Dj P - YEAH, it's about 50% imagination, so don't go gettin' all fuzzy about it. If ya want to know what it was really like, just ask a 'grey beard', who's still ridin' the old school stuff. Instead of some guy tryin' to romance you into buyin' some pile of gizzmo's and gadgets, that cost you a fortune. And further, that cost you even a bigger fortune, to maintain and keep runnin' ! While telling you tales of smoky romantic sounding BS whereby you're doin what all the Harley riders of days gone by did... you're not ! It isn't like they're telling ya... never was. It was more like this... On my way home after work. 40 mile ride each way, traffic's heavy. Bike suddenly dies on freeway, and I coast to a stop on the shoulder. Check for gas... Open cap, and yup, got gas. I can fuckin' see it with my eyes, imagine that ! Got a 2" long screwdriver in pocket of my leather... Open up point cover and find points have come apart. Hmm, never saw that before. Just then a faded red and white Electra Glide with beat up old white bags pulls up. Guy asks if I need help and I ask if he's got a set of points in those beautiful old white bags. Just a minute he says and returns with a new set in his hand. 90 seconds later, I poke the kicker, and she thunders to life, and settles into the beautiful 'gallup', that only a well tuned Sportster can at idle. (I lie, even the 'big twins' do that when tuned properly) He's already faded into traffic, and doesn't wait for a thanks. He knows, and so do I. 2 miles later, off Interstate, I walk into the local auto parts house and ask for 'old Chevy points for a straight six cylinder'. Cost is $2.95. Put in my inside pocket of my leather, thinkin' of him. Maybe someday I'll see him again and can return them... probably not. But maybe someone else... who knows?! Scooter is 21 years old, and still sings the song that only a Harley can sing. Lights up my life every time I kick it to life. One to three kicks, and my 'universe gets instantly healed' . Yeah... that makes it all worth it ! 2:00 am, I'm on my way home from friends house. We rebuilt his carburetor tonight. Couple beers, good rock n roll, and a few lies later, he's ready for work tomorrow. Shovel heads... always worth the trouble ! Couple miles from home, a long chopper in ditch, I stop. Bearded dude says he's out of gas. I say shit why didn't you look, and he says, "I forgot, too many beers !" Bitch pack him to my place and grab gas can, hit station down street, back to his bike. As I pull away, I hear him 'heal his universe' . All is well in America tonight. I lay down and fade....... You? You're still awake. You're wondering how the hell you're going to pay the $1875.00 bill to the HD house to get your bike back ! They had to replace a shit load of burnt gidgets n gadgets on that 'pile' you bought thinkin... Hell, who knows what you thought ?! But one thing is sure.. 'your universe' is Not feeling well, and you're sick to your stomach over it. The guy on the video never said it would be like this. Yeah, what's new ?
The old air cooled Sportster has been around since 1957, it was time to update or die. I think Harley Davidson did an amazing job with the new 975 Nighster. I am OLD (70) and have to ride a Tri-Glide due to my wife's many health issues (she's battled cancer eight times and walks with a walker).But if I could I believe I would really enjoy the new 975 NIghtster. I would add the "Long Haul" package along with a luggage rack and round leather top bag for the rack and passenger floor boards for my wife. The floor boards make it easier for her to climb on the passenger seat, I still have to help her, but the floorboards help. There are a few things about the Nightster that seem strange to me. Number one the starter button. I've been thumbing a starter button since the 60's and I think the starter button should be on the lower part of the four way flasher button. Number two, the way the seat rises to fill the fuel tank. Most riders mount and dismount on the left side of a motorcycle. It seems to me if the seat was hindged on the right side of the motorcycle instead of the left side the seat would flip up out of the way when refueling. The way it is now the seat is in the way and you have to drag the fuel hose over the seat then down to the filler cap. I just think it would be easier and simplier to hindge the seat on the right side. Number three, the bar end mirriors. I've been riding since the 60's and I know how to adjust mirrors to get a good view of whats behind me. I've worked hard all my life, changing semi tires, farm tractor tires, picking up railroad track for a living, so I have fairly broad shoulders and could always adjust mirrors for a good view of whats behind me. Number four, the muffler. I know they kept the muffler high on the bike for ground clearence but if it were just an inch and half lower it would provide a lot better position for the passenger foot pegs and make it much more comfortable. All this being said, I still love the new 975 NIghtster. I've had a couple Heritages and really like them, but they are slow. I think the 975 Nightster would be a hoot on the backroads. I never needed ride modes either. If I want to rip around I just gear down. If it is raining I've got enough common sense NOT to rip around. Like I said before, I've been riding for a long time. My wife and I have traveld almost 400,000 miles since the ealry 90's. One more thing, I've had more fun on a smaller bike than I ever had on a large one. Love to have a new Nightser 975. Thanks for the video.
I've had my nightster for a little over a month now, and as someone coming from riding crotch rockets only, I can wholeheartedly say this bike did not miss its mark. Matt, love the video explaining the history and extensive details. Truly let's me appreciate my bike that much more.
This video is done so well! I feel like i'm watching a full blown documentary on Harley Davidson. For someone who's a beginner and doesn't know much about Harley, this was very informative. I love the direction Harley has taken with the loss of all the chrome, big fenders, etc. Thankyou!
Top review of the new Nightster. The only video I've seen which references the old Nightster and recognises what an important bike that was and then successfully flags up the new and sets that into perspective. Well done.
Great review but don't know what to think... is this a good move or a bad one? Is HD going to move everything to rev max? It seems like a fun bike but its not what i think of when i think harley.
It will be interesting. I like the Rev Max along side a traditional Harley motor like the M8. As long as the core bikes are built on something like the M8 we are good. The rev MAx is a beast for some of the other genres of motorcycle
Well they did just announce the cancellation of the 48, so slowly they are changing the sportys over I think. I’m really hoping the 883 doesn’t go too. If they both go but they bring back the 72 with the evo I’ll be ok lol
Wow Matt, your video quality has just shot up several notches in the past few months. These reviews by you have been terrific. I even see you mentioned in the comments section of official Harley Davidson's channel. People are complaining that their videos suck and are too short & vague and others are telling those people to check out Matt Laidlaws reviews! Great job.
I'm a long time HD owner, first bike was a 74 Sportster then a Shovel now have a 95 inch hot rod 03 Dyna. I went to Maui HD and test rode a Nightster out of curiosity. Huge difference in the torque right off of idol but get it spinning and it really takes off and the sitting position is almost the same as my mid control Dyna. I liked it. Not going to trade my Dyna but I did like it
Can someone explain the random bolt/screw in the exhaust? It’s not attached to anything and not exactly sure why it on there. It has the spots to hold it to the bike, but why is there another one? What is it for or do for the bike?
I hope they sell a million of them, only to help Harley stay in business. Old schoolers like me won't buy a water cooled Harley Davidson,,no way. Hope they leave the Road King alone!!!!! Best motorcycle on the planet. That "thing" looks like the typical Japanese bike, can't believe it's a Harley. Ocala Fl.
I remember testing a sporster 48 1200cc while my night rod special was being worked on and it was very underwhelming. Twist the throttle and it just shook more than it went almost to the point of it being dangerous on the freeway. I couldn't give them that thing back fast enough. This new lineup seems fun and has respectable power.
Well, to be fair, you're talking about a bike with literally half the horsepower (and way less rear tire/stability) than your NRS so yeah I can understand why you'd hate it on the freeway. Not exactly the 48's strength. Still though yeah, the Nightster is much more highway friendly with the RevMax's powerband and the 6th gear, but it's still not the sweet spot for it. That bike gives up ballpark 180-200lbs and a big difference in tire contact to your NRS so it's not gonna handle those high winds as well.
Another fantastic video and review. Really appreciate your insight as you know these bikes extremely well and always give great info and an honest opinion. Thanks Matt!
I'd LOVE to ride one through the Tail of the Dragon! I like the look of the new Sportster Nightster but I still Love the old Sportster! Great video Matt
Awesome vid Matt, as usual. I can't wait to see one of these in person. I saw my first Sportster S on the road here in the Boston area and I turned all the way around in my seat. Those things are great in person! Keep up the good work brother
Looked at this last Saturday…wow it really is a good looking bike , yes agree with you Matt left hand side is not the best side with the wiring loom and pipes all over the place but the overall look when your right up close is very good..I think this could be a winner for my wife who struggled with her 48 but did not like the height and cc of the 750 street,the 3 ride modes keeping this simple is a good move in my opinion..less is more..lookin forward to test riding this bike..
