Hey Guys, we made an error in this video. The Nightster special is equipped with ABS, Traction Control, and Drag-Torque slip control. It isn't equipped with the 6 axis IMU and therefore doesn't have the lean angle assist. The Sportster S does!
Nice review, but may I recommend that you show the rider standing on his pegs like you did in your other podcast video titled "Rev Max Sportster: A huge change that is a gamble for Harley". The ability to stand on your pegs and lift your butt off the seat is a huge selling point for riders like me. I'm a metric rider (Yamaha, Kawasaki, Honda) who is finally starting to consider a Harley Davidson because of the new Rev Max engine, and the modern electronics that HD put in the Nightster and the Pan American. The ability to stand on your pegs and get your butt off the seat is a benefit for riders like me with back issues, and others with adventure bikes in their stable. Just sayin'...
*It's more than just a "little bit" of a trade-off to pay good money for improved performance and safety but have to live with looking at this ugly-arse machine every time you go for a ride.* No reviewer even wants to photograph the left side - it is grotesque. They just photograph the hideous side.
@@twocupstwodrams7535 except this is a Harley video. Also, you shouldn’t be forced to purchase something second hand. Tell me why you can buy an American made car for 20k but an American made motorcycle is 25+? Less materials to build, same union workforce to pay. Harley overcharges.
@@charkswitlazers The "big three" are in the entry level business, Harley, like Ducati are not. The entry level cars are not made with USA union workforce. It would be great if they were.
@@twocupstwodrams7535 actually, they are. The Chevy sonic was built in Michigan with UAW labor until being recently discontinued. Also, Harley motorcycles were supposed to be for the working man, not a luxury item. Ducati and Harley cannot be compared as Ducati bikes are engineered with advanced technology and competitive performance while Harleys use tech from 2006. They are overpriced. The young generation will purchase what is most cost efficient
Love the content but hate the Nightster. As a Nightster owner, I find the bike really disappointing. The engine heat is unbearable in the summer. Also, I’ve struggled with the bikes reliability. There are re occurring quirks with the electronics that require addressing too. Additionally, the after market seems uninterested in developing products for this bike. It was supposed to be an instrument of expression yet to date only s&s has figured out a slip on, only Corbin has figured out a seat, and no one makes a bar and riser set up for this bike… overall, very disappointing. Most of the stuff is livable except for the heat… if you can’t lane split, the bike is not a fun place to be on in the summer.
Matt I Took Delivery of an Industrial Yellow Nightster Special on Friday . The Harley Davidson Sundowner Seat works well . Stops you from sliding of the back . I put a S&S 4.5" Grand National Slip on Muffler with the dB reducer taken out . Sounds good & Goes well . Yes hard Bike to review . People need to ride it themself to understand how good it is . The TFT display is awesome . Great Bike . Good Video Matt . Fitted the Black & Orange Adversary Collection . Getting Rid of the Bar end Mirrors for ease of Lane splitting around Melbourne . 1000Kms in 3 days . Love the Bike . Much better bike than the 883 iron I just Sold . Will run harder than my Stage 2 107 in my Softail Slim . 1250S Rev Max in one of these would be a rocket ship .
The Nightster Special is a lot more fun than a Steet Bob . Nearly as much power, far lighter, Better Brakes more Tech . Much different beast . Keeping my 2019 Slim with Stage 2 performance cam for interstate and overnight trips . But Enjoying the 2023 Nightster Special for around town & country roads . So light on twisty roads
@@Doobie603 Very true just saying instead of saying buying a Street Bob due to price point should take a far better look at both . As the Nightster Special comes out on top IMO . But depends what the bike will be used for . I am lucky enough to have a Slim which is basic a Street Bob with floorboards , wider front tyre & larger fuel tank . So l get to have both . EPA laws are making it harder & harder for Air Cooled Engines to comply .
Another excellent review of a great bike. You guys do great reviews that never feel like you are just trying to sell a bike. Always great detail and complete list of pros and cons. Agree with you on the moving forward. Too many commenters that gripe if HD doesn't modernize and then also complain when they do. I think the changes they are making are great, holding onto as much of the heritage as possible while still getting more modern. Great work Matt and Nick!!
Well said man. It's hard for H-D to up ease the riders who demand new tech and engines then complain when "it's not a Harley" Thanks for the comment man
@@MattLaidlaw agreed. I'm sad to see the Evo Sportster go but I guess when things transitioned from Ironhead to Evo many people felt the same way. In life as well as with products, change is a guaranteed constant.
I just test rode the PA, sportster s, and the nightster s at bike week. I am a traditional Harley guy and currently own a 2003 sportster and M8 Bob. I can’t say enough how impressed I was with the revmax engine. Had no idea what to expect but the pan America and the 1250 sportster are both very very good. The PA is insanely good on all accounts and the most impressive bike Harley has ever built in my opinion. The new 1250 sportster is dangerously quick. I love Harley is building bikes you can rev and keeping low end torque. The 975 was also very fun but it’s overpriced compared to a m8 softail or the pan America and 1250 Sportster.
Cool bike but I just don’t understand how this bike fits in as far as price and the market it’s in. Nearly 18k out the door at least for a small commuter bike.
I took one for a demo ride this past weekend and loved it. I’m looking for a 2nd bike that’s lighter and smaller than my Heritage just to rip around town in and this bike is really good. I was surprised at all the safety and electronics especially the ABS, traction control/ride modes and the cruise control. It is more expensive than lower cost competitors and the old Sportsters but the extras you get and the modern up to date electronics make it worth it in my opinion. My only dislike is the look of the exhaust - looks sort of like a leaf blower. But overall, great little motorcycle from Harley-Davidson.
I need to be honest with you Matt. Your videos really benefit the motorcycle community as a whole. We learn when we watch your videos. And we want to stop by a Harley dealer. It's a lifestyle. And we love it.
Thank you this was an awesome review. I have liked a few Harleys but never enough to buy one. The nightster has changed that opinion and the special will be my next bike.
