Harley-Davidson has traditionally focused on quoting torque figures rather than horsepower (HP) for their motorcycles. There are a few reasons behind this:
Riding Style and Character: Harley-Davidson motorcycles are often associated with a cruising and relaxed riding style. Torque is the twisting force generated by the engine that allows the motorcycle to accelerate from low speeds and pull strongly in the lower RPM range. It is often considered more relevant to the riding experience of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, as it provides the low-end power and acceleration needed for cruising and city riding. Torque figures give riders an indication of the pulling power and grunt of the engine.
Marketing and Branding: Harley-Davidson has built its brand image around the concept of torque and the "Harley-Davidson experience." Focusing on torque figures aligns with the brand's identity and the perception of their motorcycles as powerful, muscular machines.
Engine Design: Harley-Davidson engines typically have a V-twin configuration, and the design inherently produces strong low-end torque. This design choice reflects the company's emphasis on torque performance and further justifies highlighting torque figures in their marketing and specifications.
While Harley-Davidson does provide horsepower figures for their motorcycles, they often prioritize torque figures in their promotional materials and marketing language to highlight the riding characteristics and experience that their motorcycles offer. It is worth noting that in recent years, as Harley-Davidson has introduced more modern engine designs and technologies, they have started to provide more comprehensive specifications, including both torque and horsepower figures, to cater to a wider audience.