I think the fact that Harley brought y’all (moto vloggers) to LA to do this speaks volumes about their awareness of where this generation does it’s shopping and finds it’s information. Gone are the days of just relying on the “brand” or the “image”. Great job BH
Hey block, I just wanted to tell a quick cool story: I was at a random burger shack in TN and rode my Iron 1200 there. A H-D iron 883 owner rolled in. He came inside and found me and we talked for a bit. Then he goes “you ever heard of Blockhead?” And I was like “yeah I love Blockhead!” and we talked about how motivational you were to us getting bikes and customizing them. So thanks, pal.
I have a pan am and I can say it has a super liner power curve but after about 5500 in road mode the vvt kicks in and then it surges forward so that's the only thing to be aware of, I love this engine, I'm coming from a 2016 dyna
@@geraldscott4302 these new bikes are the only future for HD lol. Air cooled bikes will be banned with these emissions regulations. Why don’t u want an American company to innovate… unless you want a Chinese corporation to succeed ….
@@ChopperFett I (along with many other Harley owners) got an email well over a year ago from Harley with those pictures asking what our opinion on it was, so it's nice to see they kept it and are putting it to use. They didn't say it was a Sportster, but the side panels/oil tank gave it away 100%!
I really can’t wait to see what the aftermarket does with this! Kenetic exhaust, remove all that $hit off the rear tire, and that thing is gonna look really nice 👍
Has anyone noticed a similarity between the sportster s and the Evil Knievel stunt toy from the 70's/80's ? I want to see a red, white and blue Knievel addition.
Dude that thing’s like a luxury sports car. It’s got so many buttons and features! I love the different ride modes and the display with it’s music and gps. Looks fun
@@pnwdweler4100 same price isnt really a good thing when your sales are down and you have a new bike that you want to attract new riders with and grow your market share. Indian and HD are both playing in the sand box with maker like ducati with that price and the increased performance. i was expecting 13999 at most. time will tell.
I love it that Harley is now utilizing RUclips influencers! All the information I get on motorcycles and gear, that I don't get in person, is from RUclipsrs (mostly from Block). I can trust that I'm getting an honest opinion. I love Harley Davidson, and I always have, however it seems like they were getting out of touch with the consumer, and it's so awesome to see them turn that around. Thanks so much Blochead, as always you rock.
@@tomaless I have an 08 Fat Bob and would be keen to throw a leg over this Sporty to see what it feels like. In their promo vid HD did allude very briefly to more new sporties with a more classic design approach ... that will be interesting to see.
Long live the the sportster. When HD announced the end of the air cooled sportsters due to emissions I was a little sad but after seeing this my faith has been restored. Love this bike.
I’m finally happy that they caught up with the technology, specially with the new riding modes. , I would purchase this bike. Looks like a lot of fun to ride.
Loving the general look of the bike, can't wait to see it with mid controls, and a 1in bar riser. Also want to hear that engine uncorked and running a 2 into 1.
Thanks for sharing Erin’s perspective too! Appreciate it. Great video. Can not wait to actually ride it, I had a chance to sit on it just before you all took off on it in LAX. 🙌
HD really messed up big time dropping buell,it had most of the tech of the new sportster,decades ago! On the new sportster you look like your riding a sack of potato's😂
I used to ride that almost every weekend on my 48. I'd be sucking fumes on the way back....Then I lifted the tank and found out the hard way your capacity is reduced ;(
If I can play devils advocate, this bike is aimed at the European and British market and we'll eat up that exhaust all day long. Stick some Akraprovic slip-ons on it and this will sell like hotcakes on this side of the pond. It's a bobber, it's a street scrambler and it's retrofuturistic. Those are all big plusses here.
But the Vrod is better. Look up Vrod Fusion Grind and tell me that is not the coolest bike Harley ever made. The engine makes the same power as this turd on wheels and was made by Porsche
17:15 you've got some flexible ankles, Blockhead. I don't think my foot could be in that position. Maybe my lack of dexterity is the reasons I don't love forward controls.
Watching you guys & gals with those lean angles crave up Angeles Crest Highway on the bike is pretty impressive. Great captures in DTLA, across the LA River viaducts, up on ACH and down through Montrose back. Little taste of SoCal riding. 😎
Great preview, thanks Block! I can attest for the wheely control, in my Test Ride of the Pan Am I was on 3rd and went full throttle, it was an osh!t moment, I thought I was going to slide out of the seat and had to hold on for dear life but the front wheel never lifted up. It was a great test ride LOL
I am a long time Harley rider, I currently own a Twin Cam, and a Shovelhead. After watching your video I think I will be giving this new Sportster a test ride. My first Harley was a 1999 Sportster 1200 so I have always had a soft spot for them. Another great video! Cheers
man the fit and finish on this bike is divine! Looks like HD got their shit together on this bike! Excited for the brand should they continue in this direction as have never been a fan. Great review!
