2021 Sportster S Review - First Ride with Revolution Max 1250T

Finally, here is the 2021 Sportster S Review that you were all waiting for! Is the Sportster S a good beginner bike? 2022 Sportster S the same thing? How does the sportster s compare to softails or other evolution sportsters? Is the revolution max the best performance engine? Is sportster s a good first bike? Is the Sportster S the future of sportsters? All is answered in this giant review of Harley Davidson Custom 1250 aka Sportster S where I go over everything you want to know about the Harley-Davidson's Sportster S first ride review!
#sportsters #revolutionmax #harleydavidson ‪@harleydavidson‬
Chapters
00:00 2021 Sportster S Review
04:55 Sportster S Start-up
06:03 Sportster S Friction Zone
07:00 Sportster S Rain Mode
08:18 Sportster S Road Mode
11:40 Sportstster S Shocks
13:17 Sporster S Sport Mode
14:04 Sportster S Highway Ride
18:23 Is the Sportster S for a new rider?
20:00 Is the Sportster S a good upgrade?
23:29 Side by Side
26:50 Final Thoughts on the Sportster S
Motorcycles I would love to test out:
HD FXLRS ST from ‪@harleydavidson‬
Indian Scout Series from ‪@Indian_Motorcycle‬
Honda Rebel 500 and 1100 from​ ‪@HondaPowersports-OutdoorCanada‬
Mods I want to do to my Iron 883:
1250 kit from ‪@HAMMERPERFORMANCE‬
1200 kit from ‪@SSCycleInc‬
Seat from ‪@saddlemenusa‬
Shocks from ‪@ProgressiveSuspension1982‬
Drone: Skydio 2 but I crashed it during this episode - so bye bye ‪@Skydio‬
Motorcycle: 2021 Sportster S 1250T
Instagram: KS_MOTO_CAFE / ks_moto_cafe

[@RaMt2oo]

So I bought this for my first bike ever and I’m not gonna say I made a mistake but it’s definitely a dangerous and scary bike however if you’re going to be safe with it and not do stupid stuff Id say it’s a beginners bike so yea also I LOVE this bike

[@KSMotoCafe]

hey thanks for sharing your side of the experience! After riding it for awhile, what do you love and bothers you the most about the bike??

[@crprkillr-xr2zn]

@@KSMotoCafethe acceleration gets me especially when it jumps

[@investlikeawarrior]

I always go back between this in the Nighster 975. thanks for your input.

[@KevinButler816]

I'm glad that Harley is finally building bikes that are attracting riders outside of the typical Harley rider. Almost every video review I've seen the reviewer breaks out in a giggle when they are giving it full throttle lol.

[@KSMotoCafe]

yeah man, I like the boldness of how Harley is attempting to stay relevant. First the Livewire (which was a great electric bike), Pan America, and now this. It is impossible not to smile with all that power under you haha

[@Osmani4you]

agreed they just need to fit those riders budget now or else it's going to be another doa with said model

[@Beastius24]

I never thought I would ride a Harley. And yet I bought a new Sportster S:)

[@KevinButler816]

@Beastius24 so what drew you in to buying it ?

[@Beastius24]

@KevinButler816 I am a short rider. 5ft7 -8 in boots. I have always loved cruiser looks and the cool factor but enjoy cornering, leaning and acceleration a lot. They made a bike that looks like a cruiser but handles almost as well as a naked bike, with an engine that is awesome and tuned perfectly for non track use. I loved overtaking kawasaki rider friends and them asking in disbelief: How the hell could you make those sharp turns on a Harley 🤣

[@markh.harris9271]

