Let's dive deep into the 2017 Harley-Davidson Fat Bob FXDF, a bike that commands attention and delivers a thrilling riding experience. For motorcycle enthusiasts and potential buyers, understanding every aspect of this machine is crucial. This review covers everything from its powerful engine to its distinctive design elements, ensuring you have a comprehensive overview.

Overview of the 2017 Harley-Davidson Fat Bob FXDF

The 2017 Harley-Davidson Fat Bob FXDF is a unique blend of aggressive styling and raw power, making it a standout model in the Harley-Davidson lineup. This bike is designed for riders who want a motorcycle that looks as good as it performs. The Fat Bob's muscular stance, combined with its distinctive twin headlamps and chopped rear fender, gives it an unmistakable presence on the road.

The heart of the Fat Bob is its robust engine, which provides plenty of torque for quick acceleration and effortless cruising. The bike's suspension and brakes are engineered to offer a smooth and controlled ride, whether you're navigating city streets or tackling winding roads. Overall, the 2017 Fat Bob is a versatile machine that appeals to riders who value both style and substance.

One of the key highlights of the 2017 model is its attention to detail. From the fit and finish of the components to the quality of the paint, every aspect of the bike is crafted to meet Harley-Davidson's high standards. The Fat Bob also offers a comfortable riding position, making it suitable for long journeys. With its combination of performance, style, and comfort, the 2017 Harley-Davidson Fat Bob FXDF is a compelling choice for riders seeking a distinctive and capable motorcycle.

Key Features and Specifications

When it comes to the 2017 Harley-Davidson Fat Bob FXDF, understanding its key features and specifications is essential for any potential buyer. This section breaks down the most important aspects of the bike, from its engine and performance to its dimensions and handling.

Engine and Performance

The 2017 Fat Bob is powered by a robust engine that delivers impressive performance. The exact engine specifications may vary slightly depending on the market, but typically it features a Twin Cam configuration. This engine is known for its strong low-end torque, which provides excellent acceleration and pulling power. The displacement usually falls in the range of 1584cc (96 cubic inches) or 1690cc (103 cubic inches), depending on the specific model and region.

The engine's performance is enhanced by its electronic fuel injection (EFI) system, which ensures smooth and efficient power delivery. The EFI system optimizes fuel combustion, resulting in improved fuel economy and reduced emissions. The engine is paired with a six-speed transmission, allowing for smooth gear changes and comfortable cruising at higher speeds. The combination of the powerful engine and well-tuned transmission makes the 2017 Fat Bob a joy to ride in various conditions.

Design and Styling

The design and styling of the Fat Bob are among its most distinctive features. The bike's aggressive and muscular appearance sets it apart from other models in the Harley-Davidson lineup. The twin headlamps are a signature element, providing excellent visibility and contributing to the bike's unique look. The chopped rear fender adds to the bike's sporty and rebellious character, while the fat tires enhance its imposing stance. The 2017 Fat Bob also features a blacked-out engine and exhaust system, which further accentuate its aggressive styling.

The bike's fuel tank has a sleek and streamlined design, seamlessly integrating with the rest of the bodywork. The instrumentation is kept simple and functional, with a speedometer and other essential gauges mounted on the tank. The seat is designed for comfort, providing ample support for both the rider and passenger. Overall, the design and styling of the 2017 Fat Bob are carefully considered to create a visually striking and functional motorcycle.

Dimensions and Handling

The dimensions and handling characteristics of the 2017 Fat Bob contribute to its overall riding experience. The bike has a relatively low seat height, making it accessible to riders of various sizes. The wheelbase is typically around 63.7 inches (1618 mm), providing a good balance between stability and maneuverability. The overall length of the bike is approximately 92.8 inches (2357 mm), giving it a substantial presence on the road. The 2017 Fat Bob has a dry weight of around 670 pounds (304 kg), which is relatively heavy but contributes to its stable and planted feel.

