Have to say I’ve never had a bike where I’ve had so many people want to take a pic or ask me what it is. Case closed Harley should build more bikes like the Sportster S. Love it
Great video. totally agree with all of it except the "old man" comments! I am 58 yo and I love this bike so much I am already on my 2nd one. The 1st one I bought slightly used and unfortunately it overheated and blew the engine. I went out after that and purchased a brand new one that I go ripping on.
Passenger riding sucks. You can do it. It the seat is tiny and it’s a stiff ride for the passenger. The bike does not bottom out if the suspension is set correctly for the weight and heat it’s a problem with king pants. Shorts can get hot in the thigh at lights. Not burning but discomfort.
Hahaha your not the people I’m talking about for sure. I know there are a lot of older riders who love this bike. It’s more of the closed minded individuals than the older group if I’m being honest!! Just ruffling feathers is all !!
@@markgoode77 Hey When I get there I would love to be ripping around a faster bike. I can see it now. I can appreciate the tradition, but it has its time and place.
Can they fit, Yes. Comfortable. Ehhhh. this is my one and only bike my wife will not ride backpack on. I have a zx6r which she would prefer to be on the back of over the sporty.
The best review on UA-cam, for sure. I have a 2023 that ive spent money on for upgrades... highly recommend the Zard exhaust, that sounds vastly improved. Never had an issue and im still loving the bike as a second toy. I have now subscribed and looking forward to seeing your other vids. Keep up the good work, mate. Any suggestions for having a play with the rider modes? I thought sport mode is fastest?
Thank you thank you. That zard is nice. I think my heart is set on the cobrasport. I use A mod always. Which is basically sport mode with engine braking turned up. But full send all the time lol.
It’s my second Harley and yes; Harley should have made this bike. It’s a beast of a bike. I have a completely customized Road Glide, and I wanted something smaller/ sportier as a second bike and after a text rude, I had to have it. The power of this thing is on par with some of the liter bikes I’ve owned in the past.
I have a Sportster S. This is my first HD. I hate the small tank size, I dislike the lack of suspension (getting it replaced next) and I wish it came with twin front brakes. I love everything else about it. Beautiful. Unique. V-Twin. I have had no electronic issues in the last 14 months
@NostalgicMotorcycles some people hate Harleys. It's their perogative. I understand it's not everyone's cup of tea. I love some of their bikes and the community is the best in the business
It really is a cult type community for sure but that didn’t happen on accident either. Only few brands reach that level. They had to do something right. But I enjoy most bikes. I don’t try and get them to be what they aren’t
@El_Peto if you made the same “mistake” 40 times I don’t think the bike is the problem. Most people will not like something 1 times and that’s enough. If it’s not for you it’s not for you. But 40 I find it hard to believe.
Damn, as a former Evo Sportster owner and now a 600 sport bike owner, you got me curious about this bike! I been doing research (watching youtube reviews) on this bike for a few days! I think it's time for a test ride!
Go for it. This is a beast ! Also for your reference I made this video below. 600 vs the sporty ua-cam.com/video/IXZsVue3U58/v-deo.htmlsi=r2QOZypckUQHFztl
@@sportstermissions enjoy man. ! I want to build a project sportster to 150whp 💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼. Gotta keep the content coming and I’ll make it happen. It’s doable with pan America parts.
I love "our" Sportster S. It's technically my husband's but I ride it now 😂. He has to get on his Indian Roadmaster when I want to ride. It is the first bike I've ever rode and it is a great bike all around. Everything you say is spot on, especially the hot looks and the hang-up on the shifing. Great video, thanks!
Nope that is still the factory front. I am struggling to find a front tire that wide. Not many tire companies make them. I can get a rear and mount it to the front but I haven’t seen anyone else doing this. I am considering going slightly more narrow in the front when I replace it but I haven’t done the research to see what sizes will fit the wheel. So no not really.
I test rode one, a little small for me. I'll keep my VROD until they make something comparable, and my VRSCF still looks so much better and has triple discs.
The biggest and sometimes only issue with Harley Davidsons, is price point. The Sportster S is a fantastic machine, but its over $16k msrp, and that means you're spending around $18k out the door! Ridiculous price for a bike that should be around $15k brand new. The Indian FTR1200 is $13,499 and makes a strong case for being an equal or better machine. The 130hp Suzuki Boulevard M109r is just over $15k, and is a proven machine. A Harley Fatboy is over $20k and it's lacking in almost every catagory in comparison. Objectively, Harleys are friggin AWESOME....but as soon as you bring price into the picture its game over!
Ohh hell ya. The Harley Davidson is branded very well and can charge for such. People still buy them, brand is strong man. I do agree this bike is expensive and most Harleys are. Other Brands for sure give you bang for buck. Thats not Harley. I can say I have not been upset at any Harley I have ridden until I consider the price.
Check out the videos of the Sportster vs the Indian…. The sportsters motor is unmatched. It walked away from both the Indian and other bikes in its class. I agree… it’s expensive though.
The Sportster S is one of the bikes I own. From the beginning (2 years ago) having issues with it tbh. It seems they are all finally solved. Now it rides like it should and....I love it. But yeah, maybe they shouldn't have named it a Sportster. It reminds me more of a V-Rod, or is it just me? Greetings from Belgium.
Very similar concept to a v rod. I think it’s different enough as the rod was more cruiser. I think it should have had its own name personally. What that is I don’t know 🤷🏽♂️🤷🏽♂️
Love it or hate it, this is the direction HD has to go in to survive. I'd bet real money the next gen Big twin will be completely liquid cooled as well.
Lmfao of course. But they are milking it. Oil cooled heads now liquid cooled heads just to say it’s not fully cooled lmaoo. Marketing is crazy though. This 12500cc. Is like 76CI makes 120hp/90tq. Won’t overheat while doing it. The new 121ci is 1950cc. Almost double the displacement to make the same power number. And with size comes torque. But imagine. Just imagine. A 121ci rev max. It would make over 150hp easily. Obviously it won’t be all gains but thing about a 150/160 road glide out the box. The pan am makes 150 with 76CI. Going liquid cooled and some actual performance out the box could make the baggers 200+HP bikes. But that makes less sales 😂😂😂😂
Hey dude, you do you. If you like the bike, ride it. Like Frank M in the comments below, I have a 97 883 in the stable along with an 02 Dyna. The Sportster is a blast to ride. If you dig it, ride it. There is a girl (Moto Dasha) on here that was an HD mechanic, and she said that she replaced 2 RevMax motors in a bike, one due to chain tensioner issues, and the next is one they never figured out what the problem was. Enjoy the ride, young Jedi.
