The Harley-Davidson Sportster S is a bold reimagination of the iconic Sportster lineage, blending classic American cruiser styling with modern performance and cutting-edge technology. Launched in India as part of Harley-Davidson’s renewed focus on premium motorcycles, the Sportster S stands out with its muscular design, potent Revolution Max 1250T engine, and a host of advanced features tailored for riders seeking both thrill and heritage. Unlike its predecessors, which leaned heavily on retro charm, this motorcycle embraces a forward-thinking approach, combining raw power with sophisticated electronics to appeal to a new generation of riders while retaining the soul of the Harley-Davidson brand. In India, where premium motorcycles are gaining traction, the Sportster S has carved a niche among enthusiasts who crave a unique blend of performance, style, and exclusivity. This detailed exploration covers the bike’s technical specifications, variants, pricing, design elements, and its standing against close competitors, offering an in-depth look at what makes the Sportster S a standout in the Indian market.
Technical Specifications
Below is a comprehensive table outlining the technical specifications of the Harley-Davidson Sportster S, sourced and verified from reputable platforms like BikeDekho, BikeWale, and Harley-Davidson’s official channels.
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Revolution Max 1250T, Liquid-Cooled, 60-degree V-Twin, DOHC |
| Displacement | 1252 cc |
| Max Power | 121 bhp @ 7500 rpm |
| Max Torque | 125 Nm @ 6000 rpm |
| Bore x Stroke | 105 mm x 72.3 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel System | Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual with Slipper Clutch |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 20 kmpl |
| Mileage (User-Reported) | 19 kmpl (as per BikeWale) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 11.8 liters |
| Kerb Weight | 228 kg |
| Length | 2270 mm |
| Width | 843 mm |
| Height | 1089 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1520 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 90 mm |
| Seat Height | 765 mm |
| Front Suspension | 43 mm USD Fork, Adjustable for Compression, Rebound, and Spring Preload |
| Rear Suspension | Piggyback Monoshock, Adjustable for Hydraulic Preload, Compression, and Rebound |
| Front Brake | 320 mm Disc with Brembo Radial Monoblock Caliper |
| Rear Brake | 260 mm Disc |
| Tyre Size (Front) | 160/70R17 73V |
| Tyre Size (Rear) | 180/70R16 77V |
| Frame | Tubular Steel Frame |
| Exteriors | LED Headlamp, Twin-Pod Exhaust, Fat Tyres, Single-Pod Instrument Cluster |
| Interiors | Rider-Only Saddle, Matte or Gloss Paint Options |
| Advanced Features | 4-inch TFT Display with Bluetooth, Cornering ABS, Traction Control, Ride Modes (Sport, Road, Rain), Cruise Control, Engine Brake Control |
| Top Speed | 194 kmph (claimed) |
Variants
The Harley-Davidson Sportster S is offered in a single variant in India, keeping the lineup straightforward yet premium.
| Variant | Description |
|---|---|
| Sportster S STD | Single variant with 4 color options: Vivid Black, Red Rock, Billiard Gray, Bright Billiard Blue |
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the Harley-Davidson Sportster S varies across metro cities due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and local taxes. Below is a table with on-road prices (approximate) as of April 2025, sourced from BikeWale and BikeDekho.
| City | On-Road Price (INR) |
|---|---|
| Delhi | 18,60,011 |
| Mumbai | 20,57,891 |
| Bangalore | 20,59,381 |
| Chennai | 19,48,000 |
| Hyderabad | 19,25,971 |
| Pune | 19,25,971 |
*Note: Prices are indicative and subject to change. Contact local Harley-Davidson dealerships for exact quotes.
About the Harley-Davidson Sportster S
Design and Styling
The Harley-Davidson Sportster S redefines cruiser aesthetics with a design that’s both aggressive and minimalist, striking a balance between modern innovation and the brand’s storied heritage. At first glance, the bike commands attention with its muscular stance, characterized by a low-slung profile and fat tyres that give it a planted, powerful look. The front end features a distinctive single-pod LED headlamp, which not only enhances visibility but also adds a contemporary edge to the bike’s retro-inspired design. The compact 11.8-liter fuel tank, with its flat-line silhouette and “Checkered V” medallion, pays homage to the Sportster’s racing roots while maintaining a sleek, uncluttered appearance.
