I am looking to trade my Triumph thunderbird in on a Honda Rebel 1100 then I saw this. But then I saw the price tag and I’m back to looking at the honda. Man I was a Harley guy for about 4 minutes.
i'm an old boomer and old harley rider and i've owned 5 of the old sporty's along with about every big twin made since the 70's and i worked for harley for 40 years in dealers.........i love this new bike only issue, no place for my wife !!
@@MrJwh3000 i have a Road King, but i used to have an XL1200C as a bar hopper, looking for another Hopper, but gotta make the wife comfy or we'll always be on the bagger
I'm 70, and 3 modified Sporties in the stable as well as 2 big twins and I still enjoy the thump of a traditional scooter and don't have much need to exceed 115mph anymore but then again I'm not the generation that this sportster is marketed for,nor have I ever bought a new Harley in my life! Still riding that " Care free Highway"! Greetings from Tampa Florida 😎
I ordered this bike in July and received mine the first week in October. 2 weeks later I think I had the first one to be seen at the Tail of the Dragon. It's truly an amazing bike and the only HD I've actually been interested in.
An impressive bike despite having only an 11.8 litre tank similar to the former peanut tank. I’m less concerned about the aesthetics of the radiator as opposed to those of that big fat front wheel. I’d be looking at changing that for a thinner front rim/tyre . This is big step in the right direction.
Thanks for the video! I just recently purchased a Sportster S for myself. I test drove several bikes looking for a more powerful version of what I had. I had a Kawasaki Vulcan S. It was 650 cc, super agile, and very comfortable in a subtle cruiser sitting position. I love that bike, however, I wanted more power! My first year owning the Kawasaki I put over 13,000 miles on it. When I test drove the Sportster S it handled extremely well and cornered amazingly. Previous to my Kawasaki Vulcan S, I owned three Ducati‘s. My most recent Ducati was a Monster S4. I also test drove a Triumph Rocket 3 as well as several other bikes. What I really wanted was a sports cruiser that didn’t sacrifice lean angle for the corners. The Sportster S handled amazingly through the corners and was way more nimble than the Rocket 3. It also had quite a few more options from Harley. I did put a rear seat on it as well as different mirrors. I almost bought an XDiavel, but the cheaper price and lower maintenance motor sold me on the Harley. It’s my first Harley Davidson and I think that’s where this bike shines, stealing metric riders away to an American sports cruiser. Thanks again, sorry if this post was too long. I appreciate your videos!
Nice bike, but the cheapest option in Europe . . . . €18.500 (about $22k US) Even the Softail standard is cheaper. With what does Harley want to compete with that price? . . . I think, with my 6'1, I go for the FTR1200 and still have €2000 cash to spend on other stuff.
I have the rocker c and love it,and I like the new look shorter I'm sure if you customise it will look even better and tuffer,about the V-ROD been a flop that's what I thought to when they came out ,but here in Australia it's the number one HD very hard to get one they go for big bucks the only HD that holds it's value
This seems like they just adopted the Sporster name in order to shut some people up. There is no resemblance to the Sporters at all. The Sporty is a look and a feel, as you described. This new bike is great looking and the power is enviable, but the seat height is simply not even close to what most Sporty riders want, and in many cases require. Many will be unable to adapt to a nearly 30" high seat. No, the entire persona has been tossed out the window. Clearly, the price of nostalgia was simply too high for the Motor Company. I do hope that the bike sells like hotcakes, but we can say goodbye to the Sporster legacy with this model. They may have well named it the Lightening McBike.
Nah what are you on about? It looks like a Sportster. It’s supposed to be a lightweight cruiser/muscle bike. Lives up to the literal “sport” in Sportster
I am 5'4" 29" inseam 27" crotch to ground.. I put one foot down while the other foot is on the foot peg.. Maybe you just need to learn some riding skills.. My next bike may the Yamana Tenere -700 with a 34" seat height.. If I go with the Indian FTR-1200 I will go wiht the taller rally model because I like the 19" front wheel for dirt road capabilites..
@@mikeskidmore6754 Right on. My bike has a 37 inch seat height. I can't flat foot both feet at all, I have to only one foot down and one on the peg, shift my butt to the side at every stop. A a short friend of mine who is 5'4" can ride it as well, he just uses good technique. A properly skilled rider should not need to put both feet down flat.
When Indian introduced the Challenger, many said Indian was copying Harley's Road Glide. Although when you check out the Challenger, it's definitely not a Road Glide. Is Harley-Davidson copying the Indian Scout? Instead of companies and riders crying "They're copying", I like to see them come back with something.
Indian invented the V twin look a hundred years ago and Harley has copied ever since. There's certain Harley Dealer that cried a river of tears about the Challenger copying the Roadglide. I wonder if he will cry about this new Sportster looking like the Scout.
@@semperfipar1299 "Copied ever since", no not quite. Every motorcycle company sees what another is doing, and if it works they take a page from one another's book and try to put their own touch on it. They all do that. That's business.
I was salty when Harley killed the bronx, but this may redeem them in my eyes. This is everything I could imagine I want out of a cruiser, I even would go so far to say as this is a spiritual successor to the V-Rod in some ways. I'm 31 for reference, so hopefully others in my age group feel the same way.
@@Idividezero I think it's probably a continuation of that original VROD engine design. Just like the engines in the Street models were based on that engine design.
Tbh for me this bike is no go. Even vrod look a lot better. Pipes weird AF and tank is just 11liter. They created a city dweller and for me this is big NO. For reference - 32, recently sold street glide, looking for sporty.(sorry for my English, this is my second language)
Nice to see HD putting some real power in a Sportster. Will I buy one? Nah, I dislike the feet-forward position of a cruiser, and from what I can see, the pegs are out front. I'll stick to my Triumphs.
I asked my friend who's a big Harley guy, and he said he and all his HD friends hate this bike. I think that's a pretty good thing considering how desperate HD is to attract new riders. Assuming I had that much money to put down on a bike...I love the looks of this bike, but that Rebel 1100 is (probably) lighter and a LOT cheaper. And I can't be the only one who's gonna compare them. Hopefully HD hasn't underestimated their competition, because it sure is fierce. I, and everyone else subbed to this channel I'm sure, will be watching this bike with great interest.
Great video as usual! About the suspension travel, information is available: 92 mm at the front, 51 at the rear, all Showa fully adjustable. Not much travel but when was the last time we had fully adjustable suspension on a Harley? I’m pretty pumped about where Harley is going. I’ll definitely consider the panam or the s but I suppose I’ll keep my 2016 roadster as a side bike for the good old mechanical feel it provides.
BUT I'm really very happy to see this and the Pan America. Remember a few/couple years back when Harley said they'd be making WUN HUNNERDR NEW MODELS, which all turned out to be the exact same bikes with some minor cosmetic and functional changes? This year, we are *actually* getting new models. Who would have thought? Excellent, I say.
I frigging love that design. Let's be honest this bike is aimed squarely at 30 something's in the UK and Europe and as a 30 something Irish man living in Britain, it'll sell like hit over here. I want one so much.
The Sportster was in life support way before the Euro 5 regulations became a thing. They kept it around as a “beginner bike”. Looks awesome, not sure about the wide tire look or how it might effect turn in.
Apart from the exhaust I like the look of this bike, always had watercooled bikes so that doesn't bother me, hats of to Harley for finally moving forward...
