2025 Harley-Davidson® Nightster® vs. Nightster Special | Engine Specs & Dimensions
Ignite your senses with the dynamic performance and unmistakable styling of the 2025 Harley-Davidson® Nightster® and Nightster Special. While each of these sport motorcycles includes an identical engine, Sportster® profile with dual outboard rear shocks, and nimble dimensions, there are a few differences in tech and design that may make one the right choice for you. See how the Nightster and Nightster Special compare using this page from Freedom Road Harley-Davidson. Learn more about each bike individually with our Nightster review and Nightster Special review.
Check out the new inventory to find your favorite new Nightster and Nightster Special for sale in Branford, CT. Once you find one you like, set up a test ride. Like what you see? Start planning for your purchase using the online tools from our finance center, including a convenient online trade-in form.
Have a question for one of our H-D® pros? Give us a call or text us at (203) 315-4759 or send us a message online and we’ll be happy to help.
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2025 Harley-Davidson Nightster vs. Nightster Special Engine Specs & Powertrain
Unleash raw, high-revving power with the 2025 Harley-Davidson Nightster and Nightster Special. The two bikes share the same Revolution® Max 975T engine. This next-generation powertrain liquid-cooled engine makes 91 horsepower and 72 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 2-into-1 exhaust that’s tuned for high flow and an aggressive sound, you can count on soul-stirring cruises aboard either bike.
See the engine specs for the Nightster and Nightster Special in the accompanying table.
- Engine: Revolution Max 975T
- Displacement: 59.5 cu.-in.
- Horsepower: 91 HP
- Torque: 72 lb.-ft.
- Torque RPM: 5,750 RPM
- MPG: 52 combined
- Transmission: Six-speed
2025 Harley-Davidson Nightster vs. Nightster Special Safety & Technology
A notable difference between the tech for the Nightster and Nightster Special is their gauging and display. The Nightster comes with a round 4-inch analog speedometer with an LCD display housed below it. The upgrade you get with the Nightster Special is a full color round 4-inch LCD display that digitizes all your information for easier viewing. The Bluetooth®-capable system on the Nightster Special allows you to stay connected and entertained, as well as access navigation using the H-D App. On both bikes, you’ll toggle between sport, rain, road, or two custom ride modes on their respective displays. Cruise control is standard on the Nightster Special.
Both motorcycles come with an all-LED headlamp, LED rear lighting, and LED bullet turn signals for top-tier visibility. Looking for handling confidence? Both bikes feature an anti-lock brake system for control when you’re stopping, a traction control system designed to keep the rear wheel in line when you’re accelerating on wet roads, and a drag-torque slip control system that helps keep the rear wheel under control while you’re decelerating. A uniquely standard feature on the Nightster Special is the tire pressure monitoring system
2025 Harley-Davidson Nightster
2025 Harley-Davidson Nightster Special
2025 Harley-Davidson Nightster vs. Nightster Special Dimensions
Lightweight and low, the 2025 Harley-Davidson Nightster and Nightster Special are built to prioritize agility and excellent handling. Both bikes weigh in at just over 480 pounds and have a 27.1-inch laden seat height.
Beyond the raw numbers, the Nightster Special includes several unique design features. At the front of the bike, you’ll notice a unique, new West Coast-inspired mini fairing and highrise handlebars on 5-inch risers. A passenger seat and footpegs are standard for the Nightster Special if you want to invite someone along for the ride. While the Nightster comes with a standard solo seat, customization with a passenger pillion is easy — the experts in our H-D parts department would love to help you outfit your bike to your specific requirements.