Amazing video! I was so shocked at the capabilities of this little ripper! Might be time for another Sportster giveaway bud! 😅 Also, 15:53 had me dying bahaha! I sounded like Mama Two Wheels 😂
My only changes would be 4.5" suspension travel, a little more lean angle, dual front brakes and 17"wheels front and rear. A titanium exhaust would probably drop it under 500lbs
Lol, So like a Aprilia Tuono…this bike isn’t sporty enough for me but I’m sure Harley will soon make a sportier 150 HP version with all those features you mentioned above.
Ordered it two days after the release video. I was literally ready to put a deposit on the Honda Rebel 1100, I was heading in on the Friday to to it and instead found myself signing paperwork at HD. So, some reasons for that. I live in Australia so both bikes are subject to import tariffs and the bikes are closer in price than in the USA the Rebel is $19,000 and the Sportster S is $26,000. The Honda actually computer limits at 100MPH (160KPH). The Horsepower and Torque are significantly higher on the Sportster S. The breaking traction control. The TFT screen. To get those things on the Rebel would make it closer in price anyway. Lastly, at the end of the day I wanted an American style mid size cruiser and I just never would have quite been happy with a Japanese bike. Buying a bike is silly money anyway, if you save a few grand and don't get what you wanted you are just wasting the rest of the money you spent.
I feel like they put that trail light on there like that knowing you will change it with a tail tidy and it's a way for them to get some money out of you after market
Its a regulation thing you will see a lot of bikes with a similar thing on them . They look horrible and are often unbolted pretty quickly from what I have seen the existing wiring will reach the back of the tail piece.
Thanks for giving us a good view of C2W’s mullet. He keeps telling us he has it but doesn’t show it. And a great first-ride video. I had been looking forward to both yours and Chase’s thoughts on this bike.
Put my order in two weeks ago. Cannot wait for it to show up. Good on Harley Davidson for stepping into the 21st century in both performance and style.
First I was like “That’s not a Sportster “ but it’s growing on me ,must take it for a spin ,and the looks are kinda great ,damn I’m starting to like it 😅🖤
I like it largely because it's NOT like a Sportster. Liquid cooled, OHC, 6 gears, stressed member engine. It's about time HD had a bike to Compete with Indian's 1200 sized bikes.
I was THIS | | close to upgrading my Street 750 to a gorgeous red '21 Fat BOB yesterday (yes, they don't come in red but they were switching the tins of a 19 for me!)...then fortunately saw this video! THANK YOU Blockhead! Now I found my new bike!!
That was a really informative video and a great test ride. I've just bought a Triumph. Now I need to know how soon the Sportster S is going to be available in France...
I’m new on the motorcycle world, i don’t know how good this bike will be for a complete beginner but I’m in love with this bike. This is gonna be my first motorcycle. thanks for the review, it’s helpful to have the perspective from an expert.
It's the beginning of a new Era for Harley Davidson. That motor is capable of over 150hp. That's exciting!!! Can't Waite for the aftermarket to catch up on these new bikes.
@@jeffreyculberth1440 I got a 19 breakout 114 first thing I did after I heard it was put Rinehart 3 1/2 slip-on's on it. Sounds so much better even thro it's still stock.
Here because I’m pretty sure you taught me how to drive a motorcycle in 3 videos. Subscribing because you do great work & can’t wait to see what else your channel has
Hey Blockhead. How customisable do you think this bike will be given the advancement in tech they've added? and, noticing that there is not much heat from the stock exhaust which is most likely due to the outer coverings. Do you think a custom exhaust lacking all of that protection would burn or be uncomfortable to your leg?
The new Sportster does everything better than old version. Lighter, more horsepower/torque, led everything, RDRS standard(stability control with lean TC and Lean ABS), TFT. Old sportster with alarm, paint, and abs close to $12,000. This bike is a bargain for premium bike. No stage 4 just bags and windscreen.
This is where you’re wrong. This was all of Levatich’s strategy (more roads to Harley). Jerkoff Zits is taking all the credit when he said “we’re going to focus on our core big bikes” he also said he wanted to maximize profits on big bikes, meaning build the same cruisers cheaper but sell them for more (rewire). They canceled the Bronx, and the only reason they released the PanAm was because it was so far along in production. It got rave reviews and apparently dealers can keep them in stock. So now what was known as the “custom” is now the sportster. So no, this success is in spite of the new management.
