It's not replacing the Sportster. It's the flagship for the new sport category. Sportster has been re-assigned to the cruiser category. The S was specifically engineered to compete with with the FTR. The Bronx, and revival of the XR series have been hinted at to fill the sport line, and cover the price points.
Based on what they said at the end of this video and some other things they have said, they are planning to bring out some other versions of this bike and some will be much more retro and traditional Sportster looking... so give it a little time and I think you will have a happy experience. Probably they will take this engine and have a sportster that has regular low pipes and a round headlight and a windshield and saddlebags and it will be really cool and more traditional Sportster looking. Give it a few months.
@@jlrutube1312 I certainly hope that that's the case here. However I'm a bit sceptical about that since the main reason for discontinuing sportsters in europe was not being able to comply with the new euro norms. Even the exhausts look like they were designed with that bullshit in mind, I'm not sure how would they make those low pipes appear again. But I still hope you're right.
@@AVD-og9fr This is actually slightly more powerful than the FTR, which surprises me (2 less top end hp, but 7 ftlbs of torque, it will definitely feel more powerful).
Good post, you hit the nail on the head. I'm glad about this new bike in hopes of attracting the latest generation of riders and increasing sales, but I also hope Harley continues their traditional motorcycles, there is nothing like them. I plan on keeping my 2018 Sportster 48 as long as I can still ride, but I'm intrigued about the Sportster S, looks like a winner.
“Let’s turn the dials up to 11.” “It’s going to look very different, but it’s also going to look very familiar.” “It’s staying with the times, it’s getting ahead of the times.” “Keep the soul in the decisions.” Cut the marketing cliches and just show the bike ripping. It's a cool bike; show, don't tell.
The Bronx was a cool looking bike. Looks like they merged the Bronx with the Sportster and this bike was born. I think that is a brilliant idea to help keep the focus on what made Harley-Davidson big in the first place.
I was totally into the Bronx myself and before that, never looked at Harley as a viable option for me (not really into cruisers). I ended up getting myself the BMW F900R, absolutely love the bike for sure and it suits all my needs, but it’s a potential sale Harley lost out on. The street fighter/naked segment is astronomically crowded as it is, but seeing as how Indian found success with their FTR, I imagine the Bronx could’ve been Harley’s answer. Hey who knows, maybe this model will do just that. Hats off to Harley for bringing out the PanAm, I think that’ll Pan out well for them 😊
@@benwells2338 you should thank God every day you ended up with the F900 R, such a great bike and beautiful design. Harley is not even remotely close to BMW in all areas, so go light candles and thank God the Bronx never came out and you were steered the BMW way. Coming from an Aprilia fan.
@@parkeslife4323 agree and although I am certainly not a Younger buyer I anticipate that I haven’t bought my last one just yet! and I would be a serious buyer today for a real performance bagger.
@@parkeslife4323 I can tell you this “younger rider” is not remotely interested in an overpriced Harley. Gen Z/Y do not have the cash for it. Millennials either. We’re all broke
I'm a millennial and own a 21 XL 1200, next month buying my father's Ultra for 12k, and planning to trade the Sporty for an LRS at the start of 2022. That's with a wife and five kids mind you. I make decent money, but plenty of my friends are making well above what I do.
I have over 1.5k miles on mine now. Went back and watched this video today. I was really surprised and pleased to announce that yes, the motorcycle is 100% exactly as presented here. Good work Harley Davidson. Wishing you a bright future.
I bought one Friday and haven’t been able to stop riding since. 😂 I love this thing. It’s not a bike that everyone will love but I certainly do. It fits how and where I ride perfectly and has loads of tech, torque, personality and character that just won’t stop. Great job HD. 👍🏾
@@dannysummers1083 thanks! It comes stock with forward controls but there is a mid controls kit you can buy from Harley for around $650. I have the mid controls installed and I really like that setup. It’s a ton of fun to ride but not for everyone. You have to love the muscle cruiser vibe to love this bike, which I do. It falls somewhere between a cruiser and a naked bike if that makes sense. The Sundowner seat was also another addition I felt was necessary for the bike to ride the way I wanted it to. Setting the suspension up to your weight is also important to do. Other than that, it’s a blast and you are correct, it is super quick. Get out and test ride one if you can!
Wait and see... There will no doubt be higher spec variants on the way with better suspension and brakes. Although it's disappointing to see only one disc on a 120hp, 500lb 'sportster' bike. No way you can put a positive marketing spin on that. I love the bike and have money in hand, but that's a deal breaker... For now. It'll be a r nine T for me if HD doesn't address that. Soon.
Welp, the Sportster rider in the group will no longer be the guy in the back. H-D with, what looks like, another winner. The Rev Max is changing the game for Harley.
Good for you guys at HD!!! I love seeing you guys are finally breaking out of the traditional design while not leaving the traditional HD image. Bravo 👏👏👏
I am proud to work at Harley Davidson in York Pa. To know that I am making the world more beautiful one bike at a time is a great source of pride. And to think that I may have had a hand in building either of those bikes is an amazing feeling. But keep your eyes open, we ain't done yet. I love my job.
Please bring back the Softail Springer and the Night Train! Or make a Softail Iron 883! While you are at it, keep price points to where I don't have to be almost 60 to afford what I wanted at 18.
@@scottmckeen3908 keep your eyes open. Can't say more than that. Wont even tell my family whats coming next but I will say that I'm excited for the future of Harley.
Another movie to watch for great Scottish Highland cinematography is "Centurion" with Michael Fassbender. Not the best movie overall (though I did enjoy it), but dang some of those scenes in the highlands are incredible to see.
I don't think it was Indian because Honda and the other Japanese manufacturers are bigger competitors. Especially with Indian's poor QC, tons of plastic, bad paint and exposed bolts, nah, no competition there.
Excellent- love the Sportster’s forward-looking yet retro design. I’m certain the aftermarket will address any concerns HD enthusiasts may have, in addition to HD doing the same. As an engineer articulated, “this is the first chapter of the next book.”
I think I've seen this video (I'd call it an inspirational documentary rather than just a video) four times in a row. Well done guys. Cheers from Italy!
@@GoGoggansGo They are not going to make it far with their current business model. Harley is going out the door. 15,000 for this thing? I'd hardly call this thing ridable. Sure its got lots of power, but no clearance, no suspension travel and missing a front disc and caliper... not to mention... forward pegs?? Again? on a "performance" model. What a joke, right?
Harley is either going to be down size big time or will eventually go away. They have painted themselves into a corner with their poor business decisions over the last 40 years. It will be a shame if it happens, but either way they will be a shadow of what they once were…
@@pdxmix The bike has a 320mm single front rotor. Mostly every other bike in this power bracket from every manufacturer (most which are much lighter machines), come with dual 320mm discs. It's roughly 10-20 lbs heavier than my current bike actually. Wouldn't even dream of having a single disc setup on it, despite the linked brakes, cornering abs and whatnot.
@@ThaSideWeed I didn’t even take notice to it in the video! Got lost in the Scottish Harley Heritage Mumbo jumbo lol it looks like it will perform but I’m sure they minimized the offerings from factory to maximize profits from “upgrades” and to lower weight numbers.
Love the looks of this bike! Very happy with what is happening in Milwaukee this year - first the PanAmerica and now the Sportster S. I started riding late in life at 50. My first bike was a 2008 Dyna Super Glide. 4 years and over 50,000 miles later I was addicted. I’ve heard all the negative stuff but when I went down in a hailstorm in May, losing my Dyna, that night in the hospital I was looking for my next Harley-Davidson. Long live the Bar and Shield!
To attract the current and new generations you Harley-D needs to advertise more of these sportsters with young adults. Give young adults the ability to imagine themselves in on it and riding.
