EICMA – Harley Davidson news on Sportster models

As of 2014, the system ABS will be available across the entire range Harley-Davidson Sportster®. The eight historic models (with the exception of Iron 883™ on which it will be optional) will also benefit from updated manual controls and brake components, easier maintenance, Smart Security System HD® as standard and new “keyless” ignition, made possible by a special safety remote control which automatically activates/deactivates the alarm by detecting the distance from the motorbike.

Since its launch way back in 1957, the Harley-Davidson Sportster® line has stood out for its extreme handling and original style, in perfect harmony with the characteristic sound of the American V-Twin. The evolution of the Sportster® series continues in 2014 on five of the company's most accessible models. From the aggressive Dark Custom™ of the Iron 883™ to the docility of the SuperLow®, from the Seventy-Two™, the chopper par excellence, to the factory custom options of the 1200 Custom Limited, Sportster® offers bikes for all tastes, philosophies and statures.

Sportster® news 2014
ABS anti-lock system: standard on all 2014 Sportster® models – except Iron 883™, on which it will remain optional. ABS is designed to allow the rider to maintain maximum control when braking, especially in less than optimal conditions. The components of the Harley-Davidson ABS system have been designed and mounted to be virtually invisible, keeping the area around the wheels clear and linear. The rider has the ability to independently control the front and rear brakes.

New brakes: The front and rear braking systems on all 2014 Sportster® models have been redesigned to ensure optimal performance. At the front, the diameter of the brake disc goes from 292 mm to 300 mm, the brake caliper acquires greater structural rigidity and the width of the two pistons increases by 36% (from 25 mm to 34 mm) to increase the power of braking. The new high-efficiency aluminum master cylinder, however, reduces friction to improve the overall feeling. At the rear, the diameter of the brake disc remains unchanged (260 mm), while the caliper has been redesigned and updated with two 38 mm pistons. Both the front and rear brakes feature aeronautical stainless steel braided lines that prevent expansion and maintain maximum braking control. Finally, the clutch lever attachment has been stylistically adapted to the manual brake controls.

Integrated electrical system: in addition to the new analogue speedometer with digital tachometer, the revolutionary electrical system features more ergonomic manual controls, updated wiring and voltage regulator. The new oil tank and side cover facilitate access to the battery and diagnostic terminal in case of maintenance. Manual controls include a special switch (left) to switch between screens of the new speedometer, displaying odometer, trip meter and the new gear and speed indicator display.

Smart Security System HD®: Standard on all upcoming Sportster® models, Harley-Davidson's Smart Security System features a short-range security remote and keyless ignition. When the rider gets off the motorcycle and walks away with the remote control, the alarm is automatically activated and the ignition deactivated. On the contrary, when you approach the alarm is deactivated and you can start the motorbike immediately.

Exhaust emissions: the advanced exhaust system features welded manifolds and lambda probes connected to a closed loop circuit to reduce the level of emissions.

Graphics and colors: the 2014 Sportster® models can be customized with new graphics, 11 new colors and two-tone combinations (depending on the model). In particular:

• Three metal flake shades for Hard Candy Custom™: Hard Candy Volcanic Orange Flake, Hard Candy Voodoo Purple Flake, Hard Candy Chrome Flake
• Five solid color liveries: Amber Whiskey, Blackened Cayenne, Morocco Gold, Mysterious Red Sunglo, Charcoal Pearl
• Three new two-tone combinations: Mysterious Red Sunglo/ Blackened Cayenne Sunglo, Amber Whiskey/ Brilliant Silver, Charcoal Pearl/ Vivid Black.