I purchased the RH1250S (Midnight Crimson) on Nov 19; I have about 200 miles on the bike at this point , before the snows hit this past week. Man, I love this bike! Yeah, you should have turned the rear preload "in" about 10 or 11 clicks. I put 1500 miles on my Heritage Springer Softail (2003) , and then another 1000 miles on my Honda Rebel. So, I had some good time on the road before moving over to the Sportster S. New riders should stay in rain mode IMHO until thoroughly comfortable with the bike. The "modes" can be configured "off" and there are two custom ride modes A and B that allow the user to specifically set engine braking, traction control, power curve, etc. I leave mine in road mode at this point. I also find the bike quite nimble, very quick off the line, and plenty of torque (pull) through the mid ranges 3000 - 6000 ; that front brake is MORE than sufficient for safe braking-- keep in mind that 40-50% of the braking on this bike is the computer controlled engine braking! Also, the four piston Brembo system is just fine on the front end. The exhaust is warm on the right leg, but definitely NOT hot, and will not burn you. I'm 6'1" so the forward controls for me are a MUST; and I love the forward controls and the aggressive riding posture... very comfortable, even for more than an hour on the bike. The seat is VERY comfortable, unlike the first impression of comfort looks; very nice ! Harley-Davidson has hit a home-run with this motorcycle; this beautiful sport cruiser is a dream machine, and absolute joy to ride. marcus

[@KSMotoCafe]

Wow thanks for such an in depth owner's review to solidify my thoughts of the bike! Every one who watches this needs to read this. Thanks Mark - keep us posted on what you think of the bike as you keep putting more miles into it!

[@romanistalazialle1081]

I went from "I will never buy a bike in my life to ... I will defenetly buy this HD one day" Thanks for the review I'll do my best to get one and be safe in the beggining using the rain mode Even if in my country it rain 2 days the entire year

[@BabaYagaWicked]

I´ll definitely getting this bike after I get my MC license:) Thanks for the reviews guys 😊

[@614XJ]

I’m a beginner and I was choosing between this and the Scout Bobber as my first bike. Harley came out with the Sportster S and I saw it and the tech, power, looks (bronze accents) took my vote. I picked up one of the first Sportster S in Ohio in Black! Absolutely love it so far. Thanks for the review!

[@KSMotoCafe]

Wow congrats!! The black one is sexy AF - and that powwwwwahh 😎. Ride safe my friend and keep us posted of how you enjoy it along the way!

[@614XJ]

@@KSMotoCafe Absolutely! Thank you man, you stay safe out also

[@jonnymac8925]

Congrats man, that's a deadly bike and something to be proud of!

[@614XJ]

@@jonnymac8925 Thank you

[@athanobnial8254]

Me having no experience on a motorcycle yet gives me confidence that I can start on any bike as long as I respect the throttle and know the do’s and dont’s on the road. I already have the experience driving a manual car and I can turn that over to a motorcycle. I’ve been debating whether I should start small and work my way up or go get a bike that I could own for a long time and not just grow into it and upgrading it because budget is also one of my factors. Seeing this review and this comment really gives me the confidence I need, and I could really say I’m already mature enough to not just go hooligan on that throttle.

[@jennifercuellar4574]

Great review! Very different from most reviews I've watched. I like it. And you're editing is great too!

[@KSMotoCafe]

Thanks so much for the support! Glad I could provide something different:)

[@aucklandsadventures]

Your videos have gotten so much better over this past year. Glad you’re still on the Sportster. As for the Sportster S, I’ll wait for The Bronx.

[@KSMotoCafe]

Thanks for the feedback! Yeah I have been tweaking my editing little by little and I am quite satisfied on how it comes out now. Thank you for the support all the way from the beginning and yes I am also waiting to see if the Bronx gets made 😎

[@MrAmoRay]

The Bronx? Is that a new variation of this Sportster line?

[@KSMotoCafe]

@@MrAmoRay it is the Naked sport bike that Harley has made a concept design for but have kept it quiet for over two years. It had the revolution max engine on it.

[@HDVIBE]

Great overview of the bike. Thanks for sharing with us. Ride safe 👍👊

[@KSMotoCafe]

Thanks brother! It was a hell of a ride - glad I got the chance to experience it. I love that HD is starting to strengthen the performance sector and give its competitors some sweat.

