Harley-Davidson Dyna vs Softail: Which is Better?

In urban conditions, a motorcycle gives an undeniable advantage in maneuverability and speed of movement, so from year to year, the number of owners of two-wheeled vehicles is rapidly increasing. In the ranks of motorcycle enthusiasts, more and more newcomers are appearing, many of whom are asking the age-old question, “which motorcycle to buy first?”.

Today in this article, we will compare two competitors from the same manufacturer. Harley-Davidson has produced two legendary models that drive millions of motorcycle fans crazy. We will talk about Softail vs Dyna models.

Some people may prefer the Dyna models for their customizability, while others might prefer the Softail models for their more traditional look. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide which bike is better for them.

Also Read: Harley-Davidson Sportster vs Dyna: Which One to Choose?

Dyna vs Softail: Comparison Table

Specification	Dyna	Softail
Year	2014	2022
Engine	Twin Cam 103™	Milwaukee-Eight
CC	1690	1868
Cooling System	Air-Cooled with Integrated Oil Cooler	Air-Cooled
RPM	3000	7,000
Transmission	6-Speed	6-Speed
Fuel Delivery System	ESPFI	ESPFI
Exhaust	Chromed, Shorty, and Staggered Exhaust	Two-into-Two
Seat height	26,2”	26.3”
Weight	310 kg	330.2 kg
Price	$10,100	$20,799

Harley Dyna vs. Softail: Detailed Comparison

Want to compare two legendary models? What is the difference between Dyna and Softail? All you need to know about Dyna vs Softail Standart is further in the article.

Also Read: Harley Davidson Sportster vs Softail: Which One to Choose?

Engine and Performance

The Softail motorcycle is equipped with a Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine. It is a powerful and efficient powertrain that offers an excellent ride and plenty of torque. It is a powerful and energy-efficient engine. The Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine is a great option for those who want a little more power than the standard Milwaukee-Eight 103 engine but don’t want to sacrifice fuel economy.
This engine is available in both the Milwaukee-Eight 107 and the Milwaukee-Eight 107T models.

The Milwaukee-Eight 107T model is the more powerful of the two, with a higher compression ratio and more torque. Both models of the Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine are air-cooled and come with a six-speed transmission. It is a good choice for those who want a powerful and efficient engine that offers a great ride.

The Dyna motorcycle was equipped with a TwinCam 103 engine, with a volume of 103 cubic inches (1690 cc). This is an air-cooled V-twin without balancing shafts (the modification with a balancer was installed only on the Softail line). in fact, it is a highly modified version of the TwinCam 88, which replaced the Evolution motor at the turn of the millennium.

Also Read: Harley Davidson Road King vs Street Glide: Which One to Choose

The engine produces 87 hp and 126 Nm of torque, and the American manufacturer always indicates “honest” parameters on the rear wheel, not on the crankshaft. And the Harley Davidson Dyna in the CVO version received the Screamin’ Eagle 110 engine at, with a volume of 1802 cc.! Its technical characteristics are impressive – 95 hp, 145 Nm.

Comfort and Ergonomics

This bike is perfect for cruising around town or hitting the open road. The Softail Standard comes with a comfortable seat and plenty of legroom. The handlebars are positioned so that you can ride in an upright position, which is ideal for long rides. This bike also comes with a detachable windshield so that you can enjoy the wind in your face on those warmer days.

Dyna motorcycles are designed for comfort and ergonomics. The Harley-Davidson engineers have focused on creating a motorcycle that is easy to ride and control. The result is a motorcycle that is both comfortable and stylish.

Also Read: Hardtail vs Softail: Which Motorcycle is Right for You?

Technology and Features

The Standard is equipped with various modern features, including keyless ignition, LED headlight and taillight, USB charging port, and a 4.3-inch TFT color display. The bike also features a new, larger fuel tank, which gives the rider a range of over 200 miles.

The Standard is available in three variants: the base model, the Low Rider, and the Deluxe. The base model comes with blacked-out styling, while the Low Rider and Deluxe feature chrome accents. All three models come with a two-year, unlimited mileage warranty.