If the bike lost a little weight and a few thousand bucks (and maybe gained dual front discs and lost the fat front tire and flat track style exhaust), I'd be interested. I can't imagine many people my age dropping 15k (probably closer to 17k out the door) on a bike. For that money I'd probably just get an FTR.
The Harley webpage already says they have a mid control upgrade for it, and a few pictures with the mid controls. Personally the forward controls would be tossed!
@@Ndwyer259 this. Mid controls on a 29 inch seat would be miserable and goofy looking. I’d rather they do the semi-forwards with a short reach like they did here.
@@Bhg265 I’ve never been a fan of mids on anything. I guess if your shorter it wouldn’t be too bad but my buddy has them on his 883 and I feel cramped up riding it. I really can’t believe how much horses this new bike has bastard must fly.
Literally the best decision Harley Davidson has made since the VRod. If they embrace this change to its fullest HD will see a great new era. They should have done this years ago.
Well Harley, im 24 and I think you may finally have broke out of your shell. This bike looks and seems amazing and will definately appeal to the newer generations. As a yound american i approve this motorcycle.
It's about time that HD put at least double the horsepower on the sportster. I had an 05 custom which I loved and it had awesome low end. I did a few mods like I moved the signals down to the triple tree to get the glare out my face when riding at night. I often do the surveys and see your actually listening and taking it to the next level. I've owned a sportster low a custom a road king a 19 fltrxs and a 20 fltrxs commemorative. Loved riding all of them only reason I moved into touring was that as much riding as I did the touring made more sense. It's a bit more comfortable and my body doesnt feel like I've been on a horse all day. I hope you've improved the ride of the new sportster.
I rode this at Sturgis on Saturday, this is a badass bike, the amount of power this thing has is impressive! I can tell you that 120 mph comes at ya real fast! Absolutely love what Harley is doing with these new bikes, my daily is a dyna low rider
Lots of Scots around my part of America in the Appalachias. I had no clue what my heritage was (German surname but there was an adoption years ago) and my DNA came back 88% Scottish. Cheers
single disk already has the ability to lock the front. More brakes are not always worth the added weight. This bike has forward controls, I doubt it will be seeing track days.
i'm liking it so far, only a few things i don't get... Single disc front brakes. Forward controls. A fat front tire. That bulky exhaust. Harley, if you're gonna slap that S on it, bring all the S parts please. I'm glad they finally did something new with the old sporty though, long time coming!
@@An_Enraged_Pig oh yea I see now they are mid controls I figured you’d get the choice anyways. And I respectfully disagree about not needing dual discs, I know this machine isn’t the most powerful one out there but you don’t see a Ducati with single discs for example
@@judgeholden9942 you only need dual disks if you are a monster on the rode. I've ridden with a lot of high level HD riders and the single disk worked fine when we rode
I love the look. Would love to ride one. The sportster needed an update. I think this bike will bring back some people like myself that sold their Sportster and went to Indian. I'm not loyal to any brand, I buy what I like, and I like what I see here. Great job HD.
I really dont want this company and its legacy to die. So keep making good bikes with both types classic and ultra modern so that you have both young and old generation customers.
@@carlbruhn1772 This bike was in the works for years (since before the new roads to Harley program in 2018) long before emissions killed it. It was made to compete with the Scout, emissions just sped it up. Much like the Pan Am, Harley is finally trying to be competitive. There are plenty more new bikes in the works for Harley
It’s cool man, I don’t think it’s gonna make me trade in any of my supers, but it definitely will be something fun to try. And man, everybody scoop up those sweet deals on those evo sportsters while you can. We all ripped on them… Now we’re gonna miss them...😞
I grew up around bikes, got my first dirt bike at 5 and loved riding my dirt bikes, and have never been brand loyal. I own bikes by all big 4 and others like Harley. When I was 6 my uncle bought a brand new 1992 Harley Davidson FXR Super Glide and as my uncle/god father with no children he promised to gift me the bike when I was older, and I fell in love with Harley. Many years later in 2019 I bought my first Harley Davidson, a 2018 Forty Eight and absolutely fell in love with the bike. It wasn't the slowest or fastest, it didn't handle like it was on rails, but the rawness was an absolute blast. I have since modified the Sportster beyomd what I had envisioned. With the new Sportster being completely different than the previous Sportster, I am still looking forward to acquiring a 2021 Sportser S! I can't wait to see what the aftermarket offers for this bike, and I am curious if Screamin Eagle will do their "stage" kits. I could see a Stage 4 Sportster S getting the 13.0:1 compression and internals of the Pan America. That would be something else....a 150+hp, 500lb Sportster with suspension and brakes from the factory. I love that they added some tech with the RDRS system and the 4 inch tft screen, with a fuel gauge, riding modes and a 6th gear!!
The Sportster is iconic. The most Harley , Harley Davidson ever made. A true testament to motorcycling, a minimalistic and simple machine that was all bike and no frills. The new sportster veers away from that, but that’s just the reality of technology and competition. If it proves to be reliable I think it will do well.
Is this the same "Revolution" motor that the vrod line had? If so, i remember my buddy having to get valve jobs done and it cost $700 everytime. I wonder what maintenance costs are now if it's the same design motor.
This is mighty tempting.... It looks like my 2018 Fat Bob...except it's 174lbs LIGHTER...and 121 HP, and it's cheaper! wow.... The Indian Scout just got called to the carpet
@@patw9175 Nah I'd take this over the scout any day of the week in the looks department, although to be fair, It's cause it looks like the bike I have now
Exactly! I was contemplating between the scout bobber and maybe the street bob, fat bob was what I really wanted but is a little too expensive. This bike looks just like the fat bob so it's going to be a tuff decision.
Not a fan of the “Heritage” marketing ploy reaching back before the brothers were even thinking about motorcycles to sell a new model that has little in common with its name sake. I like this bike. Not a fan of the big front tire and forward cotes for sure. But I like it. I hope it is successful. But just call it a Bronx and take the old Sportster to “The Farm” . I would have more respect if the Mo Co said: Hey guys, we can’t pass emissions with the Sporty and everyone loves it but no one really buys it so it is time to cancel it and make something NEW and EXCITING. I feel like you brought me a puppy and are trying to convince me it is actually Ol’ Yeller. Just tell me Ol’ Yeller has passed and here is a new puppy. It ain’t Ol’ Yeller but you will learn to love it anyway. I think this marketing ploy feels a little unhonest and desperate. Just my opinion. Good luck with it. I hope it is a success.
there hasn't been anything sporty about the sportster since the 1960s. only girls/millennials ride sportsters today. if you're going to do something risky do with something you've got nothing to lose. as the current flock ride the 'big' bikes this keeps the peace while they die from old age
@@seanbirtwistle649 I agree, but Harley didn’t keep the peace with the Pan American and it selling great and I was hoping they would kick the door off the hinges (not keep the peace) with the Bronx/Sportster.
@@XR-qs7mq I think they said they will have both (I may have heard that from another video though). I realize I did not convey what I was trying to say and edited my post. Thanks for pointing out.
This isn't the Bronx. The Bronx was the street fighter concept. This bike is the production version of the 1250 Custom concept. Also, this is the first new Sportster model using this new modular engine/chassis. Be patient as more models will come with time.
My first cruiser was a Sportster. Everyone loved it expect for Harley riders... it got bullied a lot. I thought I would never go back to Harley but I might when I see and hear it in person.
Now, if they make this available as a middle weight touring machine, I would investigate. I love my Street Glide S, but a machine 200 lbs lighter would be fantastic.
That's what I have in the Vrod. Maybe it was a little ahead of it's time. Love my Revolution Motor! Been rolling fast and strong since I bought it new in 2008!
@@marcoantoniogarcia38 gotta move into the modern era eventually. I love my air cooled evo, it's my daily ride. But with the Scout and everything coming out of Japan HD has to be modernized or they'll be left behind
@@chrishogan6458 I agree, I’m not against water cooled engines, but when most people thing of HD what comes to mind is a 45 degrees twin, air cooled, noisy pushrod engine, that’s the most Harley thing IMO.