[@stuarthull5706]

Thanks for the review, very difficult to do an objective review in such a short time it’s taken me around 500-1000 miles on my Pan America to really be at one and man it’s a weapon in sport mode! 😈 I sat on the Sportster S at the bike show and preferred the mid mounts which is unusual as I had forward controls on my 1200 Custom. Shame you didn’t show the torque in the mid range as that is where HD has retuned the engine for the Sportster S.

[@KSMotoCafe]

Very true - I wish I can have these bikes for few weeks to really get to know the ins and outs of the bike but I am not big enough to ask for that kind of pull haha. As for the mod range torque - I did have footages for it since I have over 6 hrs of film but to compress it into even a 30min review was insane! So much fun footages were cut 😭 But in the future I will sprinkle some of those into the channel for sure. I am super glad yo hear your Pan America is doing great! I have seen some of your pictures and it looks so nice 🤟

[@kelvinchao6222]

Thank you very much for your detailed review. I'm an experienced 125c.c. scooter driver and got a high c.c. licence, and I'm still not that confident to drive this bike. What a performance bike!

[@KSMotoCafe]

yeah from a scooter to this is a big jump!

[@hid3finit1on]

This review was good. Keep it up!

[@KSMotoCafe]

thanks! be sure to check Nightster review as I compare it with the S a lot

[@drzaius844]

I’m so glad they went with the turn indicator on the left/ brake lever. Activating the right turn indicator while using the throttle is just a stupid design decision that took way too long to fix. Great video, thanks

[@KSMotoCafe]

Yeah I got used to the Hd indicators and my throttle hand thumb is used to pressing the indicator without impacting my throttle adjustment. But im sure i can get used to it

[@geofflecren8827]

Nice review. I want one! I take "putting the sport back into Sportster" to mean a sportier version of the HD Sportster line not that it's a sports style bike like other brands.

[@KSMotoCafe]

Thanks for watching! Sportster used to be on tracks with the XR series and was considered "sporty". But yeah it is just the "Sport" version for HD and not a real Sport bike.

[@KrystaNorwick]

Woohoo living the dream reviewing bikes!! So cool!! Nice video!!

[@KSMotoCafe]

hahah thanks man! beats planning for catastrophic events!

[@KrystaNorwick]

@@KSMotoCafe haha agreed!!!

[@TheZachjsr]

Great review, I bought one last weekend and I love it, scratches my speed itch as I didnt wanna go back to sport bikes, I have an 18 Street Bob and a 21 Fat boy as well.

[@KSMotoCafe]

That is awesome but if you already have softail cruisers, what brought you to choose another cruiser and not a naked bike?

[@TheZachjsr]

@@KSMotoCafe I wanted something a little more aggressive and fun in a classic design. Didnt want to go back to Sportbikes

[@slimygoon9993]

I’m getting into riding and this bike has been calling my name. I really want to get one

[@KSMotoCafe]

nice! it is a beast of a bike but if you are very new to riding, I would suggest less displacement

[@MrAmoRay]

First time on your channel. Doing my due diligence on whether I should add a sportster s in my garage. I, too have a 2022 Iron xl883 in denim black. I got that because I suspect it would be the end of life for that model and just looks badass. Doing my research, I heard some concerns on the discomfort of the ride on the back. I got a bad back that’s what I’m focusing on if I get another bike. On my 883, my HD dealer softened the rear shocks and they even got me on a Saddlemen seat (@ reduced price from retail pricing even from eBay) that solved the ride comfort. I don’t know about you guys but my HD dealer in Lathrop really did go the extra mile for me.

[@KSMotoCafe]

Thanks for taking the time to write this. I have a lower back issue as well so I am very careful on what bike I can ride. So far the most comfortable ride I have been on from HD has been the Fat Bob 114 and Softail Slim. It was like sitting on a recliner that shoots out like a torpedo. IMHO the Sportster S is not going to be any more comfortable than what you have going on the modded Iron 883 - the riding ergo is too bent for my back's comfort. What I suggest you watching is my 1 year 883 review and the recent 3 rounds of Battle of Sportsters to see if my thoughts of the Iron 883 meets your initial impressions. And then if you find my findings relatable, check out the Fat Bob review. I think that would be my best upgrade. Cheers!