Had the test ride Saturday and was very impressed with this 975..light , nimble, easy to throw about and very light Rain mode..ideal for my wife who is still a little nervous after not really getting on with the 48 sporty she had,this is very mild but still has enough grunt to get you up to speed but in a mild way Road mode.. get it up in the revs and man this shifts ,easy on the throttle at low revs and quite mild ..but crack it open and your gone for a course Sport mode..it’s a little thug….boy did I have fun on this.. Overall cracking bike with good handling,good stopping power and with three modes you sorta have three bikes..only things that didn’t do it for me are the mirrors hanging off the end of the bars just not my thing…go ride one
I always like the, "How Harley got to where they are," intros in your videos. The story behind "something" always makes "the something" more appreciable. The same can be said about Harley. I'm still waiting for a Bronx like bike from Harley. Thus far, I think the Pan America is the only bike Harley makes with a true standard riding position (upright back, with feet under hips in a seated postion). I also hope the M8 sticks around for as long as possible. It's my only experience with Harley but it's a good engine for sure.
Matt, I am hoping that you as a dealership may have have an answer to a problem to my Nightster that Harley Davidson will not give me a complete answer to my problem. Many times when you went to start the bike nothing happened. The problem is in the connection of the left or right handlebar modules under each side of the air box. If either module was unplugged and then plugged back in the bike would start. Obviously this is not a permanent solution as the problem would happen again as with my bike. Harley Davidson said that they had problems with these modules and are having the mechanic replace them. My questions for you are 1. How does plugging and then back in correct the problem? 2. Is it a problem with the modules or the connection of said modules. 3. How can I be sure if the replacement of these modules will fix the problem since Harley Davidson was hesitant to admit of the problem. 4. Has your dealership had any such problems with the 2022 Nightster and has the problem been resolved? When I googled 2022 Nightster problems I was directed to a Harley Davidson forum where other owners have the same problem.
Outstanding video Matt!!!! So much quality information, we appreciate.the hard work, time and effort you put into these videos from your friends "310 Racing Crew"
Is there a cooling fan on the radiator? My 2016 NRS VRSCDX has had one of the 2 fans fail on a trip through the south. However, electrical issues can occur on a brand new bike, then nothing after thousands of miles.
Still wish Harley had upgraded the air cooled push rod Evolution engine. Made it a 6 speed with more power to handle the taller gearing and improved the frame with a longer wheel base and lighter weight and better center of gravity. Kept the overall styling and sound of the classic Sportster. I guess I'm different than most riders because the high revving and high HP and torque doesn't appeal to me at all.
Great review, lots of useful information as usual. Love the history lesson at the start to establish the narrative of the review. The photography is next tier which is what I’ve come to expect from this channel. Thank you!
This would be great second bike to add to my road glide special . Especially in hot Vegas summers just riding around town… I test rode the sportster S while back and kinda loved it lol. This thing needs freedom performance combat exhaust and done🤷♂️
I just saw an ad for the Nightster in Canada and they were asking $18.8k for it. (Canadian money of course). We all know that out-the-door price will be much higher. My first comparison was the Suzuki GSXS 1000 for $13k. I'd probably go that direction. It's much faster, better looking and almost certainly better engineered. But wait, the GSXS 1000 makes about 150 hp and that's nuts. I don't need that. So I could go for the GSXS 750 which would still be plenty fast enough for me, and is just around $11k. But wait - The GSXS 750 is still more than I need or want, and Suzuki has just announced their new GSXS 8, which is a twin cylinder bike at just over 750 cc. It will be lighter, cheaper, and torquier, which should give it better real world power, at least in the urban environment. Now the GSXS 8 is a direct competitor for the upcoming Honda Hornet which is also a 750cc twin. I think the Hornet might be the perfect bike for me. Pricing in Canada has yet to be announced but the word is that Honda intends to price it very aggressively. I'm guessing that means it will be priced similar to Yamaha's MT-07 which is about $9k in Canada. One might argue that a Honda Hornet is not a fair comparison to a Nightster, (at twice the price I don't think so either.) To try to find something more comparable to the Nightster I expanded my search a bit. I see the Nightster as a sporty upright naked, so I looked at what might be considered premium upright naked bikes in a similar performance category. Triumph Bonnevilles top out at under $16k. Similar bikes from BMW are less expensive. In fact, list on a BMW F900R in Canada is $10.5k, which actually might compete well with the Honda Hornet. The most expensive Ducati Monster, the SP is similar to the Nightster at $18.3k, but the bare bones Monster is only $14.3k. The closest comparable Moto Guzzi is the V85TT, a bargain at just $14k. Based on this the Nightster isn't going to be on my personal short list for the next time I go motorcycle shopping. (Keep in mind that these are all Canadian prices and based on the exchange rate and other realities of the Canadian market, they should be 30% to 40% higher than American prices for the same model.).
I watch so many of these. Law Abiding Biker being one of the other channels, among many. Each has their strengths and I enjoy them all or I wouldn’t watch them. Even so, I always feel your vids are so thorough yet simple enough for anybody to understand. Always enjoy your vids, man. I’m excited for this new Nightster’s potential and what it offers to draw new people to Harley.
Great video! I test rode the Nightster and feel the same way as you. The power to weight ratio evens out the playing field with the Scout as far as performance goes, and the Nightster can handle the twisties better than the Scout. I still have a soft spot for my Stage IV Iron for the raw feel it gives me, but the Nightster is great bike.
Matt great video as per usual. I just absolutely love how you salute Harley's past and then how you trace Harley's lineage forward to the present day, Nightster bike. I'm glad to see Harley advancing with the times. The Nightster is a needed addition. Let's face it the Evo is just dated. That said - I have a 2017 XL1200CX Roadster with a Stage IV Kit and Bassani Road Rage 2 to 1 exhaust. That thing just rips and it works just fine on the interstate. The gearing appears to be wider than the traditional Sportsters, as you pointed out in your review of that bike. So I'll keep my 2017 Stage IV Roadster with upgraded shocks, and I think it's better than the new Nightster especially in the looks department. Keep up all the great reviews and I'm still looking forward to the new Bronx.
I really wish this bike could have the 1250 as an option. Love the look. I would really like to test ride one. I really like the hydraulic valves as it can save many dollars over time.
No, haha. You want to drop a 15k bike? because you will. Get a 10 year old metric/UJM cruiser or old Sportster 883 for 1-2 summers. Those are good first bikes that you won't cry over when you inevitably drop them.
Just sold my 4th Sportster. (My first was a 1973 XLCH.) Fond memories of the traditional Sportster, but it is time for a more modern model with increased performance. Good job H-D. Thanks Matt for all the great videos.
Curious to know your height and inseam to gauge how you fit on this. I’m 5’9” with a 29” inseam but a lower back that doesn’t like forward controls or being scrunched up. How neutral is this riding position I’m not concerned about freeway riding that’s off the table for me these days
Great video overview of the newest Harley entry. Not my cup of tea as a 6’-2” rider, but might be fun as an around-towner. Not a fan of the high revving motor as it now sounds like every other metric twin on the market. Only time will tell if it’s got Harley “soul”.
The bikes with Harley soul are not going anywhere. These are not for us but for the younger performance oriented cruiser drivers. To be able to compete with the likes of Indian Scout and Honda Rebel 1100 the liquid cooled Nightster and Sportster (and overall lighter bikes) are a necessity. An air cooled torque heavy long stroke engines, as cool as they sound and feel, simply cannot compete with high revving short stroke engines. Thats just physics.
Very true. The 45 degree push rod v-twins aren’t going away soon as some of the fear mongerers think! HD will keep losing share to Indian and others if they don’t catch up on some things. I can see HD putting a larger version of the RevMax in a few Softail and touring models but don’t worry, the clunky torquey 45 degree v-twin isn’t going away soon! It will be there for those who want it!
This is great. I’m happy to see HD make this bike, but I still want the Bronx. I’m somewhat surprised that they didn’t try to hide the radiator in the way Triumph did on the Bonneville by making it vertical. Maybe it wouldn’t work with the lack of frame rails.
Because of the water cooling it has tighter tolerances and doesn’t have to operate in such a wide range of temperatures like the M8. If it doesn’t have good longevity it won’t be because it’s higher revving
I'm glad HD is making some different models especially for budget and new riders. I think HD lost a lot of the market when they quit making dirtbikes and stuff for young people, I'm pulling for Harley Davidson though and I hope this Revmax engine will help get more people riding.
