Harley-Davidson Nightster unveiled, gets a smaller version of the Revolution Max powertrain
Harley-Davidson has added a new motorcycle to its rejuvenated Sportster lineup in the form of the new Nightster. However, the Nightster name isn’t new to the Milwaukee-based bike manufacturer at all, having used the same name on a different motorcycle back in 2007. This Nightster is an all-new motorcycle serving as an entry-point into the Sportster lineup.
Harley-Davidson Nightster Design
Much like the Sportster S, the Nightster too carries classic elements that Harley is known for, with an eye on the future. It gets the classic round headlamp flanked by a cowl, and a peanut-shaped fuel tank isn’t actually a fuel tank, but rather a steel cover for the airbox. The real fuel tank is hidden under the seat and has a capacity of 11.7 litres. Harley-Davidson says this lowers the motorcycle’s centre of gravity and improves handling. Opening the hinged seat for each refuel is something only some scooter owners experience though.
All things aside, the Nightster is a good looking Bobber-style motorcycle, and we can’t wait to see it in the flesh.
Harley-Davidson Nightster Powertrain and Chassis
The Nightster is powered by a smaller version of the Revolution Max powertrain seen on newer Harleys. A 975cc unit producing 89bhp at 7500rpm and 95Nm of torque at 5000rpm, paired to a six-speed transmission. The engine acts as a stressed member of the steel trellis frame, which hangs off of 41mm Showa dual-bending valve forks with aluminium fork triple clamps at the front, and twin coil-spring shock absorbers at the rear with pre-load adjustability.
The Nightster uses a single 320mm disc at the front with axially-mounted four-pot callipers and a 260mm floating disc with a single-piston calliper at the rear to bring it to a halt.
Harley-Davidson Nightster Features on offer
In terms of the equipment, the Nightster comes with three ride modes (Road, Sport, Rain), along with ABS, traction control, and drag-torque slip control which prevents excessive rear wheel slip during sudden downshifts. There’s also a 4-inch semi-digital instrument cluster with an LCD display. There are no connected features to speak of here.
Is the Nightster India-bound?
There is no official confirmation from Harley-Davidson regarding the launch of the Nightster in India. However, we feel that the Nightster would make a good addition to Harley’s India lineup, serving as a smaller, lighter and more affordable alternative to the Sportster S. We can only expect the Nightster to reach Indian shores next year.
