H-D Unveils Two New Models for 2012

By Bud Wilkinson of RIDE-CT.com

Harley-Davidson has unveiled two new bikes for 2012. There’s a Sportster called the “Seventy-Two” and a Softail dubbed “Slim.”

The Seventy-Two is a throwback bike recalling the early ’70s when choppers were the rage and metal flake paint schemes a necessity. Consequently, the bike has a chopped rear fender, a mini-ape handlebar, solo seat, white sidewalls, a 2.1-gallon peanut tank, lots of chrome and, yes, metal flake paint.

The Seventy-Two is powered by an Evolution 1200cc V-twin. It has forward foot controls, chrome laced wheels and a side-mount license plate bracket.

The MSRP for the Seventy-Two is $10,499 in Big Blue Pearl or Black Denim and $11,199 in Hand Candy Big Red Flake.

Chrome is less apparent on the Softail Slim. This bike recalls the bobbers of the ’50s with a trimmed front fender and narrow rear end. Features include a rigid-mounted Twin Cam 103B engine, a Hollywood handlebar with cross brace, solo seat, and black, steel-laced wheels. There’s a side-mounted license plate bracket, half-moon foot boards and a 5-gallon Fat Bob gas tank.

Completing the dialed-back retro look is a gap between the front of the seat and the gas tank, which allows riders to look down and see the top of the motor. MSRP is $15,499 in vivid black and $15,884 in black denim and ember red sunglo.

In other news from Harley, the company will celebrate 110 years in business with some big events in 2013. A rally is planned for Rome, Italy from June 13-16, while a party is planned for Milwaukee over the Labor Day Weekend (Aug. 29-Sept. 1).