Recently, the 4 Riders Magazine team had the opportunity to hit the road with a motorcycle that embodies the essence of the Milwaukee manufacturer: the 2025 Harley-Davidson Street Bob. In a world where motorcycles are becoming equipped with gadgets, more sophisticated with huge giant screens and electronic assistance… the Street Bob remains a raw, authentic offering that stays true to the American manufacturer’s DNA.
This model, a favorite among purists, focuses on simplicity. It features an imposing engine with plenty of torque, a sleek “bobber” style, and an unapologetically rebellious attitude. After riding it for a few hundred miles, here are our impressions.
Classic look with an almost imperceptible touch of technology
At first glance, the 2025 Harley-Davidson Street Bob exudes the minimalist style typical of the Softail range. Nothing superfluous, nothing that steals the show. Just a low, muscular, long motorcycle ready to set off on an adventure. The round LED headlight, mini-apes hanger handlebars, and stretched-out position contribute to its intimidating presence.
The 2025 model continues in the direction set a few years ago with a stripped-down style. The classic fuel tank features modernized graphics and a sleek logo, perfectly in line with the current vintage trend. Black dominates the mechanical parts, with a few touches of chrome, reinforcing its dark and aggressive look. Of course, one of the new colors for 2025, “Purple Abyss Denim,” adds a magnificent touch.
The build quality is good, but not perfect given the intention to retain classic lines. As a result, there are a few gaps between some body parts, revealing the wiring. The desire to preserve the brand’s heritage somewhat detracts from the final build quality. Nevertheless, the finishes are neat, the welds are beautiful, and the painted surfaces are well done. Harley has long mastered the art of these details, and the Street Bob is no exception.
Equipment and technology
Don’t expect a load of gadgets here! The 2025 Street Bob remains true to its calling. It’s a simple motorcycle, without any frills and with a strong emphasis on mechanics. And that’s exactly what its fans love about it. Nevertheless, it offers modern equipment that is well concealed to preserve its unique identity.
A small, discreet digital screen integrated into the handlebars displays speed, gear, range, tachometer, and essential information. You also get all-LED lighting, an integrated alarm system, and keyless start (Key Fob).
In addition, you can count on driving aids such as traction control, ABS, stability control, and (TC). Finally, there are riding modes to better control the high-torque engine. HD provides only the bare essentials and nothing more. No touchscreen, no navigation, etc. The Street Bob is ridden the old-fashioned way. You and endless road options… That’s it! Honestly, it’s refreshing at times in this world of (overly) technological motorcycles.
Milwaukee-Eight engine
Under the tubular frame is the famous Milwaukee-Eight 117, a 1923 cc air/oil-cooled V-twin. It’s the same mechanical heart found in several larger models, but in a much more compact and lightweight format. The result: an absolutely exhilarating weight-to-torque ratio. The engine develops 98 horsepower and, more importantly, 163 N*m of torque, available at very low revs.
Each twist of the throttle produces a deep rumble and instant thrust. Even with the stock exhaust, the sound is rich and vibrant. It’s typically Harley-Davidson with its unique “PO-TA-TO” sound. The 117-cubic-inch engine is not brutal, but it is lively. You can feel it breathing, knocking slightly at idle. Then it wakes up and pulls hard as soon as you twist the throttle. The six-speed transmission is well spaced and allows you to cruise at low revs on the highway without excessive vibration. And with all that torque, you don’t always need to downshift for passing.
Time to hop on the HD Street Bob
The Street Bob offers a riding position that is unique in the Harley-Davidson lineup. You sit low, very low, on a minimalist but comfortable seat. Your legs are bent at 90 degrees, your arms raised just high enough to give you a commanding view of the road. It’s a relaxed position, but I would have much preferred to have my feet further forward, as on the Breakout for example. For taller riders, the footrests seem too close, but there are several options to rectify this.
The Milwaukee-Eight’s start immediately sets the tone. The engine moves, shakes the frame slightly, and emits a satisfying rumble. You can feel the mechanics coming to life, which adds a lot to the overall charm.
On the road
From the very first few miles, the 2025 Harley-Davidson Street Bob surprises with its relative lightness. Unlike larger HD models, it swings easily and its steering is surprisingly precise at low speeds.
On winding roads, it’s a pleasure to ride. The chassis is stable, the front end is well anchored, and the high torque allows you to exit corners with vigor. You feel every vibration, every movement, which is what you expect with mechanical components. It’s a motorcycle that transmits everything and doesn’t filter the road. Sometimes this is for the best when it comes to the “feel” of really riding a motorcycle. Sometimes it’s for the worst on rough roads… you feel the rear wheel bouncing.
The suspension, which is more style-oriented than comfort-oriented, quickly reveals its limitations. The rear, in particular, lacks travel and could be more forgiving. The brakes are adequate and progressive, but not the most responsive in the segment. Be careful not to push the Street Bob too hard on rough roads, or you may get a few chills… from fear.
My neighbor’s opinion, Marco G.
An amateur motorcyclist, my neighbor Marco is used to riding a Harley Street Glide. Since the summer, he’s been helping me evaluate motorcycles, and we’ve been able to take a few rides together. Here’s what he thought of the Street Bob:
“The 2025 Harley-Davidson Street Bob leaves a mixed first impression, especially when it comes to comfort. In my opinion, the handlebar position is well suited in terms of height, but the fact that it pulls your elbows down rather than out quickly becomes less natural. It’s an ergonomic detail that affects your overall posture and can make long rides a little less enjoyable.
The same goes for the footrests: their very rearward position makes you feel like you’re sitting on a chair that’s too upright, which isn’t suitable for all body types or riding styles. As for the passenger seat, let’s be realistic: it’s more of a decorative element than a real option for traveling with a passenger. Forget about long days on the road with someone behind you; it’s simply not designed for that.
Mechanically, however, the bike performs well. The engine responds satisfactorily, and the Street Bob, which is relatively light for its class, never feels underpowered. In that regard, there’s nothing to complain about.
In summary, the Street Bob remains a good option for riders looking for a stripped-down, easy-to-handle motorcycle, especially for shorter trips. In my opinion, it will suit anyone who appreciates a more compact seating position, provided they ride solo and adjust the equipment to their needs.
What could be better?
- Rear suspension is too firm and has little travel, which detracts from the overall experience.
- Passenger seat is symbolic, almost decorative, and “punitive.”
- Heated grips are optional. They could have been standard at the asking price.
- Fuel tank capacity is a bit limited for long rides.
Strengths
- Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine with abundant torque, incredible sound, and riding modes.
- Sleek and timeless bobber style.
- Lightweight and maneuverable for a Harley-Davidson. Accessible even for the less experienced.
- A raw and authentic riding experience.
Conclusion
The 2025 Harley-Davidson Street Bob is a motorcycle that speaks to the heart and emotions… rather than the head. It’s not made for long-distance touring with a passenger, nor does it offer luxurious comfort. And it certainly doesn’t have a 12-inch touchscreen packed with features. It’s made for riding, feeling, and hearing its engine vibrate. For LIVING a simple, mechanical, visceral experience that has become the trademark of Harley-Davidson.
The 4Riders Magazine team would like to thank Harley-Davidson Canada for its support during this test ride.
Photo credits: Harley-Davidson and Vincent Bourque-Veilleux