Bro I want to. But more importantly. I want to figure out how to get pan am power in the sportster. I’ve been trying to figure out what the parts I need are !
@@NostalgicMotorcycles I got my 23 sportster S tuned with a cat delete exhaust from Freedom Performance with a dyno tune. It was putting out 115 hp 93 torque to the wheel. I hope it’s possible to get pan am specs onto Sportster. I do plan on trading my Sportster in for a Pan Am, it is miles above with regards to comfort, and the power is just a bit higher at around 6-7k rpm rather than 3-5krpm!
Ya for me I have other bikes that are more comfortable so getting another bike for the same purpose isn’t really beneficial to me personally. My vfr is comfortable and faster. However a muscle cruiser that’s fun ! Also the sportster wouldn’t really be hurt by a higher powerband it will still rip as it’s a lighter bike for 90ft lbs of torque i doubt it would be something anyone really notices.
@@NostalgicMotorcycles aw hell yeah dude! My current stable are a ‘23 Z H2 SE, ‘23 Sportster S, ‘06 R6, ‘17 690 Enduro R (specced for 90-10 off-on road), ‘23 TNT135(my lil baby). I’ve been wanting a more long distance tourer and a VFR was one of the choices, but I went with the Pan Am as it has some off road capabilities. I also have been wanting to test ride a Diavel, VMAX, and the new Rocket 3 R Storm to add to the stable as a pure muscle cruiser. If you also end up doing some reviews on either the Panigale V2 or the 990 RC R when it comes out, I’ll for sure keep an eye out on your channel if you test ride any of these! Haha
Oh hell ya man you have the speed end covered so I see why the adventure would fill the gap. I don’t go off road ever really. And I have a street fighter v4 I should be doing any day now not a v2. But I did a Supersport s before I know the v2 has more juice for sure. I’ll do my best to see how I can source them. A lot of these bikes are locals letting me ride so it’s kind of the willingness of others to make it happen.
Harley Davidson needed to built more modern bikes like a Sportster S. Too much competition now with BMW and Indian on the market. Younger generation people might not exactly like old style Harley motorcycles and needs something more modern with different look, performance and features. What they can’t ever do is to stop making old style motorcycles. Those classic, low RPM loud and mean looking bikes should always be in production. I believe that Harley Davidson is on the right track with what they’re doing. I love classic Harley Davidson and will continue to ride it, but my 22 year old son is getting a Sportster S model in a few days. I know, we’ll have tons of fun riding together.
I want them to take the rev max and put it into a low rider S type frame with electric goodies and led lights. You'd have a real winner. Come on harley!
Bro. Even size it large because people apparently buy Harley for the big displacement number and nothing else 🤦🏽♂️🤦🏽♂️🤦🏽♂️. But make this 1250. Maybe 1700-1800 so it still a respectable CI size. But makes way more power and equal torque lol.
I think it looks pretty awesome. Mainly because it looks different from other bikes. I will say I agree it looks better without the hugger but I don’t want my back all soaked if it rains lol. So it’s a function thing. Working on the exhaust.
at 13,000 miles no issues never stranded, women love the bike too I absolutely believe this is the best Harley Davidson ever made all the other models are way too slow nothing can compete not even Indian lmao
I have experienced the same thing. Mine has 10k miles. I did have one warranty issue with the front sprocket and software updates. But I get looks and comments about what is that. And it’s a fast bike. I made a video racing a zx6r and the sporty help up nice !
I don’t disagree with you but this bike is sport with the engine. And level of speed for the Harley lineup. Obviously it’s not a Supersport but sporty for a Harley it is.
Why are people afraid of tech they dont even have to use.... most of it is stone reliable but besides that most motorcycles of any size and modernity literally HAVE to have a "computer" since they have like fuel injection and catalytic converters and abs brakes etc....and though Harley failed to offer it man a quick shifter is AWESOME to have on any bike with a substantial clutch pull especially if one has some arthritis creeping in etc. I doont understand the fear/hatred of tech on a motorcycle especially when there are PLENTY of barely used OLD bikes on the market if someone really wants to go backwards in in time ....go buy yourself an old model with carbureators and analog clocks and relish going without
Because in reality the mechanic parts rarely fail. But the sensors go bad regularly. Causing lights and sometimes your bike not to run due to a sensor when everything is mechanically fine. Most of the time modern bikes go down it’s an electrical failure. If a cam sensor goes out your bike won’t run 🤷🏽♂️🤷🏽♂️. I understand why and how it works and why it won’t run. But it’s simply the fact that the electronics fail before the mechanical parts. Which is a good thing. If the electronics did not fail. And replacing sensors was not a thing the conversation would be different. Also on even more modern bikes they have a can bus system and if one part fails like a turn signal it could effect your bike turning on (this is not true for most bikes but an example). That’s dumb. 2020 Silverado’s if the right headlight goes out it literally bricks the whole truck. Makes no fucking sense. For a dam headlight bulb. $15 bucks bricks the whole truck
Not exactly yes injection makes more power. But there is a way to have those lights with no ecu. The sensor can read to the dash directly. Honeslty it’s nice but for a gearhead like me. I can know all that without the warning. Lmao it’s called look for yourself learn your vehicle. You can feel a flat tire. You can hear an engine making funny sounds. The turn signals click different when the bulb burns out. I get not everyone knows this but it doesn’t make it any less true.
Dissapointed they failed to follow through with the original plan....the boulivard? With actual right sized wheels and mid controls.....I dont want the SPortster S AT ALL
Watched a video where the cam chain tensioners grenaded the engine , overhead valves no pushrods .You cannot pull this engine you have to totally remove the rear of the bike to get the engine out . Imagine paying for this when out of warranty . Give it another name . It's not a Sportster . If speeds your thing there are plenty of faster less expensive bikes out there .
