Hey guys! Today, let's dive deep into the 2017 Harley-Davidson Fat Bob FXDF, a bike that perfectly blends aggressive styling with robust performance. This model year holds a special place in the Fat Bob's history, marking a unique point before significant design changes. Whether you're a long-time Harley enthusiast or someone just getting into the world of motorcycles, understanding what makes the 2017 Fat Bob tick is essential. So, let's rev up our engines and get started!

Overview of the 2017 Fat Bob FXDF

The Harley-Davidson Fat Bob FXDF is renowned for its distinctive, muscular appearance and powerful performance. The 2017 model carries forward this legacy, offering riders a machine that's as visually striking as it is thrilling to ride. At its heart lies an air-cooled, Twin Cam 103 engine, delivering the kind of torque and power that Harley riders crave. This engine isn't just about brute force; it's about providing a smooth, responsive riding experience that makes every journey memorable. The Fat Bob's design elements, such as the twin headlamps, beefy tires, and aggressive stance, all contribute to its unique character. It's a bike that commands attention and delivers a riding experience to match its bold looks. For many, the 2017 Fat Bob represents a sweet spot in the model's evolution, offering a blend of classic Harley styling with modern performance features. It's a bike that's equally at home cruising down the highway or tearing up backroads, making it a versatile choice for riders who want a machine that can do it all. The attention to detail in the fit and finish is evident throughout the bike, from the quality of the paint to the precision of the mechanical components. This commitment to quality ensures that the Fat Bob not only looks great but also provides years of reliable service.

Key Features and Specifications

When it comes to the 2017 Harley-Davidson Fat Bob FXDF, understanding its key features and specs is crucial. Let's break down what makes this bike a true standout in the Harley lineup. The heart of the Fat Bob is its Twin Cam 103 engine, a powerhouse that displaces 1690cc (103 cubic inches). This engine delivers a robust 97.4 lb-ft of torque at 3500 RPM, providing plenty of grunt for acceleration and confident highway cruising. The engine is air-cooled, maintaining that classic Harley-Davidson appeal while offering reliable performance. The six-speed transmission ensures smooth gear changes and optimal power delivery across a wide range of speeds. This is particularly useful whether you're navigating city streets or eating up miles on the open road. The Fat Bob features a double cradle frame, which enhances stability and handling. This frame design contributes to the bike's solid feel and predictable behavior, inspiring confidence in riders of all skill levels. Suspension-wise, the Fat Bob is equipped with 49mm front forks and adjustable rear shocks. This setup provides a comfortable ride while still offering excellent control and feedback. The dual front disc brakes with four-piston calipers deliver strong stopping power, ensuring rider safety. These brakes offer a firm and responsive feel, giving you the confidence to handle any situation. Other notable features include the signature twin headlamps, blacked-out components, and slash-cut mufflers. These elements give the Fat Bob its distinctive and aggressive look. The bike's instrumentation includes a combination analog speedometer and digital display, providing essential information at a glance. The fuel tank has a capacity of 5 gallons, offering a decent range for longer rides. All these features combine to make the 2017 Fat Bob a well-rounded and capable machine that's ready for anything you throw at it. It’s a bike that not only looks the part but also delivers an exhilarating riding experience.

Engine and Performance

Let's delve into the heart of the 2017 Harley-Davidson Fat Bob FXDF: its engine and overall performance. The Twin Cam 103 engine is the star of the show, providing the raw power and unmistakable Harley-Davidson character that riders love. With a displacement of 1690cc, this engine delivers a substantial 97.4 lb-ft of torque at 3500 RPM. This means you get strong acceleration and plenty of pulling power, whether you're overtaking on the highway or navigating challenging terrain. The engine's air-cooled design not only adds to the bike's classic appeal but also ensures reliable performance in various riding conditions. The six-speed transmission works seamlessly with the engine to provide smooth and precise gear changes. This allows you to make the most of the engine's power band, whether you're cruising at low speeds or pushing the bike to its limits. The Fat Bob's performance is further enhanced by its well-tuned suspension and rigid frame. These components work together to provide a stable and controlled ride, even on rough roads. The dual front disc brakes offer excellent stopping power, giving you the confidence to ride aggressively when the mood strikes. The bike's exhaust system not only looks great but also contributes to its throaty exhaust note. This sound is an integral part of the Harley-Davidson experience, adding to the overall sense of excitement and enjoyment. In terms of real-world performance, the 2017 Fat Bob excels in a variety of riding scenarios. It's equally at home on long highway stretches as it is on winding backroads. The engine's ample torque makes it easy to maintain a comfortable cruising speed, while the bike's responsive handling allows you to tackle corners with confidence. Overall, the engine and performance of the 2017 Fat Bob are a testament to Harley-Davidson's commitment to building bikes that are both powerful and enjoyable to ride. It's a machine that delivers an exhilarating experience every time you twist the throttle.