I am not sure what to think of this yet, takes a little time i guess. But this looks much better than Sportster S. I don't like gas tank being under the seat and bar end mirrors is just not for me. On color options i liked yellow best. Nice video again, Matt!
I’ve noticed the Rev max is always only shown from the same side, no matter what bike it’s in. I believe it’s because it looks so unfinished, no one likes to show both sides of the bikes.
True I have added some stickers to the other side to break up the all black side . there is a few things they could have done to dress it up a bit . The Black & Orange Adversary Collection looks good on these engines .
It being asymmetrical has taken me awhile to just accept…I would have preferred both sides being black or the cover color regardless of the different shapes/looks on each side of the motor. That being said…it’s starting to bother me less and less.
I like the new Sportsters. I think the RevMax motor looks good, the chassis looks good, and the capabilities are a huge step up. The thing I don't like is how they executed the radiator. The Vrod and Indian Scout are examples of tastefully done radiators, the Sportsters are not. This is especially true of the Nightster, with its thinner front end. The S masks it a little better with its beefy front tire, but it really sticks out on the Nightster. Fix that, and they will be totally handsome bikes.
I actually agree with you. They could have incorporated the radiator in the chassis in a better, more aesthetically-pleasing way. Thanks for the comment
@@Stevel_ looks fine for what it is. Liquid cooled bikes are going to have more stuff on them. Look at any Japanese or euro bikes, and they have the same or more. If you don't like it, go get a softail or touring bike.
@@usmcvet0313 No...they don't. Google an image of a Indian Scout. That is a liquid cooled engine done right. Same with the VRod. Same with the new Triumph Bonneville T100...and lots of metric cruisers. This is not by any stretch of the imagination a clean looking engine. Go see one in person and check out all the wires dangling off the left side of it. It's why you NEVER see it in this video. They right side looks like a toy. It's just a damn ugly engine.
I have the Nightster Special and so far, love it. There are a few things that need upgrades to make the bike a little better. 1. Exhaust 2. The plastic in the middle of the airbox tank, the tank itself looks great but the plastic insert down the middle needs to be metal like the tank itself with better options for the logo. They make a 66 medallion, but it's only option. I installed the orange adversary collection on the whole bike it looks a 100 time's better, but no medallion in the adversary collection for the tank box. Again, great bike to ride, plenty of power, just needs some upgrades to make it complete. It's sad that you spend $18000 for motorcycle and then you are like now I have to spend another $1500 to $2000 to make it look right.
The irony of Harley having such a die hard audience is they are especially upset from any change at all. Selling these, customers always voiced their criticism of HD for selling the same product year after year. Yet, they try something new- the same old heads trip out lol. We all love Harley. If you want them to stick around they need be versatile & one example of that is selling motorcycles like this to attract a wider demographic of riders.
I'm looking to purchase one now I've always loved Harley's but I ride fast bikes and wouldn't spend the money on a bike with 60hp I'm looking forward to it Thanks for sharing
That looks like an 80s style bike. I like it! The Special really peaked my interest because it looks classic but has the tech. It would be cool if they could have made it with a bigger tank but whatever, it is what it is. I hate when Harley fans just complain without trying it. Gotta move forward. Even the Honda Rebel 1100 had a better package for the price that the Iron 883. Time to add some tech and modernization to these bikes to compete. Just not digging the exhaust sound. Lol!
Great review. I own a 1993 883 and a 2013 Street Glide. The Sportster has its place and so does this new Nightster. I’m sure the number of people in the market for a bike of this type is smaller than other Harley models but I’m sure it will sell well. I’m a bit old school and love the simplicity of an air cooled V-Twin. I don’t see myself buying one of these but I’m sure I’ll be smiling if I test ride one. Great review video!
Perfectly stated, thank you! Not for me, but my 22 year old son loves it! I am a big TC fan, have 2, M8 pretty sweet too, owned one, not a big fan of Revmax yet, I know it's a great motor, and will be easily performance upgradable before too long.
Yes, Nick . 150 hp Revmax engine in the Lowrider S/ softtail frame. eg. Roland Sands new Buell build anyone ? That's the bike Harley Davidson should've built.
I always enjoy your thorough reviews Matt but here you seem to have made a mistake: While Nightster & Nightster Special have the ABS, TCS and so on as standard it is NOT cornering enhanced. That’s only on the Sportster S, which is one of the reason I got one over the Nightster Special. Anyway - While I think the Nightster Special is a nice package overall the Sportster S offers a lot more for just a little bit more money.
Great video. If I were younger and looking for an around town bike I would probably consider either the Sportster S or Nightster Special. I think they look really good.
Really cool looking motorcycle does not have the hot rod look of the original sports though but nothing lasts forever Thank you for the video take care
The fit and finish of this bike is not up to the usual quality of Harley-Davidson. For example: at 18:30 in the video, the handlebar wiring looks horrible! An F&I guy at a dealership told me that while this bike has a ton more tech and power than the bike it's replacing, almost everyone, even younger riders in their 20's who are used to riding water cooled bikes, hates the way it looks and almost no one even wants to test ride it because they can't get past the styling and stuff like the ugly plastic around the radiator. IHHO, this will be a huge swing-and-a-miss for The Motor Company and I tend to agree with him. I hated the way the Pan America looked in all the pics and videos online, but when I finally saw one in person, it looked so much better. I actually liked it and if I were in the market for a large ADV bike, it would be in the running. With the 2023 Nightster, it was the total opposite: it looked worse in person than it did in all the pics and videos online. As always, Matt, a nice video with great production values that's very informative about the product you're selling.
Thanks much for this amazing review. It has answered all of my questions. Now I'm sure that this exactly what I was looking for. Cheers from Brazil! 👊🇧🇷
More and more bikes crossing the $20,000 threshold on a depreciating liability. Some bikes crossing the $30,000 threshold. The nightster and Sportster are good value for sure. The Sportster S and Pan America are Harley’s fastest bikes from the factory, no mods needed which is also value
Just like the PanAmerica Radiator hose getting burned from header pipes the Nightster design seem to have inherited the same issue based on the similar placement of these parts between both the models.