Yeah...I started late. Got a 2017 883 2 year's ago and learned on it, but after just 4 months I traded it in for a 2016 Dyna Lowrider S, which I am still riding now. Didn't enjoy the iron 883 for long lol
Hey Matt, Ive been hearing complaints about the rear header by the CAT being hot beyond normal and causing a nuisance to consider. Did you experience this and if so what were your thoughts on it?
The biggest thing for me is the technology that’s involved in the revolution platform which leads to a major question which is: How big and powerful does a motorcycle engine need to be for power and enjoyment? The new nighster has 90hp, the Sportster S has 121hp, and the Pan America has 150hp with a slim look, three hole oil fill and drain, ride modes, OHV, no pushrods and most all all liquid cooling. HD can’t continue making air cooled bikes with their labor intensive nature. I am excited to see what the touring model Revolution Max stats will be. I think the touring model Revolution Max will be 175hp with 130 pounds of torque minimum.
It probably won’t be long before we are seeing technology like this in at least some Softail and touring models. They will probably keep the old pushrod 45 degree VTwins forever for those who are stuck in the past. So they won’t go all in on liquid cooled on everything for the foreseeable future but I can see at least a few Softail/Touring models having a version of this engine in the next 5 years.
They needed to come out with this line and it seems like HD has done a good job. Hope to test ride one day soon. My friend has an original 2009 Nightster that he tinkered with and is a blast to ride. It is just a clean looking bike too. I do miss my Sportster as well. Just felt like you were riding a motorcycle. Hope to get a 48 one day as a project bike and customize. One mention for HD Corp. Avoid putting too much plastic on the bikes. It looks cheap and awful especially when it ages.
Totally agree on the plastic covers. I don't understand why they cover up the engine like that. Fugly. Indian makes liquid cooled engines/bikes that look amazing all around. Victory, same thing. WTF HD?
I have a piece of harley history you have totally over looked that is living proof you have never seen one that contradicts all you just claimed about harleys covered in plastic looking nasty with age is bull shit...my harley is now 13 years old covered in ABS plastic with its original mirage orange pearl paint that still sparkles in sunlight laughing at you .of a 2009 XR1200 the engine is all bone stock original with now 25k miles that spent its first 15k on several sets of track slicks front and back as it was when i road her home from williams Port Honda , of Pennsylvania to terre haute 50 west of indy on a fresh set of 500 buck track slicks that were flat spoted centers down to the one ply kevlar cord when i got home of a 700 mile interstate test ride as it was my first time ever riding on or even seeing an XR1200 Sportster besides videos of the seven years of the vance & Hines AMA XR1200 series sport bike racing that apparently you are not a motorcycle performance enthusiast of at all..it was harley who invent the sport of motorcycle racing over 100 years ago as the very first international motorcycle road race was held just north of my home town in northern marion indiana ..first price was a live feeder pig ..as the winner was a harley racing team member who done his victory lap on the winning harley with the champs arm around his prise pig ....and one of 15,000 spectators yelled out " who's that riding the hog " and the name has stuck ever since to this day ...and for over a 100 years harley has won more championships in all major motorcycle racing than any other brand that is why we can wear the #1 patch on our cuts in honor of many young men who lost their life battling to hold on to first place championship year after year like the 50 years of racing harley sportsters on mile dirt tracks across america that your bikes represent as a retro of the first sportsters that were built in 1970 of the XR750 that still win today against all other new bikes that later the XR750 became the platform of my XR1200 that the engine is totally different on the inside of any iron head to the EVO you have .internally the pistons are cooled with oil jets that spray cooled oil from its liquid cooling system that also cools the cylinder heads through cooling passage ways drill ports separate of the valve train lubrication system from its dry sump .. that lubs the engine also feeds the cooling system from a oil temperature thermostat in the bottom of the XR1200 engine cases that draws cooled oil from a huge radiator style oil cooler on the left side frame mounted with a case mounted spin on oil gilter with hot oil from the heads drain back to the oil tank in separate lines from each head ..as a result the engine never exceeds 200*F in the worse conditions of stalled in traffic on a 90*F day to 125 mph top end playing with 600cc sport bikes , or straighting out the twists in the Hoosier national forest of 100s of miles of two lane black top of southern indiana flood control lakes and reservoirs similar to the dragons tail only 100s of miles more but only 100 mile at a time burst cause its still a sporty that sucks gas like a hog .but on coldest days i can stand to ride her that stops for me at 40*F ...the engine oil will still he at 200*F...claimed 91 hp at the crank ..shorty after i got home cannonball harley installed 4 new fueling hydraulic lifters and their dyno jet she made 82 rwhp thats stock book spec..with 79 ft lbs torque at the rear tire thats a little hotter maybe from the fueling brand lifters ..the original lifters were way noisy thats from too many lap days at red line down shifts ..as thing was used for a practice bike in the XR1200 series that lasted from 2009 - 2015 ...the first XR1200 was 2008 that all were exported to europe, japan and south american ...harley stopped all sales in america in 2012 but continued production exporting them to europe , japan and south america till 2015 then pulled the plug as harley has always done since the first harley sport bike 1971 FX Night Train that every night the three of us after work battling the first XL1000 iron head i was chasing on my new parallel twin that ate four banger CB750 hondas for lunch on my XS750 yamadog street tracker but at night it was XL1000 iron head land for a minute and ooops whats that thunder and time to move over as it would be the Night Train running on schedule ...in 1977 we had the aermacchi two stroke MX250 harley fastest best handling 250 that did not eat pistons and the CR1000 cafe racer that passed CB750F super sport hondas from the honda shop were i was employed and owned and raced a CR250R Elsinore pretty fast but no match for little italian harley buss bomb .them harley pulled the plug on both of them. In 1983 came a street tracker that was brutal a copy of Lucifers Hammer champion of daytona battle of the twins all aluminum top to bottom with two carburetors , one on each cylinder head ..one time at the Indy mile i spotted one setting in parking lot that looked bone stock until i read the factory painted on lettering on the gas tank that said XR2000 that was the handy work of Sputhe Engineering ...price for a 95hp stock XR1000 two red and black sporty was $7500 that with what it came standard about 20 more ponies and 200 lbs less than a big twin i had no problem but same price as an FX. Big twin and the XR1000 collected dust in showroom and then harley pulled the plug again ...ceo from harley said one day "do we really need Eric Buel and his racing hobby as the Buel was tied in all specs including price with the Ducati Panigale V Twin Superbike that made 160 hp and top out 175 trading paint with the Buel ..this harley had a fire sale and fired eric and sold his bikes cause no one would pay $15k for a piglet but will pay $15k - $18k for a duck that oinks ..but today the 2009 ,XR1200 is the most popular motorcycle of all ridden in japan ..they have a custom shop called TRIJYA taking the XR1200 to the next level and selling them back to us ...and this year cycle world says the XR1200 is the very best engine harley as ever made for reliability and performance in its class....i cant go to a gas station to fill up without getting mobbed of people who dont even ride bikes asking if my XR1200 is the new sportster ...and at our local water hole call the cabin a local MC patch holder is explaining to the prospects all about the new Revo sporties and why they are so fast as i had cleaned allhere clocks a few nights before ...so i couldnt resist and step out to light up and prospects all waiting to ask me all about this hot hog as think its a 1250 sportster S ..thats when i get to stomp their bubble ..with are you kidding this old sled is 13 years old when harley haters said yeah when pigs fly ...harley said NOW THEY DO
Matt I am getting up there in age and my only concern about trading in my 2017 Roadster is I love how stable the freeway speed is on my Roadster. I did upgrade the rear shocks to a 13 inch Fox and love the ride over my 883 Iron. How does the Nightster compare with the Roadster?
I currently own a 2020 XL1200CX Roadster. I would like the new Nightster, but it has 2 styling cues I don't like. My biggest peeve I can't stand is that soli seat look, second is that slammed down low rear tire. Every time I visit my dealership in Alabama they ask if I'm ready for a big twin. I reply the Roadster like the I'll fated Cafe Racer if the 70s is the only bike that draws me to the showroom. I'm 66 years old and have been riding since the 70s. This is my 3rd Harley..Did own a Superglide back in 04, I prefer the Sportster.