It looks great…. On its own, parked up… when someone’s riding it, it looks like they’re sitting ‘on’ top of it not ‘in’ it. Makes the rider look awkward. If that makes sense.
Nice review! I agree about those CAL roads and mountains. I lived in NORCAL in the 80's before I owned a bike. Now, I'm a flatlander from central FL and just riding Sugarloaf Mountain get's me all excited.
Great review. As a sporty lover I'm stoked by this bike but I'm still thinking you can get this performance out of a rubber mount for less money but maybe the HP won't be as high but hey it's a sporty, 90 horse may be enough.
Nice cameo by Zenofneato himself! Brad's the real deal. I can't wait to see one of these bikes in person. Probably go with mids because our roads are super lousy here in the Boston area so I do a lot of standing over bumps, etc.. Great job Block
Loving the bike. Watched Chase's video just before, and just to compare: Blockhead - Man, it's so hard to scrape the pegs on this.... Chase - I scraped the pegs in the first turn... 😁
Considering that large area surrounding the fuel cap I would imagine it has a locking mechanism while the bike key isn't in, I believe he only opened it with the bike on?
I'd say welcome to the 21st century but there's plenty of bikes outside of the US that use led indicators that use candles in the US. I think its just red tape somewhere
I’m in the same boat as you. I have a 21 fat bob 114 and I am very curious on how they would compare. The bob will roast the tire stock. But I bet this thing will lift that front tire no sweat.
@@stevem4783 I never said I planned on leaving my Fatbob stock either. Goldzilla is similar hp/weight as the SS, but waaaaaay more tq. And my bike is even lighter than the LRS. That's why I wanted to hear Blockheads take on it because I plan on similar power with my bike. But if the SS is damn near the same acceleration as Goldzilla, I may just hold off and wait until it comes out to test ride.
@@oldschoolmobile You can't compare modified to stock, let alone heavily modified. The S is a much faster bike. Period. What about when the S owner opens up the airflow and tunes it? Or swaps the cams? It's gonna leave your Stage 4 114 in the dust.
I jut bought the iron 883 and really enjoy it. It’s my first serious road bike as I’ve been riding 250 adventure bikes in china for 12 years but now back in the States my son talked me into buying a Harley and I like the low sportster feel . I’m now 61 so I didn’t need crazy power, so I went with a iron 883. But after seeing this video I believe next year I’ll go with the sportster S! Thanks for the video it really gives me a bigger perspective about the Harley I’m looking for! Before going to China I lived in southern Ca. So I can imagine the feel of riding there! Great video!.
It looks like Harley figured out what the newer generation riders look for in a sportster. Has similarities to the Triumph Trident amd Indian . In my opinion, very well done and I'm very impressed. Usually I'm disappointed with the new bikes that come out.
It probably will. It's an improved motor with more hp and torque than the Milwaukee 8. Harley is finally steering towards sporty bikes. This bike apparently has a top speed of 137mph. Hopefully this and the pan america sells well so they can keep making the bikes and keep putting Revolution max in other bikes like the softtail lineup
@@alecgiblin7499 I want to see the 150hp variant in a full sized bagger setup. That would almost definitely make me interested in it. This specific sportster is too... Sporty for me. I want to see luggage options, even just a full sized rear fender and a bag mount back there.
@@alecgiblin7499 imagine if they bored it out from the factory! gets me excited. It puts out enough power now to get a bagger rolling. more than the 114? I hope. if so, I'll buy one.
@@frshtlldthfreshtilldeath9670 maybe, but this is the sportster, vrod was it's own thing. This shows the direction where the whole company is heading. I can see a rise in classic used harleys. This new thing lacks personality.
@@RemedyTalon I haven't seen a "modern v-twin" yet that my 2010 street bob can't keep up with, and everything about the 96's, 103's and 107's is plenty of power ! So either you are comparing apples to oranges by comparing cruisers to sport bikes or you're just straight up hating
After watching the vid, what do y'all think of the Sportster S? Drop your thoughts!
It seems awesome, not my style, but power wise I want to try it out.
In Denmark its the same price as an Street Bob and 3000 USD more expensive than Softail Standard. So imo to expensive where I live.
@@thewizardofnoz1794 that's fair, but it is more powerful than the other two. Though I do prefer the size of a larger bike myself.
How does it feel compared to the older sportsters??
@@thewizardofnoz1794 In NZ its only $1250NZD cheaper than a lowrider s. I know which I would buy and its not a sportster.
I think the fact that Harley brought y’all (moto vloggers) to LA to do this speaks volumes about their awareness of where this generation does it’s shopping and finds it’s information. Gone are the days of just relying on the “brand” or the “image”. Great job BH
What? No free bike give away to worthless B grade Hollywood types?!
