Indian FTR Sport 2023 vs. Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S 2023

The Indian FTR Sport 2023 and the Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S 2023 are both naked bikes with V-twin engines and similar power outputs. However, there are some notable differences between the two models.

In terms of engine performance, the Indian FTR Sport has a slightly higher horsepower rating at 123 HP compared to the Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S's 122 HP. The torque figures are also close, with the Indian FTR Sport producing 118 Nm and the Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S generating 125 Nm. Both bikes feature fuel injection systems and liquid cooling.

When it comes to suspension, the Indian FTR Sport is equipped with Sachs components both at the front and rear, while the Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S uses Showa suspension. Both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front.

In terms of braking, the Indian FTR Sport has double disc brakes with a diameter of 320 mm and four-piston calipers at the front. On the other hand, the Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S has a single disc brake with the same diameter and piston configuration.

Indian FTR Sport 2023

Both bikes come with advanced rider assistance systems, including ABS, riding modes, and traction control. The Indian FTR Sport also offers additional features such as cornering ABS, cruise control, and anti-wheelie control. The Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S includes ride by wire technology.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have similar wheelbase lengths, with the Indian FTR Sport measuring 1525 mm and the Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S measuring 1520 mm. The seat height of the Indian FTR Sport is slightly higher at 780 mm compared to the Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S's 765 mm. The dry weight of the Indian FTR Sport is 223 kg, while the Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S weighs slightly less at 221 kg.

The fuel tank capacity of the Indian FTR Sport is 13 liters, while the Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S has a slightly smaller tank capacity of 11.8 liters. However, the range of the Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S is slightly higher at 245 km compared to the Indian FTR Sport's 240 km. Both bikes have similar combined fuel consumption figures, with the Indian FTR Sport at 5.4 l/100km and the Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S at 5.1 l/100km.

Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S 2023

In terms of equipment, both bikes come with modern features such as LED headlights and TFT displays. The Indian FTR Sport also offers connectivity options, while the Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S includes Bluetooth connectivity.

In terms of strengths, the Indian FTR Sport offers a unique overall package with a powerful V-twin engine, comprehensive electronics package, and pleasant naked-bike ergonomics. The Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S stands out with its powerful and refined engine, unique looks, and full electronics package with cornering ABS and lean angle-dependent traction control.

However, both bikes have some weaknesses. The Indian FTR Sport lacks a quickshifter and has a small tank capacity. It also takes a long time to charge the electronics when starting the motorbike. The Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S has a hard chassis, somewhat unwilling turn-in behavior due to the wide front tire, and a small tank capacity.

Overall, both the Indian FTR Sport 2023 and the Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S 2023 offer unique features and performance characteristics, allowing riders to choose based on their preferences and priorities.