M8 Softail Build Series – Custom 2020 Low Rider S Transformation

Every great custom starts with a vision — and for this project, that vision begins with one of Harley’s most capable modern platforms: the 2020 Low Rider S. The goal of the M8 Softail Build Series is simple but bold — to take this already powerful, factory-tuned Harley and turn it into something completely unique. This isn’t just another bolt-on build; it’s a full journey from stock to standout.

The Base: 2020 Low Rider S

The Low Rider S has always been Harley’s performance-driven Softail — aggressive stance, Milwaukee-Eight power, and that stripped-down West Coast attitude. With its solid frame and 114 cubic-inch engine, it’s the perfect foundation for a serious custom project.

But this series isn’t about leaving things as they are. It’s about pushing the boundaries of what the M8 platform can do — both in performance and in style.

The Vision: Modern Power, Timeless Style

The goal for this M8 Softail Build Series is to blend modern power with classic Harley character. Every modification is intentional — not just to make the bike look meaner, but to make it ride and perform better in every way.

Think of it as performance meets craftsmanship: a build that can rip down the highway or turn heads at any show.

The Process: Step by Step Evolution

This series breaks the build down into stages, giving a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to create a next-level Softail:

• Stage 1: The Teardown – Stripping the 2020 Low Rider S down and prepping it for transformation.

• Stage 2: Performance Upgrades – Dialing in the heart of the beast. Exhaust, intake, tuning, and suspension all get attention to unlock the full potential of the M8.

• Stage 3: Styling & Fabrication – Custom touches that define the bike’s personality: bars, fairing, lighting, seat, and paint. Every line and finish tells a story.

• Stage 4: Final Assembly & Test Ride – Bringing it all together and hitting the road for the ultimate payoff — a fully reimagined Low Rider S that rides as mean as it looks.

Each episode dives deep into the process, showing the craftsmanship, creativity, and problem-solving that make a great custom bike come to life.

Performance You Can Feel

The 2020 Low Rider S comes from the factory ready to perform, but in this build, the M8 engine gets a serious wake-up call. With the right upgrades, tuning, and exhaust setup, it goes from quick to downright aggressive. Every twist of the throttle delivers that unmistakable Harley torque — sharper, stronger, and more responsive than ever.

This isn’t a trailer queen. It’s built to be ridden hard.

The Look: Aggressive. Clean. Purpose-Built.

Visually, the build keeps that Low Rider S DNA — sleek, muscular, and aggressive — but amplifies it with a more refined custom finish. It’s not about overdoing it; it’s about elevating what’s already great. The stance is tighter, the lines cleaner, and every part looks like it belongs exactly where it is.

It’s that perfect mix of modern performance and old-school Harley attitude.

Why the 2020 Low Rider S Is the Ultimate Canvas

Harley nailed the balance with the M8 Low Rider S — it’s light, powerful, and ready for customization. The geometry, engine platform, and riding position make it the perfect canvas for builders who want to blend street performance with custom style.

The M8 Softail Build Series is a celebration of that potential — showing what happens when vision, experience, and a passion for Harley performance come together.

Final Thoughts

The 2020 Low Rider S M8 Softail Build Series isn’t just a custom project — it’s a journey through craftsmanship and creativity. From teardown to test ride, every moment captures the spirit of Harley customization: freedom, individuality, and a love for the ride.

This build is proof that even the best can get better — and that with the right mix of skill and style, a 2020 Low Rider S can evolve into something truly next level.