Curious to test ride this bad boy. It’ll be nice to see how it feels and compares with my FTR. Looks more cruiser-styled, definitely lower and beefier looking, but the specs are right as far as the performance and weight goes. Would’ve been way cooler to see it with 150hp like the Pan American though.
@Ural Motorcyclist this is nonsense, sorry. Its a 60 degree v-twin like the V-rod which yes Porche "collaborated" on many years ago, back in 2001. to say no American hands are on this motor is just rubbish.
@@steveh4564 The V-Rod engine was based on the Harley VR-1000, Porsche had a bit of a hand in the cooling system, but that old 1250 is basically all Harley.
I love it. Revolution is literally taking things in a little bit of a different direction, as Harley Davidson have done with this drivetrain. I'm in love.
Great to see the company starts making up to date bikes, but I would prefere the more classic look along with the modern performance. Also, are weak brakes also a part of the heritage? Why only one brake disk upfront? If its performance is "unlimited" it should be equipped with decent brakes.
Because two disc brakes up front does not make you stop faster or shorter distances, Americans need to take basic science classes again. If you like tech and an old looking bike get the RKS with RDRS, it has more tech than any cruiser out there.
@@NeverDoubtMe23 two the same size with the same specs as just one do stop you quicker though, and have less wear by sharing the load, and heat up slower...
Weak brakes....it has a single radial mounted 4 piston monoblock Brembo caliper and a single piston Brembo caliper out back. It will stop just fine. The bike comes with the RDRS system which will help way more than any second disc or caliper would.
Looks really good! We hope to ride these bikes soon! Having ridden the new Harley bikes (Pan-America, Livewire) - I think the company is really modernizing its fleet! Congrats!
@@thevtadventure1062 air cooled, push rods, single pin crank, I mean sure 90 ish bhp isn’t that bad but like they were saying, the sportster was about technology in its beginning but the nostalgia buyer made corporate hd forget about the soul of the machine. Look at F9’s video on why Indian makes 43% more power than Harley Davidson, Indian decided to bring the scout to a modern era with some style hints at the original and it’s not even a suped up version like the XR 1200 it’s just the base scout. In my opinion this is what the sportster is supposed to be and I’m glad corporate is finally sticking their heads out of that nostalgia hole.
@@Minecraftlol18 oh I’m not saying it’s bad but I want to se a XR style with 150hp dual disc, better suspension and sport wheel sizes. THAT would be sick to me. And the XR is still really sporty to today’s standards even though the engine is lacking in tech, a lot of guys running to them in the BRL series
@@Minecraftlol18 while I do agree with everything you said, 90hp (maybe with HD stage 4) but with other aftermarket parts there are plenty of 120+whp sportsters. I love my air cooled Sportster, but I will for sure be at the very least test riding one of these to see if I am as interested as I think I am!
@@jonnymac8925 i was talking about the XR 1200 which makes 90~ bhp, but your average run of the mill sportster is making bellow 70 bhp and that’s the 1200 Cc ones the iron 883 puts out a terrifyingly low 40~ bhp
This is exciting. finally an updated model. its one thing to have a cool heritage, but another to rest on your heritage. you must continuously improve, or be passed up by the competition. This bike looks great! Also, a flat track inspired bike would be cool, like a modern XR750 for the masses.
The Bronx was gonna be number 17 for me...I'm still digging the roadster ( now I have two of them ).. the livewire still is quick and cool as hell.....no Bronx yet???...I guess I might give this new sportster a shot!!....ride!!
I'm 5'11 and 280 and have a 19 Road glide special that I love...If i wouldn't look like a bear on a unicycle I'd love to own one of these as well. Bravo on the aesthetic! Great looking machine!
@@nickpapagiorgio8038 they have almost identical displacement, bore, stroke, and compression. Makes almost identical hp and torque at similar peak rpms for both and appears to redline about the same rpm. Both twins are at 60 degree. Are you sure they’re not even close?
Well, I'm sad to see Harley Davidson discontinue the classic Sprotster air cooled, v-twin engine if that's what is happening here. The Sportster models had arguably the best looking engine Harley Davidson ever produced, and by far more stylish and better looking than any other brand motorcycle. Your now competing more with other motorcycle brands in the handling, performance and price categories. Good luck with that. Glad to see the Motor Co removed Street category from your website.
Auto emissions globally have the air cooled engines at technologies end. It has to be water cooled to compete with others brands. I still love my air cooled Fat Bob but we are watching a chapter close in motorcycle history.
@@ryanreish8160 Eventually used bikes become used-up crap. It was nice that Harley was still producing a genuine retro bike with the sportster line; a buyer can get a brand new bike not hampered by modern gadgets and boardroom money adding features. The Sportster's charm for me has been nothing added you don't need and has an old school look, feel, and ride. I love my Iron 1200 and always love riding it on the country roads around my area. For the money and with the motorcycle market, looking at this new bike and something like the BMW R nineT, I'd probably lean towards the Beemer just because of the air cooled boxxer but I will certainly take a hard look at this one. This HD is a new bike with a new engine that will hopefully entice some riders into Harley dealerships to plunk down some money and I honestly think it will do well.
They already did it in Europe because they didn't want to adapt the Evo engine to Euro6 regulations. But of course, they go and completely thrash the beautiful sportster outline and make this batman-comic-looking bike for who knows what market... As RyanF9 told a while ago HD is killing itself, and labeling this superbike-wannabe Sportster just makes it clear as day. They don't care anymore about classic, they just care about selling bikes.
There is a break disc missing from the front wheel I would have expected that to be a euro 5 compliant safety issue, plus the fuel tank is far too small
Thank you Harley Davidson for finally bringing a bike that combines the Harley style with modern engine and modern technology. In my eyes your new Sportster S is the coolest bike of the year with the new Ducati Monster 950. This year you Harley Davidson and Ducati dared to change your ways (and style) and hopefully many customers will buy these new bikes.
It's got ABS, traction control, and cruise control. Finally a bike with roughly the same performance, price and options as some of the competetors. Late to the party, but very welcome
@@beanmachine8311 I agree and maybe 20 years ago! And for $15,000 there are cheaper better looking bikes out there. It's basically $10,000 for the bike and $5000 for the HD stickers!!
I think it's more of a shot at the triumph and indian bobbers. I'm sure there'll be a scrambler version coming soon enough considering how many of them that Triumph and Ducati are selling. Sure is more expensive though....
Wow its certainly come a long way and looks outstanding, old schoolers might not like it but they have never kept up with the times. My first HD was a Sportster 1200C and it was a super bike I am looking forward to taking this one for a ride. Bravo HD well done
I would have preferred they drop the Revolution motor into a more traditionally styled Sportster looking bike, BUT I bet the Sportster S rides great and I hope it sells very well for HD. Now please put the Rev motor into an HD Sport Touring bike next! With an electric windshield!!!!! 😁
Love the way you are going with first the PanAm and now the Sportster S and that you start putting in some tech without giving up on the iconic Harley look. Definitely increases the riding experience. Price Point is also pretty fair for what you put in. Can't wait to see the first "transformed" old school cruiser with new tech. Till then I continue to ride my 2010 Dyna Fat Bob ;-P.
It's absolutely laughable to claim that it has been "getting ahead of the times" throughout its history. Its a good move for Harley, but come on with the extreme hyperbole.
I'm happy if they have new bikes, but I also laughed like crazy when the ad shows us a racer being held back by the poor max lean angle of the bike not able to go knee down in a time where almost any bike can do that lmao
@@SwainixFPV the Indian Scout has 31 degrees of lean angle and the new Sportster S has 34. So it has more lean angle than the bike it was made to compete against.
