I finally got the ride the Nightster 975 and here are my honest thoughts of the bike. If you concur or have different opinion of the bike, please comment below!
@jsp9221
2 жыл бұрын
Hello, I live in France near Paris and I congratulate you for this excellent review. Young motorcycle license, I tried this bike and I really appreciated the handling, the look and the stability with a very low center of gravity. Finally, the "silence" is appreciable because it is fully compatible with the anti-pollution and anti-noise standards that we have in Europe. I placed an order and the reception is scheduled for June 15th. I am very impatient ! Thanks again for your work.
@KSMotoCafe
2 жыл бұрын
this is great to hear! It makes sense that HD is trying to please European riders and meeting the restrictions of emissions. I was not aware of the sound restrictions but I am not surprised. Congrats on purchasing the Nightster! You will have a lot of fun on it
@williamwintemberg
2 жыл бұрын
I'm an old rider and I'm interested. It looks like a Sportster to me. There's something to be said for a bike that weighs 480 lbs wet with 90 hp. Hydraulic valves and belt drive means more riding and less fussing. In typical Harley Fashion it appears all the routine stuff that needs to be done is easily gotten to. Beginner Bike? Speaking for myself, if this was my first bike? Let me just say things wouldn't have gone well, I can't speak for someone else. I love the sound of the traditional Harleys. So it has its own sound. The Vee Rod had a sound of its own as well. With a nice set of pipes installed a Vee Rod could put the fear of God in you. We will see what this sounds like when pipes are available. Lack of the Harley shake? Although I love it I can do without it. I like a bike that is forgiving and confidence inspiring yet still a blast to ride. Again, I'm old and very interested in this bike. 53 years on 2 wheels. Great Review!
@KSMotoCafe
2 жыл бұрын
Sir, it was an absolute pleasure reading your comment! Thank you for providing your point of view of this new motorcycle! And you are right, V Rod is a mean machine!
@lizardsonofanakie
Жыл бұрын
I brought the Nightster Special it is a awesome bike . I have had 2 two 883 lrons . Current own a 19 Softail Slim and the Nightster Special. I perfer riding the Nightster Special. I noticed you were not usino any revs around town no wonderful it felt lame to you . If you rev it in first gear l will lift the front wheel off the ground . Have done a12.20@120mph on a 1/4 mile drag Strip . It would been faster if l took the speed limiter off it. So don't understand how you say it is lacking power around town . The mirrors work great if you adjusted them correctly. But they are too wire for lane splitting . So l did change them now new one don't work aswell or look as good but great for lane splittig . I fitted the Sundowner seat a easy swap . S&S muffler improve the sound . I agree the Evo motor sound so much better . The Nightster Special with it's different handlebar riders, two up seat & TFT display is a better bike . Plus has Cruise control ,2 programmable modes . Map and Bluetooth controls. Expensive yes but lots of power, good brakes,lots of tech & handles great . I did notice you rear shocks had not been adjusted . With all the extra you get on this bike it is a lot more expensive to build than a 883 Iron so price has to be higher . Everyone wants Harley Davidson to build a world class bike then when they do Everyone sooks about it 😢 . My little girls bike that so many people have called it has sent so many bigger bike home with the tail between their legs when it kicks their butt .😂. I Love Evo Sportsters but they are not in the same league as the Nightster Special.
@chuckvt5196
18 күн бұрын
This is an excellent review! I just bought a 2022 from my HD dealer with only 610 miles on it and totally pristine. It was marked down from $11,999 to $7,999 and then they took an additional $2200 off in trade for my old HD Street 500. I could not pass up that deal!
@misterwin2393
2 жыл бұрын
The fact that it has none of the typical Harley charm is actually a selling point, and I'm a guy who LOVES his Street Bob 114 and his Road King 110! Evos always had a different vibe, especially Sportys - a little peppier than the M8, a little more willing to gas itself out getting to high revs, and the bike itself was lighter and more nimble than my RK or, say, a Dyna - but when you pushed it hard you hit the same limits, and it was just as nerve-racking as the bigger bikes, so what's the point? This is the Sportster that Harley-Davidson needed to make, not just for the new riders or people new to the brand not just for the haters but for the Harley lovers that want something that's not such a Harley, but don't want anything that's NOT a Harley no matter what it is! This is for the guy like me, who likes riding his friend's Scouts and Rebels but can't bring himself to buy one... And they were smart enough to charge a stupid tax!
