Not so, says Harley-Davidson Inc. Last week, , the maker of classic American motorcycles said it would for the first time offer regular customers the chance to make their rides a little bit safer by providing antilock brakes as an option on 10 new 2008 models.

The braking system will be invisible, the company says, so it won’t spoil the look.

The announcement, along with the unveiling of three new models, coincided with the motorcycle maker’s annual dealer meeting, held this year in Nashville, Tenn.

The Milwaukee-based motorcycle maker introduced an antilock braking system on two police cruiser bikes in 2005, said Paul James, director of product communication.

But the 2008 models will be the first time the average customer can outfit a ride with the system common in many cars.

The $795 add-on is available on three models of V-Rod bikes and seven new Touring bikes, the larger and most popular type of Harley-Davidson. ABS also will be standard on three new models, including the Screamin’ Eagle Road King.

Customers had asked for the ABS option, James said, because they recognize how difficult it can be to respond to emergencies when there’s bad weather or road conditions.

“It’s more peace of mind when you have that ABS system,” he said.

The braking system isn’t visible on the outside of the bikes, as it was on the two police cruiser models, he said. Instead, speed sensors are embedded in the wheel bearings. The sensors monitor how quickly the wheel is turning, and the ABS responds to reduce brake pressure so tires don’t lock.

“It doesn’t detract at all from our styling,” James said of the new system.

Harley also announced three new 2008 models on Monday, including the Dyna Fat Bob, a new model that has dual headlights, a first in the Dyna family, and a thicker front tire. The company also unveiled two new Softails, the Rocker and Rocker C, which feature a floating rear fender that moves with the tire.

In addition, fuel tanks on the Touring models will now hold one more gallon of gas, for a total of six gallons.

Harley’s 2008 models will be available in 15 new color combinations and 14 models will be available in a limited edition coloring of copper and black. Those are Harley’s trademark colors and will commemorate the company’s 105th anniversary.

The company also announced plans to celebrate the anniversary next year, along with the 25th anniversary of the Harley Owner’s Group, or HOG.

Harley will establish 105 starting points around the country that Harley riders can join for a trip to Milwaukee. The group will merge into 25 major routes and arrive on Aug. 28, 2008, for four days of events. The new Harley-Davidson Museum will be open in time for the anniversary.