Vehicle Description
Introduced in 1995, the Bad Boy was based on the Harley-Davidson's
Softail Springer model, but was cloaked in black from its narrow
front fender to its bobbed tail. Even such traditionally bright
pieces as the fork tubes, instrument panel, and under-seat oil tank
were blacked out. Only the front coil springs, headlight, exhaust
pipes, handlebars, and various trim pieces carried chrome. Though
the look was retro, the technology was up to date. Springer front
forks, similar in concept to those used on Harleys up through the
1940s, had arrived in 1988 carrying an updated design, and on the
Bad Boy, also incorporated a multi-link arrangement that allowed
the fender to hug the 21-inch tire more closely. The frame that
looked rigid wasn't; it was Harley's Softail design that
incorporated a swingarm extending two shocks underneath the engine.
Power came from the company's 80-cubic-inch Evolution V-twin, and
drilled disc brakes were featured front and back. The slotted rear
wheel was turned by a toothed belt instead of a chain, same as
other Harleys of the period. Despite its appeal, the Bad Boy led a
short life. Production lasted only three years, during which time
little changed besides the tank striping, which was available in
yellow, blue, and red. 1995 Total Production 3367 Blue Stripes -
1747 Red Stripes - 1618 Special Custom - 2 (HD did not record what
the color was back then)