Harley-Davidson Unveils the 2021 Sportster S

After surprising the world with the Pan-America unveiled recently, Harley-Davidson has taken the wraps off yet another new and interesting model called the Sportster S.

Designed to usher in a new era of Sportster performance, the bike is powered by a new 121-hp Revolution Max 1250T V-Twin engine.

Design

In profile, the Sportster S model appears crouched and powerful. The fuel tank and tail section frame the engine as the predominate centrepiece of the motorcycle.

The massive front tire recalls the fenderless front end of a classic bobber, while the tail section, high-mount exhaust and slim solo seat draw inspiration from the Harley-Davidson XR750 flat tracker. The thick inverted forks and wide-profile tires suggest high-performance sport bike.

The powertrain is highlighted with a Chocolate Satin finish on the lightweight magnesium engine covers. Textures, colors, finishes and details were selected to give the Sportster S model the look of a custom show bike that just happens to be parked in the owner’s garage.

Weighing 227 kg, the icing on the cake as far as the bike’s design is concerned, is the high-mount 2-into-1-into-2 exhaust designed to produce a pleasing low-frequency tone.

Last but not least, we have the lightweight cast aluminium wheels with a staggered, five-spoke design shod with wide Dunlop/Harley-Davidson Series GT503 tires.

Technology

The Sportster S model is equipped with a host of technologies designed to enhance the riding experience.

Three pre-programmed, selectable Ride Modes (Sport, Road and Rain) electronically control the performance characteristics of the motorcycle, and the level of technology intervention.

Two “Custom” modes may also be used by the rider to create a set of personal preference.

A round, 4.0-inch-diameter TFT screen displays all instrumentation and supports infotainment generated by the rider’s Bluetooth-equipped mobile device and helmet headset, including music, incoming and out-going calls, and navigation supplied by the Harley-Davidson App.

All-LED lighting includes a Daymaker Signature LED headlamp designed to produce a homogenous spread of light, eliminating distracting “hot spots.”

The headlamp has a distinctive oval or capsule shape that adds style to the front end and will identify the Sportster S model to other riders and motorists.

Suspension

The Sportster S model is also equipped with fully adjustable, premium front and rear suspension – SHOWA 43mm inverted cartridge forks and a SHOWA Piggyback reservoir rear shock.

The rear suspension features hydraulic pre-load adjustment using a convenient knob located on the left side of the motorcycle.

Stopping power comes courtesy of a new Brembo radial monoblock four-piston caliper and a 320mm diameter disc in front. The rear brake is a two-piston Brembo caliper and a 260mm diameter disc.

Ergonomics

In case you’re wondering how ergonomic the new Sportster S is, the unladen seat height stands at 29.6 inches, which is low enough for most riders to get feet down at a stop.

Brake and clutch hand levers are adjustable for reach, to best match rider hand size or preference.

The Sportster S model is also pre-wired for accessory heated hand grips for added comfort in cool weather, and is equipped with two dedicated power points for heated riding gear, plus a USB-C port for charging a phone or other device.

There is an external ambient temperature sensor and a low-temp warning as well on the display screen alert the rider to changing conditions.

Offered in three colours – Vivid Black, Stone Washed White Pearl, Midnight Crimson, Cruise control and a proximity-based security system are standard equipment.