Harley-Davidson unveils a new Sportster. The Sportster 'S' combines the block of the recently launched Pan America with HD's Sportster family. The result is a powerful and compact naked bike that should weigh 228 kilos when refueled
HD has swam through some difficult waters in recent years. consecutive quarters in the red and a dying core audience is bad for any brand, but HD decided to change course. Livewire and the new Pan American are examples of this.
I don't have to introduce you to the Pan America anymore, but how about a Sportster with almost the same engine? The horsepower figure was detuned to 121 hp – still decent for a Sportster model – although we now know that it is more about TORQUE at H-D. And this S has 127 Newton meters. Admittedly, the curb weight of 228kg is helped a bit by the small tank with barely 12l capacity.
The Harley-Davidson Sportster S has plenty of electronics. Think of riding modes (Sport, Road and Rain), two custom modes to be filled in by the rider, Cornering Rider Safety Enhancements, a round 4-inch TFT screen with bluetooth connection and full LED lighting with Daymaker Signature LED headlight .
Cruise control and proximity-based security system are standard equipment.
The thick front tire is reminiscent of the fenderless front of a classic bobber, while the rear and slim solo seat are inspired by the Harley-Davidson XR750 flat tracker. The thick upside-down forks and wide tires give the bike the look of a high-performance sports machine.
Striking is the high 2-in-1-in-2 exhaust. The Sportster S also features fully adjustable premium front and rear suspension, 43mm Showa upside-down forks and a Showa Piggyback reservoir rear shock. The rear suspension features hydraulic preload adjustment using a convenient knob on the left side of the motorcycle.
The single front brake features a new radial Brembo monoblock four-piston caliper and a 320mm diameter disc. The rear brake is a two-piston Brembo caliper that sinks its teeth into a 260mm disc.
Vivid Black, Stone Washed White Pearl and Midnight Crimson, which provides colors to Harley-Davidson for the new Sportster S.