Matt, I love this brilliant, creative and spot on vid!! I've been a XL only guy since 2011. I've owned 2 Iron 883s and bought my dream-bike (48) in 2019. I upgraded it to a Stage 3 over the next couple of years. By God's grace, it's now paid for in full. I've been looking hard at the Nightster 975. Lots there to like for me. Here's my issue. My local dealer won't touch YOUR price of 10,499.00!! I sent him the link from your website. Reply? CRICKETS!! If I lived any near you, I'd be in for a test ride and talk trade in value of my bike in flash! What can I do? What should I do??
nice review. And nice looking bike (the left-hand side could use some better design), nice mix of traditional and modern. Love the look of that bikini fairing. What size is it? Wonder if you could use it in the LRS. What do you think, Matt? keep up the good work. best!
I probably should have commented on the fairing more. That’s a good question. I really don’t know if it can be bolted up to the low rider S. I would guess that it isn’t an easy plug and play
@@MattLaidlaw thanks a lot, Matt! I hope there's a (not too complicated) way. The Nightster fairing certainly looks the part, it may not be any improvement in wind deflection over the LRS fairing but, IMHO, it looks much much better.
@@turaly0n The scout has the ugliest frame/sidecover combo in motorcycling history. It's like one group designed the front half, and another the back half. Would rather take the bus.
@@jayteesgear Scout is ugly. I see nothing masculine in a pretender beta bike. Can't look away from that horrible frame/sidecover area, just hideous. Polaris will drop the Indian like they did Victory when the sales figures don't work for them. Polaris is a leisure products manufacturer not a motorcycle company. Polaris is the brown leather jacket of motorcycling.
Awesome video as always Matt, your production value is on another level!! Man I test drove the Revolution engine in the Sportster S and the power is insane and ALWAYS there. If they ever make a bike that looks like the Street Bob but has the Revolution engine I will definitely buy one! They just need to make it a more traditional looking engine.
Like always great video Matt! 👊🏼😎 lt’s a cool looking bike definitely different then traditional Harley. I can see me getting one to commute to work. Don’t see me trading in my 16FLSS Or my 18FLHTK lol.. But I like! dude I need to plan a little road trip up highway 33 Twisties look cool and not far from the I.E... Thanks for sharing Matt!! See you at The Born Free Show! 🤘🏻😁
Great insights Matt. I'd say this is the perfect bike for a woman, beginner or experienced. 90 HP is a nice number and the modes are a big advantage over the old Sporty.
Older Harley’s with more torque than horsepower you can be lazier with shifting less focus. Higher horsepower motors you must be more engaged to make use of the wider powerband.
great review , still not sure i could get beyond the radiator and the ugly exhaust . doesn't sound like a Harley either . but i'm clearly not the target market and wouldn't even be looking at the Nightster as a purchase except as a second fun bike . seems like it really pushes all the buttons it was meant to so for the right person it's a winner .
I sat on one in person today, great feel and looks much better in the flesh than photos. I think the radiator is fine, in a way I think it’s true to the Sportster Ethos: this is what bikes need now to go fast, we aren’t hiding the mechanical components… But… In Australia, these are $23k… for the same money you can buy a Ducati Supersport S… which is just as comfortable but looks nicer and will probably smoke this everywhere…
LONG LIVE THE TWIN CAM AND EVO they sound soooooo good. My M8 even with a big cam and catless headers etc etc doesn’t sound 1/10th as dope and loud as my last bike (a 2009 Fatboy .. 96cu in .. just a set of cheap ass VH slip ons .. deafening loud. Shook the ground under my feet if I was standing next to it when I’d start it up and let it idle for a min. They got that chop without having to do 2k of motor work. And an evo 1200 with some shorties (full Exhaust).. BEST bike sound on the planet
OMG! The knuckles, panheads, shovels, and evos. I just watched a video and the guy said the heads on these new revolution motors look like "PARKING METERS." Holy smokes, I think the Rev is a Parking Meter for life!
Time will tell how the depreciation is on this bike. Like you said, many people bought the 883 only to return it 6 months later and trade it for a soft tail or bigger. IMO the 883 was a little more reasonably priced because, like you said, it is time tested, high numbers produced and ease of customization. Now you have newer technology and R&D money to recover, plus, say what you want, when the motor is part of the frame you are limited on traditional customization options and if people find out this bike is also a little less bike than they wanted, it may not be as easy to trade back in and still retain as much % of original value in 6 months. I think it will be a good choice for someone new to motorcycles and Harley-Davidson, however I doubt the long term Harley Fans and owners will take to this design. I personally am a big Harley Fan and own a couple, one being a 1993 883, which I love the sound of. Personally, I can’t stand the sound of the Rev Max engine. It’s sounds like a Honda twin star with loose valve train. I’ve rode the Pan America and Sportster S and yes they have a ton of power but I am more about the sound. That much power will only get me in trouble with the law. Been there done that. Great Video as always Matt!!
They made a baby VRod, I like it but id like if it came with upside down forks and dual discs brakes. Cant get it all but ill keep my Night rod special. Best bike harley built to date 😬
I see an entirely new custom scene emerging with the Rev Max platform with Builders making their own frame modules. It's practically limitless to what you'll be able to do, not to mention all the new tech that's compatible with it. The modding scene have a gold mine on their hands. It's a win for Harley Davidson.
You are STILL the best Harley reviewer on TH-cam. Thank you for this.
I appreciate that! Thanks for watching.
Dude I love the history lessons before every bike you talk about.
Thank you! It takes a lot of time to put those together, I'm glad they're appreciated
See I’m not about the history I’m looking for the review of what was in the title of the video and nothing else.
Dj P - YEAH, it's about 50% imagination, so don't go gettin' all fuzzy about it. If ya want to know what it was really like, just ask a 'grey beard', who's still ridin' the old school stuff. Instead of some guy tryin' to romance you into buyin' some pile of gizzmo's and gadgets, that cost you a fortune. And further, that cost you even a bigger fortune, to maintain and keep runnin' ! While telling you tales of smoky romantic sounding BS whereby you're doin what all the Harley riders of days gone by did... you're not ! It isn't like they're telling ya... never was.
It was more like this... On my way home after work. 40 mile ride each way, traffic's heavy. Bike suddenly dies on freeway, and I coast to a stop on the shoulder. Check for gas... Open cap, and yup, got gas. I can fuckin' see it with my eyes, imagine that ! Got a 2" long screwdriver in pocket of my leather... Open up point cover and find points have come apart. Hmm, never saw that before. Just then a faded red and white Electra Glide with beat up old white bags pulls up. Guy asks if I need help and I ask if he's got a set of points in those beautiful old white bags. Just a minute he says and returns with a new set in his hand. 90 seconds later, I poke the kicker, and she thunders to life, and settles into the beautiful 'gallup', that only a well tuned Sportster can at idle. (I lie, even the 'big twins' do that when tuned properly)
He's already faded into traffic, and doesn't wait for a thanks. He knows, and so do I.
2 miles later, off Interstate, I walk into the local auto parts house and ask for 'old Chevy points for a straight six cylinder'. Cost is $2.95. Put in my inside pocket of my leather, thinkin' of him. Maybe someday I'll see him again and can return them... probably not. But maybe someone else... who knows?! Scooter is 21 years old, and still sings the song that only a Harley can sing. Lights up my life every time I kick it to life. One to three kicks, and my 'universe gets instantly healed' . Yeah... that makes it all worth it !
2:00 am, I'm on my way home from friends house. We rebuilt his carburetor tonight. Couple beers, good rock n roll, and a few lies later, he's ready for work tomorrow. Shovel heads... always worth the trouble !
Couple miles from home, a long chopper in ditch, I stop. Bearded dude says he's out of gas. I say shit why didn't you look, and he says, "I forgot, too many beers !" Bitch pack him to my place and grab gas can, hit station down street, back to his bike. As I pull away, I hear him 'heal his universe' . All is well in America tonight. I lay down and fade.......
You? You're still awake. You're wondering how the hell you're going to pay the $1875.00 bill to the HD house to get your bike back ! They had to replace a shit load of burnt gidgets n gadgets on that 'pile' you bought thinkin... Hell, who knows what you thought ?! But one thing is sure.. 'your universe' is Not feeling well, and you're sick to your stomach over it. The guy on the video never said it would be like this. Yeah, what's new ?