@KSMotoCafe
2 жыл бұрын
you make a compelling argument but we all lead to the same conclusion of the damn price. Not competitive enough. All the flaws can be overlooked at the right price but at 13500USD plus all the fees, all the flaws become much less forgiving. Thanks for such a nice write-up
@SLIGHT_
2 жыл бұрын
Great review man. Love the complete picture you painted on this. Thanks!!
@KSMotoCafe
2 жыл бұрын
Glad I could deliver!
@bill392
2 жыл бұрын
Excellent review, well executed and on point. You're getting super good at these. I like the cuts between the 360° and the helmet view. Your gold visor reflecting the clouds in the sky really looked beautiful. The area where you live has some nice scenery. When I first laid eyes on the 975 Revo, I didn't think I'd like it but it really is growing on me. I still hate the look and sound of the pipes but nobody can argue with the performance. If I was 25 years younger, I'd probably choose it over anything else HD makes. I'm older now (59 this year) so I think I'll stick with the classic cruisers. One thing about the 975, that flip seat appears to me to open the wrong way. Isn't the key hole that unlocks it on the hinge side? Isn't that the opposite side from where you'd be standing to fill it up? It opens toward the left/jiffystand side so you "have to" fill the gas tank from the other side which is the opposite from what I prefer. I like to be able to "look down the hole" to see just how full it is but on this bike, the filler hole is leaning away so it would be a lot harder to look down into it. Plus, if the gas hose nozzle were to drip, it would drip onto the "beauty side" of the bike. I always fill my bike from the left side so if the nozzle drips, it mostly misses the bike. Also I can look down the hole. Every time I've ever tried to fill up from the right hand side, it's been more difficult. One of my biggest recent disappointments with HD is the cancelling of Breakout, Softail Slim and Deluxe, and the Lowrider (I don't mean S or ST which are a lot different). Those are all the style of bike that I love and they're gone so now I don't know what to buy new so I think I'll have to look to the used market to find what I want. I'd love to see the Deluxe with a 114 M8, whitewall tires, and a lot of chrome. The Heritage comes pretty close I guess and it's still available. It just seems like every time I think "I want that bike", it disappears.
@KSMotoCafe
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks Bill! I really do feel like I am getting better at this and finding the words to describe my thought process with more accuracy. I am blessed to ride around on one of the most scenic places in BC and I hope so showcase more of that scenery with my Ride and Dine series. As for the fuel tank under seat, I never thought of the practicality of it but you make a good point. It took me a while to realize I was intuitively trying to open it from the wrong side. It was actually really annoying because you can't open it without the key (but I guess it's safer and more secured now). I was annoyed that they cancelled those line-ups as well but I think HD, much like other motorcycle brands, is feeling the pressure of consumers with less $$ to spend and less desire to buy a HD bike at premium price when there are so many alternatives. I just hope HD quickly refines its identity and gets back into building raw machines! Thanks for the watch and good conversation :)
@fabiocamargo4599
2 жыл бұрын
the handle bar its on the same positition than the Iron. that impression you have its because you got one higher riser installing on you Iron which change your ergonomic
@mdragon99
2 жыл бұрын
Biggest thing I noticed when I sat on it was the fake air filter as it dug into the side of my leg.
@KSMotoCafe
2 жыл бұрын
I found that the air intake came out similarly as my Iron 883's air filter. It is kinda dumb that they put a fake air filter for a hole though
@jasoncory78
2 жыл бұрын
I like this bike but will still be going with the iron or 48 as my first. I just want to have one bike with that air cooled rumble. I do like the look and weight of the new nightster. Loved the review and thank you for the great work.