Compare the dimensions for both bikes in the following chart.
| Nightster | Model | Nightster Special |
|---|---|---|
| 88.6 in. | Length | 89.2 in. |
| 60.8 in. | Wheelbase | 60.8 in. |
| 30 deg. | Rake | 30 deg. |
| 5.4 in. | Trail | 5.4 in. |
| 27.1 in. | Laden Seat Height | 27.1 in. |
| 4.3 in. | Ground Clearance | 4.7 in. |
| 481 lbs. | Weight (In Running Order) | 483 lbs. |
2025 Harley-Davidson Nightster vs. Nightster Special Pricing
Find the 2025 Harley-Davidson Nightster for sale starting at $10,499 MSRP*, while the 2025 Harley-Davidson Nightster Special starts at $12,499 MSRP*. While this price includes blacked-out trim for both bikes, the Nightster offers chrome trim with color-shifting Snake Venom paint on the air box cover and fenders for added mystique.
*Prices listed are the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices for base models. Options such as color are available at additional cost. Prices exclude tax, title, licensing, registration fees, destination charges, surcharges (attributable to raw materials costs in the product supply chain), added accessories, and additional dealer charges, if any, and are subject to change. Harley-Davidson reimburses dealers for performing manufacturer-specified pre-delivery inspection and setup tasks. Dealer prices may vary.
2025 Harley-Davidson Nightster
2025 Harley-Davidson Nightster Special
2023 Harley-Davidson® Nightster® vs. Nightster Special | Branford, CT
Iconic looks and a modern take on legendary H-D® engineering help the 2023 Harley-Davidson® Nightster® and Nightster Special give you an edge on every ride. Whether you’re looking for a sport bike that focuses exclusively on the nimble handling and responsive ride experience, or one that adds to your ride with extra tech, the Harley-Davidson lineup has an option for you. Learn whether the 2023 Nightster or Nightster Special is the right choice for your particular riding needs with the following model comparison created by the H-D pros at Freedom Road Harley-Davidson.
Take a closer look at the Nightster and Nightster Special in the new inventory at our store in Branford, CT, and schedule a time to ride and get a sense of the power and precise handling of these sport bikes. Do you have a bike to trade in? Check its value with our trade-in tool, or visit our finance center page for more helpful online tools.
Have a question? Contact Freedom Road Harley-Davidson online or by calling us at (203) 315-4759.
2023 Harley-Davidson Nightster vs. Nightster Special Engine Specs & Powertrain
The 2023 Harley-Davidson Nightster and Nightster Special both feature the Revolution® Max 975T engine as an integral part of the chassis — a unique design feature that helps reduce the weight of the bike. With 90 horsepower and 70 pound-feet of torque at 5,000 revolutions per minute (RPM), this powerplant is designed to make every ride a high-energy affair. You’ll find just slightly better fuel economy numbers with the Nightster — with less than 0.5 MPG difference. Both bikes are designed for sharp handling made more confident with the dual bending valve suspension that’s tuned to keep your 19-inch wheel and front tire in contact with the road. Exposed rear shocks above the 16-inch rear wheel on either motorcycle add support and the looks of a Sportster®. Both bikes feature a 3.1-gallon gas tank.
| Engine | Revolution Max 975T |
|---|---|
| Engine Bore | 3.82 in. |
| Displacement | 59.5 cu.-in. |
| Horsepower | 90 HP |
| Torque | 70 lb.-ft. |
| Torque RPM | 5,000 RPM |
| Combined Fuel Economy (Nightster/Nightster Special) | 52.4 / 52 MPG |
2023 Harley-Davidson Nightster vs. Nightster Special Safety & Technology
One of the key areas where the 2023 Harley-Davidson Nightster and Nightster Special differ is in technology. You get a 4-inch round analog gauge display on the Nightster and a 4-inch digital color display on the Nightster Special with Bluetooth® capabilities, music controls, phone pairing, and navigation through the Harley-Davidson app. A USB port for the Nightster Special helps keep your phone ready for action.
Ride with confidence on the 2023 Harley-Davidson Nightster and Nightster Special. Essential safety features are nearly identical on both models, with a standard anti-lock brake system, traction control system, and drag-torque slip control system. Two convenient systems exclusive to the Nightster Special are cruise control and a tire pressure monitoring system. Full LED lighting is standard equipment on both bikes.
