The thoroughly revised Harley-Davidson Breakout 117 is a beautiful, powerful cruiser. However, it does have some weaknesses in the details.
- Impressive engine performance
- Demanding in handling
- Optional anti-skid control
The Harley-Davidson Breakout was the most popular Harley model in Germany for several years. Now the beautiful cruiser is available in a revised version. One thing has remained the same: the new model can also be described as a great showpiece: The Harley-Davidson Breakout 117 with the cryptic model abbreviation FXBRS has basically no practical value – apart from attracting attention. We were able to clarify whether it can also score points in terms of performance during extensive test drives in California.
In the test: 103-hp engine
With its “Baja Orange” paintwork, lots of chrome, milled and polished 26-spoke aluminum wheels and the meticulous finish of all parts, it is a real eye-catcher. The silhouette is elegant and the new 19-liter tank and the numbers 1-1-7 on the heavy-breather air filter that stretches freely into the airstream fit harmoniously into the overall picture. The largest production engine from the Americans is also a sculpture in itself: polished cylinder ribs, chrome-plated pushrod sleeves, the iconic V of the two mighty pots. Even though the Breakout 117 is more of a work of art costing around 30,000 euros than a mundane motorcycle, it meets demanding expectations. This is particularly true when it comes to longitudinal acceleration: 168 Newton meters of torque at 3500 rpm catapult the rider into any desired orbit at lightning speed.
Suboptimal brake lever
The 1923 cubic centimeter V2 engine of the Milwaukee Eight type turns so quickly through the speed range, which extends to around 5500 rpm , that the pilot’s pupils initially dilate to unimaginable dimensions. To reassure you: the disc brake system safely catches the fast machine despite only having one disc in the stylish, extremely large 21-inch front wheel; however, the driver must not be too weak for powerful braking maneuvers. The technology that has long been used worldwide to make the hand levers of a motorcycle adjustable in width has evidently not yet reached the developers in the US state of Wisconsin. This is why drivers with paws like grizzly bears have a clear advantage, as they can perfectly grasp the hand brake lever with their right hand, which is not possible for normal people like the author. We have to think accordingly far ahead, because we cannot use a large part of the technically available braking power due to our small hands.
Shifting requires “small feet”
The seating position on the Breakout is perfect for short breakaway attempts, but is perceived as strenuous on longer trips. The rider sits just 66.5 centimeters above the asphalt, leans slightly forward and grasps the drag-style handlebars, which are mounted quite far forward, while at the same time having to stretch his legs forward to reach the footrests. If the boots are not at least size 45, the left foot must be stretched out extra far to the front when changing gears and at the same time lifted at short intervals in order to be able to change up a gear. Given the enormous acceleration of the Breakout, a particularly strong coordination ability of hands, arms, legs and ankles is an advantage in this case.
Chopper-typical, sporty suspension
The seat is well padded and provides good support for the extended back during the almost inevitable acceleration orgies. It is not surprising that the suspension is rather – let’s call it – sporty on this beautiful cruiser. But don’t worry: even if the rigid frame design suggests that there is no rear wheel suspension, there is one. It only has a working range of 8.6 centimeters. This means that road bumps over five millimeters can only be eliminated to a limited extent. The telescopic fork, on the other hand, does its job well within the 13 centimeters of suspension travel. You can also be satisfied with the lean angle ; a cruiser is not a sports bike, even if the brutal power – in addition to the torque, there is also 76 kW/103 hp at 5020 rpm – sometimes suggests otherwise. The top speed of the 310 kg short-range rocket of 190 km/h is probably only enjoyed by a few due to the enormous wind pressure on the helmet and upper body.
Trademark: Cool sound
On the other hand, you’ll love looking at the stylish display on the handlebars: the standard cruise control, the installed keyless system and the anti-skid control are impressive. Even though Harley-Davidson introduced an electric motorcycle in 2019 with the Livewire , the hum-hum era is by no means over for the Americans. Quite the opposite: the sound that is indispensable for Harleys has reached a top level with the Breakout 117. That doesn’t mean maximum volume, but particularly successful acoustics . A quick twist of the throttle is enough to attract the attention of almost everyone around and make them look at the chrome-orange diva. Its owners will enjoy it.
Harley-Davidson Breakout 117: Technical data, price
For correct and reliable info, we pull technical details directly from Harley-Davidson’s website.
| Manufacturer’s Component | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Motor | 2 cylinders, 45° V-engine, 1923 cc displacement, 76.0 kW at 5020 rpm, max. torque 168.0 at 3500 rpm, 4 valves/cylinder, injection system, air/liquid cooling |
| assistance systems | LED headlights, keyless ignition, self-resetting indicators, cruise control, traction control optional from mid-2023 |
| chassis | Double-loop tube frame/steel; 49 mm telescopic fork, 130 mm travel; triangular swing arm at the rear, 86 mm travel; |
| Mass | Empty weight approx. 310 kg, permissible total weight 533 kg; length/width/height 2370 / 950 / 1065 mm, seat height 665 mm; tank capacity 18.9 l |
| brakes | individually operated, front disc, 300 mm, rear disc, 292 mm |
| performance / consumption | Top speed approx. 190 km/h, 5.6 l/100 km |
| Price | 28,995 euros |
Conclusion
The Harley-Davidson Breakout 117 is a stunning cruiser that dazzles with its bold styling, immense torque, and unmistakable Harley character. While it offers breathtaking acceleration and a truly iconic sound, it also demands a lot from its rider in terms of handling, braking effort, and riding comfort. Small flaws in ergonomics and practicality don’t diminish its appeal to those seeking a head-turning machine with raw, authentic power. For anyone ready to embrace its demanding nature, the Breakout 117 offers an unforgettable, visceral riding experience that perfectly embodies the spirit of Harley-Davidson.