Breaking: Harley-Davidson Nightster Debuts In India

It is the lightest H-D bike

After its global unveiling in April 2022, Harley-Davidson has brought its latest creation, the Nightster in India priced at Rs 14.99 lakh (ex-showroom). It is Rs 1.5 lakh more affordable than the Sportster S and is the lightest motorcycle in the Milwaukee-based bikemaker’s portfolio.

Despite adopting a typical cruiser design language, the Nightster gets a hint of sportiness with its low handlebars, mid-set footpegs, and a slightly forward bias riding stance. Overall the bike looks well-put together with compact body styling. 

The Nighstster is powered by an all-new Revolution Max 975T powertrain. It features a 975cc liquid-cooled 60-degree V-twin engine making 90PS at 7500rpm and 95Nm at 5750rpm. With technology like variable valve timing, this is one of the most advanced mils from H-D. The bike gets selectable ride modes: Road, Rain and Sport. It also gets ABS, traction control and drag-torque slip control.

When it comes to underpinnings, the Nighster features an interesting configuration. The newly developed chassis uses the engine as a stressed member coupled with an aluminium subframe. The traditional ‘fuel tank’ is actually a cover for the airbox, while the actual fuel tank of the bike is placed under the seat for better mass centralisation.

The suspension setup on the Nightster features a 41mm Showa USD fork and twin shock absorbers. The braking duties have been entrusted to a single 320mm disc up front and a 260mm disc at the rear. 

With a ground clearance of a paltry 110mm, can be an issue on our roads. The bike rolls on a 19/16-inch alloy wheel setup, and at 221kg kerb, the Nightster is the lightest Harley-Davidson at the moment.

In terms of features, the Nightster comes packed with a single pod analog speedometer with a multi-function LCD display mounted on the handlebar riser, and gets an all-LED lighting system.

The Harley-Davidson Nightster doesn’t have a direct rival in our market yet, however, its closest competition will be the Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster.