That is correct. The "New" Softails are 2018 and newer. These bikes have a completely new frame and use the M8 engine.

The 2017 and older bikes use the "Old" Softail frame and the Twin Cam engine. These are last of the air cooled H-D engines...kinda.

The new M8 engine requires an oil cooler (looks like a radiator). The Twin Cam engine in the older Breakout does not require a radiator.

 

Except for the primaries right. 18's have the wide and the 19's run the narrow. I could be wrong so please corect me of i am.

 

Completely new frame and swingarm, among many other things. For me personally, the swingarm was a no-go. It takes away from the softail look. The 18+ swing arm is no longer continuous with the frame like on the 17 and older bikes. The swingarm on the 18+ looks odd IMO due to the lines not matching up with the frame...or anything. Once you take off the stock exhaust, you'll see what I'm talking about. There is huge gap between the rear of the frame and the rear wheel, unlike the 17 and older models. I'm sure Harley did it for a reason, but like many things they do, they are god awful ugly. Again, just my personal opinion, but in the long run, can't go wrong with a newer Harley. Very reliable, always run strong, and look pretty damn good after you put about 3-5k into them.

 

After reading a few pages of the m8 thread I'm very leery of picking up a 18 holdover.. Granted most of the m8 problems seem to be on different bike platforms and not so much the breakout, just my luck getting a shop queen..lol... Doing all the research I can, I hear the ride is much better on the 18+. But honestly would rather deal with a not as good of a ride rather than worrying if my bike is going to spend more time in the shop rather than my garage... I have read very little negative on the 103 dependability.
I value y'alls opinions, y'all most likely know these bikes better than anyone. Ideally I would like a 114 so the power loss compared to my bike that was stolen won't be as noticable, but if the 103 is just flat more dependable it makes more sense..

 

Here's a novel idea?
GO TEST DRIVE BOTH! Bet ya buy the M8...

 

I was thinking about trading for a 2018, but the oil cooler/radiator between the frame's downtubes was a deal breaker. If someone ever comes up with a way to relocate that thing I might give the M8 bikes a second look.

 

Damn, why didnt I think of that. A test drive is bound to tell a person who doesn't know squat about Harleys which is a better way to go right?

 

Good point. ********

 

I got one. I know what ya mean. I'm not crazy about them either. They make chrome covers, but to me, it just draws more attention to it. The engine sure likes it! Lol

 

Look who is talking keyboard *****.... Whats the point of having a forum to bounce off other people's knowledge? For all I know the 103 is a much more dependable bike. You don't have to be a ***** about it, but I'm sure you cant help it..