The old air cooled Sportster has been around since 1957, it was time to update or die. I think Harley Davidson did an amazing job with the new 975 Nighster. I am OLD (70) and have to ride a Tri-Glide due to my wife's many health issues (she's battled cancer eight times and walks with a walker).But if I could I believe I would really enjoy the new 975 NIghtster. I would add the "Long Haul" package along with a luggage rack and round leather top bag for the rack and passenger floor boards for my wife. The floor boards make it easier for her to climb on the passenger seat, I still have to help her, but the floorboards help.
There are a few things about the Nightster that seem strange to me. Number one the starter button. I've been thumbing a starter button since the 60's and I think the starter button should be on the lower part of the four way flasher button. Number two, the way the seat rises to fill the fuel tank. Most riders mount and dismount on the left side of a motorcycle. It seems to me if the seat was hindged on the right side of the motorcycle instead of the left side the seat would flip up out of the way when refueling. The way it is now the seat is in the way and you have to drag the fuel hose over the seat then down to the filler cap. I just think it would be easier and simplier to hindge the seat on the right side. Number three, the bar end mirriors. I've been riding since the 60's and I know how to adjust mirrors to get a good view of whats behind me. I've worked hard all my life, changing semi tires, farm tractor tires, picking up railroad track for a living, so I have fairly broad shoulders and could always adjust mirrors for a good view of whats behind me. Number four, the muffler. I know they kept the muffler high on the bike for ground clearence but if it were just an inch and half lower it would provide a lot better position for the passenger foot pegs and make it much more comfortable.
All this being said, I still love the new 975 NIghtster. I've had a couple Heritages and really like them, but they are slow. I think the 975 Nightster would be a hoot on the backroads. I never needed ride modes either. If I want to rip around I just gear down. If it is raining I've got enough common sense NOT to rip around. Like I said before, I've been riding for a long time. My wife and I have traveld almost 400,000 miles since the ealry 90's. One more thing, I've had more fun on a smaller bike than I ever had on a large one. Love to have a new Nightser 975. Thanks for the video.
Yes! I finally found a tall rider to review this bike and others. Y'all don't know the pain of being a giant.
I've had my nightster for a little over a month now, and as someone coming from riding crotch rockets only, I can wholeheartedly say this bike did not miss its mark. Matt, love the video explaining the history and extensive details. Truly let's me appreciate my bike that much more.
brom same here. I've only ridden sportsbikes but looking for a second bike for long rides. would you recommend this one?
Would you characterize this as a cruiser, or a sport-oriented upright naked.
This makes me love my sportster evo even more.
A bike for the younger crowd perhaps. For me, give me a 48 or an Iron any day. Great review as always Matt. Thanks
48 will be missed. I still need to grab one at some point
This video is done so well! I feel like i'm watching a full blown documentary on Harley Davidson. For someone who's a beginner and doesn't know much about Harley, this was very informative. I love the direction Harley has taken with the loss of all the chrome, big fenders, etc. Thankyou!
Top review of the new Nightster. The only video I've seen which references the old Nightster and recognises what an important bike that was and then successfully flags up the new and sets that into perspective. Well done.
Thank you!
Great review but don't know what to think... is this a good move or a bad one? Is HD going to move everything to rev max? It seems like a fun bike but its not what i think of when i think harley.
It will be interesting. I like the Rev Max along side a traditional Harley motor like the M8. As long as the core bikes are built on something like the M8 we are good. The rev MAx is a beast for some of the other genres of motorcycle
Well they did just announce the cancellation of the 48, so slowly they are changing the sportys over I think. I’m really hoping the 883 doesn’t go too. If they both go but they bring back the 72 with the evo I’ll be ok lol
Wow Matt, your video quality has just shot up several notches in the past few months. These reviews by you have been terrific. I even see you mentioned in the comments section of official Harley Davidson's channel. People are complaining that their videos suck and are too short & vague and others are telling those people to check out Matt Laidlaws reviews! Great job.
Dig this channel..THE BEST...ALWAYS GREAT STUFF MAN
Thank you Matt!!! Love the Nightster 975!!! Cool bike !! Can not wait for the future of the revolutionary max!
I'm a long time HD owner, first bike was a 74 Sportster then a Shovel now have a 95 inch hot rod 03 Dyna. I went to Maui HD and test rode a Nightster out of curiosity. Huge difference in the torque right off of idol but get it spinning and it really takes off and the sitting position is almost the same as my mid control Dyna. I liked it. Not going to trade my Dyna but I did like it
Can someone explain the random bolt/screw in the exhaust? It’s not attached to anything and not exactly sure why it on there. It has the spots to hold it to the bike, but why is there another one? What is it for or do for the bike?
I hope they sell a million of them, only to help Harley stay in business. Old schoolers like me won't buy a water cooled Harley Davidson,,no way. Hope they leave the Road King alone!!!!! Best motorcycle on the planet. That "thing" looks like the typical Japanese bike, can't believe it's a Harley.
Ocala Fl.
Agree. They made a Honda, but it costs more than a Honda. It’ll be interesting to see who actually wants this.
I remember testing a sporster 48 1200cc while my night rod special was being worked on and it was very underwhelming. Twist the throttle and it just shook more than it went almost to the point of it being dangerous on the freeway. I couldn't give them that thing back fast enough. This new lineup seems fun and has respectable power.
Well, to be fair, you're talking about a bike with literally half the horsepower (and way less rear tire/stability) than your NRS so yeah I can understand why you'd hate it on the freeway. Not exactly the 48's strength.
Still though yeah, the Nightster is much more highway friendly with the RevMax's powerband and the 6th gear, but it's still not the sweet spot for it. That bike gives up ballpark 180-200lbs and a big difference in tire contact to your NRS so it's not gonna handle those high winds as well.
Another fantastic video and review. Really appreciate your insight as you know these bikes extremely well and always give great info and an honest opinion. Thanks Matt!
Thank you! Thanks for watching. It’s always good to hear people get good “take away” info from them.
I'd LOVE to ride one through the Tail of the Dragon! I like the look of the new Sportster Nightster but I still Love the old Sportster! Great video Matt
That would carve up the Dragon for sure! I took my Fat Boy through there and for sure clunky but still fun!
Awesome vid Matt, as usual. I can't wait to see one of these in person. I saw my first Sportster S on the road here in the Boston area and I turned all the way around in my seat. Those things are great in person! Keep up the good work brother
Thank you sir. Yea, the Sportster S is pretty radical looking.
That opening was incredible!
You really are an amazing storyteller/ historian/ videographer.
Looked at this last Saturday…wow it really is a good looking bike , yes agree with you Matt left hand side is not the best side with the wiring loom and pipes all over the place but the overall look when your right up close is very good..I think this could be a winner for my wife who struggled with her 48 but did not like the height and cc of the 750 street,the 3 ride modes keeping this simple is a good move in my opinion..less is more..lookin forward to test riding this bike..
Right on man. Thanks for the comment. I think it could be a winner for your wife. Good luck with everything
Had the test ride Saturday and was very impressed with this 975..light , nimble, easy to throw about and very light
Rain mode..ideal for my wife who is still a little nervous after not really getting on with the 48 sporty she had,this is very mild but still has enough grunt to get you up to speed but in a mild way
Road mode.. get it up in the revs and man this shifts ,easy on the throttle at low revs and quite mild ..but crack it open and your gone for a course
Sport mode..it’s a little thug….boy did I have fun on this..
Overall cracking bike with good handling,good stopping power and with three modes you sorta have three bikes..only things that didn’t do it for me are the mirrors hanging off the end of the bars just not my thing…go ride one
Well she purchased one Saturday…hopefully we will pick it up this weekend..
I always like the, "How Harley got to where they are," intros in your videos. The story behind "something" always makes "the something" more appreciable. The same can be said about Harley. I'm still waiting for a Bronx like bike from Harley. Thus far, I think the Pan America is the only bike Harley makes with a true standard riding position (upright back, with feet under hips in a seated postion). I also hope the M8 sticks around for as long as possible. It's my only experience with Harley but it's a good engine for sure.
Thank you. Glad to hear people are enjoying the intros. 👍🏼 I’m sure HD will be using the rev max to build some more cool stuff in the future.
