Harley-Davidson Nightster: a new concept linked to the history of Sportsters [PHOTO]

Harley-Davidson® Nightster™ represents a novelty in the path traced with Sportster®. An idea of ​​design and performance, while remaining an entry-level model, characterized by a silhouette that recalls the Sportster model with electronic solutions and a new propulsive heart Revolution® Max 975T.

Design

A slim and low vision, characterized by shapes that refer to the characteristic Sportster stylistic features such as the shape of the air-box cover which recalls the "peanut" tank and the exposed rear shock absorbers, although it has its own personality.
The matching colors are Vivid black, Gunship Grey e Redline Red. The optional Gunship Gray and Redline Red are applied to the air-box cover only. The fenders and the fairing are covered in Vivid Black.
The example features LED type headlights designed considering style and functionality, in order to make the motorbike visible. The lighthouse Daymaker® LED it is defined in such a way as to transmit a homogeneous brightness avoiding hot spots, for example.
Other elements such as the nose cap, the round air intake cover, the cut fenders and the single seat still harken back to the Sportster and the side cover that hides the tank under the seat also harks back to the previous Sportster oil tank.
The tank of the vehicle from 11,7 liters made of light plastic is placed under the saddle, while the section that occupies the space of a traditional tank is instead a steel cover for the air-box. You can refuel by lifting the saddle and the choice of placing the tank under the saddle is functional for suction and shifts the weight of the tank, obtaining a lower center of gravity which facilitates handling and lifting from the side stand, as indicated .
The instrumentation consists of a Four-inch round analog speedometer with a multifunction LCD screen, located on the handlebar riser.
The structural cornerstone of the model remains the Revolution Max 975T engine, embraced by the exhaust manifolds with glossy black inserts and finished with an anthracite-toned metallic powder paint. A cover under the radiator hides the battery and makes it less exposed. The wheels are finished in satin black.
There is also a range of Harley-Davidson® Genuine Motor Parts & Accessories that can be combined with the model.

2022 Nightster Imagery

Technical and technological solutions

The new Nightster™ is characterized by a lightweight frame that enhances its agility and a high-performance engine. An alchemy that transmits dynamic liveliness, according to the indications, also taking into account a low handlebar and centrally arranged pedal controls. The saddle is placed at a height of 70 cm and the narrow profile allows most motorcyclists to rest their feet on the ground.
The front suspension consists of SHOWA® Dual Bending Valve forks 41 mm, while the rear one features double shock absorbers with preload adjustment. The swingarm is made of square-based steel tubes and represents an attachment point for the double shock absorber.
The Revolution® Max 975T engine appears as the central and structural element of the frame, reducing its weight and stiffening it at the same time. The structure of the terminal part is made of lightweight aluminium.
There are three selectable Ride Modes with electronic performance management. Each mode is the result of a combination of power delivery, ABS, engine braking and TCS (Traction Control System) settings.
The motorcyclist can select the mode by pressing the Mode button visible on the right. Specifically, they stand out:

– Road Mode, designed for daily use, given a response that is not as accentuated compared to Sport mode, with a higher action of ABS and TCS.

– Sports Mode, the highest expression of the power expressed by acting on the accelerator. The engine braking is increased and the TCS response level is lower.

– Rain Mode, a mode that conveys confidence when driving on wet asphalt or when traction appears limited. Acceleration and power are programmed to limit the level of acceleration, just as engine braking is limited and the highest levels linked to ABS and TCS are selected.

Always talking about safety, this bike is equipped with the Rider Safety Enhancements by Harley-Davidson, a group of technologies designed to combine the performance of the motorcycle with the traction available during acceleration, deceleration and braking. It is important to remember that the motorcyclist always remains an active and responsible part of driving on the road. These are electronic solutions that use the most advanced chassis, powertrain and brake control technologies. Specifically, these are the already mentioned anti-lock braking systems (ABS) which operates independently on the front and rear brakes and the traction control system (TCS) which can be deactivated when the motorbike is stationary and the engine active. Furthermore, a DSCS (Drag-Torque Slip Control System) solution is highlighted, designed to manage the delivery of the driving torque and attenuate excessive slip of the rear wheel during deceleration.

Motor

The new engine Revolution® Max 975T it's a heart V-Twin da 975 cc with 60 degree arrangement and liquid cooled. According to the indications, the regulation of the hydraulic clearance of the valve offers silent operation and facilitates maintenance operations. The balancing countershafts are adjusted to make vibrations perceived that signal the engine starting. The development of the exhaust manifold, in combination with the air filter, has also been optimised.
The power is equal to 90 horses (67 kW) at 7.500 rpm and a peak of 95 Nm of torque at 5.000 rpm.

Availability

The new model is expected in authorized Harley-Davidson® dealerships from April 2022 and an ex-dealership price is indicated of 15.400 euros (Vivid Black color) and 15.700 euros (Pearl).

Photo: Harley-Davidson®