Harley-Davidson has outed its all-new Sportster S, which is expected to hit showrooms before year’s end priced from $26,495 rideaway.
The Sportster S, which was previewed by the Custom 1250 prototype, is the second model following the Pan America 1250 built on its new Revolution Max 1252cc V-twin platform, in this case outputting 90kW and 125Nm.
That’s significantly down on the adventure bike’s 112kW/127Nm figures, however, the Sportster S is much slimmer at 228 kilograms (wet) and delivers its power significantly lower in the rev-range.
With the new platform comes a modern electronics suite that brings cornering ABS and traction control, adjustable rider modes and cruise control, while data is displayed on a 4.0-inch TFT display with smartphone connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation.
The new Sportster carries over much from the original concept bike, including its low-slung stance, high-mounted exhaust and fat tyres on 17- and 16-inch cast wheels (front-to-rear).
Harley-Davidson is advertising this bike as a high performance model with ‘sport bike agility and handling’, despite its stretched riding position and foot-forward controls.
The suspension package sees 43mm forks up front and a monoshock cushioning the rear, both of which are adjustable for with compression, rebound and preload.
As standard, the freshly styled Harley-Davidson is finished in Vivid Black, while Midnight Crimson and Stone Washed White Pearl will be available as at $295 option.
For those looking to tour, the Sportster will be offered with dealer-fitted accessories like a quick release windshield, engine guards, pillion backrest and tail-bags, among other extras.
In terms of dimensions, the new Harley cruiser measures 2270mm in length, with a 1520mm wheelbase and 90mm of ground clearance, while the fuel tank holds up to 11.8 litres.
The latest addition to Harley-Davidson’s range should help it to compete with similar cruiser models like the Indian Scout Bobber ($19,995) and Triumph’s Bonneville Bobber ($21,890).
While the Sportster checks in with the highest price of the trio, it offers much more performance from its 1252cc V-twin than Indian’s 70kW/97Nm 1133cc equivalent, and Triumph’s 57kW/107Nm 1200cc parallel-twin.
Spencer has a keen eye for hard news, and does some of his best living on deadline day. He loves more than anything to travel on his motorcycle, and is adamant that Melbourne Bitter is a world-class lager. He also knows how to operate the big computery thing in the office. By night, Spencer plays guitar with Melbourne punk outfit LOUTS.
Interesting. I see what theyre trying, it’s very Scout ish. Better looking rig than that oth er thing…..