Thank God!
Indin been out there heaps bout time Harley did
Good point 👍
Hey block, I just wanted to tell a quick cool story: I was at a random burger shack in TN and rode my Iron 1200 there. A H-D iron 883 owner rolled in. He came inside and found me and we talked for a bit. Then he goes “you ever heard of Blockhead?” And I was like “yeah I love Blockhead!” and we talked about how motivational you were to us getting bikes and customizing them.
So thanks, pal.
That’s awesome man, thanks for sharing! 😊
Current 48 rider.
The S is everything I want in a bike. I can't wait for them to come out.
This will be my 1st bike!
I've been saving. Almost bought a new bolt. But saw this bike and fell in luv..
I have a pan am and I can say it has a super liner power curve but after about 5500 in road mode the vvt kicks in and then it surges forward so that's the only thing to be aware of, I love this engine, I'm coming from a 2016 dyna
Just got one it’s my first.
Honestly, the fact the VP of design of Harley was riding with you guys, shows that like Harley really is a company of riders.
Well the CEO don't even ride so someone has to
Ever hear of Willy G. ? He did that all his life !!! Many times a year .
I can't wait to see the one they teased at end of the reveal. This might be too Sporty for me but it has me excited for the future of HD.
Yep I just put out a video about that this morning. I was able to find a full bike shot too
I will wait until the street fighter comes out I want that bike
@@geraldscott4302 these new bikes are the only future for HD lol. Air cooled bikes will be banned with these emissions regulations. Why don’t u want an American company to innovate… unless you want a Chinese corporation to succeed ….
@@ChopperFett I (along with many other Harley owners) got an email well over a year ago from Harley with those pictures asking what our opinion on it was, so it's nice to see they kept it and are putting it to use. They didn't say it was a Sportster, but the side panels/oil tank gave it away 100%!
I really can’t wait to see what the aftermarket does with this! Kenetic exhaust, remove all that $hit off the rear tire, and that thing is gonna look really nice 👍
Not sure where the license plate will go...
@@IndyMotoRider side mount
I agree. The stock exhaust is super ugly.
100% my sentiment! Almost a beautiful bike except for the ridiculous tail piece and exhaust seat arrangement.
💯👍
FInally, a well-thought-out review of the bike! Kudos to Harley for finally getting their press launches correct too.
Has anyone noticed a similarity between the sportster s and the Evil Knievel stunt toy from the 70's/80's ? I want to see a red, white and blue Knievel addition.
No, but my brain automatically thinks "VMAX" whenever I see one.
Harley has made that before
@@williamdavis4809 maybe but not this model
Yea man
@Whiskey Pete yeah lol, its Evel
Dude that thing’s like a luxury sports car. It’s got so many buttons and features! I love the different ride modes and the display with it’s music and gps. Looks fun
Seeing it in motion like this it kinda looks like a mix between a roadster, a fatbob, and a cafe racer
too bad the MSRP is 15k US
@@nicodemus7784 Same price as an Indian Scout Bobber and and Indian FTR. That's about where its competitor sit pricewise.
@@pnwdweler4100 same price isnt really a good thing when your sales are down and you have a new bike that you want to attract new riders with and grow your market share. Indian and HD are both playing in the sand box with maker like ducati with that price and the increased performance. i was expecting 13999 at most. time will tell.
I Agree, thinking about trading my SV650X café for this...
I love it that Harley is now utilizing RUclips influencers! All the information I get on motorcycles and gear, that I don't get in person, is from RUclipsrs (mostly from Block). I can trust that I'm getting an honest opinion. I love Harley Davidson, and I always have, however it seems like they were getting out of touch with the consumer, and it's so awesome to see them turn that around. Thanks so much Blochead, as always you rock.
Makes me think of a more modern mini Fat Bob!
I commented (Fat Bob Jr.) on HerTwoWheels Vlog. Glad I wasn't the only one who thought that.
@@tomaless I have an 08 Fat Bob and would be keen to throw a leg over this Sporty to see what it feels like. In their promo vid HD did allude very briefly to more new sporties with a more classic design approach ... that will be interesting to see.
I have a 18 fatbob, and I wish fatbob came out with this engine in the first place
@@HairyMTB I also have an 08 Fat Bob. More of a custom cruiser, than a canyon carver (what the Fat Bob is designed for).
they were calling it the "baby fatbob" back when it was the 1250 custom
I'm excited to see harley finally respond to its competition. Competition is good for the future of our shared hobby/lifestyle.
Long live the the sportster. When HD announced the end of the air cooled sportsters due to emissions I was a little sad but after seeing this my faith has been restored. Love this bike.
