Sportster

The Harley-Davidson Sportster is a model name with an unusually long history. The classic Sportster arrived in 1957 and evolved into a compact Harley with an air-cooled V-twin, low seat and a huge customisation ecosystem. The Evolution engine arrived in 1986; from 2004 the engine sat in a rubber-mounted chassis, and fuel injection became standard from 2007. From 2021 the name was also used for the modern Sportster S with a Revolution Max engine, a technically different motorcycle.

A classic Sportster suits relaxed cruising, shorter tours and riders who value character and a deep accessories market. It is less suited to high-speed travel or long days with heavy luggage. On a used bike, inspect leaks, belt, charging voltage and the quality of modifications. The Sportster S is much faster and sportier, but shares less hardware and riding feel with the older line. Rivals include the Indian Scout, Kawasaki Vulcan S and Triumph Bonneville Bobber.