Ohhh you sound like every Harley tech ever Lmfaoooo. Most bikes are designed like this now. Ducati since the 90s really. But sport bikes, adv etc. hard frames are really a technology of the past just used by American manufacturers similar to how American trucks are done. But I get it change is hard and you have to adapt and learn something new. Omg.
Sportster S is one of the most beautiful motorcycles of 2020s Amazingly powerful motorcycle . Looks classic and modern at the same time. Being a owner of 2 traditional and 1 modern harleys i love this motorcycle.
Hell ya man, That is Awesome to hear ! I talk alot of crap but one of my "dream Bikes" is a last gen Dyna low rider S. I love the dyna Low more than the softtail for sure. Getting hard to come by and I knew the sportster would be more fun for me right now over the prior dyna engines.
Harley traditionalists can be annoying. Its almost like they dont appreciate performance much at all. Personally, im excited that harley is able to compete objectively with the reest of the motorcycle world again. Hoping one day we'll see a Harley competing at the isle of mann or something.
LMAO they apreciate performance contextually when it comes to Comparing one to the last year !! and as for real racing oof thats a long shot but with king of the bagger we are getting closer !
@@NostalgicMotorcycles yeah. Baby steps lol. Have you checked out any of the bagger racing league events? Allot more diversity in manufacturers, engine set ups etc. sportsters, buells, Yamaha, Suzukis all lining up. Turbos vs non turbo baggers...I even saw a sumo racing next to a sport bike! Really cool stuff. Love the videos btw.
Man do I have the video for you. Scout 101 vs the SS. I will say sportster s is faster. Period. Butt dyno agrees lol ua-cam.com/video/Kvji9NBHkVw/v-deo.htmlsi=eVCFVKfZatnYElbr
Just binge watching all your content and watched it 👌. Have a 101 now but did have a 2023 sportster s. The sportsters was indeed faster and pulled harder with less drama ( more electronic feel in power) the scout with the s&s pipe sounds amazing 👏. I love them both for sure ! The 101 is better on longer journeys and just feels more relaxed with a nice bunch of power. Great reviews buddy 👍 totally agree on your points.
Oh god yes. No comparison. The Sportster had like 50 more HP and I think 20more tq. And this is me guessing in the 1100s power I think it’s 80/70 something around there. But ya that’s motor is a beast !
I will say the rebel is more comfortable to ride the position is more friendly. Lower seat taller bars. The suspension on the rebel has no comparison to this. The sportster will feel like it’s riding with no suspension after getting off a rebel. And the rebel will handle better. It’s an easier bike to ride. Not that you can’t just more approachable. The sportster has its quirks But power no chance.
Not sure if the intension of this video was to set an example. It’s kind of based on how to adjust your suspension so you it’s not as bad as people say it is. Also not sure this is where new riders will be going for advice either. 🤷🏽♂️ but I really don’t know who watches my video so I could be wrong.
lol No one said anything about the diavel. Yes its faster. yes its a twin. Completely different bike for a completely different user. Ducati Calls it a cruiser but really. Height, weight size this thing the closest thing to a naked sport tourer that ever existed and that's not even a class. This bike is 100% sport tourer regardless of what Ducati calls it. It is fast though I would love to ride one and make a video explaining what im saying. I like ruffling feathers lol
@@NostalgicMotorcycles I'm pretty sure Harley said the S is a sport cruiser , just like Ducati said the diaval is a sport cruise, same category . You mentioned that the S is a fast cruiser. I've ridden both the duck is hyper fast just stating a fact ....fyi the X diaval has the same set up as the sportster S forward control an belt drive
I don’t disagree. The sportster S is a fast cruiser. The diavel is faster. Those are facts. Harley called this a sport cruiser but really it’s a muscle cruiser lmfaoo. Cruiser with power. It doesn’t sport handle or sport stop at all. Just being realistic. Same with the diavel. It doesn’t cruise handle or cruiser ergos. Control location doesn’t make it a cruiser. Put a diavel next to a MT-10 it’s the same size and shape. Call it what you will. Manufactures use names that sell like I said in the video for the mustang and the (Mach-e). Both are called “mustangs” Doesn’t make it true. Make sense ?
These Bikes are a Hot-Mess for H-D, they are unreliable turds..Especially, the 2021 you're on. Strong Sport Mode, but very unreliable. Perhaps they fixed all the Gremlins with the 2024 models, but ultimately, it's a Warranty Junkie, with a Host of issues
Honeslty never been stranded bro. Haven’t had any issues outside of the original battery drainage which was updated and solved in 2022 so it’s old news. When it’s off for too long some light turn in at start but go away after a minute or 2. I can say in my experience as an owner I disagree.
@@NostalgicMotorcycles Issues with this engine is all over UA-cam. From the Pan-America, to this Sportster. There’s a channel with some poor guy in Canada with a 2021, that just documents his trips for warranty work with his. It’s a Beast in Sport mode, but as far as trusting models all the way to 2023, never. Hopefully they fixed the Bugs By 2024, But the stigma of unreliability has been set.
Always remember the negative voices will always be heard the loudest. I’m pretty sure I know who you’re talking about but if you go on the forums there are plenty of good stories of this as well. As I said. I own the bike. It’s mine I paid for it it’s in my garage it’s not hear say it’s not internet research it’s hands on experience. It’s fine. I replaced a remote battery and the actual battery 3 years into that’s it. 2 software updates at the dealer and off she goes. I have 100 miles short of 10k on the clock.
@@NostalgicMotorcycles And I wish you well with it, I hope H-D Pits this engine (A reliable Engine) into the pending “Bronx”, and not the 975 Version like that Trainwreck Nightster. My Bikes are a 2023 Triumph Rocket 3R, and a 2023 Ducati Monster SP, and 7 prior H-Ds. All BulletProof. 🇺🇸, So far My Ducati has been Flawless, and my Triumph is a Nuclear Weapon. Either way, Ride safe 👋🛴
@@NostalgicMotorcycles I would change sprocket myself knocking top speed down some and make 0-100 faster. There's just no reason to be spending time over a hundred for any reason on public roads
You don’t live in Florida where triple digits happen regularly lol. 🤷🏽♂️🤷🏽♂️ In a hypothetical world of last weekend I was cruising 30 min away all i95 all 85-110 depending on traffic. That’s what might happen any given day. It’s all possible lmaoo
That thing is not a Sportster. Not in any way,shape,or form. It is an ugly abomination and a shopping list of mechanical issues. HD makes BMW look cheap.