It's a Sportster in name only. Nothing practical about it. A few thousand $ over-priced. I can't stand the high-mounted pipes, and no possibility for two-up rides. Exposing the rear tire above the rear plate/light mount is stupid looking, limiting (as can't have passenger or quick-detach cargo rack or a leather bag), and potentially dangerous. I do like 100% LED lighting and the new gauge and 6'th gear. For sure, given the choice, I'd buy the Indian Scout instead. I'd prefer the 2021 Fat Boy above all else but it's priced way too high (like $6000 too high, and dealers are further marking it up $1250 in my area) and offers no colors. Common, 4 colors options and 3 of them are black. Deadwood Green? First, it's ugly asf, and when has dead wood ever been green?
I have to agree. I know I'm the only person on Earth that thinks this, but I can't stand the stupid trend (and it's just a stupid trend which has no logic behind it) of cutting off the entire rear fender, and trying desperately to somehow hide the license plate, often times hanging it with some duct tape or bailing wire, under the seat, where it gets smashed by the rear tire. When I see someone who has tried cutting off their rear fender, I lose all respect. Smaller fenders are a sign of insecurity. I'm going to mount a giant mud flap on my bike, just to spite all the clones.
@@billcarson1971 Yeah exactly! The cafe racer trend right now is to remove both the front and rear fenders. It doesn't matter if it looks cool, it's stupid!
I love my 2010 XL and my wife loves her 2011 super low but these 2 new bikes (pan-am and S) is what might just save Harley.... and BTW it doesn’t take the new S to make “big twin” riders fear the “girls bike”.
it looks amazing, engine specs sound great too. Hold onto yours, this is bound to drive up the price of push rod models. I can't get past the "Harley" image enough to buy one though.
Oops, I did buy one. I actually said to the dealer that I would never have walked into the showroom because I am a little like you, the image is mixed and the designs are old. I won't see it until November but the contract is signed. It is a modern American style cruiser and that is what I wanted. If I wanted to be practical I would spend an extra few thousand on a hybrid Toyota and enjoy the fuel economy in the rain.
I actually love everything about this bike except the exhaust. I might consider it when the aftermarket comes with a new low profile and lower mounted exhausted, and honestly I think I'd love the look of this bike with some mini ape hangers and a small sport fairing up front.
Here in Sweden it's $20.000 USD and you need to be 24 years to get a driver's license for it. We do however have a few 70 mph motorways where 121 HP can be used, most roads are 40 mph. Needless to say, it won't be a huge seller. Royal Enfield Meteor however is $3800 USD and legal from 18 years age, they do sell...
Hi, I just want to say thank-you for the great video's that you produce. I can tell that you put your heart & soul into them. Have a great day!! Illinois,USA
Yeah, but they were smart enough to put a decent brembo 4 piston caliber on the larger 320mm front disk. Not gonna beat dual disks, but should stop the bike.
Two rotors don't stop the bike bettee than one. They are intended to distribute the load and so the heat dissipation, which in turn and under certain circumstances might stop better. In other words, one rotor heats up quickly and so stopping power is affected. Don't forget that two rotors might overheat as well and so stopping power could be as mediocre as and old and trashed one, but hopefully taking more time to get to that point.
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This "sportster" is on Indian Chief and FTR territory price wise meaning that the new affordable entry level American V-Twin is the Scout in its many flavours and Harley just handed that to Indian on a platter. Now THAT is what I call STRATEGY! xD This is exactly what people were talking about a few years back. Harleys are a niche product for rich people. If you want an everyday man bike nowadays you buy a Royal Enfield. In between this atrocity and the whimper that the PanAmerica is going to be, Harley is slowly becoming a meme brand. I don't even think that the bike is ugly, much on the contrary, but it's an overpriced bit of kit that appeals to posers and Instagram Harley accounts that spend most of their time taking pictures instead of riding. What's worse and what really grinds my gears is that they could have made an amazing flat tracker/scrambler or a street hooligan with this engine but NOOOOO!... ANOTHER CRUISER! Harley has LITERALLY ONE NON CRUSER BIKE IN THEIR WHOLE LINEUP FOR 2022!! 🤬🤬
Agree. Sportster S in the EU is €18.500 (About $22k) The FTR is over €2000 cheaper than the Sportster S, and with my 6'1 i had a great ride on the FTR. If i had the cash, i would change my Dyna to the FTR.
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@@CesarRamirez-cn5fw They used him for the PanAmerica so I'm guessing that's why they flew all the way to Scotland (Europe) this time around, got greeted by Scottish actor Ewan McGregor and it was just the European CEO in the ancestral European home of the Davidson family. It's a bit too much of "nudge nudge wink wink" to a market that will most likely test drive it, point at it, laugh and move on to get a Japanese or European naked, tour, or sportbike with the same horsepower or more at the same price or cheaper. A BMW s1000r is cheaper, has 165hp and is MUCH better equipped overall. This is sales flop #2 that Harley has put on the market this year.
/sigh. Just because you're not the target market doesn't make it a shit bike that will destroy the company. I am the target market (male, just over 50, with a decent job) and both this Sportster and the Pan Am have a lot of appeal. Cruisers sell big in North America, and decently everywhere else and I don't know of another real power cruiser on the market today. ADV bikes are the current fad, and the Pan Am looks like it could give the top of the line BMW a real run for its money. And if the Sporty and Pan come out in the 975 that we suspect, with slimmed down bling, slimmed down price, they're the kind of bike that would have appealed to me 20 years ago (male, just over 30, with a decent job). I find what Harley is doing is damned interesting, and look forward to seeing what else they got up their sleeve.
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@@BMWHP2 I don't even consider Harley has an option anymore at this point. I might get a second hand Sportster, but I think I'd rather have an RE Interceptor 650 or any Indian if buying new. Let's face it, if you want that "outlaw I don't belong to the norm vibe", which is part of the appeal of the American Cruiser (We all know it is and that's why we love them, including me) you're much better off buying an Indian. You'll stand out in a Harley crowd and for non Harley/bike people something like an Indian FTR Carbon S looks like a super exotic bike and a complete head turner, not to mention the Challenger that has the look of a bagger but doesn't say Harley on the tank. THAT is what I call "being a badass". xD
I like it! My next Sporty! I will miss the option for a ride with a passenger though. A sixth gear though...long rides on the horizon ! :) Lovin' that too...
Of course I'm interested, if the selling dealer installs mid controls, a 130 front tire, longer forks, and whatever is required to raise the rear suspension...all at cost. But that's not going to happen so for now my money is safe. The other plan is to wait for both the initial depreciation hit and the suspension aftermarket to catch up.
It's about time.. I've had a bunch of harleys over the last 40 year's.. I have a Dyna wide glide and a softail nite train ( I like the chopper look ) I just got A street fighter ( suzuki GSX S1000 ) 150 H.P. 430# ... Suspension and brakes are amazing and the bike is stupid FAST ! I would of liked to see this bike last year ! Might of been on one
Awesome video man. You are great at this and this is excellent info. Thanks! I'll have to check it out when my dealer gets one. I also bought a Harley Roadster but I did it in 2016. Great bike even though the rear brakes squealed a fair amout. This could be my next bike. Keep up the good work!