@KSMotoCafe
2 жыл бұрын
yeah man - air cooled is the way to go if you like the old school Hd vibe
@CorinnaHaimerl
2 жыл бұрын
your reviews are so freaking good! love the comparison with the iron 883 side by side 🥰 keep up the good work 🤩
@KSMotoCafe
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the compliment Corinna! Need to see you try the bike!
@CorinnaHaimerl
2 жыл бұрын
@@KSMotoCafe hopefully rather sooner than later 😁
@0121chuchurocket
Жыл бұрын
Hi KS, between the sportster s and this, which would you pick? I like the look of this one a bit better however it's merely $2k CDN less than the sportster s, and the sportster s has better everything, the 1250 engine alone would be more than $2k differences, let alone the TFT, suspension, IMU etc.
@KSMotoCafe
Жыл бұрын
Great question - depends on few things: 1. Insurance. It will be more expensive for the S because of its power, CC, and price (if that is not an issue for you, then forget this one) 2. Rider Experience. The Nightster is far more easier to ride than the S because of its tame power delivery and mid controls. 3. Looks. The nightster has more traditional Sporty look from far. The S has more unique look and will turn more heads. With all those points - for me, I would lean on the S because it is a really capable bike that you can group ride with other bikes that are sportier and it has that unique character that makes the bike stand out more.
@dTripid
2 жыл бұрын
Simple explaination . Awesome bike👍👍😊
@KSMotoCafe
2 жыл бұрын
thanks!
@ronlheureux7623
2 жыл бұрын
Nice review. I wouldn't't considerate Sportster S the big brother of the Nightster. These bikes have very little in common in pretty much any aspect. Naturally the Nightster doesn't have the acceleration of the S, due to the much greater displacement of the 1250 engine. As with most any Harleys that have ever been sold, the exhaust is the first thing to be upgraded, with the possible exception of the seat. There will be plenty of aftermarket parts available for this bike within a year or less. As far as the sitting position goes and your sore back, I changed out the handlebars on my 90s 883 for a style and function that I preferred, I went with track bars and installed them with 4" pull back risers in order to improve the look and sitting position. Not much of an expense there. I can no longer ride due to physical limitations, but if I were in the market for a new bike, the Nightster would definitely be my choice. I simply dig their look. I would not want a Rebel 1100. To me, the angle of the fuel tank is unappealing as Hell. The rest of the bikes not cool in the least. Yes, the specs and pricing are very tempting for many, but no a true HD lover. Just like every other previous Harley, money must be further invested in order to make your new bike your very own statement.
@KSMotoCafe
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for a nice write-up. Im sorry that you can't ride anymore. Not sure if you looked into the Livewire or electric motorcycles but they are fully automatic and all you have to do is to have the capability to throttle on/off and brake. So maybe if your physical limitations are on the left side, it could be an option for you to get back on the two wheels. Either way, thanks for chipping in!
@ronlheureux7623
2 жыл бұрын
@@KSMotoCafe Thanks for your kind words. I'm afraid that my issues at 74 are too much to overcome with a DCT tranny. Don't worry about me, though. I've had a good life because of my wonderful kid and grandkids. I am an HD guy, but that's just in the blood. What can you do? Take care, my friend!
@IronBornRider
2 жыл бұрын
I have mixed feelings. On one hand it was an exhilarating ride but it didn’t feel like a Harley at all.
@KSMotoCafe
2 жыл бұрын
yeah man, Nightster is exactly what non-harley owners wanted as a bike. It is just too bad HDMC didn't study enough of the metric cruiser lovers to know that they also love a good deal. So it might be a tough sell to convince potential Rebel 1100 riders to be swayed by the HD Nightsters
@SB-mw1bg
2 жыл бұрын
It's a plastic induced bike that doesn't come in at an entry level price. Not impressed
@KSMotoCafe
2 жыл бұрын
Definitely more plastic than before and no reduction in price is hard to defend
@CanadianCasual
Жыл бұрын
At beginning, you mentioned the bike doesn't really rev. The Sportster S computer prevents you from rev bombing it in neutral. It might be a feature of the Rev Max engines.
