2013 Harley-Davidson Breakout | First Look

After a few years spent focusing on big-boned baggers and budget-conscious Dark Customs, Harley-Davidson is bringing back the stripped-down chopper look with its all-new 2013 FXSB Breakout. If that name rings any bells, or the profile of this new bike seems at all familiar, kindly recall Harley-Davidson’s Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO) Breakout that debuted last year. This is the “production” version of that exclusive, expensive machine, with the standard Twin Cam 103 engine substituting for the CVO’s 110-incher, less chrome and more production-line paint, and, with an MSRP of $17,899, the price tag is almost $10K less than the CVO bike. This is the first time in Harley history that a standard production model has been designed and sold alongside the CVO bike.

Based on the Softail chassis just like the Rocker and the Deuce choppers from years past, the Breakout features a 21-inch front wheel, a kicked-out, 37 degree fork angle, and other signature chopper features like the bobbed rear fender and Harley-Davidson’s integrated stop/turn/taillights with a side-mounted license plate. Unlike past Softail choppers, however, which tended towards lots of chrome and other gingerbread, the Breakout is more sparely styled for an edgier appeal. The 67.3-in. wheelbase, a 24.7-in. seat height, a flat drag bar, and a clean tank with the gauges relocated to the handlebar clamp give the Breakout a long, low, sinister stance. Black finishes on the engine, blunt-cut mufflers, oil tank, fork legs, and more only enhance the dark and dangerous look. And like every Harley-Davidson, the detailing is impeccable. The new, 10-spoke, edge-cut “Gasser” wheels, inspired by the original Halibrand ET wheels that were so popular on drag cars in the ‘60s, look especially nice.

The Breakout will be available in three colors: Vivid Black, Big Blue Pearl or Ember Red Sunglo. In addition, an optional ABS/Security package can be added for $1195. The first units are being shipped to your local Harley-Davidson dealer right now. Who says choppers are dead?