The 2012 Harley Davidson Switchback

There comes a point when it has to be noted that a motorcycle manufacturer has just stopped trying. Perhaps Harley-Davidson has just become complacent. Sure, they build some of the best-looking bikes in the world that are the envy of everyone. Sure, other motorcycle manufacturers routinely build their motorcycles in a distinctive Harley-Davidson style. So, what's up with the 2012 Harley Davidson Switchback ? It's a Dyna, sure, but it looks like a bastard cross between a Road King and a Street Bob, and to be honest, the Switchback didn't turn out to be the bouncing baby boy that it really should have been, even with two formidable precursors like that.

There is a serious upside to the bike, though. Now, while all you Harley folks are trying to figure out how to find me so you can skin me alive, give me a sec to explain. The upside here is that the Switchback might just be the first affordable touring bike built by Harley Davidson - ever. The pricing for this ride starts out at $15,999 for the black version, which honestly, could be uglier. Now compare that to a basic Road King at $17,500, and...

Well, ok, you've got me there- I'd rather have the King, too, and I'd be more than willing to save up the $1500 necessary to get in the saddle of the Softail.

So, what does the Switchback have going for it? It's a Harley. That's about it. The thing is, If you want a tourer, you get a softail. Everyone knows that. If you want a hot rod, you get a Dyna. That too, is common knowledge. So, why mess with what works? My guess is that the designers at Harley haven't got much else better to do. How can they? You can't improve much on a formula that's been proven to be damn near perfect since Willie G. and Vaughn Beals rescued the brand from the clutches of AMF back in '81.

Harley Davidson says that owning a Switchback is like having two bikes in one- a full-on tourer with the windshield and saddlebags in place, and a cruiser without them in place. Seriously? This just feels like they've stopped trying. After all, what motorcycle saddlebags aren't removable? How 'bout the windscreen? Just checking there, the old BS meter shot up for a second there. Sure, the Switchback has got a cool name, and really, if you stare at it long enough, you'll find an attractiveness that you may not have seen at first glance, but really what this ride amounts to is a baby Road King. For your money, you're better off buying the Street Bob for $13k and checking out online auctions for a fender and saddlebags off a Road King. Yea, you're getting the 103 engine instead of the 96 that comes in the Bob, but the effect will be about the same, and you'll save a few grand while your at it.


Harleydavidson: The 2012 Harley Davidson Switchback