Matt, I am hoping that you as a dealership may have have an answer to a problem to my Nightster that Harley Davidson will not give me a complete answer to my problem. Many times when you went to start the bike nothing happened. The problem is in the connection of the left or right handlebar modules under each side of the air box. If either module was unplugged and then plugged back in the bike would start. Obviously this is not a permanent solution as the problem would happen again as with my bike. Harley Davidson said that they had problems with these modules and are having the mechanic replace them. My questions for you are 1. How does plugging and then back in correct the problem? 2. Is it a problem with the modules or the connection of said modules. 3. How can I be sure if the replacement of these modules will fix the problem since Harley Davidson was hesitant to admit of the problem. 4. Has your dealership had any such problems with the 2022 Nightster and has the problem been resolved?
When I googled 2022 Nightster problems I was directed to a Harley Davidson forum where other owners have the same problem.
I’ve been subscribed since 50k Matt’s content has gotten so good!!!! I hate voice over but Matt dose it so good I have to watch lol. 🔥
Thank you! Since 50k? Much appreciation brother. Thank you.
Hopefully my voice delivery doesn’t put you to sleep.
@@MattLaidlaw *It doesn’t **#Matt**. Lol* 😆😂🤣😜
Outstanding video Matt!!!! So much quality information, we appreciate.the hard work, time and effort you put into these videos from your friends "310 Racing Crew"
Thank you! I appreciate the comment and support. Thanks Kevin!
I agree, the history you put in your videos is awesome. Solid review!
Is there a cooling fan on the radiator? My 2016 NRS VRSCDX has had one of the 2 fans fail on a trip through the south. However, electrical issues can occur on a brand new bike, then nothing after thousands of miles.
I miss riding man nothing like a good rumble with just you and the road. Beautiful bike Matt
Yes sir. 👍🏼 thanks for checking it out.
Still wish Harley had upgraded the air cooled push rod Evolution engine. Made it a 6 speed with more power to handle the taller gearing and improved the frame with a longer wheel base and lighter weight and better center of gravity. Kept the overall styling and sound of the classic Sportster. I guess I'm different than most riders because the high revving and high HP and torque doesn't appeal to me at all.
Matt you never disappoint ! Still the best Harley Davidson channel on TH-cam ! IMO seems like the RevMax engine put the sport back in "Sport"ster . 🤔
Thank you sir. I appreciate you checking out the video and for your input
Great review, lots of useful information as usual. Love the history lesson at the start to establish the narrative of the review.
The photography is next tier which is what I’ve come to expect from this channel.
Thank you!
This would be great second bike to add to my road glide special . Especially in hot Vegas summers just riding around town… I test rode the sportster S while back and kinda loved it lol. This thing needs freedom performance combat exhaust and done🤷♂️
I just bought one today. A blast to ride!
I just saw an ad for the Nightster in Canada and they were asking $18.8k for it. (Canadian money of course). We all know that out-the-door price will be much higher. My first comparison was the Suzuki GSXS 1000 for $13k. I'd probably go that direction. It's much faster, better looking and almost certainly better engineered. But wait, the GSXS 1000 makes about 150 hp and that's nuts. I don't need that. So I could go for the GSXS 750 which would still be plenty fast enough for me, and is just around $11k. But wait - The GSXS 750 is still more than I need or want, and Suzuki has just announced their new GSXS 8, which is a twin cylinder bike at just over 750 cc. It will be lighter, cheaper, and torquier, which should give it better real world power, at least in the urban environment. Now the GSXS 8 is a direct competitor for the upcoming Honda Hornet which is also a 750cc twin. I think the Hornet might be the perfect bike for me. Pricing in Canada has yet to be announced but the word is that Honda intends to price it very aggressively. I'm guessing that means it will be priced similar to Yamaha's MT-07 which is about $9k in Canada.
One might argue that a Honda Hornet is not a fair comparison to a Nightster, (at twice the price I don't think so either.) To try to find something more comparable to the Nightster I expanded my search a bit. I see the Nightster as a sporty upright naked, so I looked at what might be considered premium upright naked bikes in a similar performance category. Triumph Bonnevilles top out at under $16k. Similar bikes from BMW are less expensive. In fact, list on a BMW F900R in Canada is $10.5k, which actually might compete well with the Honda Hornet. The most expensive Ducati Monster, the SP is similar to the Nightster at $18.3k, but the bare bones Monster is only $14.3k. The closest comparable Moto Guzzi is the V85TT, a bargain at just $14k.
Based on this the Nightster isn't going to be on my personal short list for the next time I go motorcycle shopping.
(Keep in mind that these are all Canadian prices and based on the exchange rate and other realities of the Canadian market, they should be 30% to 40% higher than American prices for the same model.).
I watch so many of these. Law Abiding Biker being one of the other channels, among many. Each has their strengths and I enjoy them all or I wouldn’t watch them. Even so, I always feel your vids are so thorough yet simple enough for anybody to understand. Always enjoy your vids, man. I’m excited for this new Nightster’s potential and what it offers to draw new people to Harley.
Covered ALL the bases as usual.
Excellent presentation on HD's newest WINNER.
48X with the 1250T and the sat nav etc please
Great hangin, ridin' and chillin' with you in Santa Barbara, Matt. Hope to ride again soon with you. Great vid!
Thanks Ryan. It was good to finally meet you and go for a ride 🤘🏼 Hopefully our paths cross again soon.
@@MattLaidlaw 👍 👍 👍
Thank you Matt excellent participation really appreciate the knowledge .
Always a fan of your reviews.
Thank you!
Great video! I test rode the Nightster and feel the same way as you. The power to weight ratio evens out the playing field with the Scout as far as performance goes, and the Nightster can handle the twisties better than the Scout. I still have a soft spot for my Stage IV Iron for the raw feel it gives me, but the Nightster is great bike.
Looks like a copy of the Rogue
Great review Matt! Started out on a 1977 1000cc iron head Sportster. Loved it!
Nice! Iconic Harley!
Does Harley do test rides at Dealerships? To my knowledge only Ducati and BMW allow test rides in the USA. I’d love to test the nightster
Matt great video as per usual. I just absolutely love how you salute Harley's past and then how you trace Harley's lineage forward to the present day, Nightster bike. I'm glad to see Harley advancing with the times. The Nightster is a needed addition. Let's face it the Evo is just dated. That said - I have a 2017 XL1200CX Roadster with a Stage IV Kit and Bassani Road Rage 2 to 1 exhaust. That thing just rips and it works just fine on the interstate. The gearing appears to be wider than the traditional Sportsters, as you pointed out in your review of that bike. So I'll keep my 2017 Stage IV Roadster with upgraded shocks, and I think it's better than the new Nightster especially in the looks department. Keep up all the great reviews and I'm still looking forward to the new Bronx.
@@OfficialMattLaidlaw Like I believe that - Laidlaw's isnt running any contests. 🤣🤣🤣
Does the Nightster have similar issues with valvetrain noise that plague the PanAm and Sportster S?
Good job filming how the bike looks driving down the road. Not just the POV shots.👍
Thanks 👍I had some professional help shooting this one.
I really wish this bike could have the 1250 as an option. Love the look. I would really like to test ride one. I really like the hydraulic valves as it can save many dollars over time.
If it does well they will probably offer the 1250 in it soon! Looks like an amazing bike!
Can you tune the choppiness out of the throttle like you can on many metric bikes?
Would this be a good first bike. I’m new and currently looking for my first.
No, haha. You want to drop a 15k bike? because you will. Get a 10 year old metric/UJM cruiser or old Sportster 883 for 1-2 summers. Those are good first bikes that you won't cry over when you inevitably drop them.
Epic video!🤙🏽 Great camera views!🤓
Listened to this on my way home from work , your videos are rad
Thank you! Thanks for watching.
Just sold my 4th Sportster. (My first was a 1973 XLCH.) Fond memories of the traditional Sportster, but it is time for a more modern model with increased performance. Good job H-D. Thanks Matt for all the great videos.
Some history background is always very useful! Keep doing it Matt
Curious to know your height and inseam to gauge how you fit on this. I’m 5’9” with a 29” inseam but a lower back that doesn’t like forward controls or being scrunched up. How neutral is this riding position I’m not concerned about freeway riding that’s off the table for me these days
You should fit good. I’m 6’6’’ with about a 35 inch inseam.
Great video overview of the newest Harley entry. Not my cup of tea as a 6’-2” rider, but might be fun as an around-towner. Not a fan of the high revving motor as it now sounds like every other metric twin on the market. Only time will tell if it’s got Harley “soul”.
