HARLEY DAVIDSON Cars: Complete Guide, Models & Reliability (2025)

Harley Davidson is a renowned name in the motorcycle industry, celebrated for its iconic designs and powerful performance. With a total of 483 vehicles registered in the UK, the brand continues to capture the hearts of motorcycle enthusiasts across the nation.

Last updated September 07, 2025 1998 words Based on real UK vehicle data

Introduction and Brand Overview

Harley Davidson is a renowned name in the motorcycle industry, celebrated for its iconic designs and powerful performance. With a total of 483 vehicles registered in the UK, the brand continues to capture the hearts of motorcycle enthusiasts across the nation.

The most popular model within the Harley Davidson lineup is the XL, with 59 registrations, followed by the FLSTF with 22 and the FXSB with 20. Other notable models include the FXDB and an unnamed model, which have 18 and 24 registrations respectively. This diverse range of models showcases Harley Davidson's commitment to catering to various riding preferences.

All Harley Davidson motorcycles in the UK run on petrol, reflecting the brand's focus on traditional combustion engine technology. The age distribution of these vehicles indicates a strong presence of models from recent years, with 31 vehicles registered from 2017 and 64 from 2015. However, the brand also boasts a significant number of older models, with 35 registered from 2007 and 28 from 2008.

In terms of reliability, Harley Davidson motorcycles have an average MOT pass rate of 89.9%. This statistic highlights the brand's overall quality and durability. However, common failures have been noted, particularly in categories such as brakes (84 failures), lighting (58 failures), and tyres (42 failures). These figures are essential for potential buyers and current owners to consider.

All data presented is based on the latest available statistics and may be subject to change. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is advisable to consult official sources or databases.

Popular HARLEY DAVIDSON Models

Harley Davidson is a renowned name in the motorcycle industry, with a total of 483 vehicles registered in the UK. Among these, several models stand out in terms of popularity and performance.

The most popular model is the Harley Davidson XL, with 59 units recorded. This model is well-regarded for its classic styling and robust performance, making it a favourite among enthusiasts.

Following the XL, there are other notable models such as the FLSTF with 22 units, the FXSB with 20 units, and the FXDB with 18 units. These models contribute significantly to the brand's legacy, each offering unique features that cater to different riding preferences.

In terms of fuel type, all 483 registered Harley Davidson vehicles run on petrol, reflecting the brand's commitment to traditional motorcycle performance.

When examining the age distribution of these vehicles, the majority are from the years 2014 to 2016, with 60 units from 2014, 64 from 2015, and 57 from 2016. This indicates a strong presence of relatively newer models on the road.

The average MOT pass rate for Harley Davidson motorcycles stands at an impressive 89.9%. However, common failures have been noted, with the most frequent issues arising in categories such as 'Other' (120 instances), 'Brakes' (84 instances), and 'Lighting' (58 instances).

All data presented is based on current registrations and MOT test results, and while efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, figures may vary over time. For the latest information, always refer to official sources.

MOT Reliability and Common Issues

When it comes to the reliability of Harley Davidson motorcycles during the MOT test, the average pass rate stands at an impressive 89.9%. This statistic reflects the overall performance of Harley Davidson vehicles, which total 483 registered units in the UK.

Among the various models, the XL is the most prevalent, with 59 units, followed by the FLSTF with 22 and the FXSB with 20. The distribution of vehicles across different years shows a significant number of models from 2015 to 2017, indicating a relatively modern fleet.

Despite the high pass rate, certain common issues have been identified that can lead to MOT failures. The most frequent category of failures falls under 'Other', accounting for 120 instances. This broad category can include various minor issues that may not be easily classified.

Brakes are another critical area, with 84 failures reported. Ensuring that brake systems are well-maintained is essential for both safety and compliance during the MOT. Additionally, lighting issues have been noted in 58 cases, highlighting the importance of functional lights for visibility and safety.

Tyres also represent a significant concern, with 42 failures attributed to this category. Proper tyre maintenance is crucial, as worn or damaged tyres can severely impact performance and safety. Lastly, exhaust and emissions issues have been recorded in 30 instances, which can affect environmental compliance.

In summary, while Harley Davidson motorcycles generally perform well in MOT tests, owners should be aware of these common issues to ensure their vehicles remain roadworthy. Regular maintenance and timely inspections can help mitigate these problems.

Disclaimer: The data presented is based on the latest available statistics and may not reflect real-time changes. Always consult a professional for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Ownership Costs and Tax Information

When considering the ownership costs of a Harley Davidson, it is essential to factor in various elements such as fuel, insurance, maintenance, and tax obligations. With a total of 483 vehicles registered, Harley Davidson motorcycles predominantly run on petrol, which is a significant consideration for fuel costs.

