What does soft tail mean on a motorcycle?
Soft-tail is the term used to describe a motorcycle frame with an active suspension. Whether it’s an A-frame or swing-arm configuration the principles are the same. The suspension is fastened to the frame via a horizontal axle that allows it to pivot (see soft-tail Illustration).
What’s the difference between hard tail and soft tail shocks?
Shocks can differ from hydraulic, to coil-over, and even air-adjustable. Because the soft-tail utilizes an active suspension, it has the added benefit of increasing the handling capabilities of the chopper. Suspension lowers the amount of bounce associated with rough road, therefore keeping the tire in contact with the driving surface.
Are there any downsides to soft tail frames?
The downside of soft-tail frames is the expense and maintenance of the additional moving parts. Shocks and axles must be inspected for damage and structural integrity. Also, consideration must be given to the mounting of the rear fender and passenger seating. All this correlates to added weight.
Why does a Honda Chopper have a soft tail?
Because the soft-tail utilizes an active suspension, it has the added benefit of increasing the handling capabilities of the chopper. Suspension lowers the amount of bounce associated with rough road, therefore keeping the tire in contact with the driving surface.
What makes a softail motorcycle hard tail or Softail?
A softail is a motorcycle with its rear suspension springs or shock absorbers located out of direct view, so as to look like a hard-tail motorcycle.
When did Harley Davidson trademark the word softail?
The word softail is a registered trademark of Harley-Davidson, coined for the FXST Softail in 1984.
What are the different models of Harley Davidson Softail?
There have been many Harley-Davidson models with the Softail frame, including the Softail Standard, Custom, Springer Softail, Heritage Softail, Heritage Springer, Night Train, Deluxe, Deuce, Fat Boy, Softail Slim, the Dark Custom Cross Bones, the Dark Custom Blackline and Breakout.
What’s the wheelbase of a Harley Davidson SOF tail?
Harley incorporated 33 degrees of rake and 5.0 inches of trail into the Sof-tail’s frame, stretching the wheelbase to 66.3 inches and giving a decidedly long feel. The skinny front tire helps lighten the steering because of its small contact patch on the asphalt.