Lmfao sounds like a BMW fan commenting. I agree it should not be called sportster as I said if you watched the video lol. As an owner with 10k miles. I have not been left stranded.
@@frankmarkovcijr5459 Hey Anything is possible I can not say 100% that it wont happen but that statement is true for any and every bike on planet earth. so grain of salt type thing
@@frankmarkovcijr5459 Do you know what percentage of these bikes have had any of these problems. I understand that there have been bikes with issues (this is true for every motorcycle ever created) do 20% of the bike have engine failure? 50/60/70% or are we talking closer to 2-3% again like all motorcycles. Pick your favorite. The one you ride or don't. I guarantee the percentage is the same. people who complain, scream the loudest. I know of a few Japan model bikes made in Japan and different from USA made bikes have these issues not many here that I heard of. Same with electrical issues ? software issues are annoying and shouldn't happen but I don't really count that as a problem as all companies have software issues. Again check the percentage compare that to your personal preference and see the difference. Again percentage of units not number. Harley sells more bikes so total units are higher but percentage. 2 out of 100 is 2% Same as 200 out of 1000. Once you get your research done, I would love to hear your findings. I'll make a video about if you would like. Regardless of your findings good or bad. The title of this being unreliable will be very attractive and I look Forward to blowing some serious stats up people's backsides if it's really that bad.
What do you think of this review ua-cam.com/video/JeKYiWr_CjI/v-deo.htmlsi=oeOLwAypF94pBRo5 About having problems with rev maxx engine? Are you experiencing any now? Im planning to get nightster special or the sportster. Im torn about the reliability as im 250miles to HD mechanics if worts comes to worst
That sounds like one bad experience to one person but I have heard of different oiling issues. Personally I have not had any. I had an issue with my front sprocket but that was a mechanical part nothing electronic.
🧐 I don't care WHAT it is....JUST DON'T CALL IT A SPORTSTER!!!! 😠😡🤬 ( It AIN'T no Fuckin' Sportster, don't Look, Sound or Feel like a Sportster....Just as Dylan Mulvaney is NOT a real woman, THIS is not a real SPORTSTER) 😠!!!! (It's something else entirely to be fair, but it's no Sportster) 🫤.
Hi I'm 79 been riding HD all my life and just bought the 1250s can't stop smiling 👍👊
Oh man. That’s beautiful ! It’s a fast machine. Good you love it !
Have to say I’ve never had a bike where I’ve had so many people want to take a pic or ask me what it is. Case closed Harley should build more bikes like the Sportster S. Love it
Broooo same here. So many random people do the same with me. Even non motorcycle people are interested and ask what it is !
Same
Nice. What year/color combo do you have ?
@@NostalgicMotorcycles 2021 White
👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽. That is my #2 pick for sure. Prefer it over blue and green and what ever new color they have now.
I bought a 2024 sportster s. I want to paint the mufflers Blk. Any suggestions with out the blk fading.
I used heat paint for grills and engine. Kind of all the same thing. It hasn’t faded but it was rubbed off by the passenger heat shield.
@ ? Rubbed off
@@gjokmarki The plastic of the rear leg heatshield melted on the metal heat shield your trying to paint and caused the paint to come off.
Great video. totally agree with all of it except the "old man" comments! I am 58 yo and I love this bike so much I am already on my 2nd one. The 1st one I bought slightly used and unfortunately it overheated and blew the engine. I went out after that and purchased a brand new one that I go ripping on.
Lmfao that’s awesome !! And those comments were not directed towards you obviously. Your one of the cool one haha. Plenty have spoken up on this one !
How does the rear suspension handle pillon rider? Does it bottom out? how's the muffler heat on your right leg?
Passenger riding sucks. You can do it. It the seat is tiny and it’s a stiff ride for the passenger. The bike does not bottom out if the suspension is set correctly for the weight and heat it’s a problem with king pants. Shorts can get hot in the thigh at lights. Not burning but discomfort.
Now look here, kid, a little less of the cheap shots at the 'old people' if you please. I'm 67 and I ride a Sportster S. And I ride it fast.
Hahaha your not the people I’m talking about for sure. I know there are a lot of older riders who love this bike. It’s more of the closed minded individuals than the older group if I’m being honest!! Just ruffling feathers is all !!
I know, I'm just yanking your chain a bit. 😂@@NostalgicMotorcycles
@@markgoode77 Hey When I get there I would love to be ripping around a faster bike. I can see it now. I can appreciate the tradition, but it has its time and place.
Are you using mid controls or forward controls?
Mine has forwards !
Going back to the passenger seat, is it just really uncomfortable and needs an aftermarkey seat or is it not practical to have a passenger?
Very small seat and not comfortable. She hurt her back riding on this thing lol. It’s worse then riding on the back of a sport bike lol
do you think I could comfortably fit a person on the back if i bite the $ bullet and get the passenger kit?
Can they fit, Yes. Comfortable. Ehhhh. this is my one and only bike my wife will not ride backpack on. I have a zx6r which she would prefer to be on the back of over the sporty.
I was in Montreal with my 2021 Sportster S and was stopped and complimented the entire trip! Love this bike!
I get more compliments in the looks of this bike than any other bike hands down. People don’t even know what it is.
@@NostalgicMotorcycles Same here!
💪🏼💪🏼 I love it. It’s not going anywhere.
This will be my first Harley, it looks amazing and power is impressive
Dude it’s an aggressive bike ! Very fast and fun. Honestly I love it !
The best review on UA-cam, for sure. I have a 2023 that ive spent money on for upgrades... highly recommend the Zard exhaust, that sounds vastly improved. Never had an issue and im still loving the bike as a second toy.