The twin-pod exhaust, mounted high on the right side, draws inspiration from Harley-Davidson’s XR750 flat tracker, adding a sporty flair that sets it apart from traditional cruisers. Minimal body panels ensure the Revolution Max 1250T engine remains the visual centerpiece, its liquid-cooled architecture and brushed metal finish exuding raw mechanical beauty. The single rider-only saddle, positioned at a low 765 mm, enhances accessibility while reinforcing the bike’s performance-oriented character. Available in four striking colors—Vivid Black, Red Rock, Billiard Gray, and Bright Billiard Blue—the Sportster S offers customization options to suit varied tastes, with matte and gloss finishes that elevate its premium appeal.
Despite its bold styling, the bike’s low ground clearance of 90 mm has drawn criticism for being less suited to India’s uneven roads, where speed bumps and potholes are common. Riders must exercise caution to avoid scraping the underbelly, particularly in urban settings. However, the tubular steel frame and wide handlebar contribute to a commanding riding position that feels both confident and engaging, making the Sportster S a head-turner on highways and city streets alike.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Sportster S lies the Revolution Max 1250T, a 1252 cc liquid-cooled, 60-degree V-Twin engine that marks a significant departure from Harley-Davidson’s traditional air-cooled motors. Producing an impressive 121 bhp at 7500 rpm and 125 Nm of torque at 6000 rpm, this engine delivers explosive acceleration and a thrilling riding experience. The double overhead camshafts (DOHC) and variable valve timing optimize power delivery across a wide rev range, ensuring robust low-end grunt for city riding and sustained performance on open roads. Compared to the Pan America 1250, which uses a similar engine tuned for higher output, the Sportster S prioritizes mid-range torque, making it ideal for quick overtakes and dynamic cruising.
The 6-speed transmission, paired with a slipper clutch, offers smooth gear shifts and reduces wheel hop during aggressive downshifts, enhancing control in spirited riding scenarios. The engine’s refinement is further complemented by Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI), which ensures precise throttle response and improved fuel efficiency. While the ARAI-claimed mileage stands at 20 kmpl, real-world figures hover around 19 kmpl, as reported by users on BikeWale, making it respectable for a bike of this displacement but not class-leading.
One notable drawback is the engine’s heat output, particularly in stop-and-go traffic, where riders may feel discomfort around the legs. This is a common trait in high-performance V-Twins, but it’s worth considering for urban commuters in India’s congested metro cities. On the highway, however, the Sportster S shines, with a top speed of 194 kmph and effortless cruising at triple-digit speeds, thanks to its aerodynamic design and stable chassis.
Ride and Handling
The Sportster S is engineered for dynamic handling, a departure from the laid-back cruising stereotype associated with Harley-Davidson. Its tubular steel frame provides rigidity, while the 43 mm USD front fork and piggyback monoshock—both from Showa and fully adjustable for compression, rebound, and preload—deliver a balanced ride. The 2025 model, as noted on BikeWale, features an upgraded rear suspension with 60% more travel (increased from 50.8 mm to 81.2 mm), improving comfort without compromising the low seat height. This enhancement makes the bike more adept at soaking up bumps, though the stiff setup may still feel jarring on poorly maintained Indian roads.
The bike’s fat tyres—160/70R17 front and 180/70R16 rear—offer excellent grip and stability, particularly during cornering, but their size can make quick direction changes slightly cumbersome. The Brembo braking system, with a 320 mm front disc and a 260 mm rear disc, provides confident stopping power, enhanced by cornering ABS that adjusts brake pressure based on lean angle for added safety. The low kerb weight of 228 kg, combined with a 1520 mm wheelbase, ensures agile handling for a cruiser, allowing riders to navigate tight city streets and twisty backroads with ease.
However, the 90 mm ground clearance remains a limiting factor, especially when tackling speed breakers or rural roads. Riders accustomed to sportier motorcycles may appreciate the mid-set pegs and wide handlebar, which promote an upright yet engaging riding posture, but those expecting a traditional cruiser’s relaxed ergonomics might find the setup slightly aggressive.
Advanced Features and Technology
The Sportster S is a technological tour de force, packed with features that elevate it above many competitors in the premium cruiser segment. At its core is a 4-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity, offering navigation, call alerts, and music control when paired with a smartphone and headset. The display is customizable, providing critical ride information like speed, fuel level, and riding mode status at a glance. The bike offers three pre-set riding modes—Sport, Road, and Rain—along with two custom modes, allowing riders to tailor power delivery, engine braking, and traction control to their preferences.
Safety is bolstered by a suite of rider aids, including cornering-enhanced traction control, cornering ABS, and engine brake control, which leverage the bike’s Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) to adjust performance based on lean angle and road conditions. Cruise control adds convenience for long-distance touring, while the keyless ignition and proximity-based security fob enhance user experience. These features, rare in traditional cruisers, position the Sportster S as a modern, tech-savvy machine that caters to riders seeking both performance and practicality.