Great review Matt!! I really think more than price or styling, Harley needs to get the traditional Harley Potato-Potato sound for the Rev-Max engine to be accepted. I own a 2022 Harley Pan America, and I love this bike, the speed and power is amazing, but I also own a 2023 Harley Breakout, mainly because I love the style, but the M8 117 engine just sounds amazing. The Rev-Max engine is perfect in the Pan America, but just not sportsters in my opinion, the motor just sounds horrible. Give me a 883, or 1200 sportster any day, just because of the great sounding motor.
Ok so starting around 14k add in dealer markups and you will be walking out the door with a newer sporster for 17k or 18 if you get the special that's just crazy.
i’m a RK owner but those new electronics are awesome….Indian Motorcycles has totally failed to update their commiserative models that need that electronic upgrade
Nice bike, but I'm starting to think one would be better to start out on a Softail Standard or Street Bob 114 as an "entry level" Harley for the "price point" the M-8 107 in the standard is a great platform. I test rode the Standard Softail, Street Bob and a Road King Special from the standpoint of starting on a XL883N. The mistake the dealer made was that I rode the 114 first so I like it better than the 107. I see a Street Bob 114 and a Road King Special or Road King Police 114 being parked in my garage next to the "Sporty" in the near future. That new Softail frame is super easy to lean, dip and whip around. The road King, wow, the king of comfort that really pulls with that 114. The "Sporty" soon to be a Hammer Performance 1275.
Great video. Really like the new Nightster/Sportster. It’s not for me as I’m 6’3”, but it’s cool. I always wondered why HD never updated the Evo Sportster engine similar to the way they upgrade the big twins. Matt, you should be on the east coast in Daytona. It’s Bike Week!
I know! I'm stuck working here at the dealership though. Catch me in Sturgis this year. That's a good question. I think many people have asked why H-D didn't evolve the Air cooled evo like they did the Twin cam into the M8. Maybe to shut up all the haters that thought H-D couldn't produce a "modern engine". I just think they went in a very performance driven cruiser direction which I'm okay with as long as they still have their bread and butter an air cooled, push-rod engine.
Here in Thailand the Nighter 975 is like 30% cheaper than the Street Bob. I also got it with 15% discount which made it cheaper than a Triumph Bobber or an Indian Scout. The buyer also get 20% discount for accessories. It is now the best value Harley Davidson over here. It will sell well in Asia.
I test rode one and did really like it. Thing i cannot wrap my brain on is OTD after fees, ect...18-19k for a new sportster. I figure wait 1-2 years and pick up a nice used one for probably around 10 (ish). Makes more sense , at least to me.
That OG EVO nightster they showed for a second looked BANGIN!!! man.. the MoCo gonna have a hard time with their usual customer accepting change. Some guys been buying the same bikes over and over for decades. Granted over time the tech got better, bikes more reliable and “modern” despite the pushrod design, and the chassis designs are much better .. when they did the new touring chassis they smashed it out of the park!!!
@ Matt: Thank you for another great review and video! I like the Nightster Special, I think it is an important model from HD for the market in Europe (I am German), as the basic Nightster hasn't be figured quite out yet from the customers. The RevMax models basicially are comparable to the Japanes and European models techwise, how they are built and how they ride. Competitors for the Nightster are middleweight nakeds and modern retro motorcycles. 16100 € gives the basic Nightster a hard time. You can get a Honda 750 Hornet for 7900 € or a BMW S 1000 R for 16000 € and everything in between. Z 900 RS, R nineT Pure and the Triumphs are between 13000 and 15000 €. I think European customers likely pay more for the Nightster Special and get the sexy TFT and wheels and paintjob. Hopefully we'll see the Bronx as a 2024 model. The Bronx was supposed to be the most important RevMax model , everybody found it pretty spot on and loved the bike.
Thank you for the comment. It's always interesting to hear how the bike is perceived and fits into the moto world in different continents. Maybe we will still see the Bronx. We will see!
I like the wheels of this bike too. Coincidentally, the tire dimensions are the same as on the Iron. I planned to buy these, but unfortunately the rear is constructed differently to the Evo bikes, so it won't work.
Why is the exhaust so ugly? Is there a reason for the size along the side? Have you seen any traditional chrome after market options. What can be done to improve the sound? One of the best executions of a retro look is the Kawasaki Z900RS which is also water cooled.
You're going to tell me how much better the bike is with a 6 axis IMU? Did you used to fall off of the old ones that didn't have that feature? I think the S looks better and I'm sure it performs better than the old Sporty, but so does a Honda Rebel. I'd have preferred it went slower and shrunk that radiator from an XXXL to a size small. The right side of the engine looks nice and I understand why you feature it. The other side looks like the inside of a boiler room.
Quit fing around, and put the full fat, all the caffeine, and twice the sugar 1250 motor from the DirtGlide in it, and I'll sell my RK, my first born, and buy one today. C'mon Harley, big twins get bigger every week, we don't have a 74in M8 do we?
I think Harley is headed in the right direction. I prefer traditional Harley’s personally. These brand new bikes are car payments. I just hope Harley technology doesn’t get crazy hard to work on maintenance wise, kinda like todays car technology.
Glad to hear at the end of the vid that you said it sounds beefy with a good exhaust, because I was not thrilled with the machinery like sound I was hearing as it was rolling down the road. HD better hope buyers for this are not expecting that old killer Harley evo tone.
I have an 87 sportster 883. I agree that you find a ceiling of capability on those bikes, especially with the 4 speed transmission. Being a young rider I still feel it's the best bike to start on. I still like my classic chrome look, but I'd be interested in trying the nightster s. Wanting to do longer trips with a passenger has been pushing me towards a heritage instead
If you want a step up that's not too expensive get a 2007 or newer 1200 Sporster Low. 3 gallon tank 5 speed fuel injected with way more power and better range than what you have now. Longer trips are doable and they are light and fun to ride. I have a 2008 and it's a blast.
Personally, I'm embracing the change. I think it looks mean. Matt, you got any inside info on the Bronx ? I just bought a new Street Glide ST, but if the Bronx comes out I'll make room for it.