I have now subscribed and looking forward to seeing your other vids. Keep up the good work, mate.
Any suggestions for having a play with the rider modes? I thought sport mode is fastest?
Thank you thank you. That zard is nice. I think my heart is set on the cobrasport.
I use A mod always. Which is basically sport mode with engine braking turned up. But full send all the time lol.
It’s my second Harley and yes; Harley should have made this bike. It’s a beast of a bike. I have a completely customized Road Glide, and I wanted something smaller/ sportier as a second bike and after a text rude, I had to have it. The power of this thing is on par with some of the liter bikes I’ve owned in the past.
Oh ya. My next trick will be trying to get this thing to make pan America power!!! 💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼 not sure when though.
I have a Sportster S. This is my first HD. I hate the small tank size, I dislike the lack of suspension (getting it replaced next) and I wish it came with twin front brakes. I love everything else about it. Beautiful. Unique. V-Twin. I have had no electronic issues in the last 14 months
Hey no bike is perfect so I understand ! Glad you’re enjoying it !!
That doesn’t fit in at all with the conversation. You kind of sound like someone who doesn’t ride many motorcycles or is very limited in experience.
@NostalgicMotorcycles some people hate Harleys. It's their perogative. I understand it's not everyone's cup of tea. I love some of their bikes and the community is the best in the business
It really is a cult type community for sure but that didn’t happen on accident either. Only few brands reach that level. They had to do something right. But I enjoy most bikes. I don’t try and get them to be what they aren’t
@El_Peto if you made the same “mistake” 40 times I don’t think the bike is the problem. Most people will not like something 1 times and that’s enough. If it’s not for you it’s not for you. But 40 I find it hard to believe.
Damn, as a former Evo Sportster owner and now a 600 sport bike owner, you got me curious about this bike! I been doing research (watching youtube reviews) on this bike for a few days! I think it's time for a test ride!
Go for it. This is a beast !
Also for your reference I made this video below. 600 vs the sporty
ua-cam.com/video/IXZsVue3U58/v-deo.htmlsi=r2QOZypckUQHFztl
@@NostalgicMotorcycles I'll check it out, thanks!
@@sportstermissions enjoy man. ! I want to build a project sportster to 150whp 💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼. Gotta keep the content coming and I’ll make it happen. It’s doable with pan America parts.
I love "our" Sportster S. It's technically my husband's but I ride it now 😂. He has to get on his Indian Roadmaster when I want to ride. It is the first bike I've ever rode and it is a great bike all around. Everything you say is spot on, especially the hot looks and the hang-up on the shifing. Great video, thanks!
Hahaha thank you !! And don’t worry you’re not alone when I leave to work my wife takes mine out for joy rides too !!
Have you tried swapping out the tires yet to improve the turning thing you were talking about?
Nope that is still the factory front.
I am struggling to find a front tire that wide. Not many tire companies make them. I can get a rear and mount it to the front but I haven’t seen anyone else doing this. I am considering going slightly more narrow in the front when I replace it but I haven’t done the research to see what sizes will fit the wheel.
So no not really.
I test rode one, a little small for me. I'll keep my VROD until they make something comparable, and my VRSCF still looks so much better and has triple discs.
I will say the v rod is a bad ass looking bike man. This looks good but the vrod looks bad ass especially custom builds. It has a presence for sure.
The biggest and sometimes only issue with Harley Davidsons, is price point. The Sportster S is a fantastic machine, but its over $16k msrp, and that means you're spending around $18k out the door! Ridiculous price for a bike that should be around $15k brand new. The Indian FTR1200 is $13,499 and makes a strong case for being an equal or better machine. The 130hp Suzuki Boulevard M109r is just over $15k, and is a proven machine. A Harley Fatboy is over $20k and it's lacking in almost every catagory in comparison. Objectively, Harleys are friggin AWESOME....but as soon as you bring price into the picture its game over!
Ohh hell ya. The Harley Davidson is branded very well and can charge for such. People still buy them, brand is strong man. I do agree this bike is expensive and most Harleys are. Other Brands for sure give you bang for buck. Thats not Harley. I can say I have not been upset at any Harley I have ridden until I consider the price.
Check out the videos of the Sportster vs the Indian…. The sportsters motor is unmatched. It walked away from both the Indian and other bikes in its class. I agree… it’s expensive though.
Hell it walked away from my zx6 lmaoo !!
Sportser s is a bad ass bike jist really wish they did dual breakes up feont.
Ya I’m sure there is enough space for it lol. People will mod them later on down the line
The Sportster S is one of the bikes I own. From the beginning (2 years ago) having issues with it tbh. It seems they are all finally solved. Now it rides like it should and....I love it.
But yeah, maybe they shouldn't have named it a Sportster. It reminds me more of a V-Rod, or is it just me?
Greetings from Belgium.
Very similar concept to a v rod. I think it’s different enough as the rod was more cruiser. I think it should have had its own name personally. What that is I don’t know 🤷🏽♂️🤷🏽♂️
Love it or hate it, this is the direction HD has to go in to survive. I'd bet real money the next gen Big twin will be completely liquid cooled as well.
Lmfao of course. But they are milking it. Oil cooled heads now liquid cooled heads just to say it’s not fully cooled lmaoo.
Marketing is crazy though. This 12500cc. Is like 76CI makes 120hp/90tq. Won’t overheat while doing it. The new 121ci is 1950cc. Almost double the displacement to make the same power number. And with size comes torque. But imagine. Just imagine. A 121ci rev max. It would make over 150hp easily. Obviously it won’t be all gains but thing about a 150/160 road glide out the box. The pan am makes 150 with 76CI.
Going liquid cooled and some actual performance out the box could make the baggers 200+HP bikes. But that makes less sales 😂😂😂😂
Spot on analysis. You get it.
💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼 I bought one lol. Of course man
Hey dude, you do you. If you like the bike, ride it. Like Frank M in the comments below, I have a 97 883 in the stable along with an 02 Dyna. The Sportster is a blast to ride. If you dig it, ride it. There is a girl (Moto Dasha) on here that was an HD mechanic, and she said that she replaced 2 RevMax motors in a bike, one due to chain tensioner issues, and the next is one they never figured out what the problem was. Enjoy the ride, young Jedi.
