2025 Harley-Davidson Street Bob: The Beast Unleashed

The standout upgrade for 2025 is the inclusion of the Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-twin engine. Replacing the previous 114, this 117 cubic inch powerhouse delivers 156 Nm of torque at just 2,750 RPM, allowing riders to access immense pulling power early in the rev range. Compared to its predecessors—the 107 and 114—the 117 feels like Harley's answer to turning the Street Bob into a true street beast.

With the introduction of selectable ride modes (Sport, Road, and Rain), the bike becomes a chameleon. Sport mode unleashes its full ferocity, Road mode dials it back for everyday use, and Rain mode tones the throttle response down for smoother, more controlled riding in slick conditions. It's essentially three personalities in one frame—calm cruiser, muscled middleweight, and full-throttle bruiser.

The 2025 Street Bob retains its minimalist, bobber-inspired DNA but now sports a more aggressive silhouette. While the core chassis remains, refinements in switchgear, LED indicators, and ergonomics make this iteration feel more premium.

• New Analog Speedo: A centrally mounted analog speedometer replaces the previously offset digital display—a move applauded by traditionalists and those who value clear, classic instrumentation.
• Tubeless Spoked Wheels: Spoked rims retain the vintage vibe but now support tubeless tires, combining heritage looks with modern convenience.
• Revised Switchgear: Larger and more tactile, the new controls also make room for the now-standard cruise control—an unusual but welcome addition at this price point.

The handlebars feel wider, and the foot controls are positioned in a way that provides a balanced, upright riding stance. The narrow front tire and 30° rake contribute to its stable, easygoing handling, while the low-slung seat gives riders that "in the bike" feeling many Harley enthusiasts crave.

Despite its muscular engine and urban cruiser stance, the Street Bob remains surprisingly approachable. Its 293 kg curb weight is slightly lower than some earlier variants, and thanks to clever weight distribution, it maneuvers better than expected—whether carving wide roads or navigating tight garage corners.

The gearbox retains that signature Harley "clunk," adding character to gear changes, and the suspension setup strikes a fine balance between stability and responsiveness. While not built for razor-sharp sport riding, the Street Bob holds its line confidently on twisty roads and offers a deeply satisfying ride experience, especially for riders who like to short-shift and rely on torque.

Like any machine, the Street Bob isn't without quirks. Visibility from the stock mirrors could be improved—they sit just below shoulder height and don't offer the best view of the road behind. The gear lever is slightly high, requiring some toe-lifting for downshifts, but that's consistent with the model's previous generations.

Also worth noting: while the sidestand is solid and dependable, it could use a wider foot for soft ground—something longtime Harley riders have pointed out for years.

At a starting price of £14,995 in the UK, the 2025 Harley-Davidson Street Bob is positioned as one of the most affordable entries into the brand's Big Twin lineup—yet it doesn't feel "entry-level" in any sense. Between the massive engine, selectable modes, upgraded styling, and added rider aids, it delivers serious bang for your buck.

Whether you're a returning Harley rider or someone looking for an American V-twin with attitude and modern practicality, the new Street Bob deserves a top spot on your shortlist.