It really doesn’t sound like a Harley. The e torque and horsepower is considerably more than the 1200 EVO granted but comparing it to the Roland Sands Buell super cruiser it’s a total letdown and my personal opinion is that’s where the competition is, the engineers and the designers at HD need something that can compete with the RSD Buell Super Cruiser. Is HD even selling many of the new REVMAX Sportsters?
As far as I understand the RSD Super Cruiser was a total custom that is a non-EPA compliant machine. It will be interesting to see what it will look and perform like with a government mandated tune and exhaust...
Ok I was the first to laugh at these. Im 46 and pretty traditional but Im also a fan of Kawa and other sport bikes. To know theres a mix of both styles is pretty sexy… SOOO. When it cools down here in AZ I might need to investigate this bike
I'm Gen X, I like the new look. The aesthetics don't matter to me as much as having a bike that I won't get killed on because of a factory defect, that will break down on me while I'm out riding it, or gets less mpg than my Honda Rebel 250. The boomers are all getting too old to ride. Harley needs to look at the market and focus on making good bikes that can compete in that market if they want to stay in business.
Interesting how yes the base prices have risen but you do get more. Now the Softail Standard price wise slots right between the two Nightster models. I'd like to see the Standard and Nightster compared.
I have a 2022 Nightster and really want the risers they put on the special. I do not know why they did not make this part available in the P&A catalog. Also the bracket for the removable bags is hideous. Looks horrible with the bags removed. They needed to make something more modern like the Thrashin Supply saddlebags. What's a bit weird is that there is hardly a any aftermarket support for these bikes. The only slip on available is from S&S and it sounds great.
🛑🛑 I like the Retro Paint Job 😀👍. The Retro Paint Job, reminds me of a 1975 SXT 125, I had back in the day. 😂👍💯 How far we have come since those day’s. 👍😂
Actually, the brand new 975 V-Twin (RevMax) is a great answer to Indian's Scout sixty line tight? I'm disappointed on price & think the new nightster S is where they should've started. It's a longterm bike for a cruiser who wants the convenience of a naked, midsized bike. The IMU allows the rider to grow by learning some soft edges. Adjustable suspension is a huge benefit. Great bike for lots of uses. I've ridden well sorted 650's 1,000s of miles & modestly refreshed after a long 3 hour run. This is how the 975L should be introduced!
It’s ok but no way I would buy one at that price. After 30 years of buying Harley I am going to keep my 2 Harleys but Harley has lost me as a customer for new bike. My next bike will be a Royal Enfield. I will buy any brand before I will buy a new Harley at these prices. I hope HD can stay in business because I buy only Harley parts for my current 2 bikes but I don’t think Harley will be able to continue much longer at these crazy prices. I will miss Harley
Hey Guys, we made an error in this video. The Nightster special is equipped with ABS, Traction Control, and Drag-Torque slip control. It isn't equipped with the 6 axis IMU and therefore doesn't have the lean angle assist. The Sportster S does!
Nice review, but may I recommend that you show the rider standing on his pegs like you did in your other podcast video titled "Rev Max Sportster: A huge change that is a gamble for Harley". The ability to stand on your pegs and lift your butt off the seat is a huge selling point for riders like me. I'm a metric rider (Yamaha, Kawasaki, Honda) who is finally starting to consider a Harley Davidson because of the new Rev Max engine, and the modern electronics that HD put in the Nightster and the Pan American. The ability to stand on your pegs and get your butt off the seat is a benefit for riders like me with back issues, and others with adventure bikes in their stable. Just sayin'...
I love my Nightster Special
@@chud67I do that every so often on my Nightster 2022, well not stand stand, but with my butt up over bumps and to get over curbs
@@yeejay6396 thanks for the feedback. It's good to hear from an actual owner.
*It's more than just a "little bit" of a trade-off to pay good money for improved performance and safety but have to live with looking at this ugly-arse machine every time you go for a ride.* No reviewer even wants to photograph the left side - it is grotesque. They just photograph the hideous side.
Harley needs to make a bike that starts at 10k or they will never take off with the younger generation. This wasn't supposed to be a rich man's hobby.
Exactly.
There are 10's of thousands used Sportsters for sale daily. "We are not in the entry level motorcycle business'" Ducati CEO
@@twocupstwodrams7535 except this is a Harley video. Also, you shouldn’t be forced to purchase something second hand. Tell me why you can buy an American made car for 20k but an American made motorcycle is 25+? Less materials to build, same union workforce to pay. Harley overcharges.
@@charkswitlazers The "big three" are in the entry level business, Harley, like Ducati are not. The entry level cars are not made with USA union workforce. It would be great if they were.
@@twocupstwodrams7535 actually, they are. The Chevy sonic was built in Michigan with UAW labor until being recently discontinued. Also, Harley motorcycles were supposed to be for the working man, not a luxury item. Ducati and Harley cannot be compared as Ducati bikes are engineered with advanced technology and competitive performance while Harleys use tech from 2006. They are overpriced. The young generation will purchase what is most cost efficient
Love the content but hate the Nightster. As a Nightster owner, I find the bike really disappointing. The engine heat is unbearable in the summer. Also, I’ve struggled with the bikes reliability. There are re occurring quirks with the electronics that require addressing too. Additionally, the after market seems uninterested in developing products for this bike. It was supposed to be an instrument of expression yet to date only s&s has figured out a slip on, only Corbin has figured out a seat, and no one makes a bar and riser set up for this bike… overall, very disappointing. Most of the stuff is livable except for the heat… if you can’t lane split, the bike is not a fun place to be on in the summer.
Matt I Took Delivery of an Industrial Yellow Nightster Special on Friday . The Harley Davidson Sundowner Seat works well . Stops you from sliding of the back . I put a S&S 4.5" Grand National Slip on Muffler with the dB reducer taken out . Sounds good & Goes well . Yes hard Bike to review . People need to ride it themself to understand how good it is . The TFT display is awesome . Great Bike . Good Video Matt . Fitted the Black & Orange Adversary Collection . Getting Rid of the Bar end Mirrors for ease of Lane splitting around Melbourne . 1000Kms in 3 days . Love the Bike . Much better bike than the 883 iron I just Sold . Will run harder than my Stage 2 107 in my Softail Slim . 1250S Rev Max in one of these would be a rocket ship .
