The Harley-Davidson Nighster motorcycle is available in India for a price of ₹14.99 lakh with the base Vivid Black paint scheme. The Milwaukee-based company had launched a nationwide campaign too for its launch called ‘The World’s Best Job’ that showcased the hiring process of the company’s new ‘Brand Manager’ in the form of a TV show, along with winning the Nighster was part of the joining bonus.
Powering the Nightster is an all-new Revolution Max 975T engine producing 90 horsepower and 95 Nm. With a 6-speed transmission, it is mated to a rear-wheel drive chassis. This is basically a scaled-down version of the same 60-degree V-twin engine that powers the Sportster S and Pan America 1250, the brand’s first and only ADV.
This Nightster’s DOHC engine is also fitted with variable valve timing, just like its older siblings. But it works with the intake valve only, instead of the exhaust valves, as is the case with its bigger engine counterpart.
The Nightster shares the same tubular steel chassis with the Sportster that uses the engine as its stress member. However, the Nighster equips 41mm Showa telescopic forks for the front and twin shock absorbers for the rear. The Sportster S is equipped with 43 mm USD forks and a monoshock at the rear.
The Nightster’s seat height is a very accessible 705 mm. Despite riding on 19-inch wheels on both ends, it’s ground clearance is quite low at 110 mm.. Braking duties are handled by a 320 mm disc brake up front with an axially-mounted four-piston calliper, and a 260mm rear disc brake with a floating single-piston calliper.
The Nightster also comes with several electronic aids, including three riding modes, engine braking, ABS, and traction control. Along with that, you also get a full-LED lighting system. Aside from the Vivid Black option, the Nightster is also available in Gunship Grey and Redline Red exterior colour options. The latter two will set you back by ₹15.13 lakh.