@KSMotoCafe
Жыл бұрын
that is correct - there is a limiter built in.
@jayteesgear
2 жыл бұрын
Great content and edits! Its so good looking and I think it could use Risers (I dont see apes on it). I gotta film a test ride soon. Really good job Kris
@KSMotoCafe
2 жыл бұрын
Having a 4" riser would definitely improve the ergonomics. Glad you liked the review!
@jayteesgear
2 жыл бұрын
You usin Premiere or DaVinci?
@KSMotoCafe
2 жыл бұрын
@@jayteesgear neither. I am using Shotcut. But I am thinking of paying for the Adobe suite
@403punk3
2 жыл бұрын
Lucky bro, still haven’t got one in Calgary
@KSMotoCafe
2 жыл бұрын
it will come soon!
@zerokool327
2 жыл бұрын
And now I’m here lol. I’m kind of at a crossroad, the bike looks great, the ride modes, traction control, TPMS definitely gives it a more modern up to date appeal. With how emissions and the EPA is going, I think the revmax motor is going to be the future of these smaller bikes from Harley however when I think of Harley I think of the rumble and shake. Those characteristic are what separates HD from the rest. I wouldn’t be surprised if HD releases the new “iron 975” later on this year that replaces the 883 for next year. I still think it’s overpriced for what’s being labeled as an entry level HD. Just looking at the bike I would want to get rid of most of the plastic and replace it with metal pieces and of course the exhaust so now what? Spend another 2-3k on aftermarket stuff. When all said and done the bike might be over 18k after purchase and mods… I think I’ll continue searching for the right 883 or maybe wait it out and see if HD actually drops any info on the replacement of the 883. Wouldn’t mind a 48 but the tank is smaller and I’m not a fan of the forward controls. Great vid.
@KSMotoCafe
2 жыл бұрын
You make good points but I don't see HD releasing an Iron 975. This Nightster is it for awhile I think. HD is running bone dry on stock parts and will have a difficult transition period in the coming months. They priced this too high and will drive the used sportster prices over their true value.
@zerokool327
2 жыл бұрын
@@KSMotoCafe used at the dealer is hovering around 9k+ at the moment. Well the dealers near me, I’m in New York City. Appreciate your opinions and the review. Very helpful.
@flipkoofx1137
2 жыл бұрын
Hey did you find pulling the brake lever lighter compared to other bikes? Thanks for a great review of the nightster!
@KSMotoCafe
2 жыл бұрын
Actually the brake lever felt better than most Hd bikes. The front brakes are very responsive and bites in well. It is just the rear brake that is mushy.
@leonardoigutierrez2051
2 жыл бұрын
Quick question, what do you mean by the center air box? (What the usual gas tank) is it like a glove compartment kind of thing? Like where you store stuff in?
@KSMotoCafe
2 жыл бұрын
It is not a usable space for storage - that would have been better but it is where the air intake filter is housed in this airbox
@eraycer
Жыл бұрын
I stopped into our local HD dealer because I'm thinking of down grading from my Victory Cross County so I looked at something a little lighter for commuting and the salesman told me if I'm going to get something like the 883 or 1200 do it now because the next bike is going have an ATV leaf blower motor that sounds like ass, its pretty sad when even salesman are not looking for to it either.
@KSMotoCafe
Жыл бұрын
lol this hit harder than my entire review!
@SB-mw1bg
2 жыл бұрын
Translation.......it feels like a metric bike.
@KSMotoCafe
2 жыл бұрын
yes. a welcome surprise for metric cruiser lovers who want a harley badge.