True. We will see
The bikes with Harley soul are not going anywhere. These are not for us but for the younger performance oriented cruiser drivers. To be able to compete with the likes of Indian Scout and Honda Rebel 1100 the liquid cooled Nightster and Sportster (and overall lighter bikes) are a necessity. An air cooled torque heavy long stroke engines, as cool as they sound and feel, simply cannot compete with high revving short stroke engines. Thats just physics.
Very true. The 45 degree push rod v-twins aren’t going away soon as some of the fear mongerers think! HD will keep losing share to Indian and others if they don’t catch up on some things. I can see HD putting a larger version of the RevMax in a few Softail and touring models but don’t worry, the clunky torquey 45 degree v-twin isn’t going away soon! It will be there for those who want it!
This is great. I’m happy to see HD make this bike, but I still want the Bronx. I’m somewhat surprised that they didn’t try to hide the radiator in the way Triumph did on the Bonneville by making it vertical. Maybe it wouldn’t work with the lack of frame rails.
I'm not fond of red, but damn the red Nightster looks sooo good
It’s a good looking bike.
wonder what the longevity of this engine will be if you’re constantly running it at high rpm all the time?
Because of the water cooling it has tighter tolerances and doesn’t have to operate in such a wide range of temperatures like the M8. If it doesn’t have good longevity it won’t be because it’s higher revving
Motor looks modern and beautiful
I'm glad HD is making some different models especially for budget and new riders. I think HD lost a lot of the market when they quit making dirtbikes and stuff for young people, I'm pulling for Harley Davidson though and I hope this Revmax engine will help get more people riding.
Really good looking motorcycle sports does come a long way Thank you for the video take care
Thanks for watching.
Is there coming an adventure Bike with the 975ccm which is lighter and lower than the Pan America?
Another milestone... Dreaming about Buell Firebolt with this engine...
Yeah...I started late. Got a 2017 883 2 year's ago and learned on it, but after just 4 months I traded it in for a 2016 Dyna Lowrider S, which I am still riding now. Didn't enjoy the iron 883 for long lol
One of the most "Soulless" Bikes I ever seen, The SportsterS is close behind.
Hey Matt,
Ive been hearing complaints about the rear header by the CAT being hot beyond normal and causing a nuisance to consider. Did you experience this and if so what were your thoughts on it?
Is there a big price difference between colors?
The biggest thing for me is the technology that’s involved in the revolution platform which leads to a major question which is: How big and powerful does a motorcycle engine need to be for power and enjoyment?
The new nighster has 90hp, the Sportster S has 121hp, and the Pan America has 150hp with a slim look, three hole oil fill and drain, ride modes, OHV, no pushrods and most all all liquid cooling. HD can’t continue making air cooled bikes with their labor intensive nature. I am excited to see what the touring model Revolution Max stats will be. I think the touring model Revolution Max will be 175hp with 130 pounds of torque minimum.
It probably won’t be long before we are seeing technology like this in at least some Softail and touring models. They will probably keep the old pushrod 45 degree VTwins forever for those who are stuck in the past. So they won’t go all in on liquid cooled on everything for the foreseeable future but I can see at least a few Softail/Touring models having a version of this engine in the next 5 years.
They needed to come out with this line and it seems like HD has done a good job. Hope to test ride one day soon. My friend has an original 2009 Nightster that he tinkered with and is a blast to ride. It is just a clean looking bike too. I do miss my Sportster as well. Just felt like you were riding a motorcycle. Hope to get a 48 one day as a project bike and customize. One mention for HD Corp. Avoid putting too much plastic on the bikes. It looks cheap and awful especially when it ages.
Totally agree on the plastic covers. I don't understand why they cover up the engine like that. Fugly. Indian makes liquid cooled engines/bikes that look amazing all around. Victory, same thing. WTF HD?
I have a piece of harley history you have totally over looked that is living proof you have never seen one that contradicts all you just claimed about harleys covered in plastic looking nasty with age is bull shit...my harley is now 13 years old covered in ABS plastic with its original mirage orange pearl paint that still sparkles in sunlight laughing at you .of a 2009 XR1200 the engine is all bone stock original with now 25k miles that spent its first 15k on several sets of track slicks front and back as it was when i road her home from williams Port Honda , of Pennsylvania to terre haute 50 west of indy on a fresh set of 500 buck track slicks that were flat spoted centers down to the one ply kevlar cord when i got home of a 700 mile interstate test ride as it was my first time ever riding on or even seeing an XR1200 Sportster besides videos of the seven years of the vance & Hines AMA XR1200 series sport bike racing that apparently you are not a motorcycle performance enthusiast of at all..it was harley who invent the sport of motorcycle racing over 100 years ago as the very first international motorcycle road race was held just north of my home town in northern marion indiana ..first price was a live feeder pig ..as the winner was a harley racing team member who done his victory lap on the winning harley with the champs arm around his prise pig ....and one of 15,000 spectators yelled out " who's that riding the hog " and the name has stuck ever since to this day ...and for over a 100 years harley has won more championships in all major motorcycle racing than any other brand that is why we can wear the #1 patch on our cuts in honor of many young men who lost their life battling to hold on to first place championship year after year like the 50 years of racing harley sportsters on mile dirt tracks across america that your bikes represent as a retro of the first sportsters that were built in 1970 of the XR750 that still win today against all other new bikes that later the XR750 became the platform of my XR1200 that the engine is totally different on the inside of any iron head to the EVO you have .internally the pistons are cooled with oil jets that spray cooled oil from its liquid cooling system that also cools the cylinder heads through cooling passage ways drill ports separate of the valve train lubrication system from its dry sump .. that lubs the engine also feeds the cooling system from a oil temperature thermostat in the bottom of the XR1200 engine cases that draws cooled oil from a huge radiator style oil cooler on the left side frame mounted with a case mounted spin on oil gilter with hot oil from the heads drain back to the oil tank in separate lines from each head ..as a result the engine never exceeds 200*F in the worse conditions of stalled in traffic on a 90*F day to 125 mph top end playing with 600cc sport bikes , or straighting out the twists in the Hoosier national forest of 100s of miles of two lane black top of southern indiana flood control lakes and reservoirs similar to the dragons tail only 100s of miles more but only 100 mile at a time burst cause its still a sporty that sucks gas like a hog .but on coldest days i can stand to ride her that stops for me at 40*F ...the engine oil will still he at 200*F...claimed 91 hp at the crank ..shorty after i got home cannonball harley installed 4 new fueling hydraulic lifters and their dyno jet she made 82 rwhp thats stock book spec..with 79 ft lbs torque at the rear tire thats a little hotter maybe from the fueling brand lifters ..the original lifters were way noisy thats from too many lap days at red line down shifts ..as thing was used for a practice bike in the XR1200 series that lasted from 2009 - 2015 ...the first XR1200 was 2008 that all were exported to europe, japan and south american ...harley stopped all sales in america in 2012 but continued production exporting them to europe , japan and south america till 2015 then pulled the plug as harley has always done since the first harley sport bike 1971 FX Night Train that every night the three of us after work battling the first XL1000 iron head i was chasing on my new parallel twin that ate four banger CB750 hondas for lunch on my XS750 yamadog street tracker but at night it was XL1000 iron head land for a minute and ooops whats that thunder and time to move over as it would be the Night Train running on schedule ...in 1977 we had the aermacchi two stroke MX250 harley fastest best handling 250 that did not eat pistons and the CR1000 cafe racer that passed CB750F super sport hondas from the honda shop were i was employed and owned and raced a CR250R Elsinore pretty fast but no match for little italian harley buss bomb
.them harley pulled the plug on both of them. In 1983 came a street tracker that was brutal a copy of Lucifers Hammer champion of daytona battle of the twins all aluminum top to bottom with two carburetors , one on each cylinder head ..one time at the Indy mile i spotted one setting in parking lot that looked bone stock until i read the factory painted on lettering on the gas tank that said XR2000 that was the handy work of Sputhe Engineering ...price for a 95hp stock XR1000 two red and black sporty was $7500 that with what it came standard about 20 more ponies and 200 lbs less than a big twin i had no problem but same price as an FX. Big twin and the XR1000 collected dust in showroom and then harley pulled the plug again ...ceo from harley said one day "do we really need Eric Buel and his racing hobby as the Buel was tied in all specs including price with the Ducati Panigale V Twin Superbike that made 160 hp and top out 175 trading paint with the Buel ..this harley had a fire sale and fired eric and sold his bikes cause no one would pay $15k for a piglet but will pay $15k - $18k for a duck that oinks ..but today the 2009 ,XR1200 is the most popular motorcycle of all ridden in japan ..they have a custom shop called TRIJYA taking the XR1200 to the next level and selling them back to us ...and this year cycle world says the XR1200 is the very best engine harley as ever made for reliability and performance in its class....i cant go to a gas station to fill up without getting mobbed of people who dont even ride bikes asking if my XR1200 is the new sportster ...and at our local water hole call the cabin a local MC patch holder is explaining to the prospects all about the new Revo sporties and why they are so fast as i had cleaned allhere clocks a few nights before ...so i couldnt resist and step out to light up and prospects all waiting to ask me all about this hot hog as think its a 1250 sportster S ..thats when i get to stomp their bubble ..with are you kidding this old sled is 13 years old when harley haters said yeah when pigs fly ...harley said NOW THEY DO
Matt I am getting up there in age and my only concern about trading in my 2017 Roadster is I love how stable the freeway speed is on my Roadster. I did upgrade the rear shocks to a 13 inch Fox and love the ride over my 883 Iron. How does the Nightster compare with the Roadster?
