Cruisers

1997Harley-Davidson Fat Boy

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The 1997 Harley-Davidson Fat Boy is an iconic cruiser that appeals to riders seeking classic American style and laid-back riding. Known for its distinctive solid-disc wheels, low-slung stance, and commanding 1338cc V-twin engine, it combines authentic cruiser character with reliable touring capability. This heavyweight custom delivers substantial low-end torque ideal for relaxed highway cruising and urban riding.

Capacity: 1338.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 284.0 kg
Seat height: 654 mm
Power: 55.0 HP (40.5 kW)

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What’s new for the 1997 Harley-Davidson Fat Boy

vs the 1996

Spec	1996	1997
Power	57.0 HP (41.9 kW)	55.0 HP (40.5 kW)
Top speed	—	155.0 km/h (96.3 mph)
Seat height	692 mm (27.2 inches)	654 mm (25.7 inches)

Other years 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2025 2026

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering30%

City riding45%

Daily riding55%

Touring40%

Two-up55%

Track10%

Best for: Built for boulevard cruising and making a bold visual statement rather than outright performance or long-distance touring.
Built for: A muscular, iconic cruiser with a fat rear tire stance, strong low-end torque, and unmistakable classic Harley presence.
Not ideal for: Not the right choice for riders seeking nimble cornering, off-road capability, or a lightweight, agile everyday commuter.

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 654mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 1997 Harley-Davidson Fat Boy, 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: 1338.0 ccm
Power: 55.0 HP (40.5 kW)
Torque: 97.0 Nm (9.9 kgf-m)
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.1937 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 88.8 x 108.0 mm
Compression: 8.5:1
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Valves per cylinder: 2

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Belt

Performance

Top speed: 155.0 km/h (96.3 mph)

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1651 mm
Overall length: 2365 mm
Overall width: 1016 mm
Seat height: 654 mm
Dry weight: 284.0 kg
Wet weight: 298.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 16.00 litres
Ground clearance: 125 mm

Chassis & suspension

Front suspension: Dual-bending valve 49 mm telescopic with aluminum fork triple clamps; dual rate spring; "beer can" covers
Rear suspension: Hidden, free piston, coil-over monoshock; 43mm stroke; hydraulic preload adjustment
Rake (fork angle): 30.0°
Trail: 104 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc
Rear brakes: Single disc
Front tyre: MT 90-16
Rear tyre: MT 90-16

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	1990	1994	1997	2014	2018	2026
Capacity	1337 cc	1337 cc	1338 cc	1690 cc	1746 cc	1923 cc
Dry weight	295 kg	295 kg	284 kg	284 kg	284 kg	284 kg
Seat height	673 mm	673 mm	654 mm	654 mm	654 mm	658 mm
Fuel capacity	16 L	16 L	16 L	—	—	18.9 L