Harley-Davidson Nightster Special 2023: designated heir [ROAD TEST]

Harley-Davidson Nightster Special – Classic and modern mix to give life to a model that collects a truly monstrous legacy: in fact, it is up to him – because in HD they call him “the” Nightster – to continue the story that the American brand he did with his 883, the longest-lasting icon born under the Bar&Shield sign.

Authentic roadster

It's a shame that one of the most beautiful Scenic Drives in all of California, the Pacific Coast Highway, is decidedly out of the way, because it would be the perfect backdrop for this test. The Nightster Special does not disappoint expectations and smells of the States, from whatever angle you look at it. Roadster lines mixed with the most modern technology give life to a motorbike that winks at the purists of the brand, despite knowing that - those who have always loved Harleys and lived them - will be reluctant to accept the new direction of the company Milwaukee. Unfortunately, however, the increasingly stringent anti-pollution regulations have forced manufacturers to intervene in a profound way on their models. And after more than half a century under the sign of the 883 declined in multiple versions, here it is giving way to the new Nightster which today we have the opportunity to try in the even more refined Special version: the first difference compared to the "base" if we want to define it that way , are the beautiful aluminum wheels with an innovative design painted with a color that recalls the color of the new Revolution Max engine and equipped with a TPMS sensor, placing themselves in stark contrast with the black that characterizes the other superstructures. The only colored element is the very famous Peanut, the Harley tank which here acts as the airbox cover because the actual tank is positioned under the saddle. On the Nightster Special, the logo used is that of 1970 which, on the dark colors such as the Bright Billiard Blue of the sample being tested, stands out a lot, giving an authentic blast from the past. Low and with a powerful look, it shows - in the side view - the new Revolution Max engine, set like a gem in the glossy black trellis frame, the same color also used for the front mudguard and for the structure that houses the passenger seat, further equipment of the Special version, designed for traveling as a couple. Aesthetically harmonious and well-proportioned in lines, it shows the right side characterized by the beautiful head covers and the exhaust lines that come together to create the classic single Harley-style exit; the left side, however, appears messier due to some cables that remain partially visible, although awkwardly hidden in the radiator bulkhead. The modern equipment is completed by the full LED lighting combined with the Bullet indicators with logo inside. Certainly, the history of the Sportster By HD lives on in this new model which, as stated by Jochen Zeitz – President and CEO of Harley-Davidson – “is a canvas for creativity and customization, offering the latest platform as the basis of customization and expression dedicated to both new riders and historic members of the Harley-Davidson family".

Timeless setting

It is useless to describe the triangulation or the riding position of the Nightster Special: sitting on a Harley means keep your arms wide and semi-stretched, the torso more or less leaning forward and placing the feet on platforms mounted in a central position. The ingredients are ideal for stress-free riding, made to concentrate on the journey: the saddle is quite comfortable and welcoming but the smooth covering makes it slippery. When you open the throttle, recalling all the torque of the Revolution Max, you experience that sensation of moving backwards which leads to stiffening your forearms while holding on to the handlebars. On the Nightster Special, just the handlebar is higher and closer to the rider thanks to the adoption of a pair of 12,5 cm risers which reposition the controls, lightening the inclination of the torso forward. Once in the saddle, you appreciate the seat located approximately 69 cm from the road surface: when stationary, the stability is total and the simplicity of maneuvering leaves you speechless: the under-seat tank and the low center of gravity make you forget about the weight that stands at 219kg in running order. The blocks, simple but intuitive, collect all the keys necessary to move through the running menu. The exclusive 4" round TFT screen displays all the instrumentation and infotainment functions in a clear and simple way: in the center the speed is clearly readable while the rev counter scrolls following the classic crescent-moon pattern in the upper part of the display, allowing you to always keep an eye on the condition of the engine. A small icon positioned centrally shows us which driving mode we are in while, in the lower part, there is space for all the warning messages and on-board information, which can be navigated using the convenient buttons on the right block. Thanks to the Harley-Davidson App available for both iOS and Android and Bluetooth support, it is possible to take advantage of a multitude of very convenient functions such as navigation, managing everything using the buttons on the left block and displaying the information on the screen to get there at destination.

Modern technology, iconic ride

Harley-Davidson's new direction has included a nice injection of technology also for the Nightster which today represents the gateway to the most exclusive family in America. The package of rider assistance includes two-way ABS, Traction Control which can be deactivated and DSCS, a system which, in the event of loss of grip of the rear wheel during deceleration perhaps following downshifting at high rpm on slippery surfaces, intervenes by increasing the torque engine, until optimal grip is recovered. Three Ride Modes are available which are the result of the different balance between power delivery, engine braking, ABS and TCS intervention. Road mode is perfect for everyday use and is characterized by a linear accelerator response and reduced power at mid-range, combined with ABS and TCS calibrated specifically for normal road use; The Sports modes instead, it enhances the characteristics of the engine, guaranteeing maximum power and immediate accelerator response, combined with TCS and ABS set to minimum and more present engine braking. The Rain map is inevitable, ideal in conditions of poor grip: TCS and ABS are in conservative mode while delivery and maximum power are limited to prevent uncontrolled reactions of the bike. Navigation between the Ride Modes occurs via the dedicated button on the left block: three very distinct icons alternate on the top of the monitor, allowing the rider to immediately identify the chosen one.