I'm happy for Harley. This bike and its following iterations are going to bring some life back into the bar & badge. But, I'll keep my Reble 1100DCT which has all the tech this new bike has, and then some. With a price tag about $5,000 less than this bike. PLUS, companies like Burly-Brand have announced aftermarket packages for the Reble like cable extension kits and so on around November. As always, another great video by you & your lovely wife. Thanks. Eric in Kissimmee.
Exactly, Honda comes out with Rebel 1100cc for $9k. Harley mathes with 1200cc and $15k price tag. Realistic price difference on the road more like $8k.
Knowing this bike would be released this year, I bought an Iron 1200 two weeks ago, one of only 2 left in the state I live in. My new bike will bring a nice premium should I ever decide to sell. Used prices of all Sportsters have gone up almost to new price value. Price point for what it has, new one, is a little steep for an "entry" bike. It has lost all the Sportster look to it. I think it will bring in a younger rider class for sure, however price my dictate otherwise. Great content as always. Thank you for all you two do.
When a new model comes out, many viewers take to youtube to watch videos about it right away.! Mr. Pat how did you manage to create and post this video so quickly.? WELL DONE Sir.!
Went on a hike to the top of the Big Beehive with Brooke in the morning, got back, downloaded the vid, wrote the script, recorded it and started editing. Got up early the next morning, finished editing, uploaded through the phone, and left Lake Louise. Whew!
IMPRESSIVE.!! These last two video of yours do not seem rushed or subpar in any way. They are just as professional as the rest of your MotoVids from the last two years.! We cannot afford a Harley-Davidson, but look forward to seeing a video about the new Sportster S when you Test Ride on.! You Video Reviews are opening-us-up to consider Models we have never considered before. (peace sign)
Front suspension: Sachs 43mm upside down forks, only 80mm (3.5 inches) of travel Rear suspension: Sachs mono shock rear suspension, only 51mm (2 inches) of travel with a manual preload twist knob Tank capacity: 11.7 liters (3.1 gallons). Australia pricing is $AU26,975 base rrp equates to over $US20,000
Exhaust sound was conspicuously absent from the press release video. There were a few moments when you could almost make it out, but my guess is it will sound like most other bikes. Still, I think it’s another positive for HD.
After Harley Killed the Dyna and original Softail I lost a lot of interest in them. Now that the Sportster is dead Harley is dead to me. Some of us would still rather wrench on our own bike than pay big bucks to a technician. I'll go buy a Yamaha Bolt before I buy a new overpriced and overcomplicated Harley.
Here's a better idea... Go buy an Indian! I just picked up a new 2022 Chief and it's friggin amazing. It's reminiscent of the Dyna's styling, air cooled, but yet brings new tech in just the right places.
Harley Davidson now built a Honda shadow and just slapped their name on it the original Harley Davidson company died decades ago after they built the Evo
Dude the new Softail frames are way better than the dynas. The dynas were actually unsafe to some degree and would get speed wobble due to some design flaws with the rubber mounting and shitty rear suspension. If anything, killing the dynas kept Harley from lawsuits and dying as a company. The new frames are stiffer and lighter. That’s just facts that nostalgia can’t argue with but to each their own. And in terms of maintenance these bikes are not gonna be like most water cooled bikes out there that need chains lubed and maintained and valve adjustments. These are still belt driven and the valves are self adjusting which is awesome. So just like the classic bikes it’s just gonna be mostly just oil changes. Also how much more complicated could it be to wrench on? Some small amount more yeah but to the degree of you being unable to learn it? Nah now you’re just complaining for the sake of complaining because it doesn’t shake your mirrors off every ten miles. This new motor is saving Harley. Period.
they teased a couple pictures of what looks like the concept sportster you made a video about a while back. my guess is that they will roll out more and different sportsters as time goes on, rebuilding the sportster family
TFL Bike dropped a video on this that showed an aftermarket passenger peg and seat kit both back rest. Looks like it just sits on the rear guard like normal.
I assume it's like a half breed between a standard-ish e motorcycle and a cruiser hence the higher seat height than usual in fact it's not even listed as a cruiser on the Harley website, It's A bit of a disappointment for me as it's not that I'm too short but it seems you have to place your legs a bit wider than the usual cause of that exhaust plus its still too heavy for my liking. let's see what they come up with if they ever decide to make an entry level.
Pass, from Icon to Decepticon :) Silly price and no resemblance to a Sportster - choose a different name. Iron & Street Bob are the new Sportsters. Good to see the new bike though and great power from the engine out of the box, but no thank you. I had a 4-speed 1975 XLCH 1000 Sportster back in the day, low-tech and fun and easy to wrench on (a lot, lol). Times change, not always for the better, but to each his own.
She's beautiful and definitely on to what the new HDs should be and look like from now on, but, a lot of money for what such bike offers. Plus, on Europe most people prefer Dual Sports rather than a cruiser, and for that money, one can get a Versys 1000 or a BMW GS and be ready for riding for many years to come on many diferent kinds of road with all the confort and modern bobs and whistles too.
That seat though! Looks like a plank… and dual disks prevent brake fade and do not increase stopping power. It’s a reliability upgrade not a performance upgrade
@@JaffaJannu it takes a lot for these modern disks to reach their threshold. The average rider will never know the difference. The caliper selection makes more of an impact than whether it’s single or dual disk
My 48 is gonna get traded in on one 🙏 Last bike I had before jumping on a Harley was the XSR900 and the specs and styling on this new Sportster S seems very in tune with it… Cant wait to demo one
Well they at least haven’t announced what the rest of the Sportster lineup will be. Maybe we will see a more classic rendition of the sporty with this new engine but maybe in the smaller 975cc version. Plus Harley said they will have a 500cc and 750cc version of this engine as well. Maybe for more traditional looking Sportsters or to replace the Street models. 🤷🏻♂️
The 1980s engine was the only good part about the whole bike. Nothing else had that sound and feel, and mechanical simplicity. BTW, it was not really a 1980s engine. It's basic design and technology go all the way back to the 1936 Knucklehead.
@@jeepstertj556 Yes, that's true, although that was a special 750cc motor that nobody called Sportster--not even Harley-Davidson. But wasn't there also a 750cc engine they did race for a year or two that had Sportster iron heads? That would be closer.
I'm glad they made it. To draw in more young riders. Personally more fan of the new softails. But i can understand other people my age whould prefer that bike over the softail. So keep them coming harley.
I'm looking at buying a 2nd bike towards the end of the year and it's getting hard to choose between this, FTR and Diavel 1260s. I need to ride all 3 to really see what I like.
Dump all the electronico do-dads ,add another disc up front, stick a round LED headlight on it and turn loose that honking engine.On styling Harley has jumped the Shark.
I'm with you on the electronics but i think we're in the minority. Most people seem to want as much of that stuff as you can stuff in a vehicle. I do like abs though.
Not comparing apples to apples here , but I have a new Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 and in my narrow opinion it has all ya need and nothing you don't. ABS brakes, fuel injection and a slipper clutch . Pretty basic in todays world . Harley could have done something like that and had a near 10k dollar entry-level bike .
The pipes are not ergonomic I believe atleast for the pillion! When you get on or off the bike you need to be careful of not touching your leg to the pipes by any chance - other than this the bike looks awesome!
