2020 Harley-Davidson Softail Standard Review (11 Fast Facts)

We can let the cat out of the bag right away—the 2020 Harley-Davidson Softail Standard is a Street Bob with different finishes. Chrome is apparently cheaper than black, as the Softail Standard’s base MSRP is a cool grand less than the Street Bob. We don’t have to go over what’s chrome and what’s black on each model—you can look at the photos. However, it has been two years since we tested the debut of the Street Bob in the Softail family, so that’s a good reason to revisit the platform in 2020. Everything centers around the Milwaukee-Eight 107 powerplant. Cranking out 110 ft-lbs of torque at just 3000 rpm means that you always have power on tap with the Softail Standard. It revs up as needed, though you’ll almost always shift the six-speed transmission before you hit the rev limiter. It is simply a fantastic motor that makes riding an absolute pleasure. The ergonomics are more about style than performance or comfort. The mini-ape put your hands up in the air, and the mid-controls mean your knees are pointed up. While most think of the Softail as a large motorcycle, the ergonomics are compact. The reach to the grips isn’t excessive, and unless your inseam is less than my 30.5 inches, you’re going to want a bit more legroom. For those growing out of the Sportster, performance-wise but not in size, the 2020 Harley-Davidson Softail is an excellent bridge model. The Softail chassis is willing to handle if it is given the right accouterments, and the Softail Standard...