I just got the blue one. With these bikes can we upgrade the exhaust ?
@V l put a S&S Grand National Slip on muffler on mine.
@@lizardsonofanakie do they have full exhaust like the others?
@V there is new stuff coming out all the time . Need check the internet. Seen some custom made stuff too .
My first bike was a Sportster 1200, and it took a LOT of upgrades to make that comfortable. It's amazing what the Sportster has become. I love it.
At this price point, just buy a Street Bob.
But they are nothing alike...
The Nightster Special is a lot more fun than a Steet Bob . Nearly as much power, far lighter, Better Brakes more Tech . Much different beast . Keeping my 2019 Slim with Stage 2 performance cam for interstate and overnight trips . But Enjoying the 2023 Nightster Special for around town & country roads . So light on twisty roads
@@lizardsonofanakie Its apples and oranges IMO
@@Doobie603 Very true just saying instead of saying buying a Street Bob due to price point should take a far better look at both . As the Nightster Special comes out on top IMO . But depends what the bike will be used for . I am lucky enough to have a Slim which is basic a Street Bob with floorboards , wider front tyre & larger fuel tank . So l get to have both . EPA laws are making it harder & harder for Air Cooled Engines to comply .
And with the price of a street bob, just buy a low rider s
I don't agree with the pricing, but holly shit if you test ride just the regular nightster you will fall in love INEVITABLY.
I love my Nightster Special
Another excellent review of a great bike. You guys do great reviews that never feel like you are just trying to sell a bike. Always great detail and complete list of pros and cons. Agree with you on the moving forward. Too many commenters that gripe if HD doesn't modernize and then also complain when they do. I think the changes they are making are great, holding onto as much of the heritage as possible while still getting more modern. Great work Matt and Nick!!
Well said man. It's hard for H-D to up ease the riders who demand new tech and engines then complain when "it's not a Harley" Thanks for the comment man
@@MattLaidlaw agreed. I'm sad to see the Evo Sportster go but I guess when things transitioned from Ironhead to Evo many people felt the same way. In life as well as with products, change is a guaranteed constant.
I just test rode the PA, sportster s, and the nightster s at bike week. I am a traditional Harley guy and currently own a 2003 sportster and M8 Bob. I can’t say enough how impressed I was with the revmax engine. Had no idea what to expect but the pan America and the 1250 sportster are both very very good. The PA is insanely good on all accounts and the most impressive bike Harley has ever built in my opinion. The new 1250 sportster is dangerously quick. I love Harley is building bikes you can rev and keeping low end torque. The 975 was also very fun but it’s overpriced compared to a m8 softail or the pan America and 1250 Sportster.
I like it Matt, then again I like anything with a Harley Davidson badge, that’s why I have 4 of them in my garage 😂❤
Cool bike but I just don’t understand how this bike fits in as far as price and the market it’s in. Nearly 18k out the door at least for a small commuter bike.
I took one for a demo ride this past weekend and loved it. I’m looking for a 2nd bike that’s lighter and smaller than my Heritage just to rip around town in and this bike is really good. I was surprised at all the safety and electronics especially the ABS, traction control/ride modes and the cruise control. It is more expensive than lower cost competitors and the old Sportsters but the extras you get and the modern up to date electronics make it worth it in my opinion. My only dislike is the look of the exhaust - looks sort of like a leaf blower. But overall, great little motorcycle from Harley-Davidson.
Those intros are so good, can't praise them enough.
Love the old school Harley Davidson emblem on the tank. My first Harley was a 1990 Sportster 883 Hugger in Hi-Fi Blue.
I need to be honest with you Matt. Your videos really benefit the motorcycle community as a whole. We learn when we watch your videos. And we want to stop by a Harley dealer. It's a lifestyle. And we love it.
Honestly if this was the base model and dropped $2k, buying a Nightster wouldn’t be such a hard pill to swallow
Thank you this was an awesome review. I have liked a few Harleys but never enough to buy one. The nightster has changed that opinion and the special will be my next bike.
Cool bike, thanks for the review Mr. Laidlaw. Production values and information are of a high order in this video, impressive effort.
Thank you for recognizing that! I spent a ton of time editing this one. Thanks for the comment
@@MattLaidlaw It shows, I've noticed it in many of your videos. Thanks again.
I am not sure what to think of this yet, takes a little time i guess. But this looks much better than Sportster S. I don't like gas tank being under the seat and bar end mirrors is just not for me. On color options i liked yellow best. Nice video again, Matt!
Gas tank under the seat makes a huge impact on handling, in a good way. Those who’ve owned a VRod can attest to that.
@@r6singh i understand that, but to fill it could still be up in tank.
Sounds like the 350 Honda I had in the 70’s 😕
There's a reason they skirted around talking about the sound and kept music going.
Thankfully it rides much much better.
I’ve noticed the Rev max is always only shown from the same side, no matter what bike it’s in. I believe it’s because it looks so unfinished, no one likes to show both sides of the bikes.
True I have added some stickers to the other side to break up the all black side . there is a few things they could have done to dress it up a bit . The Black & Orange Adversary Collection looks good on these engines .
Let me guess, they're not showing the left side.😉
It being asymmetrical has taken me awhile to just accept…I would have preferred both sides being black or the cover color regardless of the different shapes/looks on each side of the motor. That being said…it’s starting to bother me less and less.
It's because the left side looks atrocious.
Worst thing Harley did
I like the new Sportsters. I think the RevMax motor looks good, the chassis looks good, and the capabilities are a huge step up. The thing I don't like is how they executed the radiator. The Vrod and Indian Scout are examples of tastefully done radiators, the Sportsters are not. This is especially true of the Nightster, with its thinner front end. The S masks it a little better with its beefy front tire, but it really sticks out on the Nightster. Fix that, and they will be totally handsome bikes.
