HARLEY-DAVIDSON Fat Boy (1997-1998) Specs, Performance & Photos

The Harley-Davidson Fat Boy was a cruiser motorcycle that debuted in 1990, also known as the FLSTF, a code name given to Fat Boy models manufactured from 1990 to 2017. From 2018, the Fat Boys were coded as FLFB and FLFBS.

A false etymology circulated then, claiming that the Fat Boy name was given as a symbolic insult to Japanese motorcycles. Some said that the name was given after the Fat Man and Little Boy atomic bombs were dropped on Japan in WW2, but it was a simple descriptive name describing the fat appearance of the bike when viewed head-on.

In 1997, Harley-Davidson launched the eighth consecutive model of the Fat Boy, a bike part of the Fat Boy line in H-D's range, known for its muscular appearance, distinctive style, and powerful engine.

The 1997 machine came in the same package as its predecessors, without any significant modifications. The bike was equipped with standard features, such as a wide handlebar, a round headlight with a chromed housing, a wide seat, a dual chromed exhaust system, and full disc wheels covered by valanced fenders.

As for power, the 1997 Harley-Davidson Fat Boy packed the same 1,337cc air-cooled V-twin carbureted engine as its predecessors, delivering 67 hp with a peak at 6,000 rpm and 97 Nm (72 lb-ft) torque at 2,350 rpm.

The power was delivered to the rear wheel through a five-speed transmission with cable-operated multiple discs dry clutch and a final belt drive.