Softail Deluxe Still Ranks #1 with Women Riders
How long can this nostalgic charmer hold its top slot in a coveted market segment?
Cosmetic Ride
The Softail Deluxe has been the number one choice for women riders since it debuted in 2005. Beyond being a good fit, the Deluxe's alluring looks sway women the most. The question is, will this nostalgic charmer be able to hold the top slot as the Motor Company puts out a range of attractive new models?
Big Twins
The Deluxe's popularity with women was first observed by Genevieve Schmitt, editor of Women Riders Now. In a 2009 article, Why Women Love the Harley-Davidson Softail Deluxe. Schmitt noted, “Ever since the motorcycle's introduction in 2005, I've seen more women riding that motorcycle than any of the other Softails, Dynas, and Touring model platforms — those considered the Big Twins.”
Pique Interest
Schmitt's observations were more than just anecdotal. The Deluxe's seat height is a critical factor in its popularity. At 24.5 inches, it had the lowest seat of any Harley-Davidson then on offer. As Schmitt wrote, “That alone is enough to pique women's' interest.” By comparison, a 2005 XL 1200C Sportster's seat sat a full two inches higher at 26.5 inches.
Important Features
There is no compromising with the Deluxe. Schmitt summed it up succinctly, “The Deluxe gives shorter women an opportunity to ride a powerful motorcycle. Then throw in that the bike has attractive nostalgic styling with its wide whitewall tires, spoke wheels, among other things, and voila you have a motorcycle that has many of the features women say are important to them.”
Streamlined CVO
In 2014 and 2015, the Deluxe got even more drool-worthy courtesy of tweaks and upgrades. As CVO editions, they were equipped with a 110 cubic-inch Twin Cam motor, polished nine-spoke cast wheels and loads of chrome. In keeping with the Deluxe's design pedigree, Harley-Davidson Styling Manager, Kirk Rasmussen stated, “The CVO Deluxe is a fast classic. Influenced by the Art Deco tradition of streamlining.”
Best Bike
The proof is in the pudding that women have no problem swooning over the Deluxe. Commenting on Schmitt's article, readers expressed sentiments of “love at first sight,” and “the bike is an amazing fit” among others. After the introduction of the new Softail platform in 2018, the Deluxe got a slight makeover. Reviews in Women Riders Now and other publications still sang its praises, stating the Deluxe was the “best bike” for women riders.
Nostalgic Presence
Interestingly enough, the Softail Deluxe leads something of a double life. Despite being number one with women riders, it is also the perennial choice for lowrider customs — an ardently 'macho' look, typified by sky-high ape hanger bars and stretched-out exhausts. Whatever the case, the Deluxe hits an immediate mark among Harley-Davidson fans due to its classic styling and nostalgic presence.
Pretty Lucky
The Deluxe's status will be challenged as new models are introduced. Its ranking may also fall because more women are now riding larger touring models — especially Street Glides. While Harley-Davidson did not expressly design the Deluxe for women, they got it right — and a touch lucky. It might be a bit shallow, but the Deluxe is a pretty bike for sure.
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