In 2022, in the 9th edition of the magazine, we tested the Harley-Davidson Nightster in its basic version. Now, for this 21st issue, we’re pleased to present you with a test of the Special version, which has some important additions for the most purist fans of the North American brand.
Although the base version of the 2022 Nightster is different from the updated 2023 version, its genesis and mechanical basis are identical and so the driving experience will be similar. So we’ll make the necessary comparisons with the Special Edition, based on the bike we tested last year.
NIGHTSTER VS NIGHTSTER SPECIAL
The difference of just over €1,000 has to be justified between the base version of the Nightster and the Nightster Special, so before going into an in-depth analysis of what it was like to ride this bike, let’s see what sets them apart. Let’s start with the wheels, which on the Special version are distinguished by a greater number of aluminum arms, in grey, rather than the black color with fewer arms found on the base version. Looking a little further up, the headlight guard has disappeared on the 2023 base version (since it was present as standard on the bike we tested in 2022), something that the Special equips as standard. The passenger seat also comes as standard on the Special version, something we didn’t find on the base version, as does the TFT dashboard that replaces the analog display we found as standard on the base Nightster. There’s also a riser on the handlebars, which raises the handlebars by around 12 cm on the Special version, something that proved to be very satisfactory when riding. Finally, the Harley-Davidson symbol on the two versions is different, with the Special incorporating the Milwaukee brand’s symbol in a retro ’70s style.
THE HEART
When we tested the Nightster for the first time, in its base version, we were very pleased with the bike’s handling, but also with the Revolution Max 975T block. This time was no different. Mechanically, there’s no difference in this Special version, so the handling remains identical to what we experienced about a year ago. The 89 hp and 95 Nm of maximum torque respond very well, especially in Sport mode, which turned out to be the one we rode in 90% of the time, since in Road and Rain mode you have to turn the right handle too much to feel that something is really happening. This engine’s great asset is its ability to stretch out and give everything it has across practically the entire rev range. Expectedly, at low engine speeds it suffers the most, with some vibration, but above 2,500 rpm it proved to have plenty of power and liveliness right up to the rev limit. As with the base version, we feel that the bike is still quite long in terms of gear ratios. And being electronically limited to 180 km/h, we can confirm that in 4th gear it is possible to reach the limiter – tested on a closed and controlled circuit, of course.
THE BEST Engine elasticity, driving position, stability TO BE IMPROVED Gear ratios, rear shock absorber, driving modes
THE BODY
As mentioned at the beginning, the Special version remains unchanged as far as the mechanical part is concerned, and that includes suspension, brakes and wheel size – despite the different rims. At the front we have a 41 mm Showa suspension and a single 320 mm brake disc with Brembo signature, while at the rear we can count on a double shock absorber and a 260 mm disc. All this translates into excellent handling on twisty roads, with the suspension working in harmony with the frame to give us more and more confidence at every turn, knowing that the brakes will be up to the task in any situation, offering good feel and power. On daily rides, it also proved to be quite comfortable, with a precious helping hand from the seat, with a less positive note for the rear shock absorbers that would benefit from more travel for greater comfort. Comfort is something we gain from raising the handlebars by around 12 cm, as we mentioned at the beginning, providing a more comfortable and natural riding position, without interfering with the way we ride this bike.
MORE TECHNOLOGICAL
We mentioned earlier that Harley-Davidson has equipped the Special version with a color TFT panel, instead of the analog panel that equips the base version. This allows you to connect your cell phone and intercom to the bike, making it possible to use voice commands. The layout of the information is beautiful and the information navigation controls are very intuitive. As far as technological additions are concerned, the standard features include a tire pressure sensor, the possibility of turning off traction control and full LED lighting – very effective in low-light situations.
EASY CHOICE
The Harley-Davidson Nightster Special may not have huge differences to the base version, and perhaps for many it’s hard to justify the extra €1,300. Even so, the Special version has additions that clearly justify the price difference, whether it’s because you can take a passenger, or because you have more technology and a more comfortable riding position. The more vintage feel of this version may also appeal to H-D fans. At the end of the day, the mechanics are the same and remain very refined, and the choice will come down to the added value of the Special’s extras. Between the two, we’d take the Special.