Is it possible to squeeze a better front fender in there? I know someone who put a tiny rock through the radiator on his Honda. I wouldn't want to do that to this.
I think the one thing this bike DOES accomplish is, if the Evo Sportsters do indeed disappear, to remove Harley Davidson completely from the beginner rider scene. (Mind you, here in Ontario the insurance companies are doing that already...) Between the power and the price, this ain't no first bike material. Especially if, as suspected, the braking leaves something to be desired...
The guy in the full race one piece leathers on the Cali race track. Hilarious. Why? Fwd controls and THAT riding position on a track. I was in stitches. Even in 2021, Harley ad guys aint got a friggin' clue... You can imagine the guys at the Ducati factory watching that in their lunchbreak...
@@michaelhayward7572 yep, reading reviews for the Diavel X, many people claim the forward controls are a real detriment to the handling of the bike, so I'd guess the same would apply to the Sportster S.
I really, really, really like it. A few things I like in particular: - The look. It looks bloody amazing - The power. That thing is going to haul ass! - The indicator switch (a proper left-and-right switch on the left handlebar, and not HArley's stupid "one indicator switch on each side" nonsense - I like the front wheel and I reckon the headlight is FatBob-tough What I'm not so keen on: - The dash. It might be functional, but it looks bloody ugly to me... - The price (have you seen it? The starting price in Oz is $26,495. I paid $27,500 for my Breakout...) - The f-ugly number plate bracket sucks, but I guess by law they have to release them that way.... But not much else. I think I kinda' like almost everything else about them! What I'd love to see? - The colours are ok, but a dusty olive (army) green? That might be pretty cool. - An aftermarket exhaust. I wonder what they'll sound like, when the exhaust is changed and they're allowed to breathe Afterthought: Maybe you'd get used to the dash - I know it matches the mirrors, but I wonder whether something in a shape similar to the headlight might have been a little more discrete.. About the same screen real-estate, but in a more rectangular shape Overall: I love what Harley are doing, and I think it will do very, very well
Won't be trading in my 05 883 any time soon. I still love it. It has more suspension and it is capable of touring. The new Sportster looks good but seems totally impractical for my needs. I hope they make a touring version. Sadly, The new engine does not sound like a Harley.
Riders vote with their dollars. It only matters what the riders with money want and they will determine if the bike will successful. As a non voter for the next year my opinion is that this motor or it's variant will be part of a resurgence for Harley. A part like the icon series and part like the traditional models now being sold. A smaller version of this motor, a larger platform for this motor, a cheaper version with less technology all are possibilities now. So yeah it is good thing for Harley.
Problem for Harley in Europe is that this bike will cost about the same as base Ducati Diavel. Atleast here in Norway. I like the bike but looks like lacklustre brakes and probably basic suspension so should i save myself 3-5k usd and buy a Indian Scout bobber or Triumph bobber? Hell even top of the line Thruxton RS will be quite alot cheaper here and that is loaded with goodies and looks glorious!
I have currently Iron 883. This one looks pretty good, except for the big exhaust and the price. Starting price is here €18k, its to expensive. Hopefully they will come with a 993 version, don't need 120hp and the price can be dropped a bit :)
This is great news for Indian Scout fans. The new Scouts will be punched out to a 1250 or 1300 and will be producing at least 130 HP. Keep bringing it Harley.
Bike looks great, I had a HD Dyna low and a Buell XB12s, This Sportster S is a welcome change, Totally Agree the front needs 2 floating Disk and the rear needs more than 2" of travel , (the single fix disk will not wear well or hold up to a beating long term or warp in heat cycles, I know as my dyna had the same problem ) will be interesting to ride this bike and see if I can trade my Ducati Monster in for it or the ride will be terrible, will be sick to see a few companies make some alum. or carbon fiber bits to replace all that terrible fake black plastic
They should have build a traditional sportster, but with radiator and without fins. This would probably have been enough for euro5 and would have kept it (with its pushrods and vibes) a real Harley (tm). Tje new engine looks like the one in the old Honda Transalp from the 80ies...
I am looking to trade my Triumph thunderbird in on a Honda Rebel 1100 then I saw this. But then I saw the price tag and I’m back to looking at the honda. Man I was a Harley guy for about 4 minutes.
I don't think there's a bike out there, other than the Rocket 3, that could get me off my T-Bird.
Wait for the 975 version. That one would definitely compete directly with the Rebel 1100. I mean, if they MAKE a 975 version.
@@urethralsensitivity talking about the Bronx?
@@mariuss.6607 The Bronx is dead. They will make a bike similar to it, but it will be the new standard Sportster, a notch below the Sportster S.
@@urethralsensitivity sad. That was the only bike I was considering buying from hd.
I have owned 2 sportsters, a Shovelhead and an Evo, time marches on and that brings change. Have a blessed week my friends.
i'm an old boomer and old harley rider and i've owned 5 of the old sporty's along with about every big twin made since the 70's and i worked for harley for 40 years in dealers.........i love this new bike only issue, no place for my wife !!
It does have a passenger option pegs and seat
Well.... gotta get 2 lol
Husband and wife on a little Sportster?? WHAAAAAT!? But I agree, I too like the new bike.
@Desert Coyote LOL i happen to Like My wife
@@MrJwh3000 i have a Road King, but i used to have an XL1200C as a bar hopper, looking for another Hopper, but gotta make the wife comfy or we'll always be on the bagger
Duel front disks are a must
*dual
I'm 70, and 3 modified Sporties in the stable as well as 2 big twins and I still enjoy the thump of a traditional scooter and don't have much need to exceed 115mph anymore but then again I'm not the generation that this sportster is marketed for,nor have I ever bought a new Harley in my life! Still riding that " Care free Highway"! Greetings from Tampa Florida 😎
I ordered this bike in July and received mine the first week in October. 2 weeks later I think I had the first one to be seen at the Tail of the Dragon. It's truly an amazing bike and the only HD I've actually been interested in.
An impressive bike despite having only an 11.8 litre tank similar to the former peanut tank. I’m less concerned about the aesthetics of the radiator as opposed to those of that big fat front wheel. I’d be looking at changing that for a thinner front rim/tyre . This is big step in the right direction.
Thanks for the video! I just recently purchased a Sportster S for myself. I test drove several bikes looking for a more powerful version of what I had. I had a Kawasaki Vulcan S. It was 650 cc, super agile, and very comfortable in a subtle cruiser sitting position. I love that bike, however, I wanted more power! My first year owning the Kawasaki I put over 13,000 miles on it. When I test drove the Sportster S it handled extremely well and cornered amazingly. Previous to my Kawasaki Vulcan S, I owned three Ducati‘s. My most recent Ducati was a Monster S4. I also test drove a Triumph Rocket 3 as well as several other bikes. What I really wanted was a sports cruiser that didn’t sacrifice lean angle for the corners. The Sportster S handled amazingly through the corners and was way more nimble than the Rocket 3. It also had quite a few more options from Harley. I did put a rear seat on it as well as different mirrors. I almost bought an XDiavel, but the cheaper price and lower maintenance motor sold me on the Harley. It’s my first Harley Davidson and I think that’s where this bike shines, stealing metric riders away to an American sports cruiser. Thanks again, sorry if this post was too long. I appreciate your videos!
Nice bike, but the cheapest option in Europe . . . . €18.500 (about $22k US) Even the Softail standard is cheaper.
