Expert analysis of the 2026 lineup: Milwaukee-Eight 117 performance, new safety tech, and model-by-model breakdowns.
For 2026, Harley-Davidson has fundamentally redefined the American cruiser market by making the Milwaukee-Eight® 117 V-Twin engine the standard powertrain across the entire core cruiser lineup. This is not a minor update; it is a democratization of high performance. Riders no longer have to upgrade to a CVO™ or special edition to experience the massive torque and adrenaline of the 117 cubic inch platform.
From the stripped-down Street Bob® to the high-performance Low Rider® ST, every 2026 cruiser on the Colonial Harley-Davidson showroom floor arrives with 117 cubic inches (1,923cc) of muscle. This upgrade is paired with a comprehensive suite of electronic rider safety enhancements now standard across the range, ensuring that this increase in power is matched by an increase in control.
2026 Harley-Davidson® Cruiser Motorcycles are perfect for those who value a blend of style, comfort, and performance. Style and comfort complement superior performance of the 2026 Harley-Davidson® Cruiser Motorcycles. With their relaxed riding position, easy handling, and smooth ride, cruisers are ideal for both short city commutes and weekend journeys. They offer easy handling and a smooth ride, making them a great choice for new riders and seasoned enthusiasts alike.
The shift from the 114 to the 117 engine represents a significant leap in ride dynamics.
Torque Everywhere: The 117 engine produces approximately 125+ ft-lbs of torque, depending on the specific tune. This translates to effortless passing power at highway speeds and blistering acceleration from stoplights.
Air/Oil Cooling: Unlike the liquid-cooled Revolution Max engines, the cruiser lineup retains the classic air/oil-cooled architecture. Precision oil cooling targets the hottest areas of the cylinder heads, maintaining performance consistency in stop-and-go traffic without sacrificing the traditional V-Twin aesthetic.
Tuned for Character: Harley-Davidson has tuned the 117 differently for specific models. The Street Bob and Heritage Classic feature a broad, flat torque curve for smooth cruising, while the Low Rider S/ST get a “High Output” tune with a tuned heavy breather intake for aggressive, high-RPM riding.
Previously optional or reserved for touring models, Harley-Davidson has standardized a sophisticated safety suite for 2026 cruisers:
Cornering ABS (C-ABS): Modulates brake pressure based on lean angle to prevent tire slip in turns.
Cornering Traction Control (C-TCS): Prevents the rear wheel from spinning out if you apply too much throttle while leaned over.
Drag-Torque Slip Control (DSCS): eliminates rear-wheel hop during aggressive downshifts or rapid deceleration.
The entry point to big power. The Street Bob remains the lightest Softail equipped with the 117 engine, giving it an incredible power-to-weight ratio.
Solo Trim Strategy: For 2026, the Street Bob is available in a “Solo Trim” package (no passenger seat/pegs) starting at $14,999. This aggressive pricing makes it the most accessible way to own a Milwaukee-Eight 117.
Ride Character: With mini-ape handlebars and mid-controls, it offers a “fists in the wind” attitude perfect for urban riding and customization.
West Coast performance, factory refined. These models are the kings of the performance cruiser segment.
Suspension: Both models feature a taller monoshock with 56mm of stroke, raising the rear ride height. This increases lean angle (31.3 degrees) and suspension travel for better absorption of road imperfections.
The ST Advantage: The Low Rider ST adds a frame-mounted fairing and removable hard saddlebags. It is a sport-touring machine capable of cross-country travel without the bulk of a full-size bagger.
New Colors: Look for the stunning White Onyx Pearl and aggressive Blood Orange options for 2026.
Long, low, and wide. The Breakout is a modern chopper designed to turn heads.
The Stance: Defined by a massive 240mm rear tire and a raked-out 34-degree front end.
Chrome vs. Black: Available in dazzling chrome finishes that highlight the V-Twin engine, or darker custom options.
Ride Dynamics: While the wide rear tire requires more input to turn, it provides immense straight-line stability and drag-strip presence.
The icon returns. The bike that defined the “fat custom” look gets the 117 upgrade.
Signature Features: Solid aluminum “Lakester” wheels and a 160mm front tire give the Fat Boy its steamroller presence.
2026 Updates: A new vintage-inspired tank medallion and military-inspired Olive Steel Metallic paint option give it a rugged, industrial aesthetic.
Vintage style, modern muscle. The quintessential American cruiser.
Versatility: Features a detachable windshield and lockable, water-resistant saddlebags. It converts from a touring bike to a stripped-down boulevard cruiser in seconds.
Value: Like the Street Bob, a new “Solo Trim” option is available, removing the passenger seat and windshield for a lower entry price ($19,999 approx) and a cleaner look.
The new pricing strategy on the Street Bob and Heritage Classic allows you to buy the bike you want for less, then customize it exactly to your needs using the savings.
Customization: Use the price difference to add a Saddlemen seat, specific passenger pegs, or a Screamin’ Eagle exhaust right at the time of purchase
The Milwaukee-Eight 117 is a high-performance machine.
Tires: The increased torque can accelerate rear tire wear. Colonial H-D’s Express Lane Service allows for quick tire changes and fluid checks without an appointment, keeping you on the road.
1,000-Mile Service: Critical for the new powertrain. Includes checking all critical fasteners and changing the break-in oil.
Yes. The Milwaukee-Eight 117 is now the standard engine for the Street Bob, Low Rider S/ST, Breakout, Fat Boy, and Heritage Classic, replacing the previous 114 engine options.
The Solo Trim Package is a new factory option for the Street Bob and Heritage Classic. It removes passenger amenities (seat/pegs) and windshields (on Heritage) to lower the MSRP, offering a “blank canvas” for riders at a better price point ($14,999 for Street Bob).
No, the frame-mounted fairing design remains the same, but the bike receives new paint options like White Onyx Pearl and Blood Orange, along with the updated safety electronics suite standard.
The 2026 Street Bob with the Milwaukee-Eight 117 produces approximately 98-103 horsepower and roughly 125 ft-lbs of torque, offering a significant performance increase over the previous 114 model.
For 2026, Harley-Davidson has standardized the Milwaukee-Eight® 117 engine across the entire cruiser portfolio, replacing the 114. The lineup also features standard Cornering Rider Safety Enhancements (C-ABS, C-TCS) and new “Solo Trim” pricing options for the Street Bob and Heritage Classic to improve affordability.
The Street Bob 117 ($14,999) is the value leader, offering raw power in a lightweight, stripped-down bobber package. The Low Rider S ($19,999+) is the performance leader, featuring inverted front forks, dual front disc brakes, and a taller rear suspension for aggressive handling. Choose the Street Bob for customization and value; choose the Low Rider S for canyon carving and speed.
The 2026 lineup isn’t just an update; it’s a statement. Experience the difference of the Milwaukee-Eight 117 for yourself. Whether you want the stripped-down aggression of the Street Bob or the long-haul speed of the Low Rider ST, Colonial Harley-Davidson has the inventory and the expertise to get you on the road.
Visit Us: 1701 Temple Parkway, Prince George, VA 23875 Sales & Service: 804.861.4700