Model Research
Nightster vs.
Sportster S

2023 Harley-Davidson® Nightster® vs. Sportster® S | Branford, CT

Own the road with the nimble handling and aggressive looks of the 2023 Harley-Davidson® Nightster® and Sportster S®. These sport bikes deliver the lean, powerful look and exciting handling you’re looking for with the Harley-Davidson power and quality you love. Find out what makes these two motorcycles different with the following model comparison created by the H-D® pros at Freedom Road Harley-Davidson. For more information, see our Sportster S review.

Find your ideal new motorcycle for sale at Freedom Road Harley-Davidson. Browse the current inventory at our store in Branford, CT, and set up a time to ride to get a sense of the differences between the Nightster and Sportster S. As you’re considering which new sport bike is the best fit for you, be sure to take advantage of the helpful tools — like our online trade-in value form — from our finance center.

Contact a Freedom Road Harley-Davidson representative with any questions. We’re happy to help when you send us a message or call us at (203) 315-4759.

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2023 Harley-Davidson Nightster vs. Sportster S Engine Specs & Powertrain

Performance is a key difference between the 2023 Harley-Davidson Nightster and Sportster S. Both bikes run with a Revolution® Max engine, but the Sportster S engine is significantly larger and more powerful. The 1250T engine on the Sportster S makes 121 horsepower compared with the 90 horsepower on the 975T, courtesy of its larger displacement — 76.4 cubic inches for the Sportster S versus 59.5 cubic inches for the Nightster. Fuel economy is also different, with the advantage going to the Nightster. Both bikes have a 3.1-gallon fuel tank. You get a 19-inch front wheel and 16-inch rear wheel on the Nightster, and a 17-inch front wheel and 16-inch rear wheel on the Sportster S.

Compare the key performance specs in the accompanying table.

Nightster	Model	Sportster S
Revolution Max 975T	Engine	Revolution Max 1250T
3.82 in.	Engine Bore	4.134 in.
59.5 cu.-in.	Displacement	76.4 cu.-in.
90 HP	Horsepower	121 HP
70 lb.-ft.	Torque	94 lb.-ft.
5,000 RPM	Torque RPM	6,000 RPM
52.4 MPG	Combined Fuel Economy	49 MPG

2023 Harley-Davidson Nightster vs. Sportster S Safety & Technology

When it comes to technology, the 2023 Harley-Davidson Nightster and Sportster S take different approaches. You get a more basic slate of tech features on the Nightster, including a 4-inch analog instrument display with a vehicle information screen with the odometer, trip, fuel range, and ride mode indicator. On the Sportster S, a 4-inch color LCD display replaces the analog readouts with a digital interface, and Bluetooth® functionality plus a USB charging port are included. You can also enjoy turn-by-turn navigation via the Harley-Davidson app.

In terms of rider safety enhancements, the Sportster S has an upgraded selection over the Nightster. Full LED lighting on either bike helps you stay visible on the road. While both bikes include a standard anti-lock brake system, traction control, and drag torque slip control, the Sportster S also includes the following features as standard equipment:

Tire pressure monitoring system
Wheel lift mitigation
Cornering enhanced anti-lock brake system
Cornering enhanced traction control system
Cornering drag-torque slip control system
Enhanced lift mitigation

2023 Harley-Davidson Nightster

2023 Harley-Davidson Sportster S

2023 Harley-Davidson Nightster vs. Sportster S Dimensions

The 2023 Harley-Davidson Nightster and Sportster S are the same length, but the Sportster S is lower and heavier. Both place you in a forward-leaning riding position, but the Sportster S features forward foot control, and the Nightster is built with mid-mount foot controls. To accommodate, the seat height is slightly higher on the Sportster S.

Compare the dimensions for both bikes in the accompanying chart to see the similarities and differences.

Nightster	Model	Sportster S
89.4 in.	Length	89.4 in.
61.3 in.	Wheelbase	59.8 in.
30 deg.	Rake	30 deg.
5.4 in.	Trail	5.8 in.
27.1 in.	Laden Seat Height	28.9 in.
4.5 in.	Ground Clearance	3.5 in.
462 / 481 lbs.	Weight (as shipped / running order)	487 / 502 lbs.

2023 Harley-Davidson Nightster

2023 Harley-Davidson Sportster S

2023 Harley-Davidson Nightster vs. Sportster S Pricing

You’ll find the 2023 Harley-Davidson Nightster starting at $13,499 MSRP*, white the 2023 Harley-Davidson Sportster S starts at $16,399 MSRP*. Both bikes come in standard Billiard Black exterior paint; other exterior colors or equipment add to the MSRP.

*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

Are you looking for a new sport bike for sale in Branford, CT? Stop by Freedom Road Harley-Davidson and check out our available selection of new Harley Davidson Nightster and Sportster S bikes. Take a look at our inventory before you visit, and set up a time to ride so we can have your motorcycle ready for you.

Have a question for our team? Contact us online or by calling (203) 315-4759.

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