Harley-Davidson Softail Street Bob [2021-2022] Review: The Essence of Modern American Cruising

Introduction

The Harley-Davidson Softail Street Bob has long been a canvas for riders seeking raw, unapologetic American cruiser DNA. For the 2021-2022 generation, Harley-Davidson refined this icon with modern engineering while keeping its soul intact. As a Motorcycle & Motojournalism Specialist for MOTOPARTS.store, I recently spent a week with a 2022 Street Bob 114 to dissect what makes this machine tick—and why it remains a cornerstone of cruiser culture.

This isn’t just a motorcycle; it’s a statement. From its chopped fenders to its Milwaukee-Eight® 114 engine, the Street Bob walks the tightrope between minimalist design and muscle-bound performance. Let’s dive into why this generation continues to captivate riders—and where it leaves room for your personal touch through aftermarket upgrades.

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Design & Aesthetics: Industrial Poetry

The Street Bob’s design philosophy screams “less is more,” but Harley-Davidson’s execution elevates it to art. The 2021-2022 models feature a stripped-down profile with a 13.2-liter (3.49-gallon) teardrop fuel tank, blacked-out Annihilator cast aluminum wheels (2022) or steel-laced rims (2021), and a solo saddle seat at 655 mm (25.8 inches). The absence of superfluous bodywork puts the focus squarely on its mechanical heart—a V-twin engine that looks like it was hewn from solid steel.

Key design upgrades for this generation:
- LED lighting across the board, from the circular headlamp to the minimalist tail light
- A 2.14-inch LCD display (speedometer, gear indicator, fuel range) discreetly mounted atop the handlebars
- Color options like Gauntlet Grey Metallic (2022) and Baja Orange (2021) that pop without sacrificing the bike’s tough-guy persona

The 2320 mm (91.3-inch) overall length and 1630 mm (64.2-inch) wheelbase give it a planted stance, while the 125 mm (4.9-inch) ground clearance reminds you this isn’t a corner-carving sportbike. Yet, there’s an undeniable elegance in how the 2-into-2 offset shotgun exhaust follows the bike’s lines like a tailor-made suit.

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Performance: Thunder Down Low, Comfort Up High

The Milwaukee-Eight® 114 Heartbeat

At 1868cc (114 cubic inches), this air-cooled V-twin isn’t just big—it’s brutish. The numbers tell part of the story:
- 161.4 Nm (119 lb-ft) of torque peaking at 3000 RPM
- Compression ratio of 10.5:1 for responsive low-end grunt
- Fuel consumption of 5.0 L/100km (47 mpg)—reasonable for a beast this size

Twist the throttle, and the Street Bob lunges forward with the urgency of a freight train. The 6-speed transmission (with belt final drive) is slick, though the clutch requires a firm pull—a small price for that mechanical engagement. At highway speeds, the engine settles into a relaxed 2500 RPM in sixth gear, its vibes more of a massage than a annoyance.

Ride & Handling: A Study in Contradictions

Harley made subtle but critical suspension tweaks between 2021 and 2022:
- 2021: Twin rear shocks with preload adjustment
- 2022: Hidden monoshock with cam-style preload (43mm stroke)

Both setups pair with a 49mm telescopic front fork, but the 2022’s rear monoshock better isolates bumps without losing that “connected” cruiser feel. The 30-degree rake and 157mm (6.2-inch) trail make steering surprisingly nimble for a 297 kg (655 lb) bike. Still, this is a machine that prefers sweeping curves to tight switchbacks.

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Ergonomics: The Rider’s Throne

The Street Bob’s ergonomics cater to the upright cruiser stance, though taller riders might find the mid-mounted controls a touch cramped. The 655mm (25.8-inch) seat is firm yet supportive—perfect for hour-long rides but begging for an aftermarket upgrade on longer hauls. Handlebars are a comfortable reach, putting minimal strain on shoulders even at low speeds.

Where this bike shines is urban agility. The narrow handlebars and 19-inch front wheel (100/90-B19 tire) make filtering through traffic feel effortless. At stops, the 286 kg (631 lb) dry weight is manageable thanks to a low center of gravity—though parking lot maneuvers still demand respect.

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Competition: How the Street Bob Stacks Up

The modern cruiser segment is fiercely competitive. Here’s how Harley’s Street Bob holds its ground:

1. Indian Scout Bobber

• Pros: Lighter (251 kg / 553 lb), liquid-cooled engine, more cornering clearance
• Cons: Less torque (97 Nm / 72 lb-ft), lacks Harley’s customization ecosystem
• Street Bob Edge: Characterful engine, superior aftermarket support via MOTOPARTS.store

2. Yamaha Bolt R-Spec

• Pros: Affordable, nimble, 942cc V-twin
• Cons: Outgunned in power (80 hp vs Street Bob’s 95 hp/70 kW)
• Street Bob Edge: Authentic cruiser presence, premium finish

3. Triumph Bonneville Bobber

• Pros: Retro-modern design, superior suspension, 1200cc parallel-twin
• Cons: Higher price point, less low-end torque
• Street Bob Edge: Traditional V-twin thump, easier customization

The Street Bob’s ace card remains its engine personality and Harley-Davidson’s unparalleled aftermarket network. While competitors often prioritize modernity, this Harley keeps one foot firmly in cruiser tradition.

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Maintenance: Keeping the Thunder Alive

As a MOTOPARTS.store specialist, I’ll spotlight key maintenance aspects—and upgrades to consider:

Fluids & Filters

• Engine oil: 4.7L (5 US quarts) of SAE 20W-50 (change every 5,000 km / 3,100 miles)
• Primary chaincase oil: 1.0L (1.06 quarts) SAE 80W-90
• Spark plugs: NGK CR9EB (standard) or CR9EIX iridium for longer life

Critical Wear Items

• Tires: Stock Dunlop® Harley-Davidson Series (100/90-B19 front, 150/80-B16 rear) last ~10,000 km (6,200 miles). Consider Metzeler Cruisetec for better wet grip.
• Brake pads: Swap organic pads for sintered metal (better heat resistance) if riding two-up.
• Belt drive: Inspect every 16,000 km (10,000 miles) for cracks. Upgrade to a reinforced belt for heavy loads.

Common Upgrades

1. Suspension: Progressive Suspension 444 series shocks (2021 models) or Öhlins STX46 monoshock (2022)
2. Seat: Mustang Solo Tripper for all-day comfort
3. Exhaust: Vance & Hines Twin Slash staggered short shots (check local noise laws!)
4. Lighting: Custom Dynamics LED turn signals for enhanced visibility

Pro Tip: Always use DOT 4 brake fluid and check the 34/46 sprocket alignment during chain maintenance (if converted from belt drive).

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Final Verdict: A Canvas for Individuality

The 2021-2022 Harley-Davidson Softail Street Bob isn’t just transportation—it’s a partnership. Its Milwaukee-Eight® 114 engine delivers tectonic torque, while its minimalist design invites personalization. Yes, the suspension could be plusher, and the seat gets punitive after 90 minutes. But these aren’t flaws; they’re opportunities to tailor the bike to your soul.

At MOTOPARTS.store, we see Street Bob owners as our kindred spirits—riders who understand that perfection isn’t bought off the showroom floor. It’s built, one upgrade at a time. Whether you’re bolting on a new air cleaner or swapping the exhaust, this Harley rewards those who make it their own.

So, is the Street Bob the “best” cruiser? No. But for those who crave authenticity with modern muscle, it’s damn near irresistible.

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Specifications sheet

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