Review: 10269 Harley-Davidson Fat Boy
Posted by CapnRex101,Numerous impressive larger-scale motorcycles have been released, most frequently within the Technic theme. 10269 Harley-Davidson Fat Boy seems particularly interesting in official images and this design deviates significantly from past models, due primarily to its focus upon System building techniques.
In addition, Harley-Davidson motorcycles have become representative of American touring culture, much like 10265 Ford Mustang. This set contains 1023 pieces and costs £84.99 or $99.99 which seems quite reasonable so this should prove to be an excellent model, especially following previous Creator Expert sets during 2019.
Box and Contents
The packaging appears comparatively simple, displaying the Harley-Davidson Fat Boy against a brick wall. Nevertheless, this design certainly draws attention to the motorcycle and resembles a showroom image. Smaller details are shown on the reverse of the box alongside the functioning drive train which connects the engine to the rear wheel.
Seven numbered bags are provided and the instruction manual contains 156 pages. Several pages are focused upon the history of Harley-Davidson which is interesting, particularly since this timeline format corresponds with the instructions for 10265 Ford Mustang. Information about this particular motorcycle and an enjoyable, albeit unusually short, interview with Mike Psiaki are also included.
Creator Expert models frequently include exclusively printed pieces but this set features nine stickers, unfortunately. They are printed on a reflective surface and appear realistic, although I was disappointed to encounter an error as 'Milwaukee' has been spelled incorrectly on the second sticker, as exhibited below.
Construction
The assembly of Creator Expert vehicles traditionally commences with a robust Technic chassis and this model is no exception, although the process is interrupted by the engine. Functional engines are often found across the Technic theme but this intricate example consists primarily of System parts so differs considerably from its predecessors. For example, stacked spools form each piston head which look superb.
Another section of the motorcycle frame rests above the engine and feels somewhat delicate during this phase of construction as it is only secured using one Technic pin. The resultant design appears authentic though and the broad rear wheel slots neatly into its housing. A new wheel component has been created for the Harley-Davidson and two such elements are joined inside the rear tyre.
Completing the frame is remarkably satisfying as its four constituent sections are combined perfectly, strengthening the entire vehicle. I am particularly impressed with the black linkages which connect to ball joints and surround the frame. These closely resemble similar structural supports on the original motorcycle but their angled position is rather steep.
Assembly of the external bodywork commences towards the rear. This rounded mudguard seems to float above the tyre and is secured at three points, hence its slight flexibility. The structure feels quite robust though and the light bluish grey braces on each side serve an important reinforcing role which surprised me as they appear purely cosmetic.
Bag three contains pieces for the saddle and the fuel tank. The entire motorcycle is an odd number of studs wide so construction of its saddle is deceptively elaborate, slotting around the central mudguard brace. Furthermore, the fuel tank is fitted in two sections here and encloses the colourful pieces inside. Pairs of offset Technic pins are inserted into similarly offset pin holes, angling the tank in relation to the motorcycle frame.
The fork is assembled backwards, presenting a series of 2x2 inverted curved slopes towards the front. This design is somewhat unusual but appears fairly effective and I appreciate how the front mudguard has been constructed around two triangular axle connectors, replicating its curvature on actual Harley-Davidson Fat Boy motorcycles.
An excellent headlight assembly is mounted on the fork, featuring an angled surface of exposed studs that fixes the headlight in parallel with the ground. The handlebars are constructed separately from the forks too and connect using clips which feel quite secure, although the handlebars appear fragile when compared with the remainder of the model.
The Completed Model
Harley-Davidson motorcycles are renowned for their powerful appearance and this substantial model looks brilliant, capturing the characteristic shape of its source material with outstanding accuracy. The dark red and black colour scheme resembles Harley-Davidson's attractive Wicked Red shade and the light bluish grey areas are splendid too, despite lacking an authentic satin chrome finish.
Creator Expert vehicles vary quite considerably in scale and 10269 Harley-Davidson Fat Boy definitely conforms to that trend. However, the motorcycle measures 33cm in length so appears consistent when displayed beside other vehicles from the range. Its proportions are remarkably impressive, although the gap between the front wheel and the frame seems slightly too narrow from the side.
