TWIN PEAKS

It can be difficult sometimes to get excited about a new-model release from Harley-Davidson. Major updates are relatively rare, the models in each range are mechanically quite similar and, compared to offerings from other brands, they are quite unique which makes assessing where they sit comparatively within the market a difficult task. That changed with the introduction of the Pan America and Sportster S, from a comparison point of view at least, and the more recent release of the Nightster has blown even more fresh air into the Harley range.

For fans of the American marque’s more traditional models, the water-cooled Nightster may seem like sacrilege but like the Sportster S and the Pan America they are all major steps forward in technology and performance. The Nightster may just be the most well-rounded cruiser the Motor Company has ever produced.

The Nightster doesn’t have the outright power of the larger-capacity Sportster S but it’s lighter and a far superior handler. At its heart is the Revolution Max T powerplant. The sleeved-down Revolution Max shares much with the larger 1252cc unit but, with a bore and stroke of 97mm x 66mm versus 105mm x 72.3mm, it gives the Revolution Max T