2023 Harley-Davidson Nightster vs. Nightster Special Dimensions
The 2023 Harley-Davidson Nightster and Nightster Special are mostly similar when it comes to their dimensions. The important size specs are all the same, but the Nightster is 2.4 inches longer and the Nightster Special is 2 pounds heavier. Both bikes set you up with the forward riding position characteristic of sport bikes, along with mid-mount foot controls. One key difference to consider is seating; the Nightster Special is built with a rear-passenger pillion and foot pegs for two-up riding, but the Nightster is built for solo riding.
See the key specs for yourself in the accompanying chart.
| Nightster | Model | Nightster Special |
|---|---|---|
| 89.4 in. | Length | 87 in. |
| 61.3 in. | Wheelbase | 61.3 in |
| 30 deg. | Rake | 30 deg. |
| 5.4 in. | Trail | 5.4 in. |
| 27.1 in. | Laden Seat Height | 27.1 in. |
| 4.5 in. | Ground Clearance | 4.5 in. |
| 462 / 481 lbs. | Weight (as shipped / running order) | 465 / 483 lbs. |
2023 Harley-Davidson Nightster vs. Nightster Special Pricing
The names are similar, and the price is relatively close for the Nightster and Nightster Special. You’ll find the 2023 Harley-Davidson Nightster starting at $13,499 MSRP* and the 2023 Harley-Davidson Nightster Special starting at $14,999 MSRP*. Both starting MSRPs are for the bikes in Vivid Black. Other color options or additional equipment increases the MSRP from there.
*Prices listed are the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices for base models. Options such as color are available at additional cost. Prices exclude tax, title, licensing, registration fees, destination charges, surcharges (attributable to raw materials costs in the product supply chain), added accessories, and additional dealer charges, if any, and are subject to change. Harley-Davidson reimburses dealers for performing manufacturer-specified pre-delivery inspection and setup tasks. Dealer prices may vary.
Visit Freedom Road Harley-Davidson for a Test Ride
Freedom Road Harley-Davidson is the place to find the Nightster and Nightster Special for sale in Branford, CT. Look through our available inventory with both of these dynamic sport bikes, and set up a time to ride to get a feel for the differences in person. For more information about a particular motorcycle, contact our team of Harley-Davidson enthusiasts online or by calling (203) 315-4759.
Test Ride a Nightster or Nightster Special in Branford, CT
Ready to get your pulse pounding on a new Harley® sport motorcycle? Schedule a test ride with either the Nightster or Nightster Special — or both — at Freedom Road Harley-Davidson in Branford, CT. Our new inventory features a wide range of options, and our friendly team of Harley-Davidson enthusiasts will be happy to help with any step of your search.
For more information, contact us online or call or text us at (203) 315-4759.
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2024 Nightster™ Special (RH975S)
$8,999.00- P307822
- Pre-owned
- 2024
- 3064 mi
- Harley-Davidson®
- L-A Harley-Davidson®
- Black Denim
With modern function and traditional form, the Harley-Davidson® Nightster Special has a liquid-cooled V-twin engine and a classic Sportster® silhouette.
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2025 Nightster™ Special (RH975S)
$12,999.00- U306266
- Pre-owned
- 2025
- 29 mi
- Harley-Davidson®
- Freedom Road Harley-Davidson®
- Vivid Black
The Nightster Special marries iconic Sportster® design with modern, high-revving, liquid-cooled engine performance and rider-focused tech that keeps you connected on the road.