The bike's suspension system includes front forks with a diameter of 49 mm and rear shocks with adjustable preload. This setup allows for a comfortable and controlled ride, even on rough roads. The braking system features dual front disc brakes and a single rear disc brake, providing ample stopping power. The Fat Bob's handling is surprisingly nimble, thanks to its well-balanced chassis and responsive steering. Whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the 2017 Fat Bob offers a confident and enjoyable riding experience.

Riding Experience

The riding experience on the 2017 Harley-Davidson Fat Bob FXDF is truly something to behold. This bike isn't just about raw power; it's about how that power translates into a feeling on the road. From the moment you fire up the engine, you're greeted with the iconic Harley-Davidson rumble that resonates deep within.

Comfort and Ergonomics

When it comes to comfort and ergonomics, the 2017 Fat Bob strikes a balance between aggressive styling and rider-friendly features. The seat is designed to provide ample support for long rides, and the riding position is relatively upright, reducing strain on your back and wrists. The handlebars are positioned to offer a comfortable reach, allowing for easy control and maneuverability. While the Fat Bob may not be the most comfortable bike for extremely long journeys, it's certainly manageable for day trips and weekend getaways. The foot controls are also well-placed, ensuring a natural and intuitive riding experience.

Handling and Performance on Different Roads

The handling and performance of the 2017 Fat Bob vary depending on the type of road you're riding on. In the city, the bike's low-end torque and responsive throttle make it easy to navigate through traffic. The suspension does a decent job of absorbing bumps and potholes, providing a relatively smooth ride. On the highway, the Fat Bob is a comfortable cruiser, with plenty of power for overtaking and maintaining high speeds. The bike's stability and planted feel inspire confidence, even in windy conditions. On winding roads, the Fat Bob's nimble handling and responsive steering allow you to carve through corners with ease. While it may not be as agile as a sportbike, it's surprisingly capable for a bike of its size and weight.

Potential Issues and Maintenance

Like any motorcycle, the 2017 Harley-Davidson Fat Bob FXDF has its share of potential issues and maintenance requirements. Regular maintenance is essential to keep the bike running smoothly and prevent costly repairs. Some common issues to watch out for include electrical problems, such as faulty sensors or wiring, and mechanical issues, such as oil leaks or clutch problems. It's important to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule, which includes regular oil changes, filter replacements, and inspections. Additionally, it's a good idea to invest in a high-quality battery tender to prevent battery drain during periods of inactivity.

Pros and Cons

To provide a balanced perspective, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2017 Harley-Davidson Fat Bob FXDF.

Pros

• Aggressive Styling: The Fat Bob's muscular stance and distinctive design elements make it a head-turner.
• Powerful Engine: The engine delivers plenty of torque for quick acceleration and effortless cruising.
• Comfortable Riding Position: The bike offers a relatively upright riding position, reducing strain on your back and wrists.
• Nimble Handling: The Fat Bob's handling is surprisingly nimble, making it fun to ride on winding roads.

Cons

• Weight: The Fat Bob is a relatively heavy bike, which can make it challenging to maneuver in tight spaces.
• Fuel Economy: The bike's fuel economy may not be as good as some other models in the Harley-Davidson lineup.
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential to keep the bike running smoothly, which can be time-consuming and costly.

Final Verdict

The 2017 Harley-Davidson Fat Bob FXDF is a standout motorcycle that offers a unique blend of style, performance, and comfort. Its aggressive styling, powerful engine, and nimble handling make it a joy to ride in various conditions. While it may not be the perfect bike for everyone, it's certainly worth considering if you're looking for a distinctive and capable machine. Whether you're cruising on the highway or carving through winding roads, the Fat Bob is sure to provide an exhilarating riding experience.

If you value a bike that makes a statement and delivers raw power, the 2017 Harley-Davidson Fat Bob FXDF is definitely worth a look. Its blend of classic Harley-Davidson DNA with modern design elements creates a truly unique riding experience. So, if you're ready to turn heads and feel the rumble, the Fat Bob might just be your perfect ride.