Harley-Davidson Street Bob 117 Launched at ₹18.77 Lakh

Harley-Davidson has launched the Street Bob 117 in India at ₹18.77 lakh (ex-showroom). The bike joins the company’s Softail line-up and comes powered by the largest displacement engine offered on this platform so far. The model is aimed at riders who want a stripped-back cruiser with modern updates but without losing the essence of a traditional Harley.

The centrepiece of the Street Bob 117 is its Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine. This 1,923cc air-cooled V-twin produces 91 bhp and 156 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm, making it the most powerful Street Bob yet. The focus here is on low-end grunt, with smooth acceleration and the familiar deep exhaust note that characterizes Harley motorcycles.

Styling and Design

The design follows the classic bobber approach, with a chopped rear fender, blacked-out engine parts, exposed rear suspension, and minimalist bodywork. The solo seat, round LED headlamp, and teardrop tank add to its traditional appeal. Harley has deliberately kept the design understated, avoiding unnecessary embellishments while ensuring the bike retains its distinctive identity.

The Street Bob 117 rides on chunky tyres that complement its squat stance. The riding position is supported by mid-mounted foot controls, making the bike accessible for a wide range of riders. At 680mm, the seat height is relatively low, allowing most riders to place both feet on the ground comfortably at traffic lights or during slow maneuvers.

Equipment and Ride Experience

While the design stays true to its roots, Harley has added some modern touches. The instrument console is an LCD unit placed discreetly on the handlebar riser, displaying key details such as speed, gear position, fuel level, and trip information. The intention is to offer only the essentials, avoiding the distraction of complex electronics.

The suspension is tuned to offer a balance between stability and comfort. The frame is relatively light for a Harley, making the Street Bob manageable in city traffic as well as on highways. The bike also comes equipped with ABS for improved braking safety. Riders can expect a firm but controlled experience on broken tarmac, typical of Indian roads, without the harshness often associated with large cruisers.

Pricey

At ₹18.77 lakh ex-showroom, the on-road cost of the Street Bob 117 crosses ₹21 lakh in most cities. This positions it in the premium end of the cruiser segment, where it will compete with models such as the Indian Scout Bobber and Triumph Bonneville Bobber. While these rivals may undercut Harley in price, the Street Bob 117 banks on brand legacy and the draw of Harley’s long-standing identity in the cruiser space.

The pricing is expected to divide opinion. For some, the Street Bob 117 will be viewed as expensive, especially in a market where alternatives are becoming more accessible. For others, the value lies less in the numbers and more in the ownership experience associated with a Harley. The bike is not positioned as a mass-market product but as a niche offering for enthusiasts who want a traditional heavyweight cruiser with modern reliability.

The Street Bob 117 is not about practicality or outright value for money. It is aimed squarely at riders looking for an authentic Harley experience in a pared-down format. With its combination of a powerful V-twin engine, minimalist bobber design, and manageable ergonomics, it is likely to find favour among enthusiasts who prioritise character and presence over outright utility.

At this price point, the Street Bob 117 is a statement purchase. For buyers who want to connect with Harley’s heritage while riding a machine capable of handling Indian conditions, the latest addition to the Softail line-up provides that opportunity. It may not be for everyone, but for those who have been waiting for a modern yet classic Harley cruiser, the Street Bob 117 makes a strong case.