[@rickgates7494]

Very honest review. Would have liked to know speed and gear when you were at 4500 rpm. Good job of expl ergo feel, lean angle, etc. Have you tried an Indian FTR, Honda 900rs or Suzuki 1000?

[@KSMotoCafe]

I have been trying to get on some Indian bikes but the dealership that sells Indian bikes have not been very cooperative unfortunately. The bike started singing at around 7000-8000 rpm so I didn't stay at 4500 very long because I just wanted accelerate!

[@KevinButler816]

Great video

[@rossweatherbee3995]

Good review, a nice looking bike!!

[@KSMotoCafe]

Merci Ross!

[@SergioGonzalez-cg9ns]

finally someone who is 510 and reviewing this bike... Ive been trying to get someone elses feedback on the comfortr

[@KSMotoCafe]

Yes! I too had a hard time finding a reviewer with my body style, which is why I started reviewing to benefit others!

[@IronBornRider]

It's a small thing, but yeah once you go harley indicators it's hard to go back to metric. There's been times when I left the indicator on for a good 4-5 minutes on the grom lol.

[@KSMotoCafe]

that is for sure - if I had a non harley for my road test, I would've been screwed with the indicator haha

[@69FOSTER]

Thanks for the video. I'm leaning even more toward making this Sportster S my next bike. I have a Sportster 48 and will keep it, but I'm looking for more of a high performance bike with forward controls. Not interested in a sport bike. I'm 5'8'' with a 29-30 inseam, so it looks like this S with forward controls would be a good fit. Mid controls would be too painful for my hips.

[@KSMotoCafe]

So glad you came to watch the review! Yeah if you are not tainted by an evolution sportster like me, you will 100% appreciate and love the S!

[@Zocral]

I want one. Great review. :-)

[@KSMotoCafe]

go test one out!

[@KSMotoCafe]

Some of you wanted this and some of you really didn't want this..😅 Let me know below!

[@johnbarrett7534]

I am loving mine !!! I rode my Shovelhead for 24 years before buying this and a Street Glide. I love riding my 1250 Custom (Sportster S). I have 19 pcs. of titanium in my spine from being hit from behind during Bike Week some years ago. Neither of my new bikes bother my back...so far.

[@KSMotoCafe]

@@johnbarrett7534 this is really reassuring info! thanks for sharing my friend and congrats!

[@spiritualcloudinmotion2866]

I'm picking up my 2022 sportster s March the 1st, I come from a sports bike background and never seen myself on a harley ever, then I seen this and thought wow, then I rode it and thought omfg WOW... I took it for a test ride a few times and everytime I fell more and more in love with it. So guess I'm a harley girl now 🤣.

[@KSMotoCafe]

@@spiritualcloudinmotion2866 hell yeah man - keep me posted on your progress with the HD bike!

[@nirakarfiresafetypvtltd1991]

I have been riding royal enfield 350 with 429lbs and have around 6 months experiance with this bike should i go for sportster s

[@ryanplambeck266]

To answer the question about taller riders I am 6'4" and have no issues being on the bike... As u stated the forward controls make it a lot more spacious than u would think

[@KSMotoCafe]

awesome! Thanks for the clarification

[@roadkingkong1146]

It does look like a Sportster. If you look back across HD history you'll see this bike takes style cues from othet performance bikes derived from the Sportster. From a guy that owned a V-Rod, this is more Sportster than V-Rod. It's only V-Rodnesses or the 'Revolution' liquid cooled engine, to which this engine had descended from. This is great bike. To the point of my considering getting one

[@gagbum]

dude that side car in the background is sweet

[@KSMotoCafe]

lol

[@bharsen]

I just ran the 1/4 mile in my sportster s last Sunday. 60ft = 1.65 1/8 mile = 6.91 @ 100mph 1/4 mile = 10.93 @ 119mph

[@KSMotoCafe]

what is your 0-60 timing? I am feeling it is a 4 second bike

[@bharsen]

@@KSMotoCafe You know I'm not sure about the 0-60 for sure but if I had to guess it's somewhere around 3.2 seconds considering the times it runs and the power to weight ratio it has when comparing it to the Scout and the FTR.