Born in the USA

The heart of the Nightster Special is new Revolution Max 975T liquid-cooled featuring a double overhead camshaft with four-valve heads and forged aluminum pistons; It uses variable valve timing and the new throttle bodies are positioned between the cylinders to create the least turbulence possible and facilitate the passage of air flows. The letter "T" in the engine name stands for "torque", to highlight the torque that the 60° V-twin can deliver. Of course, we are not talking about the exaggerated values ​​to which the sisters of the Cruiser range have accustomed us, but we still have 95 Nm at 5000 rpm and a maximum power of 90 hp at 7500 rpm: the result is an engine with a linear torque curve and without peaks, characterized by a homogeneous delivery that pushes without hesitation reaching the limiter and making it seem like an almost sporty Harley, thanks also to the reduction of vibrations obtained by means of the two balancing shafts, one located in the crankcase and one in the front head.

How it goes on the road

On the Nightster Special, the trellis frame uses the engine as a stressed element: this choice has allowed contain the weight overall, to increase torsional rigidity and increase stability, thanks also to the choice to position the 11.7 liter tank under the saddle, contributing to lowering the center of gravity. Having animated the Revolution Max and adjusted the levers, we immediately notice how the clutch releases immediately and without warning, risking switching off several times. The weight of the little one from Harley disappears as soon as you set off, even if at low speeds, the 19" front wheel tends to close the trajectory; the riding position is comfortable and the open and slightly recessed handlebars allow for casual, stress-free riding. It doesn't shine for agility in traffic but this is not limiting, especially if you consider that the urban environment is not what it was designed for. L'absence of vibrations it is remarkable, at least as much as - unfortunately - that of the typical sound that has always allowed us to recognize the Harley engine from any other engine in circulation. With 1.556 mm of wheelbase and 30° of inclination of the steering head, it is easy to understand that the DNA of the Nightster is unquestionably that of a roadster that is fun when driven on roads full of curves connected to each other, which allow slow changes of direction and a smooth driving with the front tracking the trajectory and the rear following well, as long as the speeds remain within limits.

Increasing the pace and reaching the limits of the Revolution Max, the Nightster goes into crisis and begins to sway, not so much in terms of the frame but of the suspensions: the softness of the Showa Dual Bending fork coupled with the two rear shock absorbers adjustable only in preload, not they digest the roughness of the asphalt very well and struggle to keep up with faster driving. But what are we talking about? About how this bike shouldn't be ridden! This is why we promote it with full marks as roadster: the engine at low speed is polite and homogeneous, runs well and allows you to keep high gears even at 3000 rpm, picking up easily with a rapid opening of the throttle. If, however, you get more serious, in the Sport map, the Revolution Max changes character after 5000 rpm, becoming fuller and pushing the Nightster forward in a way you almost don't expect. Be careful not to overdo it however: after 32° of lean angle, the footpegs will warn you of contact with the asphalt and, considering that it handles the lean descent well even at greater angles, finding yourself at the service with the footpegs to change could be a good thing. not sporadic. Be careful, Harley spare parts are not free! A sore point, if I may say so, is represented by the braking system: the single 320 mm front disc gripped by the 4-piston Brembo caliper often needs the help of the rear brake to reduce the stopping distance as much as possible. This is also due to the fork set-up which sinks a lot, lengthening the braking distance. Nothing to worry about, a few extra precautions after taking measurements with the Nightster, and you will never find yourself unprepared.

Conclusions and price

The legacy is heavy but the conditions to do well are all there: the Nightster Special represents in 2.0 mode what the 883 has been for years. The authentic Harley sound is missing and, for an old-style purist, the electronic controls, maps and standard USB socket are "too much". But the future requires ever more stringent choices and managing to keep the Harley-Davidson DNA intact is not an easy thing: the Milwaukee company, however, has done its best and has placed on the market a roadster which - despite being evolved - offers sensations that will not disappoint not even the most upright purists. The stylistic choices are always at the top, just look at the care with which the details such as the intertwining of the spokes of the rims or the bar-end mirrors are made, while the style - also in this case - will not know the passage of time. Then there is an innovative engine that runs well and promises very long distances thanks to the almost 20 km/l recorded while going smoothly. But how much does Milwaukee's "entry-level" cost? In the historic Vivid Black shade, it starts from a list price of €16.450 to which another 300 must be added if you prefer to choose between Black Denim, Industrial Yellow or the splendid Bright Billiard Blue of the sample under test. The Nightster should suffer the fate of the Sportsters that made HD history, acting as the basis for the most disparate customizations. At the moment, however, the catalog is missing what would perhaps be the most requested accessory: a Screamin' Eagle silencer capable of giving this innovative engine the voice it deserves.

Dimensions: length 2210 mm; width 853 mm; wheelbase 1556 mm; saddle height 688 mm; trail 137 mm
Motor: liquid-cooled 60° V-twin, max power 90 hp at 7.500 rpm, max torque 95 Nm at 5.000 rpm
Displacement: 975 cc
Shift: 6-speed
Weight: 219 kg in running order
Front suspension: Showa Dual Bending Ø 41 mm
Rear suspension: Double adjustable spring shock absorber. in the preload via ring nut with pre-set positions
Braking system: Front single disc 320mm, rear single disc 260mm
Tires: Dunlop for HD Series 100/90 – 19 front, 150/80 – 16 rear.
Tank capacity: Lt 11.7
Consumption: ND
Price: Starting from €16.450 fc