This wheel has been designed specifically for the Harley-Davidson and looks perfect in relation to the actual motorcycle. The simple textured decoration is completely authentic and the tyre tread appears realistic as well. Moreover, the front tyre is protected by a dark red mudguard. Its curvature has been exaggerated but I think it may be difficult to improve upon this design without creating a new element.
Light bluish grey barrels are situated at the end of each fork, enclosing some unsightly Technic pieces. This area should be fairly smooth so the texture is somewhat disappointing and the transition between cylindrical and angular bricks is not perfect either. Nevertheless, the forks appear reasonably accurate on the whole and I am particularly satisfied with the enormous headlight positioned between them.
Macaroni tubes form the handlebars and appear fairly accurate to the source material, although their curves are slightly too pronounced in my opinion. However, I like the reflective mirrors which are both decorated with stickers and the speedometer looks excellent too. The brake levers are rather delicate but the model is otherwise absolutely robust, especially around the fuel tank.
Two light bluish grey 1x1 round tiles represent fuel filler caps on the tank, although the left cap is purely for decoration on the real motorcycle. I love the Harley-Davidson Fat Boy emblem printed across either side of the fuel tank and its distinctive teardrop shape has been replicated nicely, integrating some 3x3 wedge bricks alongside curved slopes. The saddle is equally faithful to the original motorcycle.
Harley-Davidson has been associated with reliable V-twin engines since 1909 and this rendition of a Milwaukee-Eight 107 variant looks absolutely fantastic. Its cylinder configuration is brilliant and I love the circular air filter, incorporating a new gear from SPIKE Prime. Unfortunately, the lifter block cover includes the aforementioned spelling error but its chrome letters looks nice and the model features a tiny suspension adjustment knob behind the engine, demonstrating incredible attention to detail.
The motorcycle lacks suspension which is somewhat disappointing but its rear wheel is linked to the engine and the pistons move accordingly. An access hatch to view this mechanism would have been welcome but might risk spoiling the appearance of the Harley-Davidson Fat Boy. The light bluish grey transmission housing corresponds with the real vehicle and I like the angled floorboards.
Adjustable shifter and rear brake pedals are located beside the floorboards and a kickstand is hidden underneath the transmission structure. This extends very smoothly and provides adequate support to the motorcycle, although its lean seems very dramatic. On that basis, I prefer to display this model on the dark bluish grey stand which fits below the engine and avoids distracting attention from the Harley-Davidson.
Several unusual features distinguish the Harley-Davidson Fat Boy from other motorcycles but its wide rear tyre appears particularly striking. The tread pattern seems very accurate and I am impressed with the trans-red brake light above the tyre, including two curved 1x1 tiles which have not appeared in this colour before. The number plate also looks wonderful, matching that used at Harley-Davidson's testing facility in Wisconsin.
Twin exhausts are connected to the engine, expelling excess gases. They appear authentic in relation to the original motorcycle, widening at an appropriate point and joining each cylinder head separately. Furthermore, the shape of the rear mudguard braces looks marvellous, lacking only reflective panels that should appear on either flank.
Overall
LEGO has produced various motorcycles exceeding minifigure scale but this example is undoubtedly my favourite. It seems remarkably realistic when compared with the source material and looks superb on display, matching the exceptionally high standard established by previous Creator Expert sets. The construction process is also enjoyable, seamlessly combining System pieces with Technic.
Replacing any external light bluish grey elements with metallic silver alternatives would definitely have improved this model, although that seems unrealistic given the quantity that might be required. On that basis, I am delighted with 10269 Harley-Davidson Fat Boy and its price of £84.99 or $99.99 feels quite reasonable so I think both motorcycles fans and Creator Expert collectors will appreciate this set.
I hope you have found this review informative. Let us know by liking this article and share your thoughts on the set in the comments below.
This set was provided for review by The LEGO Group but the review is an expression of my own opinions.
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58 comments on this article
That was fast.
That’s a lot of light blue grey!
While I really appreciate your reviews, I wish that LEGO would send different sets to different sites, instead of one and the same to everyone. This is the third review in the last few hours I've seen, starting with Brothers Brick and New Elementary, and I hardly will read all three, which is a shame with all work that's put in to them. If LEGO had sent three different sets for review I most certainly would have though.