[@FlesHBoX]

I have to say I'm a little bummed about it not being great for a beginner. Growing up I was all about the crotch rockets until I discovered Buell, then I fell in love with that street fighter/naked/hyper naked look, and never had much interest in the cruiser style. But a few weeks ago when I finally decided "yep, I'm gonna get a bike!" and started looking around, I saw the Sportster S I fell in love. It is hands down one of the best looking bikes I think I've seen, so I set my goal to save up for it over the next 9 or 12 ish months and FINALLY start riding after telling myself "one day I really should get a bike" for 3 decades.

[@KSMotoCafe]

hey man - in all honesty, it is just my opinion as someone who started riding not long ago. With that said, nothing stops you from testing the bike out and see what your comfort level is. My personal choice is to start small (iron 883) and then work your way up once you got the basics down.

[@FlesHBoX]

@@KSMotoCafe I do like the look of the 883 as well, plus it's like 7 grand cheaper to boot, so I could get it sooner! lol

[@KSMotoCafe]

@@FlesHBoX yeah man best part of 883 is that used market is even cheaper and when you have out grown it for a faster bike or type of bike of your choosing, you can sell it for the same price you have bought it

[@evil_musclemuscled3814]

Both them sportsters are beauties . Now the s model definitely takes after the VROD . Add a shorty two into one performance exhaust and add that wide back tire to it . Add drag bars to it maybe a bullet front fairing

[@KSMotoCafe]

yeah man the S is definitely more VRod than traditional sporty. Exhaust and drag bars would make this an even more mean machine!

[@aceofspades5786]

Historically not a harley fan, but i love this bike and the lighter weight

[@KSMotoCafe]

I am finding out there are more fans of this bike that have never been a Harley fan. Which means, they are heading into the right direction.

[@chaitanyathakur5673]

Not now but someday i will buy this masterpiece with my own money 🔥🔥😉

[@KSMotoCafe]

right on buddy! great goal

[@rickschultz5159]

Great review on the bike. I was at the HD dealer last week with high interest in the 883, although the salesman is encouraging me towards the 1200. (A new rider). I got a chance to sit on a Sold 1250S and it really peaked my interest. I know you said you dont recommend this for a beginner, but do you think if a person keeps it in Rain mode that a newbie can stay out of trouble with this bike? I hate to buy an 883 and then feel like I need to upgrade after a short time. I did really love my short test drive on the 883 though. Thanks...like your channel.

[@KSMotoCafe]

Thank you taking the time to ask these questions! Ok so here is the fact: Motorcycling is more dangerous than driving a car. Why? because your entire body is exposed. And your risk for an accident or dropping your bike is a lot higher as a beginner with no experience. Much like when you first started driving and you encounter snow/ice/hydroplane for the first time - if you panic or don't know how to drive in these conditions, it could get pretty hairy. So yes, if you get a smaller bike (like the Iron 883), would you feel like you would grow out of it pretty quickly? Yes, it takes about a month of two to develop this feeling. Does that mean it was a bad choice that you started on the 883? No, because within those months you learned properly on how to handle a motorcycle. Did you actually grow out of the 883? I doubt it, if you haven't encountered all types of riding environment (riding in rain, loose gravel, slippery roads, close-calls with other cars, sharp corners, etc) then you really didn't learn everything you can on the 883. BUT if you decide to upgrade the bike after few months because you want to go faster, then at least you now have basics of how to ride down. What I think could help you is if you watch my Iron 883 reviews. I have three: First Review after 3 months of owning it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q5jTi2x-lLmra7M - forgive my editing here, it was early on my channel 1 Year Review of 883: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gXi8kHiNr8xorNk And Battle of Sportster: kzbin.info/www/bejne/o6K0coCVgdWcY8k My thoughts of the 883 changed a lot in the last 15 months. It went from "I LOVE THIS BIKE!" to "I WISH I BOUGHT THE 1200!" to "I LOVE HOW THE IRON 883 FEELS!" to "I AM NEVER GIVING UP MY IRON" I know it is a long answer but you have earned it. Sportster S is a great bike and it will still be waiting for you when you are ready. Will you lose money by trading in your first bike so quickly? maybe - depends if you decide to buy new or used. If you are patient, you can pick up a used 883 for under 8k easy. And probably resell it for the same price after few months or a year! In the end, its your decision but my suggestion is always take the MSF first before getting on your first bike. And then test ride the bikes that you are interested in. If you are truly worried about growing into a bike, get the 1200 evo sporty. I went with 883 because I love the look and I wanted to learn how to turn a wrench on it myself. Hope this helps! Cheers man

