2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Fat Boy Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown
Built around Harley-Davidson's custom - cruiser motorcycle platform, the 2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Fat Boy utilizes a 1690 cc (103.1 cu in) air-cooled v2, four-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 78 HP (56.9 kW) at 5,250 rpm while maximum torque reaches 132 Nm (97.4 lb-ft) at 3,250 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and belt final drive. With a specific output of 46.2 HP per liter and a 2,000 rpm working window between peak torque (3,250 rpm) and peak power (5,250 rpm), the engine character is prioritizing low-RPM tractability, mechanical longevity and relaxed throttle response over peak redline numbers.
On the scales, the Softail Fat Boy measures 333 kg (734 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.23 HP/kg (4.27 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 690 mm (27.2 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,690 mm (66.5 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 18.93-liter (5 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 5.6 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 338 km (210 miles) between fill-ups.
Within MotoLibrary's Harley-Davidson archive, this model family spans 8 indexed model years from 1998 to 2019, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
46.2 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.23 HP/kg (4.27 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
3,250–5,250 rpm
Theoretical Range
~338 km (210 mi)
Engine
Displacement1690.0 ccm (103.12 cubic inches)
Engine TypeV2, four-stroke
Engine DetailsV2, four-stroke
Power78.0 HP (56.9 kW)) @ 5250 RPM
Torque132.0 Nm (13.5 kgf-m or 97.4 ft.lbs) @ 3250 RPM
Compression10.0:1
Bore x Stroke98.4 x 111.3 mm (3.9 x 4.4 inches)
Fuel SystemInjection. Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection
Fuel ControlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
CoolingAir
Transmission
Gearbox6-speed
Final DriveBelt (final drive)
ClutchMulti-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath
DrivelinePrimary chain, 34/46 ratio
Performance
Fuel Consumption5.60 litres/100 km (17.9 km/l or 42.00 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases129.9 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
ExhaustChrome, over/under shotgun exhaust with dual mufflers
Chassis
Rake31.0°
Trail147 mm (5.8 inches)
Front SuspensionTelescopic fork
Rear SuspensionTwin shocks
Wheelbase1690 mm (66.5 inches)
Ground Clearance130 mm (5.1 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre140/75-R17
Rear Tyre200/55-R17
Front BrakesDouble disc. ABS. 4-piston.
Rear BrakesSingle disc. ABS. 2-piston.
WheelsMirror Chrome Aluminum Bullet Hole Disc
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight320.0 kg (705.5 pounds)
Weight incl.333.0 kg (734.1 pounds)
Power/Weight0.2438 HP/kg
Seat Height690 mm (27.2 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall Length2396 mm (94.3 inches)
Fuel Capacity18.93 litres (5.00 US gallons)
Oil Capacity3.30 litres (3.49 US quarts)
Other
StarterElectric
Color OptionsVelocity Red Sunglo, Billet Silver/Vivid Black, Cosmic Blue Pearl, Purple Fire/Blackberry Smoke, Vivid Black, Charcoal Denim
InstrumentsTank-mounted electronic speedometer with odometer, time-of-day clock on odometer, dual tripmeter, RPM/gear display, fuel gauge with low fuel warning light and countdown feature, low oil pressure indicator light, engine diagnostics readout, LED indicator lights, 6-speed indicator light
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.