@@jonnymac8925 i'm clearly no expert in cruisers but I don't think 3 extra degrees of lean angle compared to a competitor is enough to call the bike sporty xD (thx for the info tho)
Unfortunately Harley is missing the mark again as far as price 15k for a sportster is ridiculous just like 30k for a livewire was ridiculous you would think they would have learned from livewire ( having to drop 10k off the price on the livewire 1 )
15k for 121HP with ABS, cruise control, brembo brakes, inverted forks, and HD doing what they do and making almost all the parts out of metal unlike plastic. 15k is a hell of a deal bud. You out here in a 1995 Suzuki intruder talking shit about Harley missing the mark….. have you ever owned a Harley?
@@nastynotch8314 Oh boy looks like i triggered a Liberal , didnt mean to offend you buddy , just pointing out the facts sportsters are geared towards beginer riders and not many beginer rider are going to shell out 15k for a sporty , and yes i own 2 Harleys ,a Road king and a Sporty and love them both but just being realistic sportsters are marketed towards younger beginer riders and most younger people cant shell out 15k
I’m an older dude that still likes to go fast. I’ll have to seriously consider one of these S models!! Well played H-D!!
I think that's the problem with Harleys. They do tend to cater for their old audience, but nothing to get new raiders to pick up the brand.
Im an old guy also. Needing a comfort factor
@@Deivs65 I think that’s the point. It’s what separates Harley. It’s not for everyone. But having one makes a statement
I’m 54 and bought one. Love it.
@@Deivs65im 25 they sure targeted me😂 saw it and bought it 4 days ago
With this thing replacing sportster I feel like the Indian Scout has become the most Harley thing in this price range.
It's not replacing the Sportster. It's the flagship for the new sport category. Sportster has been re-assigned to the cruiser category.
The S was specifically engineered to compete with with the FTR. The Bronx, and revival of the XR series have been hinted at to fill the sport line, and cover the price points.
Still would rather own an Indian.
Based on what they said at the end of this video and some other things they have said, they are planning to bring out some other versions of this bike and some will be much more retro and traditional Sportster looking... so give it a little time and I think you will have a happy experience. Probably they will take this engine and have a sportster that has regular low pipes and a round headlight and a windshield and saddlebags and it will be really cool and more traditional Sportster looking. Give it a few months.
@@jlrutube1312 I certainly hope that that's the case here. However I'm a bit sceptical about that since the main reason for discontinuing sportsters in europe was not being able to comply with the new euro norms. Even the exhausts look like they were designed with that bullshit in mind, I'm not sure how would they make those low pipes appear again. But I still hope you're right.
@@AVD-og9fr This is actually slightly more powerful than the FTR, which surprises me (2 less top end hp, but 7 ftlbs of torque, it will definitely feel more powerful).
RevMax Sporty! Can’t wait to try this out 😈
Can't wait to see the review video XD
You are right
You will like it Block. Imagine your old 48 with double the power, 80 less pounds, and 35 degrees of lean angle. Boom!
Where’s the video blockhead
Season x bike by blockhead
They should have 2 design categories. Modern and Classic.
@hoiy vinosa lol,
On a serious side what safety stuff you improved?
I’m getting my first bike ever and thinking of getting this one
There are going to be more
@hoiy vinosa get tracking device on your steed my freind
Good post, you hit the nail on the head. I'm glad about this new bike in hopes of attracting the latest generation of riders and increasing sales, but I also hope Harley continues their traditional motorcycles, there is nothing like them. I plan on keeping my 2018 Sportster 48 as long as I can still ride, but I'm intrigued about the Sportster S, looks like a winner.
Well they kinda have
“Let’s turn the dials up to 11.” “It’s going to look very different, but it’s also going to look very familiar.” “It’s staying with the times, it’s getting ahead of the times.” “Keep the soul in the decisions.” Cut the marketing cliches and just show the bike ripping. It's a cool bike; show, don't tell.
Yeah who has time to listen to all that. Just the specs with some ripping and romping.
Agreed. You hear and feel a harley.
All of their marketing is WAY too polished
Too many contradictions
Harley's more about image than motor... it's why I have a hard time with the brand...
BRING BACK THE BRONX!!!!!!
That would be a sporty Harley…..
Alot better option. This recycling of the same idea that always flops is getting old. Nice v rod
The Bronx was a cool looking bike. Looks like they merged the Bronx with the Sportster and this bike was born. I think that is a brilliant idea to help keep the focus on what made Harley-Davidson big in the first place.
The new Sportster S looks much better than the Bronx.
I was totally into the Bronx myself and before that, never looked at Harley as a viable option for me (not really into cruisers). I ended up getting myself the BMW F900R, absolutely love the bike for sure and it suits all my needs, but it’s a potential sale Harley lost out on. The street fighter/naked segment is astronomically crowded as it is, but seeing as how Indian found success with their FTR, I imagine the Bronx could’ve been Harley’s answer. Hey who knows, maybe this model will do just that. Hats off to Harley for bringing out the PanAm, I think that’ll Pan out well for them 😊
@@benwells2338 you should thank God every day you ended up with the F900 R, such a great bike and beautiful design. Harley is not even remotely close to BMW in all areas, so go light candles and thank God the Bronx never came out and you were steered the BMW way. Coming from an Aprilia fan.
As an “old Harley guy” I love this! Can’t wait to ride it and I wanna see this new engine in a performance bagger!
That would be a true Sport Glide! With the old FXRT fairing, they would sell like hot cakes. I'd definitely want one.
It's gonna happen. Just a matter of time. This bike is testing the waters to bring a "younger" buyer to HD.
@@parkeslife4323 agree and although I am certainly not a Younger buyer I anticipate that I haven’t bought my last one just yet! and I would be a serious buyer today for a real performance bagger.
@@parkeslife4323 I can tell you this “younger rider” is not remotely interested in an overpriced Harley. Gen Z/Y do not have the cash for it. Millennials either. We’re all broke
I'm a millennial and own a 21 XL 1200, next month buying my father's Ultra for 12k, and planning to trade the Sporty for an LRS at the start of 2022. That's with a wife and five kids mind you. I make decent money, but plenty of my friends are making well above what I do.
This is breath of fresh air for Harley. Congratulation on the new Sportster.
I have over 1.5k miles on mine now. Went back and watched this video today. I was really surprised and pleased to announce that yes, the motorcycle is 100% exactly as presented here. Good work Harley Davidson. Wishing you a bright future.
I bought one Friday and haven’t been able to stop riding since. 😂 I love this thing. It’s not a bike that everyone will love but I certainly do. It fits how and where I ride perfectly and has loads of tech, torque, personality and character that just won’t stop. Great job HD. 👍🏾
@@dannysummers1083 thanks! It comes stock with forward controls but there is a mid controls kit you can buy from Harley for around $650. I have the mid controls installed and I really like that setup. It’s a ton of fun to ride but not for everyone. You have to love the muscle cruiser vibe to love this bike, which I do. It falls somewhere between a cruiser and a naked bike if that makes sense. The Sundowner seat was also another addition I felt was necessary for the bike to ride the way I wanted it to. Setting the suspension up to your weight is also important to do. Other than that, it’s a blast and you are correct, it is super quick. Get out and test ride one if you can!
Cool bike but why just a single disc front brake?
because at the end of the day its still a harley
@@stupidrepublicans ever watched moto gp?????? they all have twin rotors
@@mala7794 yes they do
Wait and see... There will no doubt be higher spec variants on the way with better suspension and brakes. Although it's disappointing to see only one disc on a 120hp, 500lb 'sportster' bike. No way you can put a positive marketing spin on that. I love the bike and have money in hand, but that's a deal breaker... For now. It'll be a r nine T for me if HD doesn't address that. Soon.
