Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback Vs. Harley Davidson Softail Heritage Classic

• Table of Contents
• 1. Harley Dyna Switchback Vs. Softail Heritage Classic
• 2. Detailed Specs Comparison: Harley Dyna Switchback Vs. Softail Heritage Classic
• 3. Design: Harley Dyna Switchback Vs. Softail Heritage Classic
• 3.1 Design: Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback
• 3.2 Design: Harley Softail Heritage Classic
• 4. Engine and Performance: Harley Dyna Switchback Vs. Softail Heritage Classic
• 4.1 Engine and Performance: Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback
• 4.2 Engine and Performance: Harley Davidson Softail Heritage Classic
• 5. Comfort and Ergonomics: Harley Dyna Switchback Vs. Softail Heritage Classic
• 5.1 Comfort and Ergonomics: Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback
• 5.2 Comfort and Ergonomics: Harley Davidson Softail Heritage Classic
• 6. Technology and Features: Harley Dyna Switchback Vs. Softail Heritage Classic
• 7. Pros and Cons: Harley Dyna Switchback Vs. Softail Heritage Classic
• 7.1 Pros and Cons: Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback
• 7.2 Pros and Cons: Harley Davidson Softail Heritage Classic
• 8. Colors and Cost: Harley Dyna Switchback Vs. Softail Heritage Classic
• 9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• 9.1 Is the Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback a Good Motorbike?
• 9.2 Is the Harley Davidson Softail Heritage Classic Good for Tall Riders?
• 9.3 What Kind of a Motorbike is the Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback?
• 10. Which is Better: Dyna Switchback Vs. Softail Heritage Classic

1. Harley Dyna Switchback Vs. Softail Heritage Classic

If you love touring, cruising on highways, and need a daily commuter, you may want to consider buying one of the following motorbikes. The Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback is a two-in-one convertible bike with both touring and cruising capabilities. The Harley Davidson Softail Heritage Classic is also a versatile, all-purpose motorbike.

The Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback was popular among men and women because of its low weight and touring capability. The Harley Dyna Switchback is easy to maneuver at both low and high speeds. It came with stock saddlebags to carry your luggage and a large windshield that offers wind protection.

The Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback was discontinued in 2017 when the Dyna series was replaced with the Softail series. It was a popular motorbike due to being easily convertible. The Harley Dyna Switchback’s hard saddlebags and large windscreen can be easily removed. Most touring motorbikes are heavyweight vehicles because they are fitted with bulky parts, including a fairing, luggage, windshield, passenger seat, backrest, and a large fuel tank. However, the Harley Dyna Switchback has a wet weight of 325.7 kg which makes it suitable for women riders.

The Harley Davidson Softail Heritage Classic closely resembles the Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback. Both motorcycles come with stock saddlebags, large windscreens, chopped front, and rear fenders, and peanut-shaped fuel tanks. However, being a Softail, the Harley Heritage Classic’s rear mono-shock suspension is hidden under the seat.

The Harley Davidson Heritage Classic is a bulkier touring version of the Harley Davidson Softail Deluxe. The Harley Heritage Classic has a classic look equipped with the latest ride-assist features, including ABS and cruise control. This article provides a detailed comparison between the Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback and the Harley Davidson Heritage Classic.