I actually agree with you. They could have incorporated the radiator in the chassis in a better, more aesthetically-pleasing way. Thanks for the comment
The revmax motor looks good? What is your standard for looking bad? Even more wires and plastic junk hanging off?
@@Stevel_ looks fine for what it is. Liquid cooled bikes are going to have more stuff on them. Look at any Japanese or euro bikes, and they have the same or more. If you don't like it, go get a softail or touring bike.
@@usmcvet0313 No...they don't. Google an image of a Indian Scout. That is a liquid cooled engine done right. Same with the VRod. Same with the new Triumph Bonneville T100...and lots of metric cruisers. This is not by any stretch of the imagination a clean looking engine. Go see one in person and check out all the wires dangling off the left side of it. It's why you NEVER see it in this video. They right side looks like a toy. It's just a damn ugly engine.
@@Stevel_ yes, they do. And they show the left side of the bike at 0:50 in this video. Looks fine except for how they did the radiator.
I have the Nightster Special and so far, love it. There are a few things that need upgrades to make the bike a little better. 1. Exhaust 2. The plastic in the middle of the airbox tank, the tank itself looks great but the plastic insert down the middle needs to be metal like the tank itself with better options for the logo. They make a 66 medallion, but it's only option. I installed the orange adversary collection on the whole bike it looks a 100 time's better, but no medallion in the adversary collection for the tank box. Again, great bike to ride, plenty of power, just needs some upgrades to make it complete. It's sad that you spend $18000 for motorcycle and then you are like now I have to spend another $1500 to $2000 to make it look right.
Pretty standard for Harley.
Basic bike. Add money until happy.
Can you post pics of this?
@@dustinhall4035sure
Should have been called V Rod Sportster.
The irony of Harley having such a die hard audience is they are especially upset from any change at all. Selling these, customers always voiced their criticism of HD for selling the same product year after year.
Yet, they try something new- the same old heads trip out lol.
We all love Harley. If you want them to stick around they need be versatile & one example of that is selling motorcycles like this to attract a wider demographic of riders.
I think that mentality is dying off, quite literally.
No, the problem is the look of the engine and the amount of plastic.
I'm looking to purchase one now I've always loved Harley's but I ride fast bikes and wouldn't spend the money on a bike with 60hp I'm looking forward to it Thanks for sharing
All these new rev max motors put out more horsepower to weight than all the touring bikes right from the factory. No expensive stage 2-4 needed.
Are you guys sure about the 6 axis IMU? The website has the lean sensitive abs, traction control, listed as NA when compared to the sportster s
After reading your comment I went back to double check and I am wrong. You're right. Thank you for bringing this to my attention.
That looks like an 80s style bike. I like it! The Special really peaked my interest because it looks classic but has the tech. It would be cool if they could have made it with a bigger tank but whatever, it is what it is. I hate when Harley fans just complain without trying it. Gotta move forward. Even the Honda Rebel 1100 had a better package for the price that the Iron 883. Time to add some tech and modernization to these bikes to compete. Just not digging the exhaust sound. Lol!
Great review. I own a 1993 883 and a 2013 Street Glide. The Sportster has its place and so does this new Nightster. I’m sure the number of people in the market for a bike of this type is smaller than other Harley models but I’m sure it will sell well. I’m a bit old school and love the simplicity of an air cooled V-Twin. I don’t see myself buying one of these but I’m sure I’ll be smiling if I test ride one. Great review video!
Perfectly stated, thank you! Not for me, but my 22 year old son loves it! I am a big TC fan, have 2, M8 pretty sweet too, owned one, not a big fan of Revmax yet, I know it's a great motor, and will be easily performance upgradable before too long.
The NS is going to get a hard time, simply based on the fact that it is a replacement for the Sportster. It’s going to take some time 😅. Nice review 👍
its gonna take a LOT of time then because they sound like garbage lol
Beautiful bike, HD nailed this one.🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸. This isn’t your grandpas knuckle.😎
Yes, Nick . 150 hp Revmax engine in the Lowrider S/ softtail frame. eg. Roland Sands new Buell build anyone ? That's the bike Harley Davidson should've built.
I always enjoy your thorough reviews Matt but here you seem to have made a mistake: While Nightster & Nightster Special have the ABS, TCS and so on as standard it is NOT cornering enhanced. That’s only on the Sportster S, which is one of the reason I got one over the Nightster Special. Anyway - While I think the Nightster Special is a nice package overall the Sportster S offers a lot more for just a little bit more money.
Great bike 👍I would love to spend time on one... the only thing that is going to hurt the sales is the price 😪
Great video. If I were younger and looking for an around town bike I would probably consider either the Sportster S or Nightster Special. I think they look really good.
Really cool looking motorcycle does not have the hot rod look of the original sports though but nothing lasts forever Thank you for the video take care
The fit and finish of this bike is not up to the usual quality of Harley-Davidson.
For example: at 18:30 in the video, the handlebar wiring looks horrible!
An F&I guy at a dealership told me that while this bike has a ton more
tech and power than the bike it's replacing, almost everyone, even younger riders
in their 20's who are used to riding water cooled bikes, hates the way it looks and
almost no one even wants to test ride it because they can't get past the styling
and stuff like the ugly plastic around the radiator.
IHHO, this will be a huge swing-and-a-miss for The Motor Company and I tend
to agree with him.
I hated the way the Pan America looked in all the pics and videos online, but when
I finally saw one in person, it looked so much better. I actually liked it and if I were
in the market for a large ADV bike, it would be in the running.
With the 2023 Nightster, it was the total opposite: it looked worse in person than
it did in all the pics and videos online.
As always, Matt, a nice video with great production values that's very informative
about the product you're selling.
Thanks much for this amazing review. It has answered all of my questions. Now I'm sure that this exactly what I was looking for. Cheers from Brazil! 👊🇧🇷
Thank you Matt, I was waiting for this review!
My pleasure! Thanks for watching
Harley owners hate this bike. Everyone else likes it. Can’t please everyone.