One minor critique is the absence of a dual-seat option, limiting the bike’s appeal for those who frequently ride with a pillion. Additionally, while the electronics are intuitive, some riders may find the learning curve steep, particularly when toggling between modes in dynamic conditions. Nonetheless, the integration of such advanced systems underscores Harley-Davidson’s commitment to innovation, making the Sportster S a compelling choice for tech-savvy enthusiasts.
Variants and Customization
The Sportster S is available in a single STD variant, streamlining the buying process while maintaining a premium positioning. The four color options—Vivid Black, Red Rock, Billiard Gray, and Bright Billiard Blue—cater to diverse aesthetic preferences, with the 2025 model introducing Red and Blue as fresh additions, as per BikeWale. Harley-Davidson’s extensive accessory catalog allows for further customization, including exhaust upgrades, handlebar risers, and cosmetic enhancements like tank medallions and saddlebags, enabling riders to personalize their bike to reflect their style.
The single-variant approach ensures consistency in features and performance, but it may disappoint buyers seeking a more affordable base model or a fully loaded top-end version. Compared to competitors like the Indian Scout, which offers multiple variants, the Sportster S’s simplicity is both a strength and a limitation, appealing to purists while potentially alienating those who prefer tiered options.
Pricing and Value Proposition
The Sportster S is positioned as a premium offering, with on-road prices ranging from approximately INR 18.60 lakh in Delhi to INR 20.59 lakh in Bangalore, as per BikeWale and BikeDekho. This pricing reflects its high-performance credentials, advanced technology, and the Harley-Davidson brand’s aspirational value. However, it places the bike in a niche segment, competing with both cruisers and sportier motorcycles in the same price bracket.
For Indian buyers, the Sportster S offers a unique value proposition: a blend of heritage, modern engineering, and exclusivity that few rivals can match. However, its high maintenance costs and limited service network—compared to brands like Triumph or Indian Motorcycles—may deter cost-conscious riders. The bike’s fuel efficiency of around 19-20 kmpl is respectable, but running costs, including premium fuel and periodic servicing, add to the ownership expense. Financing options, with EMIs starting at around INR 50,413 in Delhi (BikeDekho), make it more accessible, but the Sportster S remains a significant investment best suited for dedicated enthusiasts.
Ownership Experience
Owning a Harley-Davidson Sportster S in India is as much about lifestyle as it is about riding. The brand’s legacy, coupled with the bike’s commanding presence, makes it a statement of individuality and passion. User reviews on BikeDekho highlight the premium showroom experience, with smooth paperwork and attentive staff, reinforcing the sense of joining an exclusive community. On the road, the Sportster S delivers miles of smiles, as one reviewer put it, with its exhilarating performance and head-turning design.
However, practical considerations come into play. The bike’s low ground clearance and stiff suspension can make it challenging on India’s diverse road conditions, from pothole-ridden city streets to uneven rural highways. Engine heat in traffic is another concern, particularly in metro cities like Mumbai and Bangalore, where congestion is a daily reality. The limited service reach of Harley-Davidson in India, compared to more established brands like Royal Enfield, means owners must plan maintenance carefully, often traveling to authorized dealerships in major cities.
Despite these challenges, the Sportster S rewards with an unmatched riding experience. Its blend of raw power, precise handling, and advanced electronics makes it versatile enough for spirited rides on open roads and relaxed cruises along scenic routes. For riders who prioritize performance and prestige over practicality, the Sportster S is a dream machine that lives up to the Harley-Davidson name.
Close Competitors
The Harley-Davidson Sportster S operates in a competitive segment where premium cruisers vie for attention with a mix of heritage, performance, and modern features. Below, we explore its closest rivals in the Indian market, comparing their strengths and weaknesses to provide a clearer picture of where the Sportster S stands.
Indian Scout Bobber
The Indian Scout Bobber, priced between INR 16.88 lakh and 18.33 lakh (on-road), is a direct competitor, offering a retro-modern cruiser aesthetic with a 1133 cc V-Twin engine that produces 100 bhp and 97.7 Nm of torque. Its lower seat height of 649 mm and lighter kerb weight of 256 kg make it more accessible, particularly for shorter riders or those navigating urban environments. The Scout Bobber’s minimalist design, with blacked-out elements and bobbed fenders, rivals the Sportster S in visual appeal, but it lacks the same level of advanced electronics, offering only basic ABS and no riding modes or traction control.
