2023 Harley Davidson Breakout 117 Review

A couple of years ago, the first Harley I ever rode was a Breakout 115. Well they've updated it with a bigger engine (really!) a bigger fuel tank and a bit more bling - here's my thoughts on the latest version of the bike...

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My current motorcycles are:-
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Please be aware I am not a professional journalist or otherwise claim to be an expert in any way in motorcycles or anything else. I'm just an ordinary biker like you probably are. Please regard my videos as entertainment only and if information presented is important to you, please verify it via a knowledgable third party....the videos I post are just my opinions and are no more valid than anyone elses.

[m.f.m.]

"...I actually love all motorcycles..." the mark of a true connoisseur.

[kirstiesmith]

I'm a woman, and yes, I am able to man handle a Harley at 5' 4"! 🤣🤣 Just test road a 2024 Breakout yesterday and am taking the plung to add to my HD collection! Super nice bike and an easy rider as far as Harleys go. The weight distribution is perfect and is not top heavy whatsoever. The weight carries mid to low! I also can't get over the sweet look - very clean and mean for this Biker Babe!

[cliveperkins]

Bought a Breakout 114 in 2021, after 40 years of riding all kinds of bikes. My first Harley. I rode it to Germany in June, loaded with luggage and wearing a Kriega rucksack. I averaged 250 miles per day with 80 miles between stops. At 60 years, that’s enough. No back ache and very comfortable riding position. I hit a log on the motorway at 40 mph. It did not upset the bike, really stable. Probably would have brought a lighter weight bike down. Very engaging bike, always keeps me interested. I love my Breakout!

[fountainofyouth]

I love this paint scheme, and those are some of the coolest looking wheels I've seen on a factory bike. What a beaut! I think part of the reason there is only one caliper on the front wheel is so you get that clean, unspoiled "kick stand pose" look at the front wheel.

[chrisdaws]

I rode a soft tail 7000 miles across the USA during April 2019, so I feel I am qualified to comment.
The first hour of each day was enjoyable, the torque, the noise, the acceleration.
The rest of the ride was an uncomfortable, back-breaking slog.
The trip was fantastic, but I was so happy to hand it back to Eagle Rider when I finished, knowing I never had to ride such a prehistoric, slow, heavy, poor handling thing again.
Back in the UK my daily ride is a Triumph Sprint GT, I'll stick with that.

[heylimeysteve]

Just test rode one of these in Los Angeles. Awesome! Looks 10x better in person versus on camera. Loved it, and I’m not into cruisers as a general rule.

[marcbergeron]

I own two HD as well as Italian and British bikes. The Harleys are the only one that are fun to ride at low speed. On many bikes the fun starts at 140 kph. I can go cruising, no stressed and enjoy life in the slow lanes. Horses for courses as the saying goes..I think.

[electraglideclassic]

Out of all the motorcycles that I have owned (more than 25) the Harley gets the most positive attention when getting fuel or at a lunch stop. Can't figure that out, also you do get used to the turn signal buttons after a bit of riding. It is like riding a John Deer tractor which makes things different but fun. Great review Andy!

[multitrubshaw]

Another great Harley is the Street Bob 114. Mid foot controls and no chrome to polish. Higher bars and lovely engine. I broke my hip a few months ago and sold it as heavy to push around the garage. I’m now riding a Triumoh T100 and enjoying that. It’s all good fun!

[kunalmittal]

I own 2022 Breakout myself which is the previous generation model. I do like the amount of chrome that is added on this one but cruise control, 117 engine are the highlights of this model. I saw your previous review and it helped me to make a decision but I couldn't be happier with the Breakout. I am not very loyal to the brand but love the looks and the character that the bike has.

[nigelgregory]

Awesome looking bike and as usual an honest and to the point review. I have been riding Harley's for many years and can say the new Softail chassis is a winner for me. I ride a 2019 FXLR and love the bike to bits, we've ridden all over New Zealand on it, gravel included, no problems whatsoever. 😁

[churchofbrap]

I can see something like this in Andy's garage some day!!

[DeonPretorius-fg]

You never buy a bike when you choose a Harley. You buy a way of life. A dream.

[MrDarcy-OlMan]

Fabulous motorcycle! One of my all time favourites! The very same bike i had earlier this year. I think I may have left my knickers under the seat 😉
Great to hear your thoughts on such a beautiful motorcycle 👍🏼👍🏼

[Alex_mkII]

Basic bikes are great, but they should be priced accordingly. It's just sad contrasting this thing against the Rocket 3.

[bobstiff]

I'm gonna buy one.
(Just as soon as I have a field that needs ploughing).

[ianmorgan]

Great review, always feel your H-D reviews are fare and honest which is a breath of fresh air (no preconceived prejudices) Harley's Breakout is a truly beautiful looking bike, you probably won't get your knee down on one (unless u fall off) and you won't be going toe to toe with a well ridden Street Triple on the twisties however what you will have is a huge grin on your face every time you take it out for a 'spin', its smiles per mile quota is off the scale and that alone is a good enough reason to own one.

[jimthompson]

I had a 2012 Wide Glide. It fit my 6'5" frame. I wonder if this would as well?
Currently riding a 1250gs. But I too love Harleys.

[jaycee]

I test rode the Breakout after the Fatboy, and preferred the latter. I found the seat more comfortable, the suspension softer and the foot controls easier with the footboards. The larger speedo was easier to read but the downside is with a fullface helmet the chin guard blocks the view as the speedo is on the tank. Otherwise, completely agree, the HD defo puts a smile on your face and I imagine is great for a Sunday brunch run when the weather is good ... would hate to have to clean and polish those beasts!!

[kramnam]

Yes, I’m a liker, it’s the minimalist tech and simplicity of the design that appeals to me. My favourite is the last of the 883 irons. Old school simplicity.