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2025 Sportster™ S (RH1250S)
$18,999.00- U306099
- Pre-owned
- 2025
- 28 mi
- Harley-Davidson®
- Freedom Road Harley-Davidson®
- Vivid Black
Engineered to thrill, the Sportster® S is built around the big and powerful Revolution® Max 1250T engine that puts out 121 horsepower and 93 ft-lb of torque. With rider-assist electronics, optimized handling, and a lightweight frame, this next-generation Sportster is all about performing rather …
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2026 Nightster® (RH975)
CALL FOR PRICE- U300947
- Pre-owned
- 2026
- 7 mi
- Harley-Davidson®
- Freedom Road Harley-Davidson®
- Blood Orange
At 481 lbs wet with a low 27” seat height, the 2026 Nightster carries its weight where it counts: low, centered, and in your control. Add a blacked-out 975T Revolution Max® motor, selectable ride modes, LED lighting, and legacy Sportster styling, and you’ve got an incomparably capable machine, no …
Disclaimer
2024 & 2025 STREET GLIDE® AND CRUISER OFFER
Financing Offer available only on select, new untitled 2025 or 2024 Harley-Davidson® motorcycles financed through Eaglemark Savings Bank and is subject to credit approval. Not valid in conjunction with other offers. Other terms, conditions, and limitations may apply. Dealer participation may vary.
$1,000 Trade-In Assistance available on the purchase of select new, 2024 and 2025 Harley-Davidson® Street Glide® and Cruiser motorcycles when any motorcycle is traded in. Offer valid at participating Harley-Davidson® dealerships in the U.S., including Alaska and Hawaii, on eligible models that are available and in dealer stock between April 1, 2026 and June 30, 2026. Offer cannot be redeemed for cash or cash equivalent. Dealer participation may vary. Offer subject to change without notice. Void where prohibited or restricted by law. Additional restrictions may apply. See your participating Harley-Davidson® dealer for complete details.
$500 Customer Cash Offer valid toward the purchase price of select new, untitled 2024 and 2025 Harley-Davidson® Street Glide® and Cruiser motorcycles available and in stock at participating H‑D® dealerships in the United States, including Alaska and Hawaii. Eligible customers must visit H‑D.com/Military or H‑D.com/Police and validate eligibility through ID.me to receive a unique H‑D Hero Offer code. Offer valid only for the named eligible individual, is non‑transferable, and must be presented at time of purchase. Offer valid on purchases made between April 1, 2026 and June 30, 2026. Limit one offer per eligible customer and per eligible motorcycle purchase. Offer may not be applied toward a motorcycle down payment and is not valid on prior purchases or future motorcycle orders after June 30, 2026. This Offer may be combined with certain in‑market Harley-Davidson® promotions; however, restrictions apply. See your authorized Harley-Davidson® dealership for details on eligible offer combinations, including Harley-Davidson® finance offers. Offer cannot be redeemed for cash or cash equivalent and is non‑refundable. Harley-Davidson® and participating dealers are not responsible for lost or stolen offer codes. Offer subject to change without notice. Void where prohibited or restricted by law.
Financing Offer available only on New MY26 Street Glide® Limited and Road Glide® Limited HarleyDavidson® motorcycles financed through Eaglemark Savings Bank (ESB) and is subject to credit approval. Not all applicants will qualify. 7.19% APR offer is available only to high credit tier customers at ESB and only for a 36month term. The APR may vary based on the applicant’s past credit performance and the term of the loan. For example, a 2026 Street Glide Limited in Dark Billiard Gray with an MSRP of $32,999, 10% down payment and amount financed of $29,699.10, 36month repayment term, and 7.19% APR results in 35 monthly payments of $394.20 and a 36th balloon payment of $21,433.64. In this example, customer is responsible for applicable taxes, title, licensing fees and any other fees or charges at the time of sale. APR is calculated according to the simple interest method. Not valid in conjunction with other offers. This Financing Offer is valid during the period of April 1, 2026 – June 30, 2026. Other terms, conditions, and limitations may apply. Dealer participation may vary. Offer not available in Alaska. Financing offer is subject to change or cancellation at any time. A return fee up to $395, excess wear, mileage and other charges may apply. Some motorcycles may be ineligible for return due to excess wear and tear, excessive modifications, or other conditions.
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