Sneak Peek! – Three 2021 Harley Releases

2020 may not be going exactly how we all envisioned. But, we can surely make the best of the months ahead. 

Try your best to have a glass-half-full mentality. ChopperExchange has even seen some light at the end of the tunnel. Our buyer inquiries have increased by 42% during the pandemic.

But, we can’t blame you if you’re more than ready to enter into the new year. 

One thing we have to look forward to next year is the release of three brand-new Harleys! Harley-Davidson’s 2021 releases include a futuristic tourer, an electric model and a new custom. 

Each bike appears to be the start of a brand new model series! Are you ready to be amazed?! Our gut says that H-D won’t disappoint. 

To get a sneak peek of these three motorcycles, continue reading below! 

The Pan America™ 

Harley-Davidson describes this new bike as an adventure tourer. Judging by the description and photos on the H-D website, this motorcycle will have both on-road and off-road capabilities.

The Pan America is marketed as the perfect motorcycle for a cross-country adventure. It has a boxy chassis, which gives it a sporty futuristic look. Therefore, its style is drastically different from any traditional Harley. 

Its new-age design is comparable to the Livewire. However, judging by the photos of its twin-engine, this model will be fuel powered. 

But, what type of engine will it have? There is a logo with small text on the engine in the image. Unfortunately, what it says is blurry and undecipherable. So, we’ll just have to wait and see if this release will feature a brand-new engine model. 

For touring, you’ll need adequate storage space. In order to complement its futuristic look, the Pan-America has top box storage units that look like a cross between a storage trunk and a lockbox. And, if a traditional cruiser is a bagger, does that make the Pan America a boxer? : )

Each unit is, of course, secured to the bike, but the illusion is that all three boxes are sitting precariously on the rear chassis. These storage units are also removable.

There is also a photo of a mechanism on the front wheel, which has wires leading up to the chassis. Therefore, we believe that this model will feature one or more RDRS components (Reflex Defensive Rider Systems). 

One of the most commonly featured components on Harleys is ABS (Antilock Brake System). This could be especially useful for off-road adventures. 

Lastly, the Pan-America comes with a windshield, which if we know Harley well enough, it will be removable with quick release technology.

If you plan to go on more adventures in the new year, the Pan-America may be the motorcycle for you. Are you here for this new spin on a classic? 

Future High-Performance Custom Model

A new H-D custom is on its way! Take a peek of the prototype here on the H-D website. Well, what do you think?

This unreleased factory custom has a beefy, rugged look. It seems it may be a part of a new model series. 

Out of the 2020 models, it is most similar in shape and size to the Roadster and the Fat Bob 114. However, its “muscular stance” (as Harley describes it) is a bit reminiscent of the V-Rod.

Unlike the Pan America, we do have some info on the engine. According to the Harley-Davidson website, this future high-performance custom will have a 1250 cubic centimeter engine. However, the torque and rpm remain unannounced at this time. 

Its engine displacement is roughly equal to 76 cubic inches. This may be underwhelming for some, but for beginner/intermediate riders this could be a game-changer.

To put things in perspective, the most affordable H-D model, the Street 750, has an engine displacement of 46 cubic inches. And, the Softail Slim has a displacement of 107 cubic inches. 

The current Street lineup (which now includes the previously separate Sportster category) is known for being beginner-friendly. But, for some riders, the stigma of having a “beginner bike” deters them from making the purchase. 

The Street lineup features some pretty badass bikes, but none of them have the same amount of muscle stylistically when compared to the 2021 future custom model.

Perhaps, this is Harley’s attempt to create a motorcycle that has an aggressive look, has enough power to pique the interest of seasoned riders and is beginner/intermediate-friendly.

Electric Motorcycle Concept 

The Livewire was Harley-Davidson’s first electric motorcycle. Since its debut, Harley has added additional “alternative electronic vehicles” to its portfolio. However, the Livewire is the only electric motorcycle in the H-D lineup. 

Next year, we can expect an addition to their electric motorcycle family. Harley states that the inspiration for its new electric concept was the XR750. 

The XR750 was released in 1970. Harley later improved the model in 1972, and it became the dominant dirt track racer over the next 30 years. 

The prototype for the “Electric Motorcycle Concept” looks quite similar to the XR750. In fact, they look so much alike that, at first glance, the only recognizable difference is the battery in place of the engine. Check it out here. 

Harley describes this future model as “the ultimate city bike, high-performance run-about or next-gen short tracker.”

It’ll be interesting to see this track racer themed motorcycle on city streets. This model will surely turn heads!

In Conclusion 

Go big or go home seems to be Harley’s motto when it comes to 2021, which is great because we all could use something to look forward to.

So, what do you think? Are these new models a must-buy or a buh-bye?

Let us know in the comments below!