@toofastnobrakes
2 жыл бұрын
This bike has the same Achilles’ heel that the sportster S does. It has this amazingly powerful and sporty Motor, crammed into a cruiser. They’ve tried to compromise by putting more aggressive Ergos on the bike. But still sacrificing all of the lean angle and ride height necessary for real sport riding. Making this a bad cruiser and a bad sport bike. They should have just come out with the Bronx, and left this bike with high handlebars and forward controls
@KSMotoCafe
2 жыл бұрын
HD execs are too old fashioned to believe the Bronx will do well without launching the RevMax cruiser versions first even though all the fans said we wanted the Bronx first lol
@toofastnobrakes
2 жыл бұрын
@@KSMotoCafe hell they really don’t even have to go full sport bike. Just release an new version of the sportster S aimed more at the 2022 ftr1200. Make it a little taller, give it rearsets. And put it one 17’s all round with sticky rubber. Call it the XR1250 and be done
@jennifercuellar4574
2 жыл бұрын
The review I've been waiting for!!! You did a stellar job comparing it to the 883 which is exactly what I've been wanting to hear. I do have to ask if it seemed "plasticy" to you? In videos and pictures it looks like it has a lot of plastic to it.
@KSMotoCafe
2 жыл бұрын
The only area that was noticeably an eyesore with plastic parts was on top of the air box "gas tank". Other than that, they did a good job hiding how they got rid of the weight and the performance definitely made it up!
@larrynorsworthy8582
2 жыл бұрын
180 degree crank?
@KSMotoCafe
2 жыл бұрын
I would assume that
@rossweatherbee3995
2 жыл бұрын
Good review. After your review, l don't think l would consider purchasing one.
@KSMotoCafe
2 жыл бұрын
Definitely not a bike up your alley!
@Justin-tp3lr
Жыл бұрын
I've been looking at one, but for $13k there's a lot of plastic parts. I'm looking at an iron 883, what would you recommend for aftermarket shocks? Everything I've watched and read said the stock shocks suck.
@KSMotoCafe
Жыл бұрын
I would 100% recommend the 883 over this bike. I would suggest you watch my 883 review (1st and 2nd year); adjusting pre-load of the stock shocks; and then the progressive 412 shock install:review from the channel!
@Justin-tp3lr
Жыл бұрын
@@KSMotoCafe will do. I love that harley sound, the nightster just doesn't do it for me.
@jimscarnivorekitchen4731
Жыл бұрын
I love mine
@joellaurin9007
2 жыл бұрын
Finally!
@KSMotoCafe
2 жыл бұрын
yes sir!
@superbreaker7973
Жыл бұрын
does it have an USB port?
@KSMotoCafe
Жыл бұрын
I don't believe so
@superbreaker7973
Жыл бұрын
What about SAE connection?
@davidzavala337
Жыл бұрын
I like the looks, but for a new rider is just too expensive and reliability is questionable. I don't care for name or heritage.
@KSMotoCafe
Жыл бұрын
yeah definitely not a good first bike as per pricing
@mikeogden5256
2 жыл бұрын
I love ❤️ it
@KSMotoCafe
2 жыл бұрын
cheers!
@artvertex4152
2 жыл бұрын
Harley Nightster 1250 will be the bike that many people want. Sportster S just look too modern.
@KSMotoCafe
2 жыл бұрын
That would be killer
@jthebk3864
Жыл бұрын
Harley really screwed up, they should have left the sprotsers alone, the evo was a beautiful motor and the bikes looked classic, they didn't need to make the engine look like it had big plastic side covers, I used to say harley had indian beat but honestly Indians motors look alot better than these. It's not a harley anymore, it's practically a honda rebel motorcycle at this point. Hell I'd take a honda shadow over one of these just on the basis of aesthetics
@KSMotoCafe
Жыл бұрын
HD couldn't sell the Evo sportsters overseas anymore due to strict emission standards. It is the death of the traditional HD sportsters I am afraid
@jthebk3864
Жыл бұрын
@@KSMotoCafe I get that but they should have tweaked the traditional designs to meet the standards instead of this, the motor looks like a toy haha
@KSMotoCafe
Жыл бұрын
@@jthebk3864 Given that the engine is 50 years old, HD squeezed every type of efficiently it could get over the years and still failed the new euro emissions test. It would have been nice if Hd built another air cooled V Twin that is more effective and efficient (similar to what is on Ducati scramblers) but... HD sunk way too much $$ into the RevMax project from the previous CEO era, HD is pretty trapped
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