More and more bikes crossing the $20,000 threshold on a depreciating liability. Some bikes crossing the $30,000 threshold. The nightster and Sportster are good value for sure. The Sportster S and Pan America are Harley’s fastest bikes from the factory, no mods needed which is also value
Just like the PanAmerica Radiator hose getting burned from header pipes the Nightster design seem to have inherited the same issue based on the similar placement of these parts between both the models.
Great review Matt!! I really think more than price or styling, Harley needs to get the traditional Harley Potato-Potato sound for the Rev-Max engine to be accepted. I own a 2022 Harley Pan America, and I love this bike, the speed and power is amazing, but I also own a 2023 Harley Breakout, mainly because I love the style, but the M8 117 engine just sounds amazing. The Rev-Max engine is perfect in the Pan America, but just not sportsters in my opinion, the motor just sounds horrible. Give me a 883, or 1200 sportster any day, just because of the great sounding motor.
I appreciate the comment. It’s good to get peoples feedback. I’m glad you’re enjoying the pan america. It’s a great machine.
100% this bike + the bigger motor 👌🔥
Ok so starting around 14k add in dealer markups and you will be walking out the door with a newer sporster for 17k or 18 if you get the special that's just crazy.
It looks so fucken CHEAP! Like a rebel! The Indian scout looks so much higher quality and the Triumph bobber looks a lot better
Looks awesome! Thanks for the great review Matt & Nick.
Thanks for watching
The wheels are so good, no aftermarket wheel can match, IMHO.
i’m a RK owner but those new electronics are awesome….Indian Motorcycles has totally failed to update their commiserative models that need that electronic upgrade
Nice bike, but I'm starting to think one would be better to start out on a Softail Standard or Street Bob 114 as an "entry level" Harley for the "price point" the M-8 107 in the standard is a great platform. I test rode the Standard Softail, Street Bob and a Road King Special from the standpoint of starting on a XL883N. The mistake the dealer made was that I rode the 114 first so I like it better than the 107. I see a Street Bob 114 and a Road King Special or Road King Police 114 being parked in my garage next to the "Sporty" in the near future. That new Softail frame is super easy to lean, dip and whip around. The road King, wow, the king of comfort that really pulls with that 114. The "Sporty" soon to be a Hammer Performance 1275.
Great video. Really like the new Nightster/Sportster. It’s not for me as I’m 6’3”, but it’s cool. I always wondered why HD never updated the Evo Sportster engine similar to the way they upgrade the big twins. Matt, you should be on the east coast in Daytona. It’s Bike Week!
I know! I'm stuck working here at the dealership though. Catch me in Sturgis this year.
That's a good question. I think many people have asked why H-D didn't evolve the Air cooled evo like they did the Twin cam into the M8. Maybe to shut up all the haters that thought H-D couldn't produce a "modern engine". I just think they went in a very performance driven cruiser direction which I'm okay with as long as they still have their bread and butter an air cooled, push-rod engine.
They could still keep the 883 going and drop the price down to 6-8000 to just drop an anchor on the beginner bike market.
Great video…Does this bikes engine require periodic valve adjustments?
Here in Thailand the Nighter 975 is like 30% cheaper than the Street Bob. I also got it with 15% discount which made it cheaper than a Triumph Bobber or an Indian Scout. The buyer also get 20% discount for accessories.
It is now the best value Harley Davidson over here. It will sell well in Asia.
I agree , change is not always welcomed or liked but is needed to grow . My opinion its bad ass!!!
I test rode one and did really like it. Thing i cannot wrap my brain on is OTD after fees, ect...18-19k for a new sportster. I figure wait 1-2 years and pick up a nice used one for probably around 10 (ish). Makes more sense , at least to me.
great edit Matt !
Thanks Danny!
That OG EVO nightster they showed for a second looked BANGIN!!!
man.. the MoCo gonna have a hard time with their usual customer accepting change.
Some guys been buying the same bikes over and over for decades. Granted over time the tech got better, bikes more reliable and “modern” despite the pushrod design, and the chassis designs are much better .. when they did the new touring chassis they smashed it out of the park!!!
Should of took the old motor add 4 V heads, 6 speed and oil cooling.
@ Matt: Thank you for another great review and video!
I like the Nightster Special, I think it is an important model from HD for the market in Europe (I am German), as the basic Nightster hasn't be figured quite out yet from the customers.
The RevMax models basicially are comparable to the Japanes and European models techwise, how they are built and how they ride.
Competitors for the Nightster are middleweight nakeds and modern retro motorcycles.
16100 € gives the basic Nightster a hard time.
You can get a Honda 750 Hornet for 7900 € or a BMW S 1000 R for 16000 € and everything in between. Z 900 RS, R nineT Pure and the Triumphs are between 13000 and 15000 €.
I think European customers likely pay more for the Nightster Special and get the sexy TFT and wheels and paintjob.
Hopefully we'll see the Bronx as a 2024 model.
The Bronx was supposed to be the most important RevMax model , everybody found it pretty spot on and loved the bike.
Thank you for the comment. It's always interesting to hear how the bike is perceived and fits into the moto world in different continents. Maybe we will still see the Bronx. We will see!
I like the wheels of this bike too. Coincidentally, the tire dimensions are the same as on the Iron. I planned to buy these, but unfortunately the rear is constructed differently to the Evo bikes, so it won't work.
Do you think HD will ever make a street scrambler style bike? Looks like this platform would be a good starting point.
I don’t know. Maybe.
Why is the exhaust so ugly? Is there a reason for the size along the side? Have you seen any traditional chrome after market options. What can be done to improve the sound? One of the best executions of a retro look is the Kawasaki Z900RS which is also water cooled.
You're going to tell me how much better the bike is with a 6 axis IMU? Did you used to fall off of the old ones that didn't have that feature?
I think the S looks better and I'm sure it performs better than the old Sporty, but so does a Honda Rebel. I'd have preferred it went slower and shrunk that radiator from an XXXL to a size small. The right side of the engine looks nice and I understand why you feature it. The other side looks like the inside of a boiler room.