The average MOT pass rate for Harley Davidson motorcycles stands at an impressive 89.9%. This statistic indicates that most owners can expect their bikes to pass the annual inspection without major issues. However, it is important to be aware of common failures that may arise during these tests. The most frequent issues include problems with brakes (84 failures), lighting (58 failures), and tyres (42 failures), alongside other categories.

In terms of age distribution, the majority of Harley Davidson motorcycles on the road are from 2015 to 2017, with 64 vehicles registered in 2015, 57 in 2016, and 31 in 2017. This suggests that newer models may incur lower maintenance costs compared to older ones, which could require more frequent servicing.

Tax information is also a crucial aspect of ownership costs. Harley Davidson motorcycles are subject to Vehicle Excise Duty (VED), which varies based on engine size and emissions. Owners should consult the latest government guidelines to determine the applicable rates for their specific model.

In summary, while Harley Davidson motorcycles can be a thrilling investment, potential owners should carefully consider the associated costs, including fuel, maintenance, and tax obligations. Always ensure to check the latest data and regulations, as figures may change over time.

Disclaimer: The statistics provided are based on available data and may not reflect the most current information. Always verify with official sources for the latest updates.

Buying Guide and What to Check

Buying Guide and What to Check

When considering a Harley Davidson, it's essential to conduct thorough research and inspections. With a total of 483 vehicles available, the most popular models include the XL (59 units), FLSTF (22 units), FXSB (20 units), and FXDB (18 units). Understanding the model variations can help you make an informed decision.

All Harley Davidson motorcycles in this dataset run on petrol, which is a crucial factor to consider for fuel efficiency and running costs. The age of the vehicles ranges from 2001 to 2020, with a notable concentration of models from 2015 to 2017, indicating a good selection of relatively modern bikes.

Before purchasing, check the MOT pass rate, which averages at 89.9%. This statistic suggests that most Harley Davidsons are well-maintained, but it’s still vital to review the vehicle's history. Look for any common failures reported during MOT tests, including issues with brakes (84 failures), lighting (58 failures), and tyres (42 failures).

Inspect the bike for any signs of wear and tear, particularly in the areas that commonly fail. The data indicates that there have been 3,628 total MOT tests conducted on these vehicles, providing a solid basis for understanding their reliability.

Additionally, consider the regional availability, as all 483 vehicles are located in Great Britain. This concentration may affect pricing and availability in your area. Always request a full service history and any documentation related to previous repairs or modifications.

In summary, when buying a Harley Davidson, focus on the model, age, MOT history, and common failure points. This approach will help ensure you make a well-informed purchase.

Disclaimer: The data provided is based on available statistics and may not reflect the current market conditions or individual vehicle histories.

Related Information and Resources

Related Information and Resources

For Harley Davidson enthusiasts and owners, understanding the specifics of your vehicle can enhance your riding experience. With a total of 483 registered vehicles, Harley Davidson remains a popular choice among motorcyclists in the UK.

The most common model is the XL, with 59 units, followed by the FLSTF and FXSB, with 22 and 20 units respectively. This data highlights the popularity of certain models within the Harley Davidson range.

All registered Harley Davidson vehicles in the UK run on petrol, reflecting the brand's commitment to traditional motorcycle performance. The age distribution of these vehicles shows a significant number of models from 2015 to 2017, indicating a strong presence of relatively newer bikes on the road.

In terms of MOT performance, Harley Davidson motorcycles have an average pass rate of 89.9%. This statistic suggests that the majority of these vehicles are well-maintained and meet safety standards. However, common failures have been noted, with the most frequent issues arising in categories such as brakes (84 failures), lighting (58 failures), and tyres (42 failures).

For those looking to delve deeper into the specifics of Harley Davidson motorcycles, the total number of MOT tests conducted stands at 3,628. This figure provides insight into the level of scrutiny and maintenance these vehicles undergo.

For further information, consider visiting the official Harley Davidson website or local motorcycle clubs, which often provide resources and community support for owners. Please note that the data presented here is subject to change and should be verified with official sources for accuracy.

Data Source: This guide is based on analysis of thousands of HARLEY DAVIDSON vehicles in our database, including MOT test results, registration data, and reliability statistics.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for guidance only and is based on historical data in our database. Always verify current vehicle details with official sources and get a professional inspection before purchase.

Related Guides

HARLEY DAVIDSON FAT BOB Overview The Harley Davidson Fat Bob is a notable model within the Harley...

HARLEY DAVIDSON FLS Overview The Harley Davidson FLS, produced between 2014 and 2016, is a notabl...

The Harley Davidson FLHRCI, a classic touring motorcycle, was produced between 2003 and 2005. Th...

The Harley Davidson FXDL, part of the iconic Harley Davidson lineup, was produced between 2002 an...