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Here’s what we’re looking forward to with the Harley-Davidson Nightster

Harley’s newest entry-level Sportster looks like quite a fun machine.

EJ Punsalang EJ Punsalang on May 03, 2022
2022 Harley-Davidson Nightster

Harley-Davidson recently pulled the covers off its newest entry-level Sportster variant in the form of the Nightster. His bike is meant to be the successor of the highly acclaimed Sportster Iron 883, a bike which gained much popularity thanks to its accessibility, timeless styling, and impressive performance. Needless to say, the Iron 883 set the bar pretty high. That being said, the Nightster surely has some big shoes to fill. Can it live up to the hype? Well, we certainly think so. Here are a few things we’re excited for with the new Nightster. 

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Styling

2022 Harley-Davidson Nightster

The new Harley-Davidson Nightster takes the lowest spot in H-D’s Sportster model-range. This isn’t to say that the bike is a slouch, though. In terms of styling, it departs from Harley’s modern styling exemplified by the Sportster S, and dials things back a bit into a package that’s more classic and attune to the MoCo’s roots. As such, the new Nightster is just that—a barebones cruiser whose appeal cuts across generations. 

Style-wise, it takes the form of a low-slung, laid-back cruiser which exudes American freedom. Modern-day amenities such as LED lights give the bike a premium aesthetic, while mid controls suggest that the bike is willing to engage in some sporty riding. 

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Classic cruiser experience

2022 Harley-Davidson Nightster

All that being said, the new Harley-Davidson Nightster offers the classic American cruiser experience thanks to its throwback styling and barebones construction. The Nightster presents itself as a breath of fresh air in a segment that’s continuously being dominated by futuristic tech features. Even more than that, it’s symbolic of the fact that the cruiser market is alive and kicking, despite new cruiser models from various manufacturers being far and few in between. 

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All-new engine

2022 Harley-Davidson Nightster

When it comes to performance, the new Harley-Davidson Nightster has a lot going for it. Just like the more premium Sportster S above it, the Nightster makes use of a new Revolution Max engine, albeit smaller and down on torque and power versus the Sportster S. More specifically, it takes the form of a 60-degree, 975cc, V-twin engine which pumps out 90 horsepower at 7,500 rpm. While yes, this is a substantial jump from the Iron 883’s rather diminutive 49 horsepower, it’s still approachable enough for beginner to intermediate riders to swing a leg over, provided they don’t get too greedy with the throttle. 

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