But the sound is nowhere even near the Evo based Harley Sportsters.....
I’m finally happy that they caught up with the technology, specially with the new riding modes. , I would purchase this bike. Looks like a lot of fun to ride.
Loving the general look of the bike, can't wait to see it with mid controls, and a 1in bar riser.
Also want to hear that engine uncorked and running a 2 into 1.
The look is awful
Less weight means less torque needed but this bike has more horsepower and more torque than old Sportster
Thanks for sharing Erin’s perspective too! Appreciate it. Great video. Can not wait to actually ride it, I had a chance to sit on it just before you all took off on it in LAX. 🙌
"Legit fast" is pretty high praise from a guy who owns/ rides a MT-09....
Well it does have a little more power and a good amount more torque then the Mt09 it does weigh like 90lbs more but that torque helps make up for that
It sounds and looks very similar to my Buell…. If only they didn’t mess that up. Could’ve had these bike 10 years ago!
Which Buell do you own?
Agree
How can an evo sound like a revo
Buell were way ahead of their time,that was the problem
Awesome bikes buell,I owned a 2002 thunderbolt 1203 and I'm still crying I sold it!
HD really messed up big time dropping buell,it had most of the tech of the new sportster,decades ago!
On the new sportster you look like your riding a sack of potato's😂
Great first ride Blockhead! So glad to see HD bringing motovloggers out for events like this, very smart move HD!
I think HD hit a home run with the new Sportster S. Long overdue! Great review, Block!
Ok so engine is a stressed member, inverted forks, aluminum wheels, that's more like it Harley!
18:28
When I first took my 48 up there I got stranded at that exact location because I ran out of gas lol
I used to ride that almost every weekend on my 48. I'd be sucking fumes on the way back....Then I lifted the tank and found out the hard way your capacity is reduced ;(
That exhaust is an overkill for me but other than that it's an awesome looking bike.
At least its high enough to lean the bike
If I can play devils advocate, this bike is aimed at the European and British market and we'll eat up that exhaust all day long. Stick some Akraprovic slip-ons on it and this will sell like hotcakes on this side of the pond. It's a bobber, it's a street scrambler and it's retrofuturistic. Those are all big plusses here.
Not sure if I like the headlight either…
Harley doesn’t try to hard with their exhaust because they know 95% of people r going to rip them off anyways
"It will be mine. Oh yes, it will be mine".....I love this bike!
But the Vrod is better. Look up Vrod Fusion Grind and tell me that is not the coolest bike Harley ever made. The engine makes the same power as this turd on wheels and was made by Porsche
17:15 you've got some flexible ankles, Blockhead. I don't think my foot could be in that position. Maybe my lack of dexterity is the reasons I don't love forward controls.
Haha good eye I think that’s because of his boots but sure does look f-ed up haha
🤣 noticed that too!
I always like relaxed positioned cruising...so can you tell me which is better front forward or mid ???
Watching you guys & gals with those lean angles crave up Angeles Crest Highway on the bike is pretty impressive.
Great captures in DTLA, across the LA River viaducts, up on ACH and down through Montrose back. Little taste of SoCal riding. 😎
Great preview, thanks Block! I can attest for the wheely control, in my Test Ride of the Pan Am I was on 3rd and went full throttle, it was an osh!t moment, I thought I was going to slide out of the seat and had to hold on for dear life but the front wheel never lifted up. It was a great test ride LOL
I am a long time Harley rider, I currently own a Twin Cam, and a Shovelhead. After watching your video I think I will be giving this new Sportster a test ride. My first Harley was a 1999 Sportster 1200 so I have always had a soft spot for them. Another great video! Cheers
man the fit and finish on this bike is divine! Looks like HD got their shit together on this bike! Excited for the brand should they continue in this direction as have never been a fan. Great review!
Harley is killing it with these new bikes! I'm so excited for the brand and happy to see H-D finally taking significant steps into the future.
they will still die.
Amazing video! I was so shocked at the capabilities of this little ripper! Might be time for another Sportster giveaway bud! 😅
Also, 15:53 had me dying bahaha! I sounded like Mama Two Wheels 😂
@* Toxic Reviews * ?
@* Toxic Reviews * lmao
Love it! Front and rear turn signals have to go-need to be integrated into head light and tail light, relocated under the rear fender.
💯👍👌
My only changes would be 4.5" suspension travel, a little more lean angle, dual front brakes and 17"wheels front and rear. A titanium exhaust would probably drop it under 500lbs
Lol, So like a Aprilia Tuono…this bike isn’t sporty enough for me but I’m sure Harley will soon make a sportier 150 HP version with all those features you mentioned above.
