The Harley-Davidson Softail became known for delivering a classic hardtail-inspired look without sacrificing rear suspension. This hidden rear suspension became one of the model's most distinctive features and a significant reason why the Softail gained a strong position in the Harley lineup. The idea was to retain the clean lines of older rigid frames, but in a more usable and comfortable solution for everyday riding.

The Softail has been popular because it very accurately caters to the tastes of many Harley riders, yet it is still more modern to live with than the old hardtail-inspired designs. The series encompasses both more traditional cruiser models and newer variants with a more aggressive or performance-oriented expression.

This broad spectrum is an important part of the explanation for why the Softail has for many years been one of the most sought-after platforms for both standard riding and custom builds. In 2018, Harley's Dyna and Softail lines were merged into one further developed Softail platform, which also underscores the model's central role in the brand's modern Big Twin program.