@@mala7794 mine (sporters Roadster XL 1200 has 2 disc front brakes) 🤔
Welp, the Sportster rider in the group will no longer be the guy in the back.
H-D with, what looks like, another winner. The Rev Max is changing the game for Harley.
Lmao shoot when I rode the nightster I was still at the front of the pack.
Hi Matt, love your vids!
@Marlboro Girl I bet you shop at Walmart lol
Funny to see Harley once again copying Indian and not even trying to come up with their own ideas
come on mat the sporty is always been fast and loud this sir its a joke and looks woke
Good for you guys at HD!!! I love seeing you guys are finally breaking out of the traditional design while not leaving the traditional HD image. Bravo 👏👏👏
I am proud to work at Harley Davidson in York Pa.
To know that I am making the world more beautiful one bike at a time is a great source of pride. And to think that I may have had a hand in building either of those bikes is an amazing feeling. But keep your eyes open, we ain't done yet.
I love my job.
Please bring back the Softail Springer and the Night Train! Or make a Softail Iron 883! While you are at it, keep price points to where I don't have to be almost 60 to afford what I wanted at 18.
@@scottmckeen3908 keep your eyes open. Can't say more than that. Wont even tell my family whats coming next but I will say that I'm excited for the future of Harley.
@@MrCcruth1969 I hope you are right. I am looking to buy soon. Looking at old used bikes that want almost new prices.
This was done almost 20 years ago with the V-Rod why they acting like this is new 😂
Exactly
Vrod is terrible.
@@rickfilho3686 best HD ever
The Vrod was a stand alone model, this is replacing an iconic motorcycle that has given Harley it's identity.
@@fernandocampos1571 definitely the best Harley ever...hes probably never rode one or seen one in person like all the other experts on them 😂
Well I will say one thing for this video, it made me want to watch the Highlander movies again.
Another movie to watch for great Scottish Highland cinematography is "Centurion" with Michael Fassbender. Not the best movie overall (though I did enjoy it), but dang some of those scenes in the highlands are incredible to see.
I’m glad Indian made you guys get your act together
I don't think it was Indian because Honda and the other Japanese manufacturers are bigger competitors. Especially with Indian's poor QC, tons of plastic, bad paint and exposed bolts, nah, no competition there.
I think it had more to do with European emmisions requirements, etc. So I've heard, anyway
The FTR is the direct competition but its more affordable and still puts out 120 hp
It do be like that though.
What's Indian?
Needs a second disc up front; look forward to seeing in person and demo ride
Why? Two disc brakes does not equal faster stopping my friend.
@@NeverDoubtMe23 no, but it could mean longer pad replacement intervals and better heat properties for "sporty" applications
@@EchoRoller Not to mention better lever feel and less force required.
Two small disks are not better than one large one.
@@davidleonard8369 Two large discs is better than one large disc.
Excellent- love the Sportster’s forward-looking yet retro design. I’m certain the aftermarket will address any concerns HD enthusiasts may have, in addition to HD doing the same. As an engineer articulated, “this is the first chapter of the next book.”
I think I've seen this video (I'd call it an inspirational documentary rather than just a video) four times in a row. Well done guys. Cheers from Italy!
I’m so happy the company is finally evolving. I hope they never die
My country lost its dealership because of the rebuilding, but I really hope they come back! Buying this bike no matter what!
At this rate they deserve to die charging that much for an 120hp bike
@@GoGoggansGo They are not going to make it far with their current business model. Harley is going out the door.
15,000 for this thing? I'd hardly call this thing ridable. Sure its got lots of power, but no clearance, no suspension travel and missing a front disc and caliper... not to mention... forward pegs?? Again? on a "performance" model. What a joke, right?
@Daniel Combs aww poor muffin got triggered because I used the word Pegs instead of controls. Must of really hurt your noggin reading my post.
Harley is either going to be down size big time or will eventually go away.
They have painted themselves into a corner with their poor business decisions over the last 40 years.
It will be a shame if it happens, but either way they will be a shadow of what they once were…
Good looking bike besides the fat front tire, and with 121hp that thing needs dual disc brakes.
And that exhaust is the ugliest thing I’ve seen in years
A lot of people are commenting about the front brake, but keep in mind that the giant rotor on it has a lot more surface area than 2 smaller rotors
the braking system on the sporster s is a linked brake ABS. it has no need for second rotor
@@pdxmix The bike has a 320mm single front rotor. Mostly every other bike in this power bracket from every manufacturer (most which are much lighter machines), come with dual 320mm discs.
It's roughly 10-20 lbs heavier than my current bike actually. Wouldn't even dream of having a single disc setup on it, despite the linked brakes, cornering abs and whatnot.
@@ThaSideWeed I didn’t even take notice to it in the video! Got lost in the Scottish Harley Heritage Mumbo jumbo lol it looks like it will perform but I’m sure they minimized the offerings from factory to maximize profits from “upgrades” and to lower weight numbers.
I also really wish the Bronx would have been in production. Had a great look...
Love the looks of this bike! Very happy with what is happening in Milwaukee this year - first the PanAmerica and now the Sportster S. I started riding late in life at 50. My first bike was a 2008 Dyna Super Glide. 4 years and over 50,000 miles later I was addicted. I’ve heard all the negative stuff but when I went down in a hailstorm in May, losing my Dyna, that night in the hospital I was looking for my next Harley-Davidson. Long live the Bar and Shield!
To attract the current and new generations you Harley-D needs to advertise more of these sportsters with young adults. Give young adults the ability to imagine themselves in on it and riding.
No we fucking want 80s bikes back, im 19 and ill never set a fucking foot on this new electronic kat abs fe crap
@@noone-oo1bn Yeah. These bike are fat as fuck. Not for me!
They can imagine all they want but if the price point isn’t there then imagination is as far as it goes. Cool bike though
@@noone-oo1bn speak for yourself… I don’t want that shit
If the bike lost a little weight and a few thousand bucks (and maybe gained dual front discs and lost the fat front tire and flat track style exhaust), I'd be interested. I can't imagine many people my age dropping 15k (probably closer to 17k out the door) on a bike. For that money I'd probably just get an FTR.
Forward controls? That's a bold strategy Cotton, let's see if it pays off for them...
The Harley webpage already says they have a mid control upgrade for it, and a few pictures with the mid controls. Personally the forward controls would be tossed!
I hate mid controls on sportsters but I am 6’1 so forwards all day for me on my 1200
@@Ndwyer259 this. Mid controls on a 29 inch seat would be miserable and goofy looking. I’d rather they do the semi-forwards with a short reach like they did here.
@@Bhg265 I’ve never been a fan of mids on anything. I guess if your shorter it wouldn’t be too bad but my buddy has them on his 883 and I feel cramped up riding it. I really can’t believe how much horses this new bike has bastard must fly.
Should have made them mid controls.
Literally the best decision Harley Davidson has made since the VRod. If they embrace this change to its fullest HD will see a great new era. They should have done this years ago.
Well Harley, im 24 and I think you may finally have broke out of your shell. This bike looks and seems amazing and will definately appeal to the newer generations. As a yound american i approve this motorcycle.
younger generation with £14k of disposable income lmao
@@karabradley6576 Ye, im 33 and I'm considering trading my Diavel 1260s in for this one if I like how it rides. I think it looks great.
There are so many other motorcycles to choose from at this price point and thousands less.
@@robertp457 i got my GSXS 750 for 4 and a half grand lmao
@@karabradley6576 Paid 15k when I was 19 for my first Harley. If you want something, you make it happen. Not excuses.
Pre-Ordered mine in black yesterday. 1st on the list!
Right on!