Also Read: HARLEY DAVIDSON SOFTAIL DELUXE VS. HARLEY DAVIDSON SOFTAIL HERITAGE CLASSIC

2. Detailed Specs Comparison: Harley Dyna Switchback Vs. Softail Heritage Classic

Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback		Harley Davidson Softail Heritage Classic
Identification
Harley Davidson	Maker	Harley Davidson
Dyna	Series	Softail
Switchback	Model	Heritage Classic
2016	Year Model	2022
Custom Cruiser/Tourer	Motorcycle Type	Custom Cruiser/Tourer
$17,199	Base Price	$20,799
Engine and Performance
103 cu in (1,688 cc)	Displacement	114 cu in (1,868 cc)
Twin-Cam 103 TM, V-Twin	Engine Design and Type	Milwaukee-Eight® 114, V-Twin
Air-Cooled	Cooling System	Air- and Oil-Cooled
Two	Valves Per Cylinder	Two
126 Nm at 3,500 rpm	Torque	161.34 Nm at 3,000 rpm
76.1 hp at 5,000 rpm	Horsepower	94 hp at 4,750 rpm
111.1 mm	Stroke	114.3 mm
98.4 mm	Bore	102.11 mm
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)	Fuel Injection System	Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
9.6:1	Compression Ratio	10.5:1
Six-Speed	Transmission	Six-Speed
Multiplate with Diaphragm Spring in Oil Bath	Clutch	Wet, Multiplate with Assist & Slipper Functions
Belt	Final Drive	Belt
42 mpg	Fuel Economy	47 mpg
Two-Into-One Chrome Exhaust	Exhaust	Two-Into-Two Shorty Dual Exhaust
Straight-Cut Muffler	Mufflers	Catalyst in Mufflers
Mild Steel, Tubular Frame; Rectangular Section Backbone	Frame	Mild Steel, Tubular Frame; Rectangular Section Backbone
Electric	Starter	Electric
Dimensions and Weight
148 mm	Trail	139.7 mm
29.9°	Rake	30°
4.7 gal	Fuel Tank Capacity	5 gal
4.3 in	Ground Clearance	4.7 in
N/A	Width	36.6 in
N/A	Height	53.9 in
92.9 in	Length	95.1 in
27.4 in	Seat Height	26.3 in
62.8 in	Wheelbase	64.2 in
325.7 kg	Wet Weight	330.21 kg
315.7 kg	Dry Weight	316.15 kg
29°	Lean Angle (Left)	28.5°
29°	Lean Angle (Right)	27.3°

3. Design: Harley Dyna Switchback Vs. Softail Heritage Classic

3.1 Design: Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback

The Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback is an ideal touring motorbike. However, it can be transformed into a stylish cruiser due to its easily detachable windscreen and saddlebags. The Harley Dyna Switchback comes with a single-piece saddle for two-up riding. The high-mounted, swept-back handlebars have turn signals and chrome side mirrors mounted to them.

The Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback has a chrome two-into-one exhaust, a straight-cut muffler, and chrome front forks with a round headlight enclosed in a big chrome nacelle. Unlike the Softail, the rear cigar tube shocks are placed on the exterior. The classic tail light, rear turn signals, and license plate holder are mounted on the rear fender, while the gauges are mounted on the peanut-shaped fuel tank with classic Harley Davidson badges on both sides. The Harley Dyna Switchback comes with Dunlop tires wrapped around stylish blacked-out, five-spoke cast aluminum wheels.

3.2 Design: Harley Softail Heritage Classic

The Harley Davidson Softail Heritage Classic is a classic touring motorbike and custom cruiser. It comes in 14 different color schemes with chrome or blacked-out finish. Despite having an old-school look, the Harley Softail Heritage Classic is equipped with modern technology. It comes with separate dual exhaust pipes, a chopped front fender with the Harley logo, and a large rear fender with a tail light, rear turn signals, and a license plate bracket mounted to it.

The Harley Davidson Softail Heritage Classic has chrome Hiawatha headlamps with front turn signals mounted. The gauges are mounted on a peanut-shaped fuel tank and the side mirrors are attached to the high-mounted, swept-back handlebars. The Harley Softail Heritage Classic is fitted with a two-piece saddle for two-up riding. It comes with classic leather saddlebags and a large windscreen.

