2017Harley-Davidson Softail Slim

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The 2017 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim is a stripped-down cruiser that appeals to riders seeking classic styling with modern reliability. Known for its minimalist design and comfortable low 650mm seat height, it combines authentic Harley character with manageable weight and fuel efficiency. The bike excels at leisurely cruising and city riding while maintaining the brand's iconic presence.

Capacity: 1688.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Dry weight: 308.0 kg
Seat height: 650 mm
Power: 75.0 HP (54.7 kW) @ 5020 RPM

⇄ Compare with another bike All model years

What’s new for the 2017 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim

vs the 2016

Spec	2016	2017
Power	78.9 HP (57.6 kW) @ 5250 RPM	75.0 HP (54.7 kW) @ 5020 RPM
Torque	133.0 Nm (13.6 kgf-m or 98.1 ft.lbs) @ 3000 RPM	126.0 Nm (12.8 kgf-m or 92.9 ft.lbs) @ 3000 RPM
Front brakes	Single disc. ABS. 4-piston	Single disc. Optional ABS. 4-piston
Rear brakes	Single disc. ABS. 2-piston	Single disc. Optional ABS. 2-piston

Other years 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering30%

City riding45%

Daily riding55%

Touring55%

Two-up45%

Track10%

Best for: Built for laid-back boulevard cruising and stylish weekend rides rather than outright performance.
Built for: A stripped-down, minimalist Softail with bobber styling, deep torque from the Milwaukee-Eight V-twin, and relaxed, low-slung ergonomics that reward smooth, unhurried riding.
Not ideal for: Not for riders seeking sharp cornering agility, off-road capability, or a light, flickable machine for tight technical roads.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 650mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2017 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim, with a cramped knee angle of around 70 degrees and an upright riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 750 mm or under — Short Kings →

Find bikes that fit your height →

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 1688.0 ccm
Power: 75.0 HP (54.7 kW) @ 5020 RPM
CO2 Emissions: 140 CO2 g/km
EPA Est. Fuel Consumption: 5.96 L/100km (39.5 US mpg)
EPA CO Emissions: 2.0 CO g/km
Torque: 126.0 Nm (12.8 kgf-m) @ 3000 RPM
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Fuel consumption: 5.60 litres/100 km (17.9 km/l)
Power/weight ratio: 0.2435 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 98.4 x 111.3 mm
Compression: 9.6:1
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
Valves per cylinder: 2

Transmission

Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Belt
Clutch: Multi-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1636 mm
Overall length: 2350 mm
Seat height: 650 mm
Dry weight: 308.0 kg
Wet weight: 321.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 18.90 litres
Ground clearance: 115 mm
Oil capacity: 3.30 litres

Chassis & suspension

Front suspension: Telescopic fork
Rear suspension: Twin shocks
Rake (fork angle): 31.0°
Trail: 147 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc. Optional ABS. 4-piston
Rear brakes: Single disc. Optional ABS. 2-piston
ABS: Optional
Front tyre: MT90-B16
Rear tyre: MU85-B16

Other

Color options: Chracoal Denim/Black Denim, Olive Gold, Vivid Black, Iron Red Denim, Black Denim.
Fuel Tank Material: Metal

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted

Specification	2013	2015	2017	2019	2021
Capacity	1688 cc	1688 cc	1688 cc	1746 cc	1746 cc
Dry weight	304 kg	304 kg	308 kg	291 kg	291 kg
Seat height	605 mm	650 mm	650 mm	660 mm	648 mm
Fuel capacity	18.9 L	18.9 L	18.9 L	18.9 L	18.9 L