It's about time that HD put at least double the horsepower on the sportster. I had an 05 custom which I loved and it had awesome low end. I did a few mods like I moved the signals down to the triple tree to get the glare out my face when riding at night. I often do the surveys and see your actually listening and taking it to the next level. I've owned a sportster low a custom a road king a 19 fltrxs and a 20 fltrxs commemorative. Loved riding all of them only reason I moved into touring was that as much riding as I did the touring made more sense. It's a bit more comfortable and my body doesnt feel like I've been on a horse all day. I hope you've improved the ride of the new sportster.
Proudly picked up a sportster earlier this year and if no assholes steal it (like my last bike) I plan on keeping it forever.
We should organize a Vigilante group to hunt down Motorcycle burglars. Mine got stolen too last month.
I don't understand why this would come with forward controls.
Bet when it launches you can get mids as an option
@@csolivais1979 In that case, I'd probably be a buyer.
You can get mids for $600 ish
H-D is all about selling accessories.
@@csolivais1979 You can, they have mids listed on the harley website for this bike already. :)
Damn that looks badass. I think that is exactly what the Sportster needed
I rode this at Sturgis on Saturday, this is a badass bike, the amount of power this thing has is impressive! I can tell you that 120 mph comes at ya real fast! Absolutely love what Harley is doing with these new bikes, my daily is a dyna low rider
So Harley’s Heritage is England 🏴, and Davidson’s is Scotland 🏴.
Nice!!
Lots of Scots around my part of America in the Appalachias. I had no clue what my heritage was (German surname but there was an adoption years ago) and my DNA came back 88% Scottish. Cheers
The RED-Coats
Needs dual front brakes - no excuses! DUAL FRONT BRAKES!
They’re not quite sure what to do with 121 HP. Harley has never been there before.
single disk already has the ability to lock the front. More brakes are not always worth the added weight. This bike has forward controls, I doubt it will be seeing track days.
So add it, it came in at 14k do your part
Yeah my XR1200 has dual 4P front brakes, there is no excuse at all....
@@aucklandsadventures what about the v rod?
i'm liking it so far, only a few things i don't get... Single disc front brakes. Forward controls. A fat front tire. That bulky exhaust. Harley, if you're gonna slap that S on it, bring all the S parts please. I'm glad they finally did something new with the old sporty though, long time coming!
You don't really need dual disks, and there are mid controls on it.
3.1 gallon tank too.... What a joke. All the good riding for most is out of town.
@@An_Enraged_Pig oh yea I see now they are mid controls I figured you’d get the choice anyways. And I respectfully disagree about not needing dual discs, I know this machine isn’t the most powerful one out there but you don’t see a Ducati with single discs for example
@@judgeholden9942 you only need dual disks if you are a monster on the rode. I've ridden with a lot of high level HD riders and the single disk worked fine when we rode
I love the look. Would love to ride one. The sportster needed an update. I think this bike will bring back some people like myself that sold their Sportster and went to Indian. I'm not loyal to any brand, I buy what I like, and I like what I see here. Great job HD.
I really dont want this company and its legacy to die. So keep making good bikes with both types classic and ultra modern so that you have both young and old generation customers.
I hope a performance dual disc brake and suspension version coming
After years of getting trounced by the Scout, someone appears to have woken up on the Buell side of the bed.
More like European emissions killed the sportster for 2021. If they wanted so continue to sell there it was time for innovation
@@carlbruhn1772 if that is the kick in the head it took! Bring it as it is way over due
@@jayjohnson2627 Totally agree.
@@carlbruhn1772 This bike was in the works for years (since before the new roads to Harley program in 2018) long before emissions killed it. It was made to compete with the Scout, emissions just sped it up. Much like the Pan Am, Harley is finally trying to be competitive. There are plenty more new bikes in the works for Harley
@@jonnymac8925 I totally agree. The Euro 6 emissions have been known for years as well. They knew it was coming
And Motorcycle Consumer News will still hate it because it is a Harley.
It’s cool man, I don’t think it’s gonna make me trade in any of my supers, but it definitely will be something fun to try. And man, everybody scoop up those sweet deals on those evo sportsters while you can. We all ripped on them… Now we’re gonna miss them...😞
I grew up around bikes, got my first dirt bike at 5 and loved riding my dirt bikes, and have never been brand loyal. I own bikes by all big 4 and others like Harley. When I was 6 my uncle bought a brand new 1992 Harley Davidson FXR Super Glide and as my uncle/god father with no children he promised to gift me the bike when I was older, and I fell in love with Harley. Many years later in 2019 I bought my first Harley Davidson, a 2018 Forty Eight and absolutely fell in love with the bike. It wasn't the slowest or fastest, it didn't handle like it was on rails, but the rawness was an absolute blast. I have since modified the Sportster beyomd what I had envisioned. With the new Sportster being completely different than the previous Sportster, I am still looking forward to acquiring a 2021 Sportser S! I can't wait to see what the aftermarket offers for this bike, and I am curious if Screamin Eagle will do their "stage" kits. I could see a Stage 4 Sportster S getting the 13.0:1 compression and internals of the Pan America. That would be something else....a 150+hp, 500lb Sportster with suspension and brakes from the factory. I love that they added some tech with the RDRS system and the 4 inch tft screen, with a fuel gauge, riding modes and a 6th gear!!
The Sportster is iconic. The most Harley , Harley Davidson ever made. A true testament to motorcycling, a minimalistic and simple machine that was all bike and no frills. The new sportster veers away from that, but that’s just the reality of technology and competition. If it proves to be reliable I think it will do well.
Is this the same "Revolution" motor that the vrod line had? If so, i remember my buddy having to get valve jobs done and it cost $700 everytime. I wonder what maintenance costs are now if it's the same design motor.
No this is the same engine as the Pan America, which has hydraulic valves that self adjust so no valve checks required.
@@zachohmie1262
Ok, thank you
This is mighty tempting.... It looks like my 2018 Fat Bob...except it's 174lbs LIGHTER...and 121 HP, and it's cheaper! wow.... The Indian Scout just got called to the carpet
I think I like the scout's looks better but god damn Harley is stepping up to the ring
@@patw9175 Nah I'd take this over the scout any day of the week in the looks department, although to be fair, It's cause it looks like the bike I have now
No mention of price.
@@fyorbane $15 K usd
Exactly! I was contemplating between the scout bobber and maybe the street bob, fat bob was what I really wanted but is a little too expensive. This bike looks just like the fat bob so it's going to be a tuff decision.
Not a fan of the “Heritage” marketing ploy reaching back before the brothers were even thinking about motorcycles to sell a new model that has little in common with its name sake.
I like this bike. Not a fan of the big front tire and forward cotes for sure. But I like it. I hope it is successful. But just call it a Bronx and take the old Sportster to “The Farm” .
I would have more respect if the Mo Co said: Hey guys, we can’t pass emissions with the Sporty and everyone loves it but no one really buys it so it is time to cancel it and make something NEW and EXCITING.
I feel like you brought me a puppy and are trying to convince me it is actually Ol’ Yeller. Just tell me Ol’ Yeller has passed and here is a new puppy. It ain’t Ol’ Yeller but you will learn to love it anyway.
I think this marketing ploy feels a little unhonest and desperate.
Just my opinion. Good luck with it. I hope it is a success.
there hasn't been anything sporty about the sportster since the 1960s. only girls/millennials ride sportsters today. if you're going to do something risky do with something you've got nothing to lose. as the current flock ride the 'big' bikes this keeps the peace while they die from old age
@@seanbirtwistle649 I agree, but Harley didn’t keep the peace with the Pan American and it selling great and I was hoping they would kick the door off the hinges (not keep the peace) with the Bronx/Sportster.
Those aren't mid controls, those are forward.
@@XR-qs7mq I think they said they will have both (I may have heard that from another video though). I realize I did not convey what I was trying to say and edited my post. Thanks for pointing out.
This isn't the Bronx. The Bronx was the street fighter concept. This bike is the production version of the 1250 Custom concept.