With what does Harley want to compete with that price? . . .
I think, with my 6'1, I go for the FTR1200 and still have €2000 cash to spend on other stuff.
And the perfs of the ftr will be better
I have the rocker c and love it,and I like the new look shorter I'm sure if you customise it will look even better and tuffer,about the V-ROD been a flop that's what I thought to when they came out ,but here in Australia it's the number one HD very hard to get one they go for big bucks the only HD that holds it's value
I’d swap the headlight and exhaust, then it would be gorgeous
This seems like they just adopted the Sporster name in order to shut some people up. There is no resemblance to the Sporters at all. The Sporty is a look and a feel, as you described. This new bike is great looking and the power is enviable, but the seat height is simply not even close to what most Sporty riders want, and in many cases require. Many will be unable to adapt to a nearly 30" high seat. No, the entire persona has been tossed out the window. Clearly, the price of nostalgia was simply too high for the Motor Company. I do hope that the bike sells like hotcakes, but we can say goodbye to the Sporster legacy with this model. They may have well named it the Lightening McBike.
true, the bike is nice but it doesn't deserve the name Sportster. it's more like a sport Fatboy than a Sportster.
Nah what are you on about? It looks like a Sportster. It’s supposed to be a lightweight cruiser/muscle bike. Lives up to the literal “sport” in Sportster
I am 5'4" 29" inseam 27" crotch to ground.. I put one foot down while the other foot is on the foot peg..
Maybe you just need to learn some riding skills.. My next bike may the Yamana Tenere -700 with a 34" seat height..
If I go with the Indian FTR-1200 I will go wiht the taller rally model because I like the 19" front wheel for dirt road capabilites..
@@mikeskidmore6754 Right on. My bike has a 37 inch seat height. I can't flat foot both feet at all, I have to only one foot down and one on the peg, shift my butt to the side at every stop. A a short friend of mine who is 5'4" can ride it as well, he just uses good technique.
A properly skilled rider should not need to put both feet down flat.
"Legacy" has been holding HD back for 30 years. "Legacy " is killing the company. It has to keep up with the times, or die.
the suspension front and rear is Showa, say's so in the Harley Video
When Indian introduced the Challenger, many said Indian was copying Harley's Road Glide. Although when you check out the Challenger, it's definitely not a Road Glide. Is Harley-Davidson copying the Indian Scout? Instead of companies and riders crying "They're copying", I like to see them come back with something.
Not to mention it has an almost exact copy of the Indian 4 inch round TFT display.
Four Japanese manufacturers building identical lineup and nobody bats an eye.
Indian invented the V twin look a hundred years ago and Harley has copied ever since. There's certain Harley Dealer that cried a river of tears about the Challenger copying the Roadglide. I wonder if he will cry about this new Sportster looking like the Scout.
@@semperfipar1299 "Copied ever since", no not quite. Every motorcycle company sees what another is doing, and if it works they take a page from one another's book and try to put their own touch on it. They all do that. That's business.
I was salty when Harley killed the bronx, but this may redeem them in my eyes. This is everything I could imagine I want out of a cruiser, I even would go so far to say as this is a spiritual successor to the V-Rod in some ways. I'm 31 for reference, so hopefully others in my age group feel the same way.
I don't remember where I read/heard this, but I could swear I remember something about this new engine being based on the V-Rod engine.
@@Idividezero 60° degrees V-Twin, overhead valves and liquid cooled. It resembles the V-Rod, but I guess the internals could be a little different.
@@omarsalgado9715 It might be, it might not be. But it would make sense to reuse/modify something they already had.
@@Idividezero I think it's probably a continuation of that original VROD engine design. Just like the engines in the Street models were based on that engine design.
Tbh for me this bike is no go. Even vrod look a lot better. Pipes weird AF and tank is just 11liter. They created a city dweller and for me this is big NO. For reference - 32, recently sold street glide, looking for sporty.(sorry for my English, this is my second language)
Nice to see HD putting some real power in a Sportster. Will I buy one? Nah, I dislike the feet-forward position of a cruiser, and from what I can see, the pegs are out front. I'll stick to my Triumphs.
Mids are an option, but I'd do it myself and save the $750 add on price. Me, I'll be waiting to see if they come out with a base model that's cheaper
I asked my friend who's a big Harley guy, and he said he and all his HD friends hate this bike. I think that's a pretty good thing considering how desperate HD is to attract new riders.
Assuming I had that much money to put down on a bike...I love the looks of this bike, but that Rebel 1100 is (probably) lighter and a LOT cheaper. And I can't be the only one who's gonna compare them. Hopefully HD hasn't underestimated their competition, because it sure is fierce. I, and everyone else subbed to this channel I'm sure, will be watching this bike with great interest.
Low fuel capacity poor suspension travel only solo not best brakes too high pegs not for me
Neat bikes. Can't wait to sit down on one and give one a run for it's money on the Buell when I see one out. Happy riding!
Great video as usual!
About the suspension travel, information is available: 92 mm at the front, 51 at the rear, all Showa fully adjustable. Not much travel but when was the last time we had fully adjustable suspension on a Harley?
I’m pretty pumped about where Harley is going. I’ll definitely consider the panam or the s but I suppose I’ll keep my 2016 roadster as a side bike for the good old mechanical feel it provides.
BUT I'm really very happy to see this and the Pan America.
Remember a few/couple years back when Harley said they'd be making WUN HUNNERDR NEW MODELS, which all turned out to be the exact same bikes with some minor cosmetic and functional changes? This year, we are *actually* getting new models. Who would have thought? Excellent, I say.
The new Revolution motor should be nicknamed the Robohead. Looks like two Robocops staring you down
"Dead or alive you're coming with me"
Robolution
I frigging love that design. Let's be honest this bike is aimed squarely at 30 something's in the UK and Europe and as a 30 something Irish man living in Britain, it'll sell like hit over here. I want one so much.
The Sportster was in life support way before the Euro 5 regulations became a thing. They kept it around as a “beginner bike”. Looks awesome, not sure about the wide tire look or how it might effect turn in.
Apart from the exhaust I like the look of this bike, always had watercooled bikes so that doesn't bother me, hats of to Harley for finally moving forward...
It's a Sportster in name only. Nothing practical about it. A few thousand $ over-priced. I can't stand the high-mounted pipes, and no possibility for two-up rides. Exposing the rear tire above the rear plate/light mount is stupid looking, limiting (as can't have passenger or quick-detach cargo rack or a leather bag), and potentially dangerous. I do like 100% LED lighting and the new gauge and 6'th gear. For sure, given the choice, I'd buy the Indian Scout instead. I'd prefer the 2021 Fat Boy above all else but it's priced way too high (like $6000 too high, and dealers are further marking it up $1250 in my area) and offers no colors. Common, 4 colors options and 3 of them are black. Deadwood Green? First, it's ugly asf, and when has dead wood ever been green?
I have to agree. I know I'm the only person on Earth that thinks this, but I can't stand the stupid trend (and it's just a stupid trend which has no logic behind it) of cutting off the entire rear fender, and trying desperately to somehow hide the license plate, often times hanging it with some duct tape or bailing wire, under the seat, where it gets smashed by the rear tire. When I see someone who has tried cutting off their rear fender, I lose all respect. Smaller fenders are a sign of insecurity. I'm going to mount a giant mud flap on my bike, just to spite all the clones.
