Cruisers

2018Harley-Davidson Softail Slim

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The 2018 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim appeals to riders seeking classic styling with modern performance. Powered by the Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine and featuring a low 26-inch seat height, it excels as an accessible cruiser for both experienced and newer riders. Known for its iconic retro design and manageable weight, this bike balances authentic Harley character with everyday ridability.

Capacity: 1746.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Dry weight: 291.0 kg
Seat height: 660 mm
Power: 86.0 HP (62.8 kW) @ 5020 RPM

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What’s new for the 2018 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim

vs the 2017

Spec	2017	2018
Engine capacity	1688.0 ccm (103.01 cubic inches)	1746.0 ccm (106.55 cubic inches)
Power	75.0 HP (54.7 kW) @ 5020 RPM	86.0 HP (62.8 kW) @ 5020 RPM
Torque	126.0 Nm (12.8 kgf-m or 92.9 ft.lbs) @ 3000 RPM	145.0 Nm (14.8 kgf-m or 106.9 ft.lbs) @ 3000 RPM
Dry weight	308.0 kg (679.0 pounds)	291.0 kg (641.5 pounds)
Wet weight	321.0 kg (707.7 pounds)	304.0 kg (670.2 pounds)
Seat height	650 mm (25.6 inches)	660 mm (26.0 inches)
Compression	9.6:1	10.0:1

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 660mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2018 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 →

Range and running costs

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Units

Currency

Fuel per litre

Riding a year

Based on the maker's published fuel consumption and tank size. Real-world figures depend on how and where you ride, and the last litres of a tank are reserve. Prices shown greyed are examples - type your own.

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 1746.0 ccm
Power: 86.0 HP (62.8 kW) @ 5020 RPM
CO2 Emissions: 128 CO2 g/km
Torque: 145.0 Nm (14.8 kgf-m) @ 3000 RPM
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Fuel consumption: 5.50 litres/100 km (18.2 km/l)
Power/weight ratio: 0.2955 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 100.0 x 111.1 mm
Compression: 10.0:1
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric

Transmission

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

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1630 mm
Overall length: 2310 mm
Seat height: 660 mm
Dry weight: 291.0 kg
Wet weight: 304.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 18.90 litres
Ground clearance: 120 mm
Oil capacity: 3.30 litres

Chassis & suspension

Front suspension: Telescopic fork
Rear suspension: Twin shocks
Rake (fork angle): 30.0°
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: 130/90-B16
Rear tyre: 150/80-B16

Other

Color options: Vivid Black, Black Denim, Industrial Gray Denim, Wicked Red, Bonneville Salt Denim

Specs last verified against published sources: October 2026.

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	2018	2019	2021
Capacity	1688 cc	1688 cc	1688 cc	1746 cc	1746 cc	1746 cc
Dry weight	304 kg	304 kg	308 kg	291 kg	291 kg	291 kg
Seat height	605 mm	650 mm	650 mm	660 mm	660 mm	648 mm
Fuel capacity	18.9 L	18.9 L	18.9 L	18.9 L	18.9 L	18.9 L

Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.

Rider Reviews

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MotorcycleDB

The 2018 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim is a classic American cruiser motorcycle that offers a powerful and comfortable ride. With its timeless design and modern performance features, the Softail Slim is a standout option for riders looking for a reliable and stylish bike. The Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine provides plenty of power for the open road, while the Softail chassis and suspension offer a smooth and responsive ride. The low-slung stance and retro-inspired design make the Softail Slim a head-turner, and the customizable options allow riders to make this bike their own.

In conclusion, the 2018 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim is a top-notch cruiser motorcycle that offers both style and performance. Its classic design and modern features make it a standout option for riders who want a reliable and stylish bike for their adventures on the road. Whether you're cruising through the city streets or hitting the open highway, the Softail Slim delivers a comfortable and powerful ride that is sure to impress.

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