Design and Styling

The 2017 Harley-Davidson Fat Bob FXDF is a masterclass in design and styling, blending aggressive aesthetics with practical functionality. This bike makes a bold statement with its unique visual elements and attention to detail. One of the most distinctive features of the Fat Bob is its twin headlamps, which give the bike a menacing and unmistakable front end. These headlamps not only look great but also provide excellent illumination, enhancing visibility in low-light conditions. The blacked-out components throughout the bike add to its sinister and aggressive look. From the engine to the exhaust system, the use of blacked-out finishes creates a cohesive and visually striking appearance. The Fat Bob's beefy tires and wide stance contribute to its muscular and imposing presence. These tires not only look great but also provide excellent grip and stability, enhancing the bike's handling capabilities. The slash-cut mufflers add to the bike's aggressive styling while also producing a deep and throaty exhaust note. This sound is an essential part of the Harley-Davidson experience, adding to the overall sense of excitement and enjoyment. The bike's low-slung seat and forward-mounted controls create a comfortable and commanding riding position. This setup allows you to feel connected to the bike and in control of its power. The Fat Bob's instrumentation includes a combination analog speedometer and digital display, providing essential information at a glance. The fuel tank features a distinctive design that complements the bike's overall aesthetic. The attention to detail in the fit and finish is evident throughout the bike, from the quality of the paint to the precision of the mechanical components. Overall, the design and styling of the 2017 Fat Bob are a testament to Harley-Davidson's commitment to creating bikes that are both visually stunning and functionally superior. It's a bike that commands attention and delivers a riding experience that matches its bold looks.

Riding Experience

The 2017 Harley-Davidson Fat Bob FXDF offers a unique and exhilarating riding experience that sets it apart from other bikes in its class. From the moment you swing a leg over the saddle, you'll feel a sense of connection to the machine. The low-slung seat and forward-mounted controls create a comfortable and commanding riding position, allowing you to feel in control of the bike's power. The Twin Cam 103 engine delivers a surge of torque that's instantly accessible, providing strong acceleration and confident highway cruising. The six-speed transmission shifts smoothly and precisely, allowing you to make the most of the engine's power band. The Fat Bob's well-tuned suspension provides a comfortable and controlled ride, even on rough roads. The bike's rigid frame enhances stability and handling, giving you the confidence to tackle corners with precision. The dual front disc brakes offer excellent stopping power, allowing you to ride aggressively when the mood strikes. The bike's throaty exhaust note adds to the overall sense of excitement and enjoyment, making every ride a memorable experience. Whether you're cruising down the highway or exploring winding backroads, the 2017 Fat Bob offers a dynamic and engaging riding experience. The bike's responsive handling and ample power make it a joy to ride in a variety of conditions. The Fat Bob is also surprisingly comfortable for longer rides, thanks to its well-designed ergonomics and supportive seat. Overall, the riding experience of the 2017 Fat Bob is a testament to Harley-Davidson's commitment to building bikes that are both powerful and enjoyable to ride. It's a machine that delivers an exhilarating experience every time you twist the throttle.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced view, let's look at the pros and cons of the 2017 Harley-Davidson Fat Bob FXDF. Understanding these points can help you decide if this bike is the right fit for you.

Pros:

• Powerful Engine: The Twin Cam 103 engine delivers ample torque and horsepower, providing strong acceleration and confident highway cruising.
• Aggressive Styling: The Fat Bob's unique design, including twin headlamps, blacked-out components, and beefy tires, gives it a bold and distinctive look.
• Comfortable Riding Position: The low-slung seat and forward-mounted controls create a comfortable and commanding riding position.
• Responsive Handling: The bike's well-tuned suspension and rigid frame provide stable and predictable handling.
• Strong Brakes: The dual front disc brakes offer excellent stopping power, enhancing rider safety.

Cons:

• Weight: The Fat Bob is a relatively heavy bike, which can make it challenging to maneuver at low speeds.
• Fuel Economy: The bike's fuel economy is not the best, especially when ridden aggressively.
• Seat Comfort for Passengers: The pillion seat is not the most comfortable for passengers on long rides.
• Limited Technology: The bike lacks some of the modern technology features found on other bikes in its class.
• Price: The Fat Bob can be relatively expensive compared to other bikes in its segment.

Weighing these pros and cons can help you determine if the 2017 Fat Bob is the right choice for your needs and preferences. Despite some drawbacks, its unique styling, powerful engine, and engaging riding experience make it a popular choice among Harley-Davidson enthusiasts.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the 2017 Harley-Davidson Fat Bob FXDF is a remarkable motorcycle that perfectly embodies the spirit of Harley-Davidson. Its combination of aggressive styling, powerful performance, and unique riding experience make it a standout in the cruiser category. While it may have some drawbacks, such as its weight and fuel economy, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. If you're looking for a bike that makes a statement and delivers an exhilarating ride, the 2017 Fat Bob is definitely worth considering. Whether you're a seasoned Harley rider or new to the world of motorcycles, this bike has something to offer everyone. Its Twin Cam 103 engine provides plenty of power for both cruising and spirited riding, while its distinctive design ensures you'll turn heads wherever you go. The 2017 Fat Bob represents a sweet spot in the model's history, offering a blend of classic Harley styling with modern performance features. It's a bike that's equally at home on long highway stretches as it is on winding backroads, making it a versatile choice for riders who want a machine that can do it all. So, if you're in the market for a motorcycle that's both stylish and capable, be sure to check out the 2017 Harley-Davidson Fat Bob FXDF. You won't be disappointed! Safe riding, guys!