Any pictures with some of the Creator Expert cars?
I'm not normally a fan of the 'scale model' type of sets, but for some reason, I really like this. Not overly keen on the price, but its fair for the number of parts.
As impressive as these Creator Expert sets are, I do feel the lack of chrome, or at least drum lacquered silver parts limits the aesthetic appeal. I believe these sets are targeted at adults who are not necessarily AFOLs, but rather fans of the respective source material, and their appreciation for the finished model is diminished by the lack of “shiny bits”.
It seems that chrome has all but vanished from the Lego palette, but other than an increase in price, what is holding back the use of more silver pieces? I’d be willing to pay a little more for this model if it had less bley and more silver.
“LEGO has produced various motorcycles exceeding minifigure scale but this example is undoubtedly my favourite”
I still think technic 8051’s alt model is very, very good.
@Mr Classic, the thing with that though is this is the set they are trying to promote. It’s one of their newest ones that will undoubtedly attract a lot of attention. Being a higher price point, it’s also a set that might require more convincing for people to buy. As a result, they send it out for review.
I understand what you mean, as all of the reviews will likely say similar things. But it doesn’t really benefit LEGO to send out other sets when this is their newest one needing promotion.
Thanks again for a informative review Cap,
You and all the brickset members keep up the great work!
@Mr Classic
Not every person who reads about new LEGO sets, are using many review-places. Some may use only one site, say, only Brickset, or only New Elementary and so on.
Besides, all reviewers may have their distinct style and methodical approach to review LEGO sets.
Wow grey and black pins.. I can't believe it. Thank you Mr. Psiaki for creating such wonderful sets.
What immediately stood out to me is the complete lack of chrome. I'm not a motorcycle guy at all, but if everthing in this that should be chrome actually were chrome, I'd buy it. Bring back chrome, Lego! We'd happily pay for it!
Some pearl silver would've been nice (or chrome but the price would be substantial to say the least for ALL that chrome needed) and an option/alternate build to do a cut-away to see the pistons but dang this is very cool.
Where's the chrome LEGO?
Chrome pieces would be nice, but for me personally, some of the LEGO pieces I had in chrome ended up fading or chipping overtime. There's some chrome pieces I have that did survive these years, but not many. Although that was a long time ago, and so I don't know what the current status of The LEGO Group's chrome production process is.
Are chrome pieces still being considered? Is it expensive for them? Has the quality improved? Does anyone know?
Really, they can't spell Milwaukee correctly? That's pretty unexcusable...and then we can debate stickers vs printed pieces. Then, chrome.
Captures the shape well, but it feels "cheapened" at the very end by the final asthetics (or lack there of, or errors within!).
Thanks for the review.
This thing is awesome! I’d love to see some pictures of it next to the other creator expert vehicles.
As for Vader's castle, so unexpected, so new, good, positively surprising! After years and years, and despite some odd or disappointing choices and orientations sometimes, Lego and designers still managed to surprise and delight me, with a stunning never done before model and original set. I love it.
In addition to the lack of chrome the other glaring problem is the chain. Harleys use belts. But hey, all things considered it's a good-looking model.
@lippidp
The chain was used so that the engine function would work.
Uhhh... What? Maybe you don't know motorcycles. There are three popular drives: chain, belt, and shaft. Harleys are known for using belts, but this model uses a chain.
In a competitive collecting environment, this will ultimately be a pass. Nice model but the niggles (light bluish grey rather than shiny/chromed and being slightly bulbous looking in places) mean other sets will get my money
I'm not sure what my criteria are anymore. Whatever they are, this ticks pretty much all of them off. Lovely model. Need.
I have no interest in the subject matter but I am impressed by how beautifully Lego blends Technic and system. I hope they use similar techniques in the future.
@Mr Classic - Direct-to-consumer sets are usually released separately so LEGO fan websites will naturally focus upon the latest model. Also, relatively few people read every website and there is often sufficient distinction between reviews to maintain interest if someone chooses to read, or watch, more than one.
