What Is The Difference Between A Hardtail And Softail?
What Is The Difference Between A Hardtail And Softail?
Harley Davidson is a leader in the motorcycle industry to this day because of their innovative tech and fantastic designs. One of their greatest contributions to the motorcycle industry was the development of Softail motorcycles in 1983 and things have never been the same since. There are now two main types of motorcycles: Softail and hardtail. These two different motorcycles may appear only so in aesthetics but there is much more to hardtail and softail. The following are the differences between softail and hardtail motorcycle frames:
Hardtail vs Softail Design
The hardtail motorcycle frame design was the only choice until Harley-Davidson introduced the softail. A hardtail design means that a motorcycle only has one frame with a single suspension for the front and back wheels.
The hardtail design is quite simple as everything is contained in one frame. It is hence easy for manufacturers to make.
On the other hand, the softail frame design means the frame has two suspensions, one for the front and one for the back. The softail contains the rear suspension in a small frame near the rear end of the bike. The separate rear tire suspension allows for more impact resistance.
As you can tell from most Harley-Davidson bikes where the rider can sit back, as opposed to leaning forward for most bikes, rear wheel suspension is necessary to handle the extra load. The softail design also means a swingarm. The swingarm is the part of the frame that connects the front and rear suspension.
The primary difference between the hardtail and softail design is the ride as the rear suspension makes for a better ride.
Hardtail Pros and Cons
Hardtail frames are becoming rarer which can give them the distinct honour of being considered a classic or vintage motorcycle. The scarcity of hardtail frames also means they cost more and are hence more prestigious. However, generally speaking, hardtail motorcycles are cheaper than softail motorcycles as they are easier to manufacture.
The con of a hardtail frame is that it is a rigid frame. Therefore, it results in a bumpy ride as riders can feel all the bumps on the road. The design is also hard on the body on long-distance rides.
Softail Pros and Cons
The primary pro of softail frames, as with many Harley-Davidson motorcycles, is comfort. Due to their added suspension, they can absorb more bumps and turbulence. Therefore, riders can ride for a long distance without vibration fatigue.
Softails are more expensive to manufacture than hardtails meaning they cost more. However, they can contribute to a reduced experience as you do not feel as much of the road in a softail as with a hardtail.
The debate of softail vs hardtail forever rages on among riders. Harley-Davidson motorcycles changed the game with softail frames and continue to do so. Knowing the pros and cons of each will help you choose a motorcycle of your liking.