The
fuel tank and tail section frame the engine as the predominate centerpiece of
the motorcycle. The massive front tire recalls the fenderless front end of a
classic bobber, while the tail section, high-mount exhaust and slim solo seat
draw inspiration from the Harley-Davidson XR750 flat tracker. The thick
inverted forks and wide-profile tyre suggest high-performance sport bike.
“Every
visual design element of the Sportster S model is an expression of the
motorcycle’s raw power,” said Brad Richards, Harley-Davidson vice president of
styling and design. “This is a wolf in wolf’s clothing,” he noted.
The
powertrain is highlighted with a Chocolate Satin finish on the lightweight
magnesium engine covers. Textures, colors, finishes and details were selected
to give the Sportster S model the look of a custom show bike that just happens
to be parked in the owner’s garage.
Amplified
Performance
The
1250cc Revolution Max 1250T engine is the mechanical heart of the Sportster S
model. This new version of the latest Harley-Davidson liquid-cooled V-Twin
engine is tuned to make tremendous torque at low RPM, with a torque curve that
stays flat through the powerband – engine performance designed to deliver
strong acceleration from a start with robust power through the mid-range.
To
minimise overall motorcycle weight the engine is integrated into the vehicle as
the central member of the chassis. The use of lightweight materials helps
achieve a desirable power-to-weight ratio. Ready to ride with the 11.8 L fuel
tank topped off, the Sportster S model weighs just 228 kg. A high-mount
2-into-1-into-2 exhaust is designed to produce a pleasing low-frequency tone.
Technology Enhances
the Ride
The
Sportster S model is equipped with a host of technologies designed to the
enhance the riding experience. Three pre-programmed, selectable Ride Modes
(Sport, Road and Rain) electronically control the performance characteristics
of the motorcycle, and the level of technology intervention .Two Custom modes
may be used by the rider to create a set of performance characteristics to meet
personal preference or for special situations. Cornering Rider Safety
Enhancements by Harley-Davidson, a collection of technologies intended to
enhance rider confidence during unexpected situations or adverse road
conditions, are designed to match motorcycle performance to available traction
during acceleration, deceleration and braking, in a straight line or while in a
turn.
A
round, 4.0-inch-diameter TFT screen displays all instrumentation and supports
infotainment generated by the rider’s Bluetooth®-equipped mobile device and
helmet headset, including music, 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,
eliminating distracting “hot spots.” The headlamp has a distinctive oval or
capsule shape that adds style to the front end and will identify the Sportster
S model to other riders and motorists.
Optimised
Chassis
The
powertrain is a stressed member of the chassis, eliminating the traditional
frame, a design that significantly reduces motorcycle weight and results in a
very stiff chassis that contributes to precise handling. A welded tubular steel
trellis swingarm features a braced design and stamped X-member to further
stiffen the chassis, while its shape adds distinctive style to the motorcycle.
The
Sportster S model is equipped with fully adjustable, premium front and rear
suspension – Showa 43mm inverted cartridge forks and a Showa Piggyback
reservoir rear shock. Rear suspension features hydraulic pre-load adjustment
using a convenient knob located on the left side of the motorcycle. Lightweight
cast aluminum wheels with a staggered, five-spoke design are shod with wide
Dunlop / Harley-Davidson Series GT503 tyres.
Premium
Brembo braking components produce outstanding braking feel and performance. The
single front brake features a new Brembo radial monoblock four-piston caliper
and a 320mm diameter disc. The rear brake is a two-piston Brembo caliper and a
260mm diameter disc.
Forward
foot controls and a low handlebar put the Sportster S rider in an aggressive
posture on the bike. Unladen seat height is 29.6 inches, low enough for most
riders to get feet down at a stop. Brake and clutch hand levers are adjustable
for reach, to best match rider hand size or preference.
The Sportster S model
is pre-wired for accessory heated hand grips for added comfort in cool weather,
and is equipped with two dedicated power points for heated riding gear (heated
hand grips and heated riding gear/apparel each sold separately), plus a USB-C
port for charging a phone or other device.
An external ambient temperature
sensor and a low-temp warning on the display screen alert the rider to changing
conditions. Cruise control and a proximity-based security system are standard
equipment. Paint colours include Vivid Black, Stone Washed White Pearl and Midnight
Crimson.