Will do !
Hope to see you test ride the pan am soon!
Bro I want to. But more importantly. I want to figure out how to get pan am power in the sportster. I’ve been trying to figure out what the parts I need are !
@@NostalgicMotorcycles I got my 23 sportster S tuned with a cat delete exhaust from Freedom Performance with a dyno tune. It was putting out 115 hp 93 torque to the wheel.
I hope it’s possible to get pan am specs onto Sportster. I do plan on trading my Sportster in for a Pan Am, it is miles above with regards to comfort, and the power is just a bit higher at around 6-7k rpm rather than 3-5krpm!
Ya for me I have other bikes that are more comfortable so getting another bike for the same purpose isn’t really beneficial to me personally. My vfr is comfortable and faster. However a muscle cruiser that’s fun ! Also the sportster wouldn’t really be hurt by a higher powerband it will still rip as it’s a lighter bike for 90ft lbs of torque i doubt it would be something anyone really notices.
@@NostalgicMotorcycles aw hell yeah dude! My current stable are a ‘23 Z H2 SE, ‘23 Sportster S, ‘06 R6, ‘17 690 Enduro R (specced for 90-10 off-on road), ‘23 TNT135(my lil baby).
I’ve been wanting a more long distance tourer and a VFR was one of the choices, but I went with the Pan Am as it has some off road capabilities.
I also have been wanting to test ride a Diavel, VMAX, and the new Rocket 3 R Storm to add to the stable as a pure muscle cruiser.
If you also end up doing some reviews on either the Panigale V2 or the 990 RC R when it comes out, I’ll for sure keep an eye out on your channel if you test ride any of these! Haha
Oh hell ya man you have the speed end covered so I see why the adventure would fill the gap. I don’t go off road ever really. And I have a street fighter v4 I should be doing any day now not a v2. But I did a Supersport s before I know the v2 has more juice for sure. I’ll do my best to see how I can source them. A lot of these bikes are locals letting me ride so it’s kind of the willingness of others to make it happen.
Faster than the New 101 Scout Bobber?
Very close. I will race them if I get the chance !
Harley Davidson needed to built more modern bikes like a Sportster S. Too much competition now with BMW and Indian on the market. Younger generation people might not exactly like old style Harley motorcycles and needs something more modern with different look, performance and features. What they can’t ever do is to stop making old style motorcycles. Those classic, low RPM loud and mean looking bikes should always be in production.
I believe that Harley Davidson is on the right track with what they’re doing.
I love classic Harley Davidson and will continue to ride it, but my 22 year old son is getting a Sportster S model in a few days. I know, we’ll have tons of fun riding together.
100% agreed. I will say it will surprise you for sure. You might enjoy more than you think. I know he will.
I love it. The torque is insane! I think this bike is actually a Cafe Racer on steriods. The black sheep of the family 😂
100%. This thing pulls really strong from basically 3,00” rpm forward. Obviously 4500-5000 is the sweet sport.
Cafe racers do not have forward pegs. They have rearsets.
Ya this bike is a weird one to fit into a box !
I have my second Pan America Special.
I agree 100% with you about modes.
My PA stays in full power Sport mode
Why in hell would anyone want less.
Exactly !! Honestly I want to try and get Pan am power out of the sportster S. Basically a head swap will do it. 150 hp SS would be a beast
@@NostalgicMotorcycles
A 150 Hp Bronx would be even better.
Ya but we don’t have that so 🤷🏽♂️🤷🏽♂️
@NostalgicMotorcycles
There have been several bike builders who have built Pan Ams into naked sport bikes.
@@paulwojnar2291 ooo. I’ll look that up Honeslty haven’t seen one !
I want them to take the rev max and put it into a low rider S type frame with electric goodies and led lights. You'd have a real winner. Come on harley!
Bro. Even size it large because people apparently buy Harley for the big displacement number and nothing else 🤦🏽♂️🤦🏽♂️🤦🏽♂️. But make this 1250. Maybe 1700-1800 so it still a respectable CI size. But makes way more power and equal torque lol.
I thought this bike was ugly as sin when it came out. Its grown on me since. I'd turf the hugger, get an exhaust and it'd be great.
I think it looks pretty awesome. Mainly because it looks different from other bikes.
I will say I agree it looks better without the hugger but I don’t want my back all soaked if it rains lol. So it’s a function thing. Working on the exhaust.
Yeah, love my sportster s also.. just put yss susspension on it to soften it up for my skinny arse, big change.
Nice is it any longer ?
at 13,000 miles no issues never stranded, women love the bike too I absolutely believe this is the best Harley Davidson ever made all the other models are way too slow nothing can compete not even Indian lmao
I have experienced the same thing. Mine has 10k miles. I did have one warranty issue with the front sprocket and software updates. But I get looks and comments about what is that. And it’s a fast bike. I made a video racing a zx6r and the sporty help up nice !
If you're going to have 'sport' anywhere in the name then you need to offer a variant with an actual sporty riding position, like the XR1200 does.
I don’t disagree with you but this bike is sport with the engine. And level of speed for the Harley lineup. Obviously it’s not a Supersport but sporty for a Harley it is.
Would be great if they could make bikes like this without a computer in it.
This bike would literally not run hahahaha.
I do agree though !
Why are people afraid of tech they dont even have to use.... most of it is stone reliable but besides that most motorcycles of any size and modernity literally HAVE to have a "computer" since they have like fuel injection and catalytic converters and abs brakes etc....and though Harley failed to offer it man a quick shifter is AWESOME to have on any bike with a substantial clutch pull especially if one has some arthritis creeping in etc. I doont understand the fear/hatred of tech on a motorcycle especially when there are PLENTY of barely used OLD bikes on the market if someone really wants to go backwards in in time ....go buy yourself an old model with carbureators and analog clocks and relish going without
As the same question will pop up endlessly: I want to be able to repair my own bike. That's it.