@@greatcornholio5541 yeah they have a street tracker and cafe racer concept
You won't get it under 500 pounds even with carbon wheels and a titanium 2 into 1
@@seanbirtwistle649 it only has to drop 3 pounds
@@jeepstertj556 my bad i thought it was 550 wet
Ordered it two days after the release video. I was literally ready to put a deposit on the Honda Rebel 1100, I was heading in on the Friday to to it and instead found myself signing paperwork at HD. So, some reasons for that. I live in Australia so both bikes are subject to import tariffs and the bikes are closer in price than in the USA the Rebel is $19,000 and the Sportster S is $26,000. The Honda actually computer limits at 100MPH (160KPH). The Horsepower and Torque are significantly higher on the Sportster S. The breaking traction control. The TFT screen. To get those things on the Rebel would make it closer in price anyway. Lastly, at the end of the day I wanted an American style mid size cruiser and I just never would have quite been happy with a Japanese bike. Buying a bike is silly money anyway, if you save a few grand and don't get what you wanted you are just wasting the rest of the money you spent.
I feel like they put that trail light on there like that knowing you will change it with a tail tidy and it's a way for them to get some money out of you after market
Its a regulation thing you will see a lot of bikes with a similar thing on them . They look horrible and are often unbolted pretty quickly from what I have seen the existing wiring will reach the back of the tail piece.
Thanks for giving us a good view of C2W’s mullet. He keeps telling us he has it but doesn’t show it. And a great first-ride video. I had been looking forward to both yours and Chase’s thoughts on this bike.
I am pretty sold on this bike being the bike to purchase as my first bike! ❤️ Great review!
Put my order in two weeks ago. Cannot wait for it to show up. Good on Harley Davidson for stepping into the 21st century in both performance and style.
First I was like “That’s not a Sportster “ but it’s growing on me ,must take it for a spin ,and the looks are kinda great ,damn I’m starting to like it 😅🖤
I like it largely because it's NOT like a Sportster. Liquid cooled, OHC, 6 gears, stressed member engine. It's about time HD had a bike to Compete with Indian's 1200 sized bikes.
How much do they cost
@@darlavetkos1644 15k msrp but they are coming out with models with less options for probably around 10-12k I’d guess
Honestly I wish they would have retired the name and come up with something new for such a new platform.
sounds better than I first thought. Not bad once the revs go up.
Wow!! A harley with some tech in it! Its about damn time 😂
I was THIS | | close to upgrading my Street 750 to a gorgeous red '21 Fat BOB yesterday (yes, they don't come in red but they were switching the tins of a 19 for me!)...then fortunately saw this video! THANK YOU Blockhead! Now I found my new bike!!
How does the torque and acceleration of the sportster s compare to the hammer 1275 sportster?
This is definitely something I’m curious about
Yes please
It's more smooth and more efficient. It's liquid cooled also
With the vvt the engine has its a super linear transfer from torque to hp, and it pulls hard from 3000rpm up and at wot it has a killer sound
Pretty much a vrod motor. Same feel
Very cool of Harley to host the event with you guys and to have Kyle Wyman and Brad Richards ride with you.
Did you feel the need for a second front disc?
So nice to see you in my backyard and away from the boring flat landscape of Florida
That was a really informative video and a great test ride. I've just bought a Triumph. Now I need to know how soon the Sportster S is going to be available in France...
I’m new on the motorcycle world, i don’t know how good this bike will be for a complete beginner but I’m in love with this bike. This is gonna be my first motorcycle. thanks for the review, it’s helpful to have the perspective from an expert.
Only thing I don’t care for is the exhaust. Love the gauge and the rest of the look
Can't wait to see the aftermarket exhausts
It's the beginning of a new Era for Harley Davidson. That motor is capable of over 150hp. That's exciting!!! Can't Waite for the aftermarket to catch up on these new bikes.
Interested in checking it out when demo days comes to town
A double video drop? Damn Blockhead! You spoil us!!
I’m waiting to hear it with proper aftermarket exhaust. I don’t like how it sounds stock at all.
Is there a single harley on the market that sounds good with a stock exhaust? Nope
@@seanbirtwistle649 not anymore! Just picked up a heritage classic with the 114. The m8s make good power but it sounds like a fucken scooter!
@@jeffreyculberth1440 I got a 19 breakout 114 first thing I did after I heard it was put Rinehart 3 1/2 slip-on's on it. Sounds so much better even thro it's still stock.
Here because I’m pretty sure you taught me how to drive a motorcycle in 3 videos. Subscribing because you do great work & can’t wait to see what else your channel has
Hey Blockhead. How customisable do you think this bike will be given the advancement in tech they've added? and, noticing that there is not much heat from the stock exhaust which is most likely due to the outer coverings. Do you think a custom exhaust lacking all of that protection would burn or be uncomfortable to your leg?