@lippidp - LEGO rarely uses belts to transfer rotational motion, presumably because they are liable to slip or snap. However, a new belt could have been created for motorcycles, perhaps with a series of teeth similar to this caterpillar track: https://brickset.com/parts/design-43903
With regard to comments about chroming the light bluish grey elements, I agree that might improve the appearance of this vehicle. However, I expect the process would be prohibitively expensive as about fifty pieces would need to be produced in a new colour. Moreover, a truly reflective chrome would not be suitable for the Harley-Davidson Fat Boy so LEGO might even need to create an entirely new colour.
I do like this, strangely, as I’m not into motorbikes at all. I’m a little put off by the grey. I’ll take a look in the Lego store when it’s on display to see it ‘in the flesh’ before deciding. The build does look good too, a bit more complicated than the usual stuff I build.
Yes, Harley's belts also have teeth similar to the Lego part you linked to. I certainly understand why they didn't use this kind of belt and chrome given cost constraints. I'm just saying for me these two things significantly take away from the authenticity of the model. Of course, it is still a nice looking model overall.
The only crime with this set is the colour of the brick separator.
I like this motorcycle. As far as lack of chrome, on my Harley I blacked everything out. I know many cycle owners who dislike chrome. To each his own.
I will be getting this one.
Cheers.
A quite dull looking set due to all the LBG. I am absolutely certain that Lego could even do 50 chrome pieces for this set and their profit would still be sufficient, but then again they did fire 10% of their employees because their profits were high, and not extremely high.
If I was a motorcycle fan then this will be a sure buy but as it stands out it is not, Creator is on a role with their muscle vehicles.
As a motorcyclist who enjoys "spirited" riding, the idea is appealing, but HD's aren't my cup of tea at all. Depends on how much it ends up costing here in Aus, and even then I'd probably modify it to be an Indian or even change the engine to a parallel twin and turn it into a Triumph Thunderbird.
Thanks for another great review.
This looks very good and I am amazed at how lifelike Lego can make something look. I know that Lego could have done it in chrome, but it is not environmentally friendly, chips and scratches eventually, and is expensive compared to regular colors. So that being said, I really wish they would start making more parts in flat silver and pearl dark grey, which they were doing for a while. Also, the misspelling of Milwaukee is hilarious as there was this invention called a computer a few years ago. You may have seen it.
@red-dragon-taiyo yeah that would have been a better choice than gray for sure. Ah well. I'm sure someone will offer some after market chrome option for those that want it. Others can go with black replacement parts. What to do about the chain though? Hmmm...
Supermodel in a parka! Grey does not substitute for chrome on subject matter that is supposed to be as sexy as a new motorcycle. The build looks awesome but the final product looks flat.
Wow. I wanna say "finally!" but here it is. A Lego HD bike. Nice.
Looking forward to getting and building it!
...EVEN though there's the little stuff, accuracy n' such... chrome, the chain vs belt (I get it, makes the Lego work) the look of that oil tank and its cap placement (under the seat, y'all...) oh and the gas tank cap on the left could've used a sticker (it's the fuel gauge on stock Softails) and the fork thickness ...and does the rear wheel frame ride/pivot on the shocks true to its name "softail"? Doesn't look like it and could make the final product more difficult to design.
And sure, the misspelled "Milwauke" on that sticker... gonna customize it anyway with derby cover stickers to match the one on my real Softail!
ALL of all that aside - Excellent go at it, Lego!
Many many thanks from this long time Harley owner!
I smell an opportunity for an enterprising LEGO fan who is able to apply metalic chrome to light bley parts.
I would buy this set with the chromed pieces. Not as is.
Although bikes are not my cup of tea as I prefer Jeeps instead, I find it a really great model (at least as close to the real thing as possible, given the TLG set production restrictions).
The spelling error on the sticker is a bit lame though if TLG wants to maintain its "high standards".
Good review btw.
Finally, I believe we could benefit from a video showing the drive train working (just an idea for future similar sets with motion spots)
I know it would still have needed new parts in the colour, but would "flat Silver" (as used in the Tin Man CMF for example) work better than grey?
@CapnRex101 and @Mr Classic I'm one of those probably rare people that DO read all three sites: Brickset, Brothers-Brick, and New Elementary. I usually check all 3 back to back to back as I'm sipping my morning coffee. And the reviews are different enough that I glean something from all three. New Elementary tends to focus more on the parts, whereas the other two are more big-picture. I enjoy having all 3 websites at my fingertips.