@@billcarson1971 Yeah exactly! The cafe racer trend right now is to remove both the front and rear fenders. It doesn't matter if it looks cool, it's stupid!
From what I've heard on other vids. Suspension travel is 3.5 inches up front, 2.5 inches in the rear.
I love my 2010 XL and my wife loves her 2011 super low but these 2 new bikes (pan-am and S) is what might just save Harley.... and BTW it doesn’t take the new S to make “big twin” riders fear the “girls bike”.
Agreed on dual disks- but it does sport Brembo Calipers, and Im guessing the Showa suspension is g2g as well
it looks amazing, engine specs sound great too. Hold onto yours, this is bound to drive up the price of push rod models. I can't get past the "Harley" image enough to buy one though.
Yeah, I’m sticking with the Roadster for a while. At this price it’s competing with the Street Bob.
Oops, I did buy one. I actually said to the dealer that I would never have walked into the showroom because I am a little like you, the image is mixed and the designs are old. I won't see it until November but the contract is signed. It is a modern American style cruiser and that is what I wanted. If I wanted to be practical I would spend an extra few thousand on a hybrid Toyota and enjoy the fuel economy in the rain.
I actually love everything about this bike except the exhaust. I might consider it when the aftermarket comes with a new low profile and lower mounted exhausted, and honestly I think I'd love the look of this bike with some mini ape hangers and a small sport fairing up front.
Here in Sweden it's $20.000 USD and you need to be 24 years to get a driver's license for it. We do however have a few 70 mph motorways where 121 HP can be used, most roads are 40 mph. Needless to say, it won't be a huge seller.
Royal Enfield Meteor however is $3800 USD and legal from 18 years age, they do sell...
Hi, I just want to say thank-you for the great video's that you produce. I can tell that you put your heart & soul into them. Have a great day!! Illinois,USA
Wait, does it really only have one front disk brake??
Yeah, but they were smart enough to put a decent brembo 4 piston caliber on the larger 320mm front disk. Not gonna beat dual disks, but should stop the bike.
@@falconoverwatch243 Erik buell liked large diameter single disk front brakes.
Two rotors don't stop the bike bettee than one. They are intended to distribute the load and so the heat dissipation, which in turn and under certain circumstances might stop better. In other words, one rotor heats up quickly and so stopping power is affected. Don't forget that two rotors might overheat as well and so stopping power could be as mediocre as and old and trashed one, but hopefully taking more time to get to that point.
This "sportster" is on Indian Chief and FTR territory price wise meaning that the new affordable entry level American V-Twin is the Scout in its many flavours and Harley just handed that to Indian on a platter. Now THAT is what I call STRATEGY! xD
This is exactly what people were talking about a few years back. Harleys are a niche product for rich people. If you want an everyday man bike nowadays you buy a Royal Enfield. In between this atrocity and the whimper that the PanAmerica is going to be, Harley is slowly becoming a meme brand.
I don't even think that the bike is ugly, much on the contrary, but it's an overpriced bit of kit that appeals to posers and Instagram Harley accounts that spend most of their time taking pictures instead of riding.
What's worse and what really grinds my gears is that they could have made an amazing flat tracker/scrambler or a street hooligan with this engine but NOOOOO!... ANOTHER CRUISER! Harley has LITERALLY ONE NON CRUSER BIKE IN THEIR WHOLE LINEUP FOR 2022!! 🤬🤬
They are going to get that horrible aqua man actor to promote it like all other dissapointing products
Agree. Sportster S in the EU is €18.500 (About $22k)
The FTR is over €2000 cheaper than the Sportster S, and with my 6'1 i had a great ride on the FTR.
If i had the cash, i would change my Dyna to the FTR.
@@CesarRamirez-cn5fw They used him for the PanAmerica so I'm guessing that's why they flew all the way to Scotland (Europe) this time around, got greeted by Scottish actor Ewan McGregor and it was just the European CEO in the ancestral European home of the Davidson family. It's a bit too much of "nudge nudge wink wink" to a market that will most likely test drive it, point at it, laugh and move on to get a Japanese or European naked, tour, or sportbike with the same horsepower or more at the same price or cheaper. A BMW s1000r is cheaper, has 165hp and is MUCH better equipped overall.
This is sales flop #2 that Harley has put on the market this year.
/sigh. Just because you're not the target market doesn't make it a shit bike that will destroy the company.
I am the target market (male, just over 50, with a decent job) and both this Sportster and the Pan Am have a lot of appeal. Cruisers sell big in North America, and decently everywhere else and I don't know of another real power cruiser on the market today. ADV bikes are the current fad, and the Pan Am looks like it could give the top of the line BMW a real run for its money.
And if the Sporty and Pan come out in the 975 that we suspect, with slimmed down bling, slimmed down price, they're the kind of bike that would have appealed to me 20 years ago (male, just over 30, with a decent job).
I find what Harley is doing is damned interesting, and look forward to seeing what else they got up their sleeve.
@@BMWHP2 I don't even consider Harley has an option anymore at this point. I might get a second hand Sportster, but I think I'd rather have an RE Interceptor 650 or any Indian if buying new.
Let's face it, if you want that "outlaw I don't belong to the norm vibe", which is part of the appeal of the American Cruiser (We all know it is and that's why we love them, including me) you're much better off buying an Indian. You'll stand out in a Harley crowd and for non Harley/bike people something like an Indian FTR Carbon S looks like a super exotic bike and a complete head turner, not to mention the Challenger that has the look of a bagger but doesn't say Harley on the tank. THAT is what I call "being a badass". xD
I like it! My next Sporty! I will miss the option for a ride with a passenger though. A sixth gear though...long rides on the horizon ! :) Lovin' that too...
Of course I'm interested, if the selling dealer installs mid controls, a 130 front tire, longer forks, and whatever is required to raise the rear suspension...all at cost. But that's not going to happen so for now my money is safe. The other plan is to wait for both the initial depreciation hit and the suspension aftermarket to catch up.
Let's hope they release the Bronx.
I just put out a vid on the next Sportster to come. Might be more to your liking.
It's about time.. I've had a bunch of harleys over the last 40 year's.. I have a Dyna wide glide and a softail nite train ( I like the chopper look ) I just got A street fighter ( suzuki GSX S1000 ) 150 H.P. 430# ... Suspension and brakes are amazing and the bike is stupid FAST ! I would of liked to see this bike last year ! Might of been on one
Awesome video man. You are great at this and this is excellent info. Thanks! I'll have to check it out when my dealer gets one. I also bought a Harley Roadster but I did it in 2016. Great bike even though the rear brakes squealed a fair amout. This could be my next bike. Keep up the good work!
Dope video. Also appreciate the very heavily Linkin Park inspired backing track! (Burning down)
Thanks, much appreciated!
Not an HD fan but this one made me really interested
Sporster -S accessories... $660.00 for Mid controls .. Passenger seat .. passenger seat backrest and passenger foot pegs agaialbe quick detach windscreen ..
rear bag
Sportster S New Arrivals | Harley-Davidson USA
I'm happy for Harley. This bike and its following iterations are going to bring some life back into the bar & badge.