The new Sportster does everything better than old version. Lighter, more horsepower/torque, led everything, RDRS standard(stability control with lean TC and Lean ABS), TFT. Old sportster with alarm, paint, and abs close to $12,000. This bike is a bargain for premium bike. No stage 4 just bags and windscreen.
It just makes me happy to see Indian and Harley back in the ring together.
Best Sportster S video on RUclips. Thanks!
I'm absolutely in love with this bike just by watching it, but damn it's a little too expensive for me rn :(
I just bought one. Super stoked about it. Delivered in a few days.
Harley is doing really well with the new management. Seems like they're finally getting closer to the modern consumer base. Great job and well done!
You can't see they're underpowered anymore. 14k still seems like a lot for that though.... Harleys definitely moving in the right direction.
This is where you’re wrong. This was all of Levatich’s strategy (more roads to Harley). Jerkoff Zits is taking all the credit when he said “we’re going to focus on our core big bikes” he also said he wanted to maximize profits on big bikes, meaning build the same cruisers cheaper but sell them for more (rewire). They canceled the Bronx, and the only reason they released the PanAm was because it was so far along in production. It got rave reviews and apparently dealers can keep them in stock. So now what was known as the “custom” is now the sportster.
So no, this success is in spite of the new management.
Between your review and her two wheels, I can’t wait to see one in person. Great review
It looks great…. On its own, parked up… when someone’s riding it, it looks like they’re sitting ‘on’ top of it not ‘in’ it. Makes the rider look awkward.
If that makes sense.
The bike is just dimensionally small unfortunately, looks like a bear on a unicycle.
Yeah it’s a favorable riding position but it looks Badass lol
I completely agree, it looks like a pocket bike lol but i like the performance
The look is terrible. No one likes this bike
@@fdloopty for your input, we're taking about the rider positioning on the bike but we still think it's a good looking bike....
Nice review! I agree about those CAL roads and mountains. I lived in NORCAL in the 80's before I owned a bike. Now, I'm a flatlander from central FL and just riding Sugarloaf Mountain get's me all excited.
I gotta know, since you’ve ridden a vrod before, whats the power like compared to that?
Glad they put sport back on sportster. Gives me hope on a naked bike yet
How this HD sportster compare to an scout bobber in terms length, with and high? Good video by the way
I don't know... why don't you look it up?
@@mikep2262 the question was meant for someone else, but I guess you’re the admin of blockhead account, but thanks for replying.
Nice video! Good to see you stomping around my neck of the woods. LA truly has terrible roads (smoothness that is) but some iconic spots.
Great review. As a sporty lover I'm stoked by this bike but I'm still thinking you can get this performance out of a rubber mount for less money but maybe the HP won't be as high but hey it's a sporty, 90 horse may be enough.
Just call hammer performance. My 1997 has more power at the rear wheel than the sportster s has at the crankshaft.
Nice cameo by Zenofneato himself! Brad's the real deal. I can't wait to see one of these bikes in person. Probably go with mids because our roads are super lousy here in the Boston area so I do a lot of standing over bumps, etc.. Great job Block
I was the 70,000th view!
So “the engine is part of the frame” like a 1982 Yamaha Virago? Anyway,Sweet Honda Davidson Street Scout 1250!!!👍
Love the graphics you're using to highlight the details of the bike
Loving the bike. Watched Chase's video just before, and just to compare:
Blockhead - Man, it's so hard to scrape the pegs on this....
Chase - I scraped the pegs in the first turn...
😁
I wonder how much of a difference the mids vs the forward controls make on lean angle
@@nickpclark Lean angle is the same for both
That first stoplight is the corner Figueroa and West 9th, where the awesome The Original Pantry is located. Open 24 hours and 365 days a year.
Idk if I like the keyless tank, scared someone will drop a tide pod in it…. But it’s pretty cool all around
Considering that large area surrounding the fuel cap I would imagine it has a locking mechanism while the bike key isn't in, I believe he only opened it with the bike on?
SERIOUSLY thinking of adding a Sportster S to my garage!! Considering it even more after watching your review! Tanks
Wow...TPMS? Nice HD finally has stock LED lighting.
I'd say welcome to the 21st century but there's plenty of bikes outside of the US that use led indicators that use candles in the US. I think its just red tape somewhere
Have been waiting for a test ride. Thanks!! 👍
How does the get up and go compare to Goldzilla? I currently own a 2020 Fatbob 114 and this bike definitely has my interest!
