2021 Harley-Davidson Sportster S is launched: ‘Sport Custom’ with Revolution Max engine

Harley-Davidson launched in the US the 2021 Sportster S, its new ‘Sport Custom’ motorcycle that arrives with the new Revolution Max engine, also used in the ‘Bigtrail’ Pan America 1250.

This new bike hits American stores in the fall, with prices starting at US$14,999. Available colors are: Vivid Black, Stone Washed White Pearl, and Midnight Crimson.

“The Sportster S is the next all-new motorcycle built on the Revolution Max platform and sets a new performance standard for the Sportster line,” said Jochen Zeitz, chairman, president and CEO, Harley-Davidson.

“This is a next generation Sportster defined by power, performance, technology and style. And it’s part of our commitment to introduce motorcycles that align with our strategy to increase desirability and to drive the legacy of Harley-Davidson.”

Design

The Sportster S follows the general design of the Sportster line, with a low, muscular body, emphasizing the huge engine and exhaust system.

The fuel tank and rear section frame the engine as the predominant centerpiece of the bike. The huge front tire resembles a classic bobber.

Plus, the rear section, tall exhaust and narrow single seat take inspiration from the Harley-Davidson XR750. The inverted front suspension and wide-profile tires create the traits of a high-performance sports bike.

“Every visual design element of the Sportster S model is an expression of the motorcycle’s raw power,” said Brad Richards, Harley-Davidson vice president of styling and design. “This is a wolf in wolf’s clothing.”

The powertrain is highlighted with a Chocolate Satin finish on the lightweight magnesium engine covers. Textures, colors, finishes and details were selected to give the Sportster S model the look of a custom show bike.

Engine and gearbox

The new 2021 Harley-Davidson Sportster S brings a new mechanical set, consisting of a new engine (which is now part of the chassis/frame), and final belt transmission.

This new version of the latest Harley-Davidson liquid-cooled V-Twin engine is tuned to make tremendous torque at low RPM, with a torque curve that stays flat through the powerband.

The engine is the new Revolution Max, 76.4 cu in (1,252 cc) liquid-cooled, 60° V-Twin with a power of up to 121 HP (90 kW) at 7500 rpm and 94 ft-lb (127 Nm / 12.95 kgfm) of torque at 6000 rpm.

In addition, the transmission is 6-speed with final belt drive, the fuel tank capacity is 3.1 gal. (11.8 l) and the dry weight is 486 lb. (220 kg).

Chassis

As mentioned, the powertrain is a stressed member of the chassis, eliminating the traditional frame, a design that significantly reduces motorcycle weight and results in a very stiff chassis that contributes to precise handling.

A welded tubular steel trellis swingarm features a braced design and stamped X-member to further stiffen the chassis, while its shape adds distinctive style to the motorcycle.

The Sportster® S model is equipped with fully adjustable, premium front and rear suspension – SHOWA® 43 mm inverted cartridge forks and a SHOWA® Piggyback reservoir rear shock. Rear suspension features hydraulic pre-load adjustment using a convenient knob located on the left side of the motorcycle.

Lightweight cast aluminum wheels with a staggered, five-spoke design are shod with wide Dunlop®/Harley-Davidson® Series GT503 tires.

Premium Brembo braking components produce outstanding braking feel and performance. The single front brake features a new Brembo radial monoblock four-piston caliper and a 320mm diameter disc. The rear brake is a two-piston Brembo caliper and a 260mm diameter disc.

In addition, the seat height is 29.6 in. (753 mm), enough for most passengers to be able to put both feet on the floor. Brake and clutch levers are adjustable to best match the size or preference of the pilot’s hand.

Technology

The Sportster S model is equipped with a host of technologies designed to the enhance the riding experience. Three pre-programmed, selectable Ride Modes (Sport, Road and Rain) electronically control the performance characteristics of the motorcycle, and the level of technology intervention.

The model features corner-optimized electronic safety controls such as ABS (C-ABS), Traction Control (C-TCS), Rear Wheel Slip and Torque Control (C-DSCS) and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

In addition, a round 4.0-inch diameter TFT color panel displays all instrumentation and offers a Smartphone connection via Bluetooth, allowing you to listen to music, make and receive calls, and GPS navigation via the Harley-Davidson app.

Finally, the lighting is Full-LED and includes a Daymaker® Signature LED headlamp designed to produce an even spread of light, eliminating distracting “hot spots”. The headlamp has an oval or capsule shape that adds style to the front and will identify the Sportster® S model to other riders and drivers.

Conclusion

The next generation Sportster motorcycle combines loads of power and absurd torque with contemporary technology, launching a new era of performance and Sportster design.

For more information, visit https://www.harley-davidson.com/.