But, I'll keep my Reble 1100DCT which has all the tech this new bike has, and then some. With a price tag about $5,000 less than this bike. PLUS, companies like Burly-Brand have announced aftermarket packages for the Reble like cable extension kits and so on around November.
As always, another great video by you & your lovely wife.
Thanks.
Eric in Kissimmee.
Exactly, Honda comes out with Rebel 1100cc for $9k. Harley mathes with 1200cc and $15k price tag. Realistic price difference on the road more like $8k.
Thanks Eric. It would be cool to ride this, the Scout and the Rebel back to back to feel the difference.
Knowing this bike would be released this year, I bought an Iron 1200 two weeks ago, one of only 2 left in the state I live in. My new bike will bring a nice premium should I ever decide to sell. Used prices of all Sportsters have gone up almost to new price value. Price point for what it has, new one, is a little steep for an "entry" bike. It has lost all the Sportster look to it. I think it will bring in a younger rider class for sure, however price my dictate otherwise.
Great content as always. Thank you for all you two do.
Wow, great video on a really nice looking bike!! You certainly worked hard to get that out fast after our long beautiful hike. :)
When a new model comes out, many viewers take to youtube to watch videos about it right away.! Mr. Pat how did you manage to create and post this video so quickly.? WELL DONE Sir.!
Went on a hike to the top of the Big Beehive with Brooke in the morning, got back, downloaded the vid, wrote the script, recorded it and started editing. Got up early the next morning, finished editing, uploaded through the phone, and left Lake Louise. Whew!
IMPRESSIVE.!! These last two video of yours do not seem rushed or subpar in any way. They are just as professional as the rest of your MotoVids from the last two years.! We cannot afford a Harley-Davidson, but look forward to seeing a video about the new Sportster S when you Test Ride on.! You Video Reviews are opening-us-up to consider Models we have never considered before. (peace sign)
By far the Best review of the new sportster S! Good looking bike for sure!
Front suspension: Sachs 43mm upside down forks, only 80mm (3.5 inches) of travel
Rear suspension: Sachs mono shock rear suspension, only 51mm (2 inches) of travel with a manual preload twist knob
Tank capacity: 11.7 liters (3.1 gallons).
Australia pricing is $AU26,975 base rrp equates to over $US20,000
Exhaust sound was conspicuously absent from the press release video. There were a few moments when you could almost make it out, but my guess is it will sound like most other bikes. Still, I think it’s another positive for HD.
Hope they sell a ton... Too spendy for me though.
HD is moving in the right direction. 👍
Rear suspension = 2".
__
S
After Harley Killed the Dyna and original Softail I lost a lot of interest in them. Now that the Sportster is dead Harley is dead to me. Some of us would still rather wrench on our own bike than pay big bucks to a technician.
I'll go buy a Yamaha Bolt before I buy a new overpriced and overcomplicated Harley.
What is there to “wrench on” with a Bolt? Other than tires and oil, they don’t require anything.
Here's a better idea... Go buy an Indian! I just picked up a new 2022 Chief and it's friggin amazing. It's reminiscent of the Dyna's styling, air cooled, but yet brings new tech in just the right places.
Harley Davidson now built a Honda shadow and just slapped their name on it the original Harley Davidson company died decades ago after they built the Evo
Dude the new Softail frames are way better than the dynas. The dynas were actually unsafe to some degree and would get speed wobble due to some design flaws with the rubber mounting and shitty rear suspension. If anything, killing the dynas kept Harley from lawsuits and dying as a company. The new frames are stiffer and lighter. That’s just facts that nostalgia can’t argue with but to each their own. And in terms of maintenance these bikes are not gonna be like most water cooled bikes out there that need chains lubed and maintained and valve adjustments. These are still belt driven and the valves are self adjusting which is awesome. So just like the classic bikes it’s just gonna be mostly just oil changes. Also how much more complicated could it be to wrench on? Some small amount more yeah but to the degree of you being unable to learn it? Nah now you’re just complaining for the sake of complaining because it doesn’t shake your mirrors off every ten miles. This new motor is saving Harley. Period.
@@humoroustumor 100% couldn't have said it better myself
they teased a couple pictures of what looks like the concept sportster you made a video about a while back. my guess is that they will roll out more and different sportsters as time goes on, rebuilding the sportster family
Can anyone tell me why Harley Davidson insists on putting the damn footpegs up on the front frame tube instead of UNDER THE RIDER where they belong?
TFL Bike dropped a video on this that showed an aftermarket passenger peg and seat kit both back rest. Looks like it just sits on the rear guard like normal.
I assume it's like a half breed between a standard-ish e motorcycle and a cruiser hence the higher seat height than usual in fact it's not even listed as a cruiser on the Harley website, It's A bit of a disappointment for me as it's not that I'm too short but it seems you have to place your legs a bit wider than the usual cause of that exhaust plus its still too heavy for my liking. let's see what they come up with if they ever decide to make an entry level.
Pass, from Icon to Decepticon :) Silly price and no resemblance to a Sportster - choose a different name. Iron & Street Bob are the new Sportsters. Good to see the new bike though and great power from the engine out of the box, but no thank you. I had a 4-speed 1975 XLCH 1000 Sportster back in the day, low-tech and fun and easy to wrench on (a lot, lol). Times change, not always for the better, but to each his own.
She's beautiful and definitely on to what the new HDs should be and look like from now on, but, a lot of money for what such bike offers. Plus, on Europe most people prefer Dual Sports rather than a cruiser, and for that money, one can get a Versys 1000 or a BMW GS and be ready for riding for many years to come on many diferent kinds of road with all the confort and modern bobs and whistles too.
That seat though! Looks like a plank… and dual disks prevent brake fade and do not increase stopping power. It’s a reliability upgrade not a performance upgrade
"dual disks prevent brake fade" in other words "help keeping the stopping power for more than two turns"
@@JaffaJannu it takes a lot for these modern disks to reach their threshold. The average rider will never know the difference. The caliper selection makes more of an impact than whether it’s single or dual disk
My 48 is gonna get traded in on one 🙏 Last bike I had before jumping on a Harley was the XSR900 and the specs and styling on this new Sportster S seems very in tune with it… Cant wait to demo one
Well look at that; Harley built a Scout. Competition drives innovation. This is an exciting time to be employed and enjoy motorcycles.
I am not sure why they couldn’t keep the styling and only change the 1980s engine
Well they at least haven’t announced what the rest of the Sportster lineup will be. Maybe we will see a more classic rendition of the sporty with this new engine but maybe in the smaller 975cc version. Plus Harley said they will have a 500cc and 750cc version of this engine as well. Maybe for more traditional looking Sportsters or to replace the Street models. 🤷🏻♂️
The 1980s engine was the only good part about the whole bike. Nothing else had that sound and feel, and mechanical simplicity. BTW, it was not really a 1980s engine. It's basic design and technology go all the way back to the 1936 Knucklehead.
@@geraldscott4302 Knuckleheads looked awesome though.
The KR raced on the dirt tracks, not the Sportster.
So did xr sportsters
@@jeepstertj556
Yes, that's true, although that was a special 750cc motor that nobody called Sportster--not even Harley-Davidson. But wasn't there also a 750cc engine they did race for a year or two that had Sportster iron heads? That would be closer.
The price is too high. The Scout and Speed Twin are comparable bikes, and thousands less.
The scout and speed twin won't run with it. The ftr1200 is it's competition and it costs more.