Also, this is the first new Sportster model using this new modular engine/chassis. Be patient as more models will come with time.
My first cruiser was a Sportster. Everyone loved it expect for Harley riders... it got bullied a lot. I thought I would never go back to Harley but I might when I see and hear it in person.
HOW BEAUTIFUL OF A HOMELAND YOU ARE ALL BLESSED WITH, SCOTLAND IS JUST ENCHANTINGLY AWESOME.
Now, if they make this available as a middle weight touring machine, I would investigate. I love my Street Glide S, but a machine 200 lbs lighter would be fantastic.
LMAO such a boomer thing to say. Bro this is a SPORTSTER NOT YOUR GRANDPA TOURING MACHINE. ITS ABOUT BALLS AND SPEED.
100% agree
@@ricardofigueroa6754 that is a really stupid comment.
That's what I have in the Vrod. Maybe it was a little ahead of it's time. Love my Revolution Motor! Been rolling fast and strong since I bought it new in 2008!
@@ricardofigueroa6754 500lbs and 121hp??? Bitch please… this is far from speed.
The Sportster is the most “Harley” of all the models Harley has ever made.
Yes, the air cooled ones.
how
@@marcoantoniogarcia38 gotta move into the modern era eventually. I love my air cooled evo, it's my daily ride. But with the Scout and everything coming out of Japan HD has to be modernized or they'll be left behind
Facts
@@chrishogan6458 I agree, I’m not against water cooled engines, but when most people thing of HD what comes to mind is a 45 degrees twin, air cooled, noisy pushrod engine, that’s the most Harley thing IMO.
I'm so excited for this new era of Harley-Davidson motorcycles!
yeah and they aren't selling...
Curious to test ride this bad boy. It’ll be nice to see how it feels and compares with my FTR. Looks more cruiser-styled, definitely lower and beefier looking, but the specs are right as far as the performance and weight goes. Would’ve been way cooler to see it with 150hp like the Pan American though.
I just ran 10.93@119mph on my bone stock sportster s it came with a 1.65 60ft and a 6.91@1/8th mile.
GREAT JOB HARLEY DAVIDSON! WHAT A RUNNER!
I cannot wait for you sporty s!! I really hope a roadster comes back too.
Congratulations to H-D. You’ve finally released your talented pro engineers from air cooled v-twin jail. Looks like a winner.
@Ural Motorcyclist Can you show that as fact?
@Ural Motorcyclist this is nonsense, sorry. Its a 60 degree v-twin like the V-rod which yes Porche "collaborated" on many years ago, back in 2001. to say no American hands are on this motor is just rubbish.
@@steveh4564 The V-Rod engine was based on the Harley VR-1000, Porsche had a bit of a hand in the cooling system, but that old 1250 is basically all Harley.
It's not the Bronx we've all been lusting after but I guess it'll do- going to schedule a test ride today..
I love it. Revolution is literally taking things in a little bit of a different direction, as Harley Davidson have done with this drivetrain. I'm in love.
Love the connection to where the family came from. Very fitting.
Great to see the company starts making up to date bikes, but I would prefere the more classic look along with the modern performance. Also, are weak brakes also a part of the heritage? Why only one brake disk upfront? If its performance is "unlimited" it should be equipped with decent brakes.
Because they need to release the base version first so they can release special versions with dual disks up front, touring setups, a "classic", etc.
I think they commented on the single disk thing. They said the weight was light enough for a single disk if I’m recalling correctly.
Because two disc brakes up front does not make you stop faster or shorter distances, Americans need to take basic science classes again. If you like tech and an old looking bike get the RKS with RDRS, it has more tech than any cruiser out there.
@@NeverDoubtMe23 two the same size with the same specs as just one do stop you quicker though, and have less wear by sharing the load, and heat up slower...
Weak brakes....it has a single radial mounted 4 piston monoblock Brembo caliper and a single piston Brembo caliper out back. It will stop just fine. The bike comes with the RDRS system which will help way more than any second disc or caliper would.
They've been needing to make this bike for a while now. It came out nice and I'm glad they held back the Bronx for it.
What does the Bronx look like? I heard about it but haven’t seen anything
Welcome back harley, finally you dropped old demons, cant wait to see you now.
...now the glass is full, HD just filled it, I can dream, again, about a HD and Sportster it must be!
121 HP is nice. Hope a Sportster R is in the future to fully utilize that power.
Looks really good! We hope to ride these bikes soon! Having ridden the new Harley bikes (Pan-America, Livewire) - I think the company is really modernizing its fleet! Congrats!
“taping your directions to your tank” uh what? Lmfao 😂
That's not unusual
That was long before gps existed and everyone did it that traveled on bikes
@@vinceaikens1370 GPS existed since I was like ten. Wtf you talking about.
Yea well I been crossing the country on one since the 70s so I think I know
@@oscarguijosa7881 you're a baby
Can’t wait to see what else they decide to build next from this motor! Maybe a street fighter style next!
Wonder how long before we can buy the tft display.. would be nice to have on bikes that arnt the road or street glide.
I think HD is getting more and more of an idea of what people want! Great video and cant wait to ride one!
Love it! Finally the sporty we wanted! And thank you for explaining what a sportster is supposed to be!
They made it right few years ago with the XR. Hopefully we will see a new Updated XR soon!
@@thevtadventure1062 air cooled, push rods, single pin crank, I mean sure 90 ish bhp isn’t that bad but like they were saying, the sportster was about technology in its beginning but the nostalgia buyer made corporate hd forget about the soul of the machine. Look at F9’s video on why Indian makes 43% more power than Harley Davidson, Indian decided to bring the scout to a modern era with some style hints at the original and it’s not even a suped up version like the XR 1200 it’s just the base scout. In my opinion this is what the sportster is supposed to be and I’m glad corporate is finally sticking their heads out of that nostalgia hole.
@@Minecraftlol18 oh I’m not saying it’s bad but I want to se a XR style with 150hp dual disc, better suspension and sport wheel sizes. THAT would be sick to me. And the XR is still really sporty to today’s standards even though the engine is lacking in tech, a lot of guys running to them in the BRL series
@@Minecraftlol18 while I do agree with everything you said, 90hp (maybe with HD stage 4) but with other aftermarket parts there are plenty of 120+whp sportsters. I love my air cooled Sportster, but I will for sure be at the very least test riding one of these to see if I am as interested as I think I am!
@@jonnymac8925 i was talking about the XR 1200 which makes 90~ bhp, but your average run of the mill sportster is making bellow 70 bhp and that’s the 1200 Cc ones the iron 883 puts out a terrifyingly low 40~ bhp
This is exciting. finally an updated model. its one thing to have a cool heritage, but another to rest on your heritage. you must continuously improve, or be passed up by the competition. This bike looks great! Also, a flat track inspired bike would be cool, like a modern XR750 for the masses.
I didn't know 500 pounds of bike was "incredibly light and maneuverable"
For a cruiser yeah it is.
Compare to other Harleys yes it is incredibly light, compare to Japanese and Euro sport bikes, no.....
500lbs is pretty light for that kind of bike, the real kicker will be that HUGE front tire
Haha.. good one 👍🏽
It is to guys that aren't 5'5".
The Bronx was gonna be number 17 for me...I'm still digging the roadster ( now I have two of them ).. the livewire still is quick and cool as hell.....no Bronx yet???...I guess I might give this new sportster a shot!!....ride!!
I'm 5'11 and 280 and have a 19 Road glide special that I love...If i wouldn't look like a bear on a unicycle I'd love to own one of these as well. Bravo on the aesthetic! Great looking machine!
Hell yea! Brought back the Revolution V-Rod! I mean sportster 😎
Not even close to the same motor other than in name
@@nickpapagiorgio8038 🤣
@@nickpapagiorgio8038 it’s pretty similar….