Dyna bikes are motorcycles that come with a number of features that make them stand out from the competition. One such feature is the fact that they are equipped with a technology that makes them more fuel-efficient than other motorcycles on the market. This is made possible by the use of a system that automatically adjusts the engine’s throttle based on the rider’s speed and the terrain.

Another feature that makes Dyna bikes stand out is their use of an electronic stability control system. This system helps to keep the bike stable at high speeds and also helps to prevent it from tipping over in case of a sudden stop. The system works by automatically applying the brakes to one or both wheels when it senses that the bike is starting to lose traction.

Finally, Dyna bikes come with a number of safety features that are designed to protect the rider in case of an accident. These features include airbags, ABS brakes, and a frame that is designed to absorb impact in the event of a crash.

Design

The Softail Standard is a cruiser-style motorcycle, and as such, it features a number of design elements that are common to this type of bike. For instance, the bike has a low seat height, which makes it easy to ride for long periods of time. Additionally, the bike has a wide, comfortable seat that is perfect for cruising.

The bike’s handlebars are also designed for comfort, and they provide a wide range of hand positions for the rider. This is important for long rides, as it helps to prevent fatigue.

The Softail Standard also has a number of unique design features. For instance, the bike has a hidden rear suspension, which gives it a clean, uncluttered look. Additionally, the bike has a hidden battery, which helps to keep the bike’s weight down.

Finally, the bike has a unique headlight design that gives it a distinctive look. This headlight is a round LED unit that is integrated into the front fender.

The appearance of the Dyna, which has already become a classic silhouette, is based on the legacy of the 80s, which earned honor around the world. Harley-Davidson made a motorcycle with a traditional style and a daring character on a chassis with a low center of gravity.

Tires and Brakes

The most important part of a motorcycle is the tires and brakes. The tires are what provide traction and grip on the road, and the brakes are what stop the motorcycle. Both of these components are essential for rider safety.

The tires on a Softail Standard are typically wider than those on other motorcycles. This is because the Standard is a heavier bike and needs the extra width to provide stability. The tires should be inflated to the proper pressure and checked regularly for wear.

The brakes on a Softail Standard are usually dual disc brakes. This means that there are two brake pads, one on each side of the wheel. The front brake is typically larger than the rear, and both should be used when stopping. The brakes should be checked regularly for wear, and the fluid levels should be maintained.

Tires:

• front – 100/90 R19;
• rear – 150/80 R16.

Brakes installed:

• in front – radially mounted, monoblock, 4-piston caliper;
• in the rear – floating, piston caliper rear floating single-piston caliper.

Dyna motorcycles come with quality tires that provide good grip and traction on the road. These tires are designed to last long and provide you with a comfortable ride.

Dunlop Harley-Davidson Series Radials tire is installed in the front, 100/90R19, and 160/70-B17 in the rear.

Dyna motorcycles are equipped with powerful brakes that can stop your motorcycle quickly and safely. These brakes are easy to use and provide you with the confidence you need when riding your motorcycle:

• front – radially mounted, monoblock, four-piston caliper;
• rear – floating, single-piston caliper.

Seat and Weight

Softail Standard has a wide and comfortable seat that is perfect for long rides. The seat is also positioned in a way that makes it easy to reach the ground when stopped, which is a plus for those who are shorter in stature. As for the weight of the motorcycle, it tips the scales at around 725 pounds, which is about average for a motorcycle of this size.

When it comes to the seat height of a Dyna motorcycle, there are two things to consider. The first is the height of the seat itself. The second is the height of the footpegs. The seat height on a Dyna motorcycle is typically lower than on other bikes, which gives the rider a more comfortable and relaxed riding position. The footpegs are also typically lower on a Dyna, which puts less strain on the rider’s legs.

The weight distribution of a Dyna motorcycle is also important to consider. Dyna motorcycles are known for having a low center of gravity, which makes them more stable and easy to handle. The weight distribution on a Dyna is also more even than on other motorcycles, which gives the rider better control.

