Motorcycles in movies often carry more than just characters; they carry the soul of the story.
In the 2017 Australian crime drama Outlaws—also known as 1%—the motorcycles are more than props; they’re an extension of the gritty, lawless world of biker gangs. Among the roaring engines and the smell of gasoline, one bike stands out as the star machine.
The Motorcycle of the Copperheads
The centerpiece motorcycle in Outlaws is the Harley-Davidson Softail. This machine isn’t just a functional ride; it’s a cultural artifact that reflects the movie’s themes of rebellion, loyalty, and raw power.
The Copperheads, the fictional biker gang at the heart of the story, roll on customized Harleys, with the Softail being the most iconic among them.
Why the Harley-Davidson Softail?
The Harley-Davidson Softail is a favorite for custom builds, and its old-school aesthetic makes it a natural fit for a movie like Outlaws. With its hidden rear suspension, the Softail offers the vintage hardtail look without sacrificing ride comfort. In the film, these bikes are stripped down and fitted with custom parts, including ape hanger handlebars and unique paint jobs, to convey the rough-and-tumble ethos of the gang.
Harleys have long been associated with outlaw culture, from the Hells Angels to Hollywood. In Outlaws, the Softail becomes a character in its own right, symbolizing freedom and the gang’s unyielding code of loyalty. Its growling V-twin engine and distinct rumble fill the soundtrack, reinforcing its larger-than-life presence.
How the Motorcycle Shapes the Movie
Motorcycles in Outlaws aren’t just transportation; they’re status symbols and tools of intimidation. The gang’s allegiance to Harley-Davidson machines speaks volumes about their identity. The copperhead snake emblem on the bikes ties them together as a family, even as internal tensions threaten to rip them apart.
The Softail’s design also plays into the film’s cinematography. Low-slung and muscular, these bikes dominate the frame, emphasizing the gritty, down-and-dirty world the characters inhabit. Chase scenes and slow-motion shots of the gang riding in formation are as much about showcasing the bikes as they are about advancing the plot.
The Harley-Davidson Legacy in Cinema
Harleys have appeared in countless movies, from Easy Rider to Pulp Fiction, but their use in Outlaws feels especially raw and authentic. The film’s stripped-down aesthetic reflects the real-world culture of Australian motorcycle clubs, giving the bikes a sense of realism rather than Hollywood polish.
The Softail’s inclusion in Outlaws solidifies its place in cinematic history as a symbol of defiance and brotherhood. It’s not just about the machine; it’s about the statement it makes. The rumble of the Harley’s engine carries the weight of decades of outlaw lore, a perfect match for the movie’s raw energy.
Conclusion
In Outlaws, the Harley-Davidson Softail is more than just a motorcycle; it’s a character, a symbol, and a visual anchor for the story. Its rugged design and unmistakable sound embody the world of the Copperheads, a gang defined by loyalty, rebellion, and power. As the credits roll, the roar of the bikes lingers in the audience’s mind, a reminder that in this world, freedom comes with a price—and a very loud exhaust note.