Told my wife I'd own a Harley one day, thank you LEGO for making that dream a possibility. Although, it doesn't quite compare to the joy of riding one does it? Maybe LEGO could release a series of monthly expansion packs to eventually assemble a full size Harley (it would only take 1000 piece mo. packs released over 20 years to make the necessary 240,000 or so needed parts)! The whole idea screams practicality, and patience maybe. Don't see how they could get LEGO motors to make that unmistakable Harley engine rumble though...
In all seriousness such a great set and I'd love to see it parked beside the Creator Mustang. I'm also sure some amazing renditions of this set will come out w/custom "chromed" pieces, and I can't wait to see them!
I like it very much, and I'll surely buy it. The Lego online price in the Netherlands at € 99 is € 10 more than in Germany, but there will be plenty of other good offers around.
For the chain/belt issue: the chain solution seems fully logical to me, given the parts that Lego already produces. But to make it look even more realistic, one might put a rubber band around the chain.
I hope "Milwauke" will be corrected, and silver parts would have been ideal, but on the box picture it still looks great in gray, imo.
The fork is super thicc here, thickier than the exhaust pipe.
I don’t collect this line but this set looks interesting and fun to build. Congrats to the designers. Great review as well.
"Creator Expert models frequently include exclusively printed pieces but this set features nine stickers, unfortunately."
I would say apart from the modular buildings, virtually NO Creator Expert models that have graphic designs use exclusively printed pieces. Practically all the vehicles, Fairground, and Winter Village sets have a ton of stickers. I suppose the landmark buildings (eg. Big Ben, Tower Bridge) have printed pieces, but it's only one unique printed element per set.
The grey just doesn’t do it for me. Needs to be chrome. As does the James Bond DB5
with chrome parts a must have, but like it is now, no - I pass and I don't regret. Motorcycles live with their chrome, this grey looks awful...
Not much like the 2019 Fat Boy I sat on last month. Nice model but not great colours.
Irritates me no end that LEGO uses stickers on sets like this. They'll use printed bricks on smaller sets but something like this...c'mon LEGO, sort that shizzle out!!
@wyattwolf: In the case of this set, the use of stickers is likely a necessity due to the mirrors needing stickers (since a mirrored surface isn't exactly something you can print on a brick). The speedometer is also probably better off stickered since if it were printed off-register (for instance, rotated incorrectly) it would not be aligned right when placed on the final set.
I’ve never owned a motorcycle, Lego or otherwise. I do like this one though. I wonder how hard it would be to replace the red pieces to make it a different color, blue perhaps.
This is just one sad set. Without chrome silver parts and with the stickers it looks like a MOC that was not really done the way it should have been because the right parts were missing.
Funny how people argue that chrome parts would have been too expensive. As we all know TLG went almost bankrupt by releasing literally hundreds of sets with chrome parts.
No cap; I will own this set Wed. But that being said I am somewhat...disappointed is maybe too strong?...I'll just say not AS thrilled by the LBG color scheme. I'm right now looking at my Voltron model and wondering why TLG couldn't have gone with the metallic silver they used for Voltron's shield and crest trim?
I long ago realized that no photos do justice to the completed three dimensional models so I trust that to hold true for this set as well. Should be a satisfying build and worthy addition to my Creator Expert vehicle garage.
Clutch pedal? ??
Motorcyclist here: left side ‘pedal’ is the shifter.
Clutch-lever lives on the left side handlebar.
This looks awesome! I will have to add this to my buy list but there are a lot of other sets I have to purchase ahead of it. Too many cool sets to choose from for my budget! Can I get my VIP membership modified to where I buy 1 set and get 4 free?
Although I started saving for the Mustang, I think this set looks good, too. I can understand the complaints about the chrome and belt situation for authenticity. But, I think we should keep in mind that this is a Lego creation, not a scale model that every piece is created specifically for this model.
Great review, love the set, fair points raised about chrome etc, but public would not pay the price, and it would mark very easily and look tatty. I will buy this set, but listen Lego STOP USING STICKERS. If like me you do not apply them the models look poor,and the stickers fail. This is very annoying.
A wonderfull model - a must have :-)
And i think in the near future there will be a lot of converted builds - as the real role models :-) Every Harley Davidson needs to be modified!