Because in reality the mechanic parts rarely fail. But the sensors go bad regularly. Causing lights and sometimes your bike not to run due to a sensor when everything is mechanically fine. Most of the time modern bikes go down it’s an electrical failure. If a cam sensor goes out your bike won’t run 🤷🏽♂️🤷🏽♂️. I understand why and how it works and why it won’t run. But it’s simply the fact that the electronics fail before the mechanical parts. Which is a good thing. If the electronics did not fail. And replacing sensors was not a thing the conversation would be different. Also on even more modern bikes they have a can bus system and if one part fails like a turn signal it could effect your bike turning on (this is not true for most bikes but an example). That’s dumb.
2020 Silverado’s if the right headlight goes out it literally bricks the whole truck. Makes no fucking sense. For a dam headlight bulb. $15 bucks bricks the whole truck
Not exactly yes injection makes more power. But there is a way to have those lights with no ecu. The sensor can read to the dash directly.
Honeslty it’s nice but for a gearhead like me. I can know all that without the warning. Lmao it’s called look for yourself learn your vehicle. You can feel a flat tire. You can hear an engine making funny sounds. The turn signals click different when the bulb burns out.
I get not everyone knows this but it doesn’t make it any less true.
Dissapointed they failed to follow through with the original plan....the boulivard? With actual right sized wheels and mid controls.....I dont want the SPortster S AT ALL
Have you ridden one ?
For my noobies if you want this bike keep the mode to rain more and start there
Ya 100% it’s a besst
Watched a video where the cam chain tensioners grenaded the engine , overhead valves no pushrods .You cannot pull this engine you have to totally remove the rear of the bike to get the engine out . Imagine paying for this when out of warranty . Give it another name . It's not a Sportster . If speeds your thing there are plenty of faster less expensive bikes out there .
Ohhh you sound like every Harley tech ever Lmfaoooo. Most bikes are designed like this now. Ducati since the 90s really. But sport bikes, adv etc. hard frames are really a technology of the past just used by American manufacturers similar to how American trucks are done. But I get it change is hard and you have to adapt and learn something new. Omg.
Sportster S is one of the most beautiful motorcycles of 2020s
Amazingly powerful motorcycle .
Looks classic and modern at the same time.
Being a owner of 2 traditional and 1 modern harleys i love this motorcycle.
Hell ya man, That is Awesome to hear ! I talk alot of crap but one of my "dream Bikes" is a last gen Dyna low rider S. I love the dyna Low more than the softtail for sure. Getting hard to come by and I knew the sportster would be more fun for me right now over the prior dyna engines.
Harley traditionalists can be annoying. Its almost like they dont appreciate performance much at all.
Personally, im excited that harley is able to compete objectively with the reest of the motorcycle world again. Hoping one day we'll see a Harley competing at the isle of mann or something.
LMAO they apreciate performance contextually when it comes to Comparing one to the last year !! and as for real racing oof thats a long shot but with king of the bagger we are getting closer !
@@NostalgicMotorcycles yeah. Baby steps lol. Have you checked out any of the bagger racing league events? Allot more diversity in manufacturers, engine set ups etc. sportsters, buells, Yamaha, Suzukis all lining up. Turbos vs non turbo baggers...I even saw a sumo racing next to a sport bike! Really cool stuff. Love the videos btw.
Honestly I have not. I don’t spend alot of time watching racing if I’m being honest. Thank you as well I appreciate it.
💪
💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼
At 9:10 minutes into the video you explained everything. That's the reason I bought mine.
@@atv4x4pr lmfaooo !!! Comfortable to while speeding ! 😂😂😂😂
Power compared to the scout 101 ? Butt dyno ? 😂
Man do I have the video for you. Scout 101 vs the SS.
I will say sportster s is faster. Period. Butt dyno agrees lol
ua-cam.com/video/Kvji9NBHkVw/v-deo.htmlsi=eVCFVKfZatnYElbr
Just binge watching all your content and watched it 👌. Have a 101 now but did have a 2023 sportster s. The sportsters was indeed faster and pulled harder with less drama ( more electronic feel in power) the scout with the s&s pipe sounds amazing 👏. I love them both for sure ! The 101 is better on longer journeys and just feels more relaxed with a nice bunch of power. Great reviews buddy 👍 totally agree on your points.
Thank you very much that helps a lot !!!
And that’s awesome to know that owning both I got the point correct. It’s always nice! Thank you again 💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼
So this bike would take my rebel 1100 no problem eh?
Oh god yes. No comparison. The Sportster had like 50 more HP and I think 20more tq. And this is me guessing in the 1100s power I think it’s 80/70 something around there. But ya that’s motor is a beast !
@@NostalgicMotorcycles yea it's somewhere around there.
I will say the rebel is more comfortable to ride the position is more friendly. Lower seat taller bars. The suspension on the rebel has no comparison to this. The sportster will feel like it’s riding with no suspension after getting off a rebel. And the rebel will handle better. It’s an easier bike to ride. Not that you can’t just more approachable. The sportster has its quirks
But power no chance.
Let’s see it from the left side 😂
Wammppp wammmpp wammmpppppp. No can do lmao. I don’t really show that side in any bike but I know where you are going
Not setting a good example to new riders....put your protective gear on....
Not sure if the intension of this video was to set an example. It’s kind of based on how to adjust your suspension so you it’s not as bad as people say it is.
Also not sure this is where new riders will be going for advice either. 🤷🏽♂️ but I really don’t know who watches my video so I could be wrong.
The Sportster s is fas ..until you ride a Ducati diaval 😮
lol No one said anything about the diavel. Yes its faster. yes its a twin. Completely different bike for a completely different user. Ducati Calls it a cruiser but really. Height, weight size this thing the closest thing to a naked sport tourer that ever existed and that's not even a class. This bike is 100% sport tourer regardless of what Ducati calls it. It is fast though I would love to ride one and make a video explaining what im saying. I like ruffling feathers lol
@@NostalgicMotorcycles I'm pretty sure Harley said the S is a sport cruiser , just like Ducati said the diaval is a sport cruise, same category . You mentioned that the S is a fast cruiser. I've ridden both the duck is hyper fast just stating a fact ....fyi the X diaval has the same set up as the sportster S forward control an belt drive
I don’t disagree. The sportster S is a fast cruiser. The diavel is faster. Those are facts.
