Singapore – Harley-Davidson unveiled its all new sport custom motorcycle, the Sportster S. The longest running HD model since 1957, the new Sportster S is all-new from the ground up.

The Sportster S inherits design features from its forebears, which include the massive (160mm!) front tyre, a fenderless front-end of a classic bobber, high-mount exhaust and slim solo seat, reminiscent of the XR750 flat tracker.

According to Brad Richards, Harley-Davidson Vice President of Styling and Design, “Every visual design element of the Sportster S model is an expression of the motorcycle’s raw power.”

The lightweight magnesium engine covers are finished in chocolate satin, which give the Sportster S model the look of a custom show bike. Visually appealing, the Sportster S reminds us of the 2007 HD Night Rod Special.

Complementing its fully adjustable upside-down 43mm Showa fork and tubular swingarm, the (literal) centrepiece of the Sportster S is the 121hp Revolution Max 1250T V-Twin engine, with the 'T' short for 'torque'.

The engine produces 127.5Nm at 6000rpm, with a torque curve that stays flat throughout the powerband, resulting in strong acceleration from the get-go and across the mid-rpm range.

This was achieved by giving the 150hp Revolution Max 1250 engine (also found on the Pan America) a different “head” and changing engine mapping to suit.

Like the Pan America (and most of the latest generation bikes), the Sportster S’s engine also acts as a stressed-member, which translates to better handling and lower kerbweight (just 229kg with its 11.8-litre tank fully filled). 

The Sportster S comes equipped with cruise control, four riding modes (Sport, Road, Rain and Custom), Brembo brakes and master cylinder, reach adjustable clutch and brake levers, and a round, four-inch TFT screen.

The display even includes a fuel gauge and Bluetooth infotainment, connecting to the rider’s mobile phone and bluetooth communications device to stream music, and make incoming and out-going calls, and navigation supplied by the Harley-Davidson App. All-LED lighting includes a Daymaker Signature LED headlamp designed to produce a homogenous spread of light.

Taking the Sportster S for a spin around the block, we were impressed with its ease of use – in terms of light clutch action – torquey engine and linear power delivery, 75mm seat height, and the aggressive looking but comfortable handlebar reach and Forward foot-controls (Mid-Control Conversion Kit is available). Even more surprising was the ease of doing u-turns, considering how wide the front tyre is.  

The Sportster S is priced at S$39,900 excluding COE and Insurance, and is available in Vivid Black; Stone Washed White Pearl or Midnight Crimson.

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