[@rickschultz5159]

@@KSMotoCafe All great points you mention. I appreciate the thoughtful response and do feel that the 883 would be the best direction for me. I took the MSF and have been taking my time to test out a few bikes. I will check out those links you sent. Stay safe my friend. Best regards

[@__Dp__]

@@rickschultz5159 hi, i suggest you to buy a Roadster. It basically is an 883 but with bit more power (but not as much as the new RevMax that can be tricky for a newbie), more "in control" riding position (forward leaning means more control on the front), better suspensions, dual disc front brake (this is a must have imho for close call situations), passenger sit and pegs. I have a Roadster, also tried m8 softails, but except for smoother susp, i can't see myself going to sell my Roadster. Aaaand, i forgot, most of all, you keep that classic harley look and sound that you are not going to have on the new RevMax. Greets from an Italian fellow rider!

[@ddebro]

Hey man KS Moto is so right… I’ve been riding for almost 15 years now. Don’t buy the sportster S just yet. But a used 883 or even a 1200 be great (they are not much different from each other until you get over 65mph). You can find a used 2007-2011 sportster for around $3500-5k. I’d go 2007 and newer because that is when they did fuel injection. I’ve owned 11 bikes from sportsters to dynas and softails. I now ride a V-Rod it is a beast! Most fun bike I’ve ever owned! It is probably the closest comparison to the Sportster S; specs are almost identical except the S is much lighter than the V-rod. No way in the world a new rider should get a V-Rod much less an S. However in a year or 2 it would amazing! So buy a used sportster 883/1200 on the cheap; you can sell it in 2 years and get all your money back then buy a SportsterS and you didn’t loose any money… plus you didn’t loose your skin riding a bike that was just too much bike for a beginner! I’m excited for you starting your motorcycle journey you’ll never want to be on 4 wheels again!

[@rickschultz5159]

@@ddebro Hey thanks for the input. I am going slow on my purchase, but thats ok for me. Spent a couple hours at a dealer Saturday...they had more used 883's than I've ever seen before. Most in the $10-11K range with low miles, but I like your suggestion best to find one at half that cost or less since I have seen them advertised and checked out a few too. Thanks again

[@NanoMechs]

Great review! But why are your hands red?

[@KSMotoCafe]

Thanks but I don't understand what you are getting at about my hands.

[@noidreculse8906]

Did you black out the speedometer when you were over the speed limit ? Also, another advantage of the Pan is the windscreen

[@KSMotoCafe]

...can't answer that

[@anormalguytrading2052]

I am a new rider, I am a bit sad about this not being a good fit but damn its what i want LOL

[@KSMotoCafe]

You are sure welcome to test it out! If you passed your MSF course, you have enough knowledge to know the fundamentals of riding. So as long as you go on rain mode and respect the throttle, you should be ok!

[@ksheridan]

Did you get to ride again with the suspension set up for your weight I'm worried that suspension does not have enough travel for roads in bad repair.

[@KSMotoCafe]

I did not get the chance unfortunately but from some of the owners who have ridden these over a year now, they all mention that the rear shocks are not great

[@Oldieeeee]

I might end up going to the dealership today.. check out this bike and the nightster ...