4. Engine and Performance: Harley Dyna Switchback Vs. Softail Heritage Classic

4.1 Engine and Performance: Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback

The Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback was powered by a 1,688 cc air-cooled, Twin-Cam 103TM V-Twin engine capable of torque of 126 Nm at 3,500 rpm and horsepower of 76.1 hp at 5,000 rpm. The Harley Dyna Switchback came with a frame-mounted Twin-Cam 103 engine that was less effective in reducing engine vibrations. However, after reaching a speed of 50 mph and above, the vibrations were reduced significantly. The modern Harley Davidson Dyna Switchbacks come with counter balancers that effectively reduce vibrations and make riding more comfortable.

The Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback was fitted with a six-speed gearbox and a smooth clutch. The Twin-Cam 103 engine produces adequate power for touring and cruising at mid-range speeds and has smooth power delivery. The Harley Dyna Switchback’s suspensions do not provide much wheel travel and are slightly uncomfortable on damaged roads, but overall ensure a comfortable riding experience at long distances. Being an older motorcycle, the Harley Dyna Switchback does not come with modern technology like traction control, cruise control, and ride modes, but the ABS does come as a standard feature.

The Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback came with an Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) that provides a fuel economy of 42 mpg and a fuel tank capacity of 4.7 gals.

4.2 Engine and Performance: Harley Davidson Softail Heritage Classic

The Harley Davidson Softail Heritage Classic is fitted with a 1,868 cc Milwaukee-Eight 114 V-Twin engine capable of torque of 161.34 Nm at 3,000 rpm and a horsepower of 94 hp at 4,750 rpm. Being a modern bike, the Harley Softail Heritage Classic engine comes with oil lines integrated with an air-cooled system that effectively maintains the engine’s temperature. The Harley Softail Heritage Classic is also equipped with counter balancers that reduce engine vibrations.

The Harley Davidson Softail Heritage Classic is a moderately designed motorbike for both touring and cruising on highways. The Harley Heritage Classic’s performance is enhanced by modern ride-assist features, including ABS and cruise control. The Harley Softail Heritage Classic’s Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine provides smooth power delivery at all gear levels.

The Harley Softail Heritage Classic has a six-speed transmission and a wet, multi-plate clutch with assist and slipper functions to ensure smooth clutch operation. It also comes with an Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) that provides a fuel economy of 47 mpg. The Harley Heritage Classic has a fuel tank capacity of 5 gals.

Being a Softail model, the Harley Davidson Softail Heritage Classic comes with a hydraulic preload adjustable coil-over mono-shock hidden under the seat for enhanced dynamic cornering.

5. Comfort and Ergonomics: Harley Dyna Switchback Vs. Softail Heritage Classic

5.1 Comfort and Ergonomics: Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback

Photo Credit: @rommelhdsmyrna

The Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback has a seat height of 27.4 inches and slightly high, swept-back mini-ape handlebars that ensure a comfortable seating position. The forward-mounted foot controls ensure adequate legroom for average and taller riders. The handlebars are within comfortable reach of the rider, ensuring an upright back position. The Harley Dyna Switchback has floorboards that allow the rider to comfortably rest his/her feet while touring.

The Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback can easily be transformed into a cruiser. The saddlebags and windshield are rubber-mounted and can be easily removed by applying a little force. Overall, the Harley Dyna Switchback is a comfortable two-in-one motorbike suited for longer rides and cruising. In its stripped-down cruiser style, it can also be used for daily commutes and riding through traffic.

5.2 Comfort and Ergonomics: Harley Davidson Softail Heritage Classic

Photo Credit: @forbes

The Harley Davidson Softail Heritage Classic is a comfortable motorcycle for long-distance rides and cruising at highway speeds with its large windshield blocking incoming wind. The Harley Softail Heritage classic has a comfortable saddle and its engine produces adequate power for two-up riding. The high-mounted handlebars are slightly swept back, ensuring an upright riding position. The Harley Softail Heritage Classic has forward-mounted foot controls with floorboards that provide a comfortable touring experience and adequate legroom for taller riders.

