There was a time the Harley-Davidson Sportster was something to be feared on the street. First released in 1957, it soon garnered the title of 'Superbike' among the motorcycling public. For many years after, it could put any current model of the day in its place whether off the line or down the street. Although the Sportster was, and still is, one of the all-time favourite bikes to buzz around town on, the venerable Sportster eventually lost its footing to the off-shore contingent and some naysayers have even relegated it to beginner bike status. While many feel it does not belong in the beginner bike group, it could lay claim as an entry-level bike into the American-made family of motorcycles because it has remained very affordable in comparison to the larger Harley-Davidsons.
Over the years the original 1957 V-twin powerplant has gone through some pretty major technological changes but all the while keeping the traditional Sportster image alive. The stature has changed slightly as well but there is still a strong resemblance in both driveline and design to the original Sporty. Arguably, two of the most important changes the Sportster has had in recent years are the vibration isolating rubber-mounted engine in 2004, and in 2005, Harley released a lower version of the smaller of the two Sportster versions, the 883L. Changes come and changes go but one things remains status quo for the Sportster, it has never lost its fun factor.
The XL 1200N Nightster, Harley-Davidson's newest addition to the Sportster lineup is based on the proven fifty-year platform and combines stylish eye-catching good looks, lightweight agility and power, all wrapped up in a way-too-fun easy-to-handle package. From the gators on the front fork, to the traditional 'peanut' gas tank and clean bobbed rear fender, minimalist solo seat, low rise bars and the big air-cooled 1200 cc V-twin, this rebel look is completed with a pair of black wheels and hubs with chromed spokes adding a bit of contrast. The blacked-out look with just a hint of chrome is stunning and attracts a lot of attention wherever it goes.
Throwing a leg over the Nightster with bars in hand, sitting on the well formed seat pocket and lifting the bike off the kickstand, your first impression is that you immediately know it's going to be a cool ride.
One of the characteristics of a V-twin engine is bottom-end torque. The torque of the 1200 Evolution engine is the first thing you feel once on the road and how easily it pulls the bike and rider to highway speed with just a slight twist of the wrist. The Sequential Port Fuel Injected XL 1200N delivers 107.2 NM @ 4000 rpm (79.1 ft. lbs. @ 4000rpm) results in very snappy acceleration with very little movement of the throttle hand and the bike wants to surge forward on the road. Holding on with both hands is highly recommended, especially on rougher roads, as a little twist goes a long way. Another characteristic of a V-twin is vibration but the rubber-mounted engine does a fine job of keeping most of the vibration at bay. At idle, the engine appears to bounce around in the frame but anywhere off idle the engine calms to a gentle purr. There is just enough vibration to remind you of the V-twin powerplant between your knees throughout most of the rev range but not enough to offend. Seeing out of the mirrors at highway speed is not an issue and just shy of 100 km in fifth gear, whatever vibration you felt is completely gone. Along with that V-twin power comes a nice exhaust note from the dual staggered shorty exhaust.
The 5-speed transmission shifts are typical Sportster and although they feel a little on the heavy side, the feel is very positive and you absolutely know it has shifted into the next gear whether it is up or down. It takes little effort to pull the clutch lever and comes with a very intuitive friction point making for friendly launches from a stoplight. Although it wasn't overly noisy, I had some concern that the primary chain needed adjusting but a quick stop at my local Harley dealer confirmed the chain was adjusted properly and that all was well.
Of course getting up to speed is one thing but hauling the bike back down to legal limits is of equal importance. Although the brakes feel a little vague, a decent squeeze on the front brake lever and the rear pedal do provide more than adequate stopping power through the dual-piston caliper and single 292 mm (11.5") front brake rotor while the single-piston caliper on the rear puts its grip on the 292 mm (11.5") rotor.
Transferring that stopping power to the asphalt is through a 19" laced front wheel shod with standard Dunlop rubber while the rear 16" laced wheel provide road contact through a 150-section Dunlop tire.
Riding the Nightster is just plain fun, no doubt about it...
... MMM
To read more of this shortened article, be sure to pick up this issue of Motorcycle Mojo Magazine. Current Issues are available at Chapters/Indigo and other fine newsstands across Canada and by subscription. Previous issues are available in the Mojo Store.