I currently own a 2020 XL1200CX Roadster. I would like the new Nightster, but it has 2 styling cues I don't like. My biggest peeve I can't stand is that soli seat look, second is that slammed down low rear tire. Every time I visit my dealership in Alabama they ask if I'm ready for a big twin. I reply the Roadster like the I'll fated Cafe Racer if the 70s is the only bike that draws me to the showroom. I'm 66 years old and have been riding since the 70s. This is my 3rd Harley..Did own a Superglide back in 04, I prefer the Sportster.
Matt, I love this brilliant, creative and spot on vid!!
I've been a XL only guy since 2011. I've owned 2 Iron 883s and bought my dream-bike (48) in 2019. I upgraded it to a Stage 3 over the next couple of years. By God's grace, it's now paid for in full.
I've been looking hard at the Nightster 975. Lots there to like for me. Here's my issue. My local dealer won't touch YOUR price of 10,499.00!! I sent him the link from your website. Reply? CRICKETS!! If I lived any near you, I'd be in for a test ride and talk trade in value of my bike in flash! What can I do? What should I do??
I don’t feel it’s overpriced Harley has built something to bring me back into the showroom and make a decision
ALL those older Harleys are so damn cool looking.
nice review. And nice looking bike (the left-hand side could use some better design), nice mix of traditional and modern. Love the look of that bikini fairing. What size is it? Wonder if you could use it in the LRS. What do you think, Matt? keep up the good work. best!
I probably should have commented on the fairing more. That’s a good question. I really don’t know if it can be bolted up to the low rider S. I would guess that it isn’t an easy plug and play
@@MattLaidlaw thanks a lot, Matt! I hope there's a (not too complicated) way. The Nightster fairing certainly looks the part, it may not be any improvement in wind deflection over the LRS fairing but, IMHO, it looks much much better.
Great bike but not competitive at that price. It either needs 10-15 more or come in at 11k
Just my two cents
What bikes are most competitive? Just curious
@@MattLaidlaw I'd buy a scout before i bought one of these. more power. more torque. slightly heavier. cheaper price tag. plus imo looks way better.
@@turaly0n The scout has the ugliest frame/sidecover combo in motorcycling history. It's like one group designed the front half, and another the back half. Would rather take the bus.
Scouts sound masculine and look more masculine. This bike shoukd be $9k. Sporster S is just a joke
@@jayteesgear Scout is ugly. I see nothing masculine in a pretender beta bike. Can't look away from that horrible frame/sidecover area, just hideous. Polaris will drop the Indian like they did Victory when the sales figures don't work for them. Polaris is a leisure products manufacturer not a motorcycle company. Polaris is the brown leather jacket of motorcycling.
Awesome video as always Matt, your production value is on another level!! Man I test drove the Revolution engine in the Sportster S and the power is insane and ALWAYS there. If they ever make a bike that looks like the Street Bob but has the Revolution engine I will definitely buy one! They just need to make it a more traditional looking engine.
@OfficialMattLaidlaw SCAM…..
Like always great video Matt! 👊🏼😎 lt’s a cool looking bike definitely different then traditional Harley. I can see me getting one to commute to work. Don’t see me trading in my 16FLSS Or my 18FLHTK lol.. But I like! dude I need to plan a little road trip up highway 33 Twisties look cool and not far from the I.E... Thanks for sharing Matt!! See you at The Born Free Show! 🤘🏻😁
First bike im getting... I am between this Nightster and Indian FTR. Any recs? Great video btw
Great insights Matt. I'd say this is the perfect bike for a woman, beginner or experienced. 90 HP is a nice number and the modes are a big advantage over the old Sporty.
Older Harley’s with more torque than horsepower you can be lazier with shifting less focus. Higher horsepower motors you must be more engaged to make use of the wider powerband.
great review , still not sure i could get beyond the radiator and the ugly exhaust . doesn't sound like a Harley either . but i'm clearly not the target market and wouldn't even be looking at the Nightster as a purchase except as a second fun bike . seems like it really pushes all the buttons it was meant to so for the right person it's a winner .
Thanks for the honest opinion.
I sat on one in person today, great feel and looks much better in the flesh than photos. I think the radiator is fine, in a way I think it’s true to the Sportster Ethos: this is what bikes need now to go fast, we aren’t hiding the mechanical components…
But…
In Australia, these are $23k… for the same money you can buy a Ducati Supersport S… which is just as comfortable but looks nicer and will probably smoke this everywhere…
LONG LIVE THE TWIN CAM AND EVO
they sound soooooo good.
My M8 even with a big cam and catless headers etc etc doesn’t sound 1/10th as dope and loud as my last bike (a 2009 Fatboy .. 96cu in .. just a set of cheap ass VH slip ons .. deafening loud. Shook the ground under my feet if I was standing next to it when I’d start it up and let it idle for a min. They got that chop without having to do 2k of motor work. And an evo 1200 with some shorties (full
Exhaust).. BEST bike sound on the planet
Awesome as always… 🤘🏼😝🤘🏼
Thank you
Are the riding modes new with the new engine?
Test rode the S last year in Sturgis, holy crap that thing is scary fast.
Matt is right. Spec wise, the new nighster stared blows with Indian and Triumph. Only issue is that the Triumph Bobber is way sexier
OMG! The knuckles, panheads, shovels, and evos. I just watched a video and the guy said the heads on these new revolution motors look like "PARKING METERS." Holy smokes, I think the Rev is a Parking Meter for life!
Glad I got mine in 2019…. Nice Honda you got there.
Your riding footage is normally great, the footage for this video is awesome
I had help from professionals. It won’t always be this good. Haha.
Time will tell how the depreciation is on this bike. Like you said, many people bought the 883 only to return it 6 months later and trade it for a soft tail or bigger. IMO the 883 was a little more reasonably priced because, like you said, it is time tested, high numbers produced and ease of customization. Now you have newer technology and R&D money to recover, plus, say what you want, when the motor is part of the frame you are limited on traditional customization options and if people find out this bike is also a little less bike than they wanted, it may not be as easy to trade back in and still retain as much % of original value in 6 months. I think it will be a good choice for someone new to motorcycles and Harley-Davidson, however I doubt the long term Harley Fans and owners will take to this design. I personally am a big Harley Fan and own a couple, one being a 1993 883, which I love the sound of. Personally, I can’t stand the sound of the Rev Max engine. It’s sounds like a Honda twin star with loose valve train. I’ve rode the Pan America and Sportster S and yes they have a ton of power but I am more about the sound. That much power will only get me in trouble with the law. Been there done that. Great Video as always Matt!!
Thanks for the comment. Well, hopefully you will still be able to get that Harley appeal from a Milwaukee 8 engine in the future.
Yea it’s always nice having more power and better handling, time will tell if it sells to hd riders. Like my old 03 sportster though.
you meet the nicest people on a harley :D
Haha
Great bike for a different rider than me , the S model would be my choice
Just realized the new fuel tank dangles back there like a bull's nutsack lol
would that make it light bike harley makes
They made a baby VRod, I like it but id like if it came with upside down forks and dual discs brakes. Cant get it all but ill keep my Night rod special. Best bike harley built to date 😬
I see an entirely new custom scene emerging with the Rev Max platform with Builders making their own frame modules. It's practically limitless to what you'll be able to do, not to mention all the new tech that's compatible with it. The modding scene have a gold mine on their hands. It's a win for Harley Davidson.