Harley-Davidson unveils Sportster S model through virtual launch

MANILA: Harley-Davidson has officially unveiled the Sportster S model through a virtual launch event entitled “From Evolution to Revolution.”

The Harley-Davidson Sportster S model is an all-new sport custom motorcycle crafted to deliver an exhilarating riding experience. It is powered by a Revolution Max 1250T V-Twin engine that generates 121hp. It is built with a rigid yet lightweight chassis and premium suspension to deliver responsive handling.

In a statement, Harley-Davidson Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer Jochen Zeitz said, “The Sportster S is the next all-new motorcycle built on the Revolution Max platform and sets a new performance standard for the Sportster line. This is a next-generation Sportster defined by power, performance, technology and style. And it’s part of our commitment to introduce motorcycles that align with our strategy to increase desirability and to drive the legacy of Harley-Davidson.”

The Sportster S model features a crouched and muscular appearance. The engine is enveloped by the fuel tank and tail section. The motorcycle is also equipped with a large front tire, high-mount exhaust, and slim solo seat that draw inspiration from the Harley-Davidson XR750 flat tracker. By looking at the bike’s thick inverted forks and wide-profile tires, every rider could determine that the Sportster S is a high-performance motorcycle.

“Every visual design element of the Sportster S model is an expression of the motorcycle’s raw power. This is a wolf in wolf’s clothing,” Harley-Davidson Vice President of Styling and Design Brad Richards stated.

The powertrain comes with a Chocolate Satin finish and lightweight magnesium engine covers. The textures, colors, finishes, and details on the Sportster S model were meticulously chosen to achieve a custom show bike look.

The Sportster S model is equipped with the new version of the latest Harley-Davidson liquid-cooled V-Twin engine, which is developed to provide tremendous torque at low rpm. The engine is integrated into the motorcycle as the central member of the chassis to reduce the overall vehicle weight. Lightweight materials were also used to achieve the proper power-to-weight ratio. With the 11.8-liter fuel tank, the Sportster S model only weighs 228 kg. It is also equipped with a high-mount two-into-one-into-two exhaust that produces a satisfying low-frequency tone.

The Sportster S model also features three pre-programmed ride modes that control the performance of the motorcycles and the level of technology intervention. The rider can choose among the Sport, Road, and Rain modes. Two Custom modes are also available if the rider has their own preferred performance characteristics. The Sportster S also comes with Cornering Rider Safety Enhancements by Harley-Davidson, a set of technologies that helps boost rider confidence during unforeseen situations or tough road conditions. It is developed to complement motorcycle performance with available traction during acceleration, deceleration, and braking.

The motorcycle is also equipped with a round, 4.0-inch-diameter TFT screen that indicates all instrumentation. It can be connected to a smartphone via Bluetooth, allowing the rider to listen to music or take calls safely while on the road. It also features an all-LED lighting system that includes a Daymaker Signature LED headlamp with a unique oval shape.

The powertrain is the key highlight of the chassis, with the absence of the traditional frame that significantly reduces motorcycle weight and results in a very firm chassis and precise handling. A welded tubular steel trellis swingarm comes with a braced design and stamped X-member to make the chassis even firmer, while its figure adds a unique style to the motorcycle.

The Sportster S model also features fully adjustable front and rear suspension — Showa 43mm inverted cartridge forks and Showa Piggyback reservoir rear shock. The rear suspension comes with a hydraulic pre-load adjustment with a convenient knob on the left side of the motorcycle. The Sportster S is also equipped with lightweight cast aluminum wheels with wide Dunlop/Harley-Davidson Series GT503 tires. For excellent braking performance, the motorcycle comes with premium Brembo braking components. The single front brake features a Brembo radial monoblock four-piston caliper and 320mm diameter disc, while the rear brake is a two-piston Brembo caliper and a 260mm diameter disc.

To put the rider in an aggressive posture, the Sportster S is equipped with forward foot controls and a low handlebar. It features a low seat height of 755mm. The brake and clutch hand levers are made adjustable so the rider can match it with their hand size or preference. The motorcycle also comes with two dedicated power points for accessory heated hand grips and another two for heated riding gear. It is also equipped with a USB-C port so the rider can charge their mobile device while on the road. The display screen also comes with an external ambient temperature sensor and a low-temp warning to alert the rider to changing conditions. Other standard features are cruise control and proximity-based security system.

The Sportster S model comes in three color variants: Vivid Black, Stone Washer White Pearl, and Midnight Crimson.

Harley-Davidson also offers Sportster S model accessories such as a mid-control conversion kit, pillion kit, passenger footpeg kit, passenger backrest, sundowner solo seat, compact detachable windshield, and Sportster S tailbag.

To know more about the Harley-Davidson Sportster S model, log on to harley-davidson.com.

Photos from Harley-Davidson

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