Harley-Davidson Softail Fat Boy - 2016 Specifications and Reviews

The 2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Fat Boy is a heavyweight custom cruiser designed for riders seeking classic styling combined with modern performance. Powered by a Twin Cam V2 engine delivering 97.4 ft-lbs of torque, it excels at cruising and highway riding with its low-slung stance and commanding presence. Known for its iconic fat tire aesthetic and timeless design, the Fat Boy remains one of Harley's most recognizable and sought-after models for traditional cruiser enthusiasts.

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General information

CategoryCustom / cruiser
Year2016
ModelHarley-Davidson Softail Fat Boy

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Exhaust systemChrome, over/under shotgun exhaust with dual mufflers
Greenhouse gases129.9 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Fuel consumption5.60 litres/100 km (17.9 km/l or 42.00 mpg)
DrivelinePrimary chain, 34/46 ratio
ClutchMulti-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath
Transmission type,final driveBelt
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemAir
Fuel controlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
Fuel systemInjection. Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection
Bore x Stroke98.4 x 111.3 mm (3.9 x 4.4 inches)
Compression10.0:1
Torque132.00 Nm (13.5 kgf-m or 97.4 ft.lbs) @ 3250 RPM
Power78.00 HP (56.9 kW) @ 5250 RPM
Engine typeV2, four-stroke

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

WheelsMirror Chrome Aluminum Bullet Hole Disc
Rear brakesSingle disc. ABS. 2-piston.
Front brakesDouble disc. ABS. 4-piston.
Rear tyre200/55-R17
Front tyre140/75-R17
Rear SuspensionTwin shocks
Front SuspensionTelescopic fork
Trail147 mm (5.8 inches)
Rake (fork angle)31.0°
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Oil capacity3.30 litres (0.22 quarts)
Fuel capacity18.93 litres (5.00 gallons)
Wheelbase1,690 mm (66.5 inches)
Ground clearance130 mm (5.1 inches)
Overall length2,396 mm (94.3 inches)
Seat height690 mm (27.2 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Power/weight ratio0.2438 HP/kg
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc333.0 kg (734.1 pounds)
Dry weight320.0 kg (705.5 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
LightHigh beam, neutral, low oil pressure, turn signals, engine diagnostics, security system (optional), 6-speed, low fuel warnings
InstrumentsTank-mounted electronic speedometer with odometer, time-of-day clock on odometer, dual tripmeter, RPM/gear display, fuel gauge with low fuel warning light and countdown feature, low oil pressure indicator light, engine diagnostics readout, LED indicator lights, 6-speed indicator light
StarterElectric
Color optionsVelocity Red Sunglo, Billet Silver/Vivid Black, Cosmic Blue Pearl, Purple Fire/Blackberry Smoke, Vivid Black, Charcoal Denim

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

86 hp
Peak Power
4.8s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track10%
City55%
Cornering30%
Daily Riding60%
Touring55%
Passenger60%

Rider Profile

Best ForBest suited to riders who already have some experience handling heavy motorcycles at low speeds, though its low seat height keeps it approachable.
PurposeBuilt for style-driven cruising and boulevard presence rather than outright performance or long-distance efficiency.
Rider FitThe low seat and relaxed reach make it accessible, but its substantial weight demands confident strength and balance at parking-lot speeds.
CharacterA bold, muscular cruiser with iconic Fat Boy looks, a thumping V-twin character, and a commanding, laid-back riding stance.
Not Ideal ForNot the right choice for riders seeking sharp cornering agility, off-road capability, or lightweight nimble handling.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Fat Boy Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 690mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Fat Boy, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 degrees and an upright riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

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