Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S 2023 vs. Harley-Davidson Nightster 2022

The Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S 2023 and the Harley-Davidson Nightster 2022 are both powerful and stylish motorcycles, but they have some key differences in terms of technical specifications and strengths.

Starting with the technical specifications, the Sportster S RH1250S 2023 is equipped with a V-engine, while the Nightster 2022 also has a V-engine. However, the Sportster S RH1250S has a larger displacement of 1252ccm compared to the Nightster's 975ccm. This results in a higher engine power of 122 HP for the Sportster S RH1250S, compared to the Nightster's 89 HP. The Sportster S RH1250S also has a higher torque of 125 Nm, while the Nightster has a torque of 95 Nm. Both motorcycles have fuel injection systems and belt transmissions.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles have upside-down telescopic forks in the front, with Showa being the brand for both. However, the Sportster S RH1250S has a monoshock rear suspension with compression, preload, and rebound adjustment, while the Nightster has a dual shock rear suspension with only preload adjustment.

Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S 2023

The chassis of both motorcycles is made of steel and has a tubular, load-bearing engine design. They both have a rake of 60 degrees, but the Sportster S RH1250S has a slightly longer trail of 148 mm compared to the Nightster's 137 mm.

When it comes to brakes, both motorcycles have single disk front brakes with a diameter of 320 mm and four pistons. The Sportster S RH1250S has an advanced rider assistance system that includes ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and traction control. The Nightster also has ABS, riding modes, and traction control, but does not have cornering ABS, ride by wire, or cruise control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Sportster S RH1250S has a front tire width of 160 mm and a diameter of 17 inches, while the Nightster has a front tire width of 100 mm and a diameter of 19 inches. The rear tire width for the Sportster S RH1250S is 180 mm with a diameter of 16 inches, while the Nightster has a rear tire width of 150 mm with a diameter of 16 inches. The wheelbase for the Sportster S RH1250S is 1520 mm, slightly shorter than the Nightster's 1545 mm. The seat height for the Sportster S RH1250S is 765 mm, while the Nightster has a slightly lower seat height of 705 mm. The dry weight with ABS for the Sportster S RH1250S is 221 kg, slightly heavier than the Nightster's 211 kg. Both motorcycles have a fuel tank capacity of around 11.7-11.8 liters and offer a range of 245 km. The combined fuel consumption for both motorcycles is 5.1 l/100km.

In terms of equipment, the Sportster S RH1250S has additional features such as Bluetooth, connectivity, LED headlights, and a TFT display, while the Nightster only has LED headlights.

Harley-Davidson Nightster 2022

In terms of strengths, the Sportster S RH1250S stands out for its powerful and refined engine, unique looks, full electronics package with cornering ABS and lean angle-dependent traction control, low-maintenance belt drive, and unrivaled performance. On the other hand, the Nightster is praised for its easy handling, comfort on long distances, extensive equipment with riding modes, traction control, anti-hopping clutch, and chic and modern Sportster look.

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses as well. The Sportster S RH1250S has a chassis that is considered to be really hard, and its turn-in behavior can be somewhat unwilling due to the wide front tire. It also has a relatively small fuel tank capacity. The Nightster, on the other hand, has a relatively small fuel tank as well, and its keyless system is only available for ignition, not for the handlebar lock and fuel tank. Additionally, the rear suspension of the Nightster is not very comfortable on rough road surfaces.

In conclusion, the Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S 2023 and the Harley-Davidson Nightster 2022 are both impressive motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Sportster S RH1250S offers a more powerful engine, advanced rider assistance systems, and additional equipment, while the Nightster provides easy handling, comfort, and a modern Sportster look. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preferences and priorities.