Wheel color really helps it. I like!
Quit fing around, and put the full fat, all the caffeine, and twice the sugar 1250 motor from the DirtGlide in it, and I'll sell my RK, my first born, and buy one today. C'mon Harley, big twins get bigger every week, we don't have a 74in M8 do we?
If I ever buy a brand new bike off the floor, I'd go dumb and build a StreetBob 131. 😊
Be ready to light the rear wheel up constantly.
It rides great on the freeway. You could easily tour on this bike. You’d need a new seat, but you could do it.
It is a nice bike... But, Harley has missed the point of the Sportster. Regardless of all the upgrades they 100% missed the mark on pricing it.
Both of you guys are a class act! Thank you for all your great content.
I think Harley is headed in the right direction. I prefer traditional Harley’s personally. These brand new bikes are car payments. I just hope Harley technology doesn’t get crazy hard to work on maintenance wise, kinda like todays car technology.
Softails for the 1911 guys and now we have sportsters for the Glock guys. I like it.
Can you fit the Nightster standard with the tachometer from the S version?
I prefer to see RPM instead of Speed (like Roadster instead of Iron dash)
Glad to hear at the end of the vid that you said it sounds beefy with a good exhaust, because I was not thrilled with the machinery like sound I was hearing as it was rolling down the road. HD better hope buyers for this are not expecting that old killer Harley evo tone.
It does not sound beefy at all with an exhaust. You can make it loud, but it's not a deep pleasurable tone at all.
I have an 87 sportster 883. I agree that you find a ceiling of capability on those bikes, especially with the 4 speed transmission. Being a young rider I still feel it's the best bike to start on. I still like my classic chrome look, but I'd be interested in trying the nightster s. Wanting to do longer trips with a passenger has been pushing me towards a heritage instead
If you want a step up that's not too expensive get a 2007 or newer 1200 Sporster Low. 3 gallon tank 5 speed fuel injected with way more power and better range than what you have now. Longer trips are doable and they are light and fun to ride. I have a 2008 and it's a blast.
Cool bike man. Yea, it just comes down to what you're going to use it for and where your tastes are.
Personally, I'm embracing the change. I think it looks mean. Matt, you got any inside info on the Bronx ? I just bought a new Street Glide ST, but if the Bronx comes out I'll make room for it.
Now that's a real Davidson
The Nightster exhaust is hideous!
It really doesn’t sound like a Harley. The e torque and horsepower is considerably more than the 1200 EVO granted but comparing it to the Roland Sands Buell super cruiser it’s a total letdown and my personal opinion is that’s where the competition is, the engineers and the designers at HD need something that can compete with the RSD Buell Super Cruiser. Is HD even selling many of the new REVMAX Sportsters?
As far as I understand the RSD Super Cruiser was a total custom that is a non-EPA compliant machine. It will be interesting to see what it will look and perform like with a government mandated tune and exhaust...
Again .. your review is spot on! Wish i'd live in the US, then i definitely buy a new bike at your store👍🏻
Ok I was the first to laugh at these. Im 46 and pretty traditional but Im also a fan of Kawa and other sport bikes. To know theres a mix of both styles is pretty sexy… SOOO. When it cools down here in AZ I might need to investigate this bike
I got a laugh out of the comment “it not made for touring” but I take my 2009 Nightster on long trips
I'm Gen X, I like the new look. The aesthetics don't matter to me as much as having a bike that I won't get killed on because of a factory defect, that will break down on me while I'm out riding it, or gets less mpg than my Honda Rebel 250. The boomers are all getting too old to ride. Harley needs to look at the market and focus on making good bikes that can compete in that market if they want to stay in business.
Interesting how yes the base prices have risen but you do get more. Now the Softail Standard price wise slots right between the two Nightster models. I'd like to see the Standard and Nightster compared.
I have a 2022 Nightster and really want the risers they put on the special. I do not know why they did not make this part available in the P&A catalog. Also the bracket for the removable bags is hideous. Looks horrible with the bags removed. They needed to make something more modern like the Thrashin Supply saddlebags. What's a bit weird is that there is hardly a any aftermarket support for these bikes. The only slip on available is from S&S and it sounds great.
Nope. Good video Matt and see you trying but that thing lacks soul. Like a plastic piece of Chinesium.
Thanks for the review. Did I miss you mentioning the heated grips ?
Does it sound like hyrbid car...im gonna miss that traditional harley sound...any word on aftermarket exhaust for this platform?
Nice review keep up the good work MATT LaidLaw
diggin this bike!!!
I like it, but why the leaf blower exhaust?
Is there a sissy bar back rest to add a top box?
Does this motorcycle come with heated handle bars or do you need to install them?
what about the reetawrded mirrors? can you adjust that sheet?
It is possibile to drive it with A2 License (under 35kw)? Should it be de-powered? How?
I guess you gotta roll with the changes, Harley has always had to walk a fine line between nostalgia and technology.
Does it have Electronic linked braking?
🛑🛑 I like the Retro Paint Job 😀👍.
The Retro Paint Job, reminds me of a 1975 SXT 125, I had back in the day.
😂👍💯
How far we have come since those day’s. 👍😂
Actually, the brand new 975 V-Twin (RevMax) is a great answer to Indian's Scout sixty line tight? I'm disappointed on price & think the new nightster S is where they should've started. It's a longterm bike for a cruiser who wants the convenience of a naked, midsized bike. The IMU allows the rider to grow by learning some soft edges. Adjustable suspension is a huge benefit. Great bike for lots of uses. I've ridden well sorted 650's 1,000s of miles & modestly refreshed after a long 3 hour run. This is how the 975L should be introduced!
It’s ok but no way I would buy one at that price. After 30 years of buying Harley I am going to keep my 2 Harleys but Harley has lost me as a customer for new bike. My next bike will be a Royal Enfield. I will buy any brand before I will buy a new Harley at these prices. I hope HD can stay in business because I buy only Harley parts for my current 2 bikes but I don’t think Harley will be able to continue much longer at these crazy prices. I will miss Harley