[@KSMotoCafe]

let me know how you find them!

[@OscarPerez-ip4bm]

@@KSMotoCafe just got the sportster S today! In white!

[@KSMotoCafe]

oh man looking back, I really liked the Sportster S' performance and ride.

[@nickcardwell8695]

How difficult is it to learn how to ride? I'm very interested and hoping to take the training course soon, but have zero experience

[@KSMotoCafe]

Nick, that is exactly how I started. No experience on two wheels, no experience with manual transmission, and definitely not very strong with hand/eye coordination. I started this channel after learning how to ride for 3 months. So you get to follow along my journey from the get go! Definitely take the MSF though

[@toofastnobrakes]

Test road one a while back. And as a sport bike/sport naked bike rider it was a whiff for me. The motor and performance are there. But the ergos are all wrong and it’s to low. This should come standard with mids or preferably rear sets. And needs to be 2-3inches taller for clearance. I scraped easy on this bike. They should have gone ergonomically closer to something like the FTR1200 which is it’s closest competitor in my eyes. Hopefully they address this in the future if they still won’t give us the Bronx

[@KSMotoCafe]

Those are very interesting thoughts and points! Yes FTR style would have made a bigger impact for HD with the Bronx but that is still a year out I think

[@Kw-ny8yq]

What front 360 camera brand are you using?

[@KSMotoCafe]

I am using this: Insta360 X2 - amzn.to/3l6CMZC

[@Kw-ny8yq]

Thank you

[@splyce9712]

I dont see enough Canadian riders. Good show

[@KSMotoCafe]

thanks! 🤟🇨🇦

[@robbyclark6915]

It’s funny how one reviewer will make such a big deal over the forward controls that they can’t stand the bike and will never own one! Then another reviewer rides the exact same bike and says, yeah I love the forward controls great bike!

[@KSMotoCafe]

lol hence why you always follow up with your own test ride! For me, I am a believer that every bike has the right rider. While the fwd control felt a little awkward on this bike, it didn't deter my overall experience with the bike. 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@HeartBreakJ13]

Did you ride the one with mid controls?

[@KSMotoCafe]

I haven't had the chance for mid control Sportster S

[@petrolheadfatih.p]

I love my Sportster S.Because it’s give me the same Power as my Kawasaki Z1000 and I can drive a Power Maschine with Harley Spirit.

[@KSMotoCafe]

yeah buddy! these are mean machines!

[@_S.E.J_]

Can you review the scout bobber

[@JL-wf2wp]

The polaris snowmobile.. nah

[@KSMotoCafe]

Next season - I will try to get my hands on one. The local dealership that sells Indian motorcycles haven't be so cooperative (probably because my channel wasn't big enough or something). Hence why I like dealing with Steeve from HD because it is less of a hassle lol

[@KSMotoCafe]

@@JL-wf2wp lol whats wrong with snowmobiles?? they are super fun in Canada haha

[@JL-wf2wp]

@@KSMotoCafe i know 😁 i had lots of fun with them back when i was living in Montreal. But i just dont see it when Indian uses their powerplants on their motorcycles.. Indian used to be the best at building motorcycles long time ago, they were way ahead of their time. Made harleys feel like tractors even comparing them to their older models. Now they are just mediocre, like most brands. This is just my humble opinion 😆 for me the engine is what makes a vehicle, at least 90% relevance at the time of making a choice. This explains my dislike on the new "sportster"

[@KSMotoCafe]

@@JL-wf2wp It will only get worse since petroleum vehicles will no longer be made after 2030s. Mind as well enjoy these gas motorcycles while we can!