I’m in the same boat as you. I have a 21 fat bob 114 and I am very curious on how they would compare. The bob will roast the tire stock. But I bet this thing will lift that front tire no sweat.
@@Br4nd0n.E.M. S will dumpster a Bob 114. More power and it's much lighter.
@@stevem4783 I never said I planned on leaving my Fatbob stock either. Goldzilla is similar hp/weight as the SS, but waaaaaay more tq. And my bike is even lighter than the LRS. That's why I wanted to hear Blockheads take on it because I plan on similar power with my bike. But if the SS is damn near the same acceleration as Goldzilla, I may just hold off and wait until it comes out to test ride.
@@oldschoolmobile You can't compare modified to stock, let alone heavily modified.
The S is a much faster bike. Period. What about when the S owner opens up the airflow and tunes it? Or swaps the cams? It's gonna leave your Stage 4 114 in the dust.
I love Harley doing these bikes moving forward, but i still like the past older Sportsters
I think they are seeing end of the road for air cooled bikes because of emissions
They aren't called Man Holes anymore. They're called people holes
Jazz hands
I jut bought the iron 883 and really enjoy it. It’s my first serious road bike as I’ve been riding 250 adventure bikes in china for 12 years but now back in the States my son talked me into buying a Harley and I like the low sportster feel . I’m now 61 so I didn’t need crazy power, so I went with a iron 883. But after seeing this video I believe next year I’ll go with the sportster S! Thanks for the video it really gives me a bigger perspective about the Harley I’m looking for! Before going to China I lived in southern Ca. So I can imagine the feel of riding there! Great video!.
I like the bike but I'd rather have the cruiser version that was teased.
This is a Cruiser?
Yeah this is a cruiser, you talking about the bike they teased that looked more traditional harley sportster?
I've got a feeling we're gonna see quite a few of these in the 407 :)
Was there any hint on the new sporster non s?
The 2021 spotter is already out ? I believe the 2021 is the last year of production they said
@@S1KJAY I ment the lower spec version of this bike with duel rear shocks and more classic sporster loolk
This might be the start of Harley's "Major Comeback"!
Nice camera shots of you riding it.
And, you know fast. So if you say it's fast, I believe it.
Does it feel as fast as the mt09sp?
Not really. The mt09 wheelies pretty easy.
Its so awesome to see you riding through LA... You rode right by my work on the corner of Fig@7th! The bike looks amazing, great video!
6-speed sportster!
It looks like Harley figured out what the newer generation riders look for in a sportster. Has similarities to the Triumph Trident amd Indian . In my opinion, very well done and I'm very impressed. Usually I'm disappointed with the new bikes that come out.
since this bike feels like a way to guage interest in the new motor, do you feel the engine will find its way into the rest of the HD line up?
It probably will. It's an improved motor with more hp and torque than the Milwaukee 8. Harley is finally steering towards sporty bikes. This bike apparently has a top speed of 137mph. Hopefully this and the pan america sells well so they can keep making the bikes and keep putting Revolution max in other bikes like the softtail lineup
@@alecgiblin7499 I want to see the 150hp variant in a full sized bagger setup. That would almost definitely make me interested in it. This specific sportster is too... Sporty for me. I want to see luggage options, even just a full sized rear fender and a bag mount back there.
@@tricd0444 that would be pretty cool to see but I don't think they are gonna put a 1250cc in a bagger. Too small of a motor
@@alecgiblin7499 imagine if they bored it out from the factory! gets me excited. It puts out enough power now to get a bagger rolling. more than the 114? I hope. if so, I'll buy one.
I hope LA treated you good mr. blockhead! You the Man!
It sounds like a scooter. I wonder what a good exhaust will sound like? Hmm
Also looks like a scooter
Better than the v rod.
@@frshtlldthfreshtilldeath9670 maybe, but this is the sportster, vrod was it's own thing. This shows the direction where the whole company is heading. I can see a rise in classic used harleys. This new thing lacks personality.
It’ll go brrrrrrrrrr
Probably like an Italian V2.
That’s what all tyres do: change shape when driving. Great video
I am NOT a fan of the revolution max ! I would be so sad if harley discontinued the evolution which we all know and love
Nah they can toss it. It is a very outdated design. The revolution max actually makes power and can keep up with modern V-twins
@@RemedyTalon I haven't seen a "modern v-twin" yet that my 2010 street bob can't keep up with, and everything about the 96's, 103's and 107's is plenty of power ! So either you are comparing apples to oranges by comparing cruisers to sport bikes or you're just straight up hating
Harley stepped it up on this bike that I just picked up my own. I love the fact this bike is light compared to my 2022 sportster 48. This is a keeper.