@@Bhg265 not at all. There's nothing the two share other than the name and perhaps fuel injection.
@@nickpapagiorgio8038 they have almost identical displacement, bore, stroke, and compression. Makes almost identical hp and torque at similar peak rpms for both and appears to redline about the same rpm. Both twins are at 60 degree.
Are you sure they’re not even close?
Well, I'm sad to see Harley Davidson discontinue the classic Sprotster air cooled, v-twin engine if that's what is happening here. The Sportster models had arguably the best looking engine Harley Davidson ever produced, and by far more stylish and better looking than any other brand motorcycle. Your now competing more with other motorcycle brands in the handling, performance and price categories. Good luck with that.
Glad to see the Motor Co removed Street category from your website.
Auto emissions globally have the air cooled engines at technologies end. It has to be water cooled to compete with others brands. I still love my air cooled Fat Bob but we are watching a chapter close in motorcycle history.
Just buy a used bike if you want the old stuff
@@ryanreish8160 Eventually used bikes become used-up crap. It was nice that Harley was still producing a genuine retro bike with the sportster line; a buyer can get a brand new bike not hampered by modern gadgets and boardroom money adding features. The Sportster's charm for me has been nothing added you don't need and has an old school look, feel, and ride. I love my Iron 1200 and always love riding it on the country roads around my area.
For the money and with the motorcycle market, looking at this new bike and something like the BMW R nineT, I'd probably lean towards the Beemer just because of the air cooled boxxer but I will certainly take a hard look at this one. This HD is a new bike with a new engine that will hopefully entice some riders into Harley dealerships to plunk down some money and I honestly think it will do well.
They already did it in Europe because they didn't want to adapt the Evo engine to Euro6 regulations. But of course, they go and completely thrash the beautiful sportster outline and make this batman-comic-looking bike for who knows what market... As RyanF9 told a while ago HD is killing itself, and labeling this superbike-wannabe Sportster just makes it clear as day. They don't care anymore about classic, they just care about selling bikes.
Sad? You had 35 years to buy one and it's not like the market doesn't have piles of them for sale.
If I was 25 years younger, not 6'3", and didn't already have a Softail and an e-glide, this... this would be getting a space cleared at home....
Do it anyway!
@@nickb011bra kinda thinking about getting something that will be irreplaceable. My dealer has a late model FXDWG I'm looking at.
There is a break disc missing from the front wheel I would have expected that to be a euro 5 compliant safety issue, plus the fuel tank is far too small
Thank you Harley Davidson for finally bringing a bike that combines the Harley style with modern engine and modern technology. In my eyes your new Sportster S is the coolest bike of the year with the new Ducati Monster 950.
This year you Harley Davidson and Ducati dared to change your ways (and style) and hopefully many customers will buy these new bikes.
This was much expected, I wish they didn’t use the fatbob headlight though.
I actually like the fat bob style headlight, no one else is doing an oval headlight like that and it really makes it stand apart.
This is just the first new sportster model (I guess)
MERCI HARLEY tres belle video le sporster n est pas mort la moto est magnifique .
Ye royal Enfield ki hai? Mera dost abhiraj confused hai , brand dhundh rha hai
Bhai ye chutiya adami kaun hai
Wo palo alto me h na ..??
Wha ke londe bhot mc hote..wo bhi hoga
Kaise kaise logoko le lete hai.
Tune usko dost kyu banaya be
It's got ABS, traction control, and cruise control. Finally a bike with roughly the same performance, price and options as some of the competetors. Late to the party, but very welcome
This is exaclty what Harley needed to do. Well done! Can't wait to test ride. This could be my next ride.
The performance numbers sound amazing 🇺🇸👌🏻
For a Harley… but for every other brand those numbers sounded nice 10 years ago.
@@beanmachine8311 I agree and maybe 20 years ago! And for $15,000 there are cheaper better looking bikes out there. It's basically $10,000 for the bike and $5000 for the HD stickers!!
@@knightshift7296 very true
This is a game changer. “The first chapter of the next book” (sic)
Is this harleys answer to the ftr?
Because if it is I’m kind of disappointed
I think it's more of a shot at the triumph and indian bobbers. I'm sure there'll be a scrambler version coming soon enough considering how many of them that Triumph and Ducati are selling. Sure is more expensive though....
I can't seem to find the actual date that's it's coming out in Canada... I know it's in fall and I already have it pre-ordered ..
Wow its certainly come a long way and looks outstanding, old schoolers might not like it but they have never kept up with the times. My first HD was a Sportster 1200C and it was a super bike I am looking forward to taking this one for a ride. Bravo HD well done
Sportster with EVO what else, nothing. The real Oldschool Feeling.
I had a '67 Ironhead. That is before your "real oldschool feeling" existed.
I would've kept the round headlight. It definitely needs a proper exhaust. Other than that looks awesome. I'd like to test ride those 121hp.
I would have preferred they drop the Revolution motor into a more traditionally styled Sportster looking bike, BUT I bet the Sportster S rides great and I hope it sells very well for HD. Now please put the Rev motor into an HD Sport Touring bike next! With an electric windshield!!!!! 😁
They said that it will have a more traditional style soon
I wonder if we'll see a roadster S? Possibility blurring the lines between sportbike and cruiser?
Love the way you are going with first the PanAm and now the Sportster S and that you start putting in some tech without giving up on the iconic Harley look. Definitely increases the riding experience. Price Point is also pretty fair for what you put in. Can't wait to see the first "transformed" old school cruiser with new tech. Till then I continue to ride my 2010 Dyna Fat Bob ;-P.
It's absolutely laughable to claim that it has been "getting ahead of the times" throughout its history. Its a good move for Harley, but come on with the extreme hyperbole.
I'm happy if they have new bikes, but I also laughed like crazy when the ad shows us a racer being held back by the poor max lean angle of the bike not able to go knee down in a time where almost any bike can do that lmao
@@SwainixFPV the Indian Scout has 31 degrees of lean angle and the new Sportster S has 34. So it has more lean angle than the bike it was made to compete against.
I rolled my eyes so hard at that part.
@@jonnymac8925 i'm clearly no expert in cruisers but I don't think 3 extra degrees of lean angle compared to a competitor is enough to call the bike sporty xD (thx for the info tho)
Yeah... Because saying "we made a motorcycle" sells SO many bikes.
Unfortunately Harley is missing the mark again as far as price 15k for a sportster is ridiculous just like 30k for a livewire was ridiculous you would think they would have learned from livewire ( having to drop 10k off the price on the livewire 1 )
15k for 121HP with ABS, cruise control, brembo brakes, inverted forks, and HD doing what they do and making almost all the parts out of metal unlike plastic. 15k is a hell of a deal bud. You out here in a 1995 Suzuki intruder talking shit about Harley missing the mark….. have you ever owned a Harley?
Facts what a loser
@@nastynotch8314 Oh boy looks like i triggered a Liberal , didnt mean to offend you buddy , just pointing out the facts sportsters are geared towards beginer riders and not many beginer rider are going to shell out 15k for a sporty , and yes i own 2 Harleys ,a Road king and a Sporty and love them both but just being realistic sportsters are marketed towards younger beginer riders and most younger people cant shell out 15k
Nice looking Bike, Bravo to H-D, 🇺🇸,but that riding position is only worth about 45 min, before misery sets in. 😖
@@killdozer3464 yes yes yes! I like where your head is at. I also suggest to raise the rear an inch with new dog bone linkages.
@@killdozer3464 Or you could just buy a sport bike from people who make good sport bikes rather than spending $17k trying to make it a sport bike.
Never been a "Harley guy" but this is making me seriously consider HD more than any motorcycle before it. Looks awesome. Hope it rides well.
So it's basically the VROD motor in a Sportster? But why didn't they keep the original looks of the V-Rod motor?
This power train outperforms the VRod...