@@davidleonard8369 Good one! Won’t run with it hahahahaha hahahahaha
Love the new bike. Like that the sportster will live on. But don't plan to trade in my 2021 48, though I may ask what I could get.
I'm glad they made it. To draw in more young riders. Personally more fan of the new softails. But i can understand other people my age whould prefer that bike over the softail. So keep them coming harley.
I'm looking at buying a 2nd bike towards the end of the year and it's getting hard to choose between this, FTR and Diavel 1260s. I need to ride all 3 to really see what I like.
Looks good, and really really hope it sells well... and by extension results in some newer designs for their big bikes.
But that price... ouch...
Dump all the electronico do-dads ,add another disc up front, stick a round LED headlight on it and turn loose that honking engine.On styling Harley has jumped the Shark.
They won't do it, but offering a few models like Ducati did with their Scramblers might make this bike tick more boxes for more people.
I'm with you on the electronics but i think we're in the minority. Most people seem to want as much of that stuff as you can stuff in a vehicle. I do like abs though.
Not comparing apples to apples here , but I have a new Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 and in my narrow opinion it has all ya need and nothing you don't. ABS brakes, fuel injection and a slipper clutch . Pretty basic in todays world . Harley could have done something like that and had a near 10k dollar entry-level bike .
The pipes are not ergonomic I believe atleast for the pillion!
When you get on or off the bike you need to be careful of not touching your leg to the pipes by any chance - other than this the bike looks awesome!
I like the look I've had Sportster and bigger Harley's. But I will wait to see what happens next ( a bit less S ).
I don´t think the radiator looks so bad, but that headlight is awfull.. It seems an ok bike to me, but to prizy and to heavy for my taste.
Never been a fan of the sportster but I'm intrigued with the new one. Doubt I'd buy it since I already have a Street Glide and Wide Glide.
I see this motor going thru the whole lineup, being a x Harley rider and switching back to Gold Wings.
Explain to me how that exhaust doesn’t burn your legs off.
Is it possible to squeeze a better front fender in there? I know someone who put a tiny rock through the radiator on his Honda. I wouldn't want to do that to this.
Looks like a variation of the V-rod more than a sporty
I think the one thing this bike DOES accomplish is, if the Evo Sportsters do indeed disappear, to remove Harley Davidson completely from the beginner rider scene. (Mind you, here in Ontario the insurance companies are doing that already...) Between the power and the price, this ain't no first bike material. Especially if, as suspected, the braking leaves something to be desired...
This bike is expensive, around 20kusd where I live out the door. Sadly the cheapest big twin here is bloody almost 30k
The guy in the full race one piece leathers on the Cali race track.
Hilarious.
Why?
Fwd controls and THAT riding position on a track.
I was in stitches.
Even in 2021, Harley ad guys aint got a friggin' clue...
You can imagine the guys at the Ducati factory watching that in their lunchbreak...
Mid controls are an option
@@markhalden3922 should be std.
Fwds and rear set should be options.
@@michaelhayward7572 yep, reading reviews for the Diavel X, many people claim the forward controls are a real detriment to the handling of the bike, so I'd guess the same would apply to the Sportster S.
@@markhalden3922 not only that Mark, its hanging on at 100mph + with your feet in sofa mode. It dont work. Not for more than a few minutes.
And twice the price probs ... ?
It's £14k in the UK so I'm guessing it's about the same in the US, 14 grand.
I really, really, really like it. A few things I like in particular:
- The look. It looks bloody amazing
- The power. That thing is going to haul ass!
- The indicator switch (a proper left-and-right switch on the left handlebar, and not HArley's stupid "one indicator switch on each side" nonsense
- I like the front wheel and I reckon the headlight is FatBob-tough
What I'm not so keen on:
- The dash. It might be functional, but it looks bloody ugly to me...
- The price (have you seen it? The starting price in Oz is $26,495. I paid $27,500 for my Breakout...)
- The f-ugly number plate bracket sucks, but I guess by law they have to release them that way....
But not much else. I think I kinda' like almost everything else about them!
What I'd love to see?
- The colours are ok, but a dusty olive (army) green? That might be pretty cool.
- An aftermarket exhaust. I wonder what they'll sound like, when the exhaust is changed and they're allowed to breathe
Afterthought:
Maybe you'd get used to the dash - I know it matches the mirrors, but I wonder whether something in a shape similar to the headlight might have been a little more discrete.. About the same screen real-estate, but in a more rectangular shape
Overall: I love what Harley are doing, and I think it will do very, very well
Why the enormous front tire?
Another great video! I like what HD is doing with their forward thinking…
…everything but the price… $$$
I really like this bike. Maybe I’ll trade my softail slim for one in the future if they make a performance kit to get that pan America horsepower
Won't be trading in my 05 883 any time soon. I still love it. It has more suspension and it is capable of touring.
The new Sportster looks good but seems totally impractical for my needs. I hope they make a touring version.
Sadly, The new engine does not sound like a Harley.
They have gone mad.
Riders vote with their dollars. It only matters what the riders with money want and they will determine if the bike will successful. As a non voter for the next year my opinion is that this motor or it's variant will be part of a resurgence for Harley.
A part like the icon series and part like the traditional models now being sold. A smaller version of this motor, a larger platform for this motor, a cheaper version with less technology all are possibilities now.
So yeah it is good thing for Harley.
If you want the info on suspension and passenger seating, go find CycleGear's article on the Sportster S.. .
Problem for Harley in Europe is that this bike will cost about the same as base Ducati Diavel. Atleast here in Norway. I like the bike but looks like lacklustre brakes and probably basic suspension so should i save myself 3-5k usd and buy a Indian Scout bobber or Triumph bobber? Hell even top of the line Thruxton RS will be quite alot cheaper here and that is loaded with goodies and looks glorious!
I’m excited, but the bike could REALLY use some mid-sets.
I'm surprised they went with a monoshock rear suspension.
I have currently Iron 883. This one looks pretty good, except for the big exhaust and the price. Starting price is here €18k, its to expensive. Hopefully they will come with a 993 version, don't need 120hp and the price can be dropped a bit :)
Best reason so far to switch to an Indian, Beemer, or Triumph.
This is great news for Indian Scout fans. The new Scouts will be punched out to a 1250 or 1300 and will be producing at least 130 HP. Keep bringing it Harley.
My only complaint is the funky headlight 😂
Bike looks great, I had a HD Dyna low and a Buell XB12s, This Sportster S is a welcome change, Totally Agree the front needs 2 floating Disk and the rear needs more than 2" of travel , (the single fix disk will not wear well or hold up to a beating long term or warp in heat cycles, I know as my dyna had the same problem ) will be interesting to ride this bike and see if I can trade my Ducati Monster in for it or the ride will be terrible, will be sick to see a few companies make some alum. or carbon fiber bits to replace all that terrible fake black plastic
They should have build a traditional sportster, but with radiator and without fins. This would probably have been enough for euro5 and would have kept it (with its pushrods and vibes) a real Harley (tm). Tje new engine looks like the one in the old Honda Transalp from the 80ies...
Still want to see a naked street fighter like the Bronx. Maybe that will seem reasonable enough for Harley if this bike sales good enough.
I’m already looking forward to that inevitable fender deletion kit.
It’s much too expensive, though.