6. Technology and Features: Harley Dyna Switchback Vs. Softail Heritage Classic

2017 Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback		2022 Harley Davidson Softail Heritage Classic
Technology and Features
Standard	ABS	Standard
✕	Cruise Control	✓
Fuel Tank-Mounted	Gauges	Fuel Tank-Mounted
Analogue	Speedometer	Analogue
✓	Odometer	✓
✓	Tripmeter	Digital
✓	Tachometer	Digital
✓	Fuel Gauge	✓
✓	Low Fuel Indicator	✓
✓	Gear Position Display	✓
✓	Clock	✓
✕	USB Charging Port	✓

7. Pros and Cons: Harley Dyna Switchback Vs. Softail Heritage Classic

7.1 Pros and Cons: Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback

Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback Pros	Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback Cons
Light touring bike	Excessive vibrations
Comfortable seat position	Low ground clearance
Good for beginner and women riders	Less powerful
ABS is standard	Shorter wheel travel suspensions
Comes with stock saddlebags, windscreen, and floorboards
Windscreen and saddlebags are easily detachable
Comfortable ride experience
Lightweight chassis
Nimble

7.2 Pros and Cons: Harley Davidson Softail Heritage Classic

Harley Davidson Softail Heritage Classic Pros	Harley Davidson Softail Heritage Classic Cons
Comfortable bike	Heavyweight
Comes with stock saddlebags, windshield, and floorboards	Difficult to maneuver at low speeds
Good for two-up riding	Not good for beginners
ABS and cruise control are standard	Difficult to ride through traffic
Powerful engine	Difficult to make U-turns
Air- and oil-cooled system	Expensive
Comes with counterbalancers
Comfortable riding ergonomics
Aesthetically appealing

8. Colors and Cost: Harley Dyna Switchback Vs. Softail Heritage Classic

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

9.1 Is the Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback a Good Motorbike?

The Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback is easy to maneuver, lightweight, and nimble. It is equally popular among men and women due to being an ideal touring bike and a convertible cruiser. The seat position, mini-ape handlebars, and forward-mounted floorboards ensure a comfortable riding experience on both long and short trips. The Harley Dyna Switchback comes with ABS and is built with a lightweight frame that improves its handling.

9.2 Is the Harley Davidson Softail Heritage Classic Good for Tall Riders?

The Harley Davidson Softail Heritage Classic is a big motorbike with a long wheelbase, low seat height, and forward-mounted floorboards. Its high-mounted and slightly swept-back handlebars ensure a relaxed riding position for taller riders. The legroom is also adequate for taller riders as they can comfortably adjust their legs.

9.3 What Kind of a Motorbike is the Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback?

Harley Davidson started the trend of easily convertible motorbikes capable of both touring and cruising with the introduction of the Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback. It is a touring motorbike with a large windscreen and saddlebags that can be easily detached, transforming into a cruiser. It has comfortable ergonomics for both touring and cruising. The Harley Dyna Switchback‘s storage capacity can be further improved by adding sissy bars to mount extra luggage.

10. Which is Better: Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback Vs. Harley Davidson Softail Heritage Classic

The Harley Davidson Dyna Switchback and the Harley Davidson Softail Heritage Classic are both ideal touring bikes and cruisers. Both motorcycles have ABS, stock saddlebags, and a windscreen that make them suited for touring. However, the Harley Dyna Switchback is a lightweight, nimble, and beginner-friendly motorcycle popular among men and women alike. The Harley Dyna Switchback is a versatile motorbike because it can be both a touring bike and a cruiser. However, being an older motorbike, the Twin-Cam 103 engine produces a lot of vibrations.

Meanwhile, the Harley Davidson Softail Heritage Classic is a bulky motorbike designed for long-distance rides, can cruise on highways and is suited for touring with its powerful Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine. The Harley Heritage Classic has a classic look but it is equipped with modern ride-assist features. It is ideal for both average and taller riders. However, it is the more expensive option between the two Harley motorcycles.

Photo Credit: @harleydavidsonofquantico , @bensonmotorcycles