In terms of performance, the Scout Bobber’s engine is less powerful but delivers smooth, linear power ideal for relaxed cruising. Its 12.5-liter fuel tank offers slightly better range, and the claimed mileage of 25 kmpl is more frugal than the Sportster S’s 19-20 kmpl. However, the Indian’s suspension is less sophisticated, with non-adjustable forks that struggle on rough roads compared to the Sportster S’s fully adjustable setup. Indian Motorcycles’ wider service network in India gives it an edge in after-sales support, but the Sportster S counters with superior tech and a more thrilling ride, making it the choice for performance-focused buyers.
Triumph Bonneville Bobber
Priced between INR 12.05 lakh and 12.65 lakh (on-road), the Triumph Bonneville Bobber is a more affordable rival, powered by a 1200 cc parallel-twin engine that delivers 78 bhp and 106 Nm of torque. Its classic British styling, with chrome accents and a round headlamp, contrasts with the Sportster S’s aggressive, modern look, appealing to riders who prefer vintage charm. The Bonneville Bobber’s 10.6 kmpl mileage is less efficient, but its 9.1-liter fuel tank limits range, making it less practical for long rides compared to the Sportster S’s 11.8 liters.
The Triumph’s handling is agile, thanks to a 245 kg kerb weight and a low 690 mm seat height, but its suspension—KYB forks and a mono-shock—is tuned for comfort rather than sporty dynamics, unlike the Sportster S’s performance-oriented setup. Feature-wise, the Bonneville Bobber includes ABS, traction control, and two riding modes (Road and Rain), but it lacks the Sportster S’s TFT display, cornering aids, and cruise control. Triumph’s extensive dealership network and lower maintenance costs make it a practical choice, but the Sportster S offers a more visceral and tech-laden experience for those willing to pay the premium.
Triumph Rocket 3 R
The Triumph Rocket 3 R, priced between INR 21.99 lakh and 22.59 lakh (on-road), is a step up in both price and performance, powered by a massive 2458 cc inline-three engine that churns out 165 bhp and 221 Nm of torque. Its sheer power dwarfs the Sportster S, making it the ultimate muscle cruiser for riders who prioritize brute force. The Rocket 3 R’s 18-liter fuel tank and 15 kmpl mileage cater to long-distance touring, and its 773 mm seat height ensures accessibility despite a hefty 294 kg kerb weight.
Technologically, the Rocket 3 R matches the Sportster S with a TFT display, cornering ABS, traction control, and four riding modes, plus added features like hill-hold control and keyless ignition. Its adjustable Showa suspension offers a plush ride, outclassing the Sportster S in comfort but feeling less agile in tight corners due to its size. While the Rocket 3 R’s premium pricing and higher running costs make it less attainable, it appeals to buyers seeking unmatched presence and performance, whereas the Sportster S strikes a better balance for those wanting a versatile, sporty cruiser.
Comparison Summary
The Sportster S holds its own against these competitors by offering a unique combination of modern technology, aggressive styling, and balanced performance. The Indian Scout Bobber is a strong alternative for riders prioritizing affordability and ease of use, but it lacks the Sportster S’s tech edge. The Triumph Bonneville Bobber appeals to classic cruiser fans with its lower price and retro charm, yet it falls short in power and features. The Triumph Rocket 3 R, while superior in raw performance, is significantly more expensive and less practical for everyday riding. For Indian buyers, the Sportster S’s blend of 121 bhp, advanced rider aids, and Harley-Davidson’s iconic branding makes it a compelling choice, though its low ground clearance and premium pricing require careful consideration.
Final Thoughts!
The Harley-Davidson Sportster S is a triumph of engineering and design, redefining what a cruiser can be in the Indian market. Its Revolution Max 1250T engine, delivering 121 bhp and 125 Nm, ensures exhilarating performance, while features like cornering ABS, traction control, and a 4-inch TFT display bring it into the modern era. The bike’s aggressive styling, with fat tyres, a twin-pod exhaust, and a low-slung profile, captures the essence of Harley-Davidson’s heritage while appealing to riders seeking a bold, contemporary machine. Despite challenges like low ground clearance and high maintenance costs, the Sportster S offers an unmatched ownership experience, blending thrill, prestige, and individuality.
Against competitors like the Indian Scout Bobber, Triumph Bonneville Bobber, and Triumph Rocket 3 R, the Sportster S stands out for its versatility and tech-forward approach, making it ideal for enthusiasts who value performance over practicality. Priced between INR 18.60 lakh and INR 20.59 lakh across metro cities, it’s a premium investment that rewards with a riding experience like no other. Whether cruising highways or turning heads in the city, the Sportster S is a statement of power and passion, cementing Harley-Davidson’s legacy in India’s evolving motorcycle landscape.
