and Ergonomics of the 2018–2020 Harley-Davidson Softail Milwaukee-Eight 107 (FXLR Low Rider)

Visually, the FXLR Low Rider was a direct homage to its 1977 ancestor, the FXS Low Rider. It embraced its retro roots with several key styling cues. The most prominent feature was the tank-mounted instrument cluster, featuring a classic analog speedometer and tachometer. The bike also sported a distinctive headlight “eyebrow,” pull-back handlebars, mid-mount foot controls, and bold 1970s-inspired graphics on the fuel tank.

The ergonomics were classic cruiser. The combination of the pull-back bars, low 27.2-inch solo seat, and mid-mount controls placed the rider in an upright, commanding position suitable for both city riding and day trips. The cast aluminum “Radiate” wheels—19 inches in the front and 16 inches in the rear—further cemented its custom cruiser aesthetic.

Chassis, Suspension, and Handling

Beyond the stiffer frame, the 2018–2020 Low Rider benefited from a completely updated suspension system. The front featured a Showa Dual Bending Valve (SDBV) fork, which provided linear damping characteristics and a more composed ride over various road surfaces compared to the older cartridge-style forks. The rear monoshock offered tool-free preload adjustment, allowing riders to easily tune the suspension for their weight or for carrying a passenger.

This combination of a rigid chassis, modern suspension, and the solid-mounted engine transformed the bike’s handling dynamics. It felt more planted in corners and offered a level of agility that surpassed its Dyna predecessor, encouraging a more spirited riding style while remaining comfortable and stable for relaxed cruising.

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2018-2020 Harley-Davidson Low Rider (FXLR) Specifications