Harley called this a sport cruiser but really it’s a muscle cruiser lmfaoo. Cruiser with power. It doesn’t sport handle or sport stop at all. Just being realistic.
Same with the diavel. It doesn’t cruise handle or cruiser ergos. Control location doesn’t make it a cruiser. Put a diavel next to a MT-10 it’s the same size and shape. Call it what you will. Manufactures use names that sell like I said in the video for the mustang and the (Mach-e). Both are called “mustangs” Doesn’t make it true. Make sense ?
These Bikes are a Hot-Mess for H-D, they are unreliable turds..Especially, the 2021 you're on. Strong Sport Mode, but very unreliable. Perhaps they fixed all the Gremlins with the 2024 models, but ultimately, it's a Warranty Junkie, with a Host of issues
Honeslty never been stranded bro. Haven’t had any issues outside of the original battery drainage which was updated and solved in 2022 so it’s old news. When it’s off for too long some light turn in at start but go away after a minute or 2. I can say in my experience as an owner I disagree.
@@NostalgicMotorcycles
Issues with this engine is all over UA-cam. From the Pan-America, to this Sportster.
There’s a channel with some poor guy in Canada with a 2021, that just documents his trips for warranty work with his.
It’s a Beast in Sport mode, but as far as trusting models all the way to 2023, never.
Hopefully they fixed the Bugs By 2024, But the stigma of unreliability has been set.
Always remember the negative voices will always be heard the loudest. I’m pretty sure I know who you’re talking about but if you go on the forums there are plenty of good stories of this as well. As I said. I own the bike. It’s mine I paid for it it’s in my garage it’s not hear say it’s not internet research it’s hands on experience. It’s fine. I replaced a remote battery and the actual battery 3 years into that’s it. 2 software updates at the dealer and off she goes. I have 100 miles short of 10k on the clock.
@@NostalgicMotorcycles
And I wish you well with it, I hope H-D Pits this engine (A reliable Engine) into the pending “Bronx”, and not the 975 Version like that Trainwreck Nightster.
My Bikes are a 2023 Triumph Rocket 3R, and a 2023 Ducati Monster SP, and 7 prior H-Ds. All BulletProof. 🇺🇸, So far My Ducati has been Flawless, and my Triumph is a Nuclear Weapon.
Either way, Ride safe 👋🛴
Hell ya man sounds like a fun group of bikes. Diverse. That’s awesome !! You are well man sunny side up.
Watch the blockhead video. Sportster s walks the mt09 in roll on and real world use
I know it does lol. 600s are faster than mt09.
@@NostalgicMotorcycles I would change sprocket myself knocking top speed down some and make 0-100 faster. There's just no reason to be spending time over a hundred for any reason on public roads
You don’t live in Florida where triple digits happen regularly lol. 🤷🏽♂️🤷🏽♂️
In a hypothetical world of last weekend I was cruising 30 min away all i95 all 85-110 depending on traffic. That’s what might happen any given day. It’s all possible lmaoo
@@NostalgicMotorcycles police don't set on hwy?
Ya of course. Just depends when and where.
Dude put some gloves on man.
🫡🫡 yes capitán
I am to older
I don’t know if that works. There are some older individuals 60+ that have them. They have left comments over time.
I don't trust any rider with an opinion who doesn't wear any gear
Interesting perspective there.
I would think gear has no bearing on the opinion of how a bike feels and rides. But that’s just me 😂🤷🏽♂️🤷🏽♂️🤷🏽♂️
That thing is not a Sportster. Not in any way,shape,or form. It is an ugly abomination and a shopping list of mechanical issues. HD makes BMW look cheap.
Lmfao sounds like a BMW fan commenting. I agree it should not be called sportster as I said if you watched the video lol. As an owner with 10k miles. I have not been left stranded.
@@NostalgicMotorcycles not yet you mean.
@@frankmarkovcijr5459 Hey Anything is possible I can not say 100% that it wont happen but that statement is true for any and every bike on planet earth. so grain of salt type thing
@@NostalgicMotorcycles it has many problems, so many bikes are deeply discounted just to move them. The list includes catastrophe engine failure.
@@frankmarkovcijr5459 Do you know what percentage of these bikes have had any of these problems. I understand that there have been bikes with issues (this is true for every motorcycle ever created)
do 20% of the bike have engine failure? 50/60/70% or are we talking closer to 2-3% again like all motorcycles. Pick your favorite. The one you ride or don't. I guarantee the percentage is the same. people who complain, scream the loudest. I know of a few Japan model bikes made in Japan and different from USA made bikes have these issues not many here that I heard of.
Same with electrical issues ? software issues are annoying and shouldn't happen but I don't really count that as a problem as all companies have software issues. Again check the percentage compare that to your personal preference and see the difference.
Again percentage of units not number. Harley sells more bikes so total units are higher but percentage. 2 out of 100 is 2%
Same as 200 out of 1000. Once you get your research done, I would love to hear your findings. I'll make a video about if you would like. Regardless of your findings good or bad.
The title of this being unreliable will be very attractive and I look Forward to blowing some serious stats up people's backsides if it's really that bad.
What do you think of this review ua-cam.com/video/JeKYiWr_CjI/v-deo.htmlsi=oeOLwAypF94pBRo5
About having problems with rev maxx engine? Are you experiencing any now?
Im planning to get nightster special or the sportster. Im torn about the reliability as im 250miles to HD mechanics if worts comes to worst
That sounds like one bad experience to one person but I have heard of different oiling issues. Personally I have not had any. I had an issue with my front sprocket but that was a mechanical part nothing electronic.
@@NostalgicMotorcycles i see. I hope the newer models are much refined now. 🤞
I know there was some electronics issues nothing keeping the bike from
Working. I know all that is done now to my knowledge.
🧐 I don't care WHAT it is....JUST DON'T CALL IT A SPORTSTER!!!! 😠😡🤬
( It AIN'T no Fuckin' Sportster, don't Look, Sound or Feel like a Sportster....Just as Dylan Mulvaney is NOT a real woman, THIS is not a real SPORTSTER) 😠!!!!
(It's something else entirely to be fair, but it's no Sportster) 🫤.
lol I said that in the video. I do agree !! And I own one