Fuel Capacity

Fuel consumption and gas tank volume affect the range of the motorcycle.

Softail Standart:

• fuel consumption – 1.2 gallons on 62.3 miles;
• gas tank capacity – 3.9 gallons.

Dyna:

• fuel consumption – 1.1 gallons on 62.3 miles;
• gas tank capacity – 3.5 gallons.

The Price

This is probably one of the most important indicators that people pay attention to more often than the color of the motorcycle.

The cost of motorcycles:

• Dyna – $14 999;
• Softail Standard – $13 949.

As you can see, the price difference is relatively small, so you need to clearly figure out for yourself whether it is worth it to overpay.

Similarities and Differences Between Harley Davidson Dyna and Harley Davidson Softail

FEATURE	SOFTAIL STANDARD	DYNA
LENGTH	91.3 in.	92.3 in.
SEAT HEIGHT	25.8 in.	27.95 in.
GROUND CLEARANCE	4.9 in.	4.7 in.
TRAIL	6.2 in.	4.6 in.
WHEELBASE	64.2 in.	63.9 in.
FRONT TIRES	100/90B19,57H, BW	100/90R19
REAR TIRES	150/80B16,77H, BW	160/70-B17
FUEL CAPACITY	3.5 gal.	3.9 gal.
WEIGHT	642 lb.	650 lb.

Is Dyna Better?

Motorcycle Dyna is a classic representative of motorcycles from Harley-Davidson. Since its first release in 1984, it has won fans to this day. The motorcycle is powerful, perfectly controllable, and has a recognizable design. The only downside is that it was discontinued in 2017.

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• Great power
• Low seat height and low center of gravity
• Great value for money

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• Not available since 2017

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Is Softail Better?

Few motorcycles can boast the same level of timeless style as the Harley-Davidson Softail Standard. This bike has been around for decades, and it still looks as good as it did when it was first released. The Softail Standard is a good choice for riders who want a classic look with modern performance. And thanks to its fuel capacity, it can go the distance without needing to stop for a refill.

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[wpsm_column size=”one-half”][wpsm_pros title=”Positives:”]

• Low fuel consumption
• Maneuverability
• Great for beginners

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• May be inconvenient for long journeys

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are the answers to the most popular questions.

What makes a Harley a Dyna?

There are four main types of Harley-Davidson motorcycles: Touring, Sportster, Dyna, and V-Rod. The Dyna model was introduced in 1984 and was designed to offer a more custom look and feel than the other models. The Dyna is characterized by its wide variety of customization options, including engine size, exhaust style, and handlebar type.

Why is the Dyna so good?

The Dyna is a good motorcycle because it is powerful and has a lot of torque. It is also a very comfortable motorcycle to ride.

What makes a Harley a Softail?

The rear suspension on a Harley Softail model is hidden under the transmission, and the bikes have a classic hardtail look. Due to this solution, the motorcycle has a soft rear suspension and that is why the name.

Is a Softail a good first bike?

Some people may find a Softail to be a good first bike, while others may prefer a different type of motorcycle. Ultimately, it is important to test-ride several different motorcycles before making a purchase to ensure that you are getting the best bike for your needs.

What does Dyna mean for Harley?

Dyna represents the company’s commitment to quality and performance, while others might say that it represents the company’s dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction. Ultimately, the meaning of Dyna for Harley is likely to be personal to each individual rider and what it means to them specifically.

Conclusion

Dyna models are known for their contemporary styling and customizability. They are built for performance, with a suspension that is tuned for agility and responsiveness. This makes them great for city riding and carving through traffic. Softails, on the other hand, have a classic look and feel. They are comfortable cruisers built for long-distance riding. Their suspension is designed for a smoother ride, making them better suited for highways and open roads.

Softail vs Dyna? So, which is better? It really depends on what you want out of your motorcycle. If you are looking for a sleek, modern bike that you can customize to your liking, then a Dyna is the way to go. If you want a comfortable cruiser that you can take on long rides, then a Softail is the better option. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference, so take a test ride of both and see which one you like better.