Harley-Davidson has just launched the 2018 Harley-Davidson Street Bob, which locks horns with the Triumph Bonneville Bobber. Here's how they fare against each other on paper.
The minimalistic design approach of Bobbers has made it one of the most sought-after motorcycles in the cruiser segment. Triumph launched the Bonneville Bobber in March this year. Harley followed suit with the launch of the updated 2018 Softail range. The Street Bob is the least expensive bike in the range. Both the bikes evoke the simple pleasures of no-nonsense freedom on two wheels. Let’s get to the numbers:
| Specifications | Harley-Davidson Street Bob | Triumph Bonneville Bobber |
| Engine | 1,745cc Milwaukee-Eight V-twin | 1,200cc parallel twin, SOHC engine with liquid cooling |
| Maximum Power | NA | 77 PS at 6,100 rpm |
| Peak Torque | 144 Nm at 3,000 rpm | 106 Nm at 4,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed | 6-speed with assist clutch |
| Front Suspension | Cartridge-type fork | 41 mm KYB front fork |
| Rear Suspension | Adjustable monoshock | KYB monoshock with linkage |
| Front Brake | Disc with 4-piston calliper | 310 mm disc with Nissin 2-piston calliper |
| Rear Brake | Disc with 2-piston calliper | 255 mm disc with Nissin single piston calliper |
| Front wheel & tyre size | 100/90B19,57H,BW | 100/90-19 |
| Rear Wheel & tyre size | 150/80B16,77H,BW | 150/80 R16 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 14.1 litres | 9.1 litres |
| Dry Weight | 286 kg | 228 kg |
| Features | Dual channel ABS, USB port, keyless ignition, LED headlamp | Dual channel ABS, Switchable Traction Control, Road & Rain riding modes, Immobiliser |
| Price (ex-showroom, Delhi) | INR 11.99 lakhs | INR 9.32 lakhs |
The 2018 Harley-Davidson Street Bob employs a new frame, engine and cycle parts for better dynamics. Compared to the Bonneville Bobber, it makes 38 Nm more torque at 1,000 rpm lesser from its 1,745cc V-twin. The engine is 545cc bigger than the Triumph’s. True to Harley tradition, the company has not revealed the power output of the engine. While the Street Bob has refreshed looks, it is the Bobber which stands out with its stunning level of attention-to-detail. The Street Bob comes with a 5.2 litre bigger fuel tank than the Bonneville Bobber, which results in increased cruising range. Also, the Street Bob is more practical than the Bobber because of the fact that it can accommodate a pillion.
Also Read: Kolkata Police add the Harley Davidson Street 750 to their fleet – Report
The Street Bob is devoid of fancy rider aids apart from ABS, whereas the Bobber comes loaded with technologies like traction control and riding modes. It is 58 kg lighter as well. The Bobber does not come with the ape-hanger handlebars, but one can avail them as an option. Both the motorcycles come with a host of accessories to customise according to one’s needs. The Bobber costs INR 2.97 lakh less and still comes with more features than the Street Bob. However, it compromises on practicality, despite the inclusion of adjustable seat and instrument cluster. If raw, electronic nanny-free torque, and American heritage appeals you, then the Street bob is the right choice.