[@drifter-indian1448]

Any thoughts on riding with a passenger on this bike? Didn't seem like the stock even has a passenger seat and peg for this bike? Do theu have aftermarket options to add one? By the way, been through countless reviews/vids of this bike on KZbin your review easily sits on top few that I liked. Especially the comparison on the seating position and the heat from pipes. Have always wondered if my legs will start burning after 45 mins as my thigh sits so close to those pipes. I have been riding a vulcan 650 for past couple years. I guess this would be a good upgrade. Thanks for a great review! 👍🏻

[@KSMotoCafe]

I spoke with HD on that exact question. HD has a passenger kit you can put on that adds a small pavilion sear and extra exhaust shield for the passenger but to be honest man, this bike does not seem passenger friendly at all. Just a solo riding machine

[@drifter-indian1448]

@@KSMotoCafe I thought so! Looks nice just as it is. I have been debating about Indian Scout Bobber and this one. After your watching your review pretty sold on this, except the passenger portion, will have to see how easy or difficult it would be to put it on and off as per my need.. i am sure 80% or the time i will be riding solo.

[@KSMotoCafe]

@@drifter-indian1448 that is so exciting! The scout is also a nice bike but I honestly think the Indian MC brand will go through a brand change soon in this Woke culture society. With all the backlash that these North American sports teams are getting and having to change their name to keep it politically correct, I think the Indian MC is next. It is so hard to make bobbers look like a bobber when you have a passenger seat lol but I hear you man. Good luck hunting! Also help me spread the love for this channel for any of your motorcycle friends looking for similar bikes!

[@joellaurin9007]

Finally!!!

[@KSMotoCafe]

you know it! Hope you enjoyed the show!

[@joellaurin9007]

@@KSMotoCafe 100% love the cinematography, cuts and info.... would love to see blooper reels at the end of vids hahaha.... Oh, when will the great reveal happen? You know, your face! I got some offline ideas we can discuss... as a humorous side the the vids!

[@KSMotoCafe]

bloopers and a face reveal!?? that is a tall order! haha To be honest I am not sure yet - I think I will just do it without any drama and just slowly reveal it as I do product reviews or cover off topics about motorcycles. I am itching to do on camera discussions while watching motomadness and go over with my viewers on how we could avoid that kind of incidents

[@joellaurin9007]

@@KSMotoCafe definitely! That's a great direction! It would be awesome if you did something with DanDanTheFireman as well.... of course, with your helmet on... the Stig of Motorcycle safety!

[@KSMotoCafe]

@@joellaurin9007 haha yeah that would be sweet!

[@noidreculse8906]

One turn signal switch is better than two, imo. I know what you are used to and so was I before I got my PAS. I had Hondas before with only one switch. I say, the only reason to have two switches is because your brother sells them to you 🤣 The 1250 Revo Max has only one lower case that shares the, oil, trans, and gear case. They all use the same oil to lubricate everything, unlike the air cooled bikes. When the bike is cold the clutch friction point and gears are a little grabby until a few miles. The Sportster S styling doesn’t interest me. The seat and pipes are horrible 🤮 Finally, the best part of the 1250 is it’s fast as stock. No need for stage 2 or 3 plus a tuner 🤙🏻😎

[@user-mx2bb7nd4h]

Does it have a shift indicator

[@KSMotoCafe]

Hmm I wasn't looking for it - so I will have to relook at my film to see if it does. It definitely shows what gear you are on. let me get back to you

[@StrifeNinja]

@@KSMotoCafe Its been 5 months. Any luck with this?

[@KSMotoCafe]

@@StrifeNinja Thanks for the reminder! it does not have a shift indicator.

[@user-gt4lu6ym4c]

The monster isn't really a sportbike, it is a naked bike :)) I mean, that's kind of just a sports bike without fairings, but still, there are a couple other differences too haha. Try a Ducati Panigale or another true sports bike, and it will be a much different ride.

[@user-gt4lu6ym4c]

Cool video tho :))

[@KSMotoCafe]

lol ah damn you called me on it! 100% that naked bikes are not sport bikes.. I am working on getting my ass on a R6 or CBR but I also don't know if my back can handle the forward lean! But thanks for the clarification!

[@user-gt4lu6ym4c]

@@KSMotoCafe Lmao, just me nitpicking. If you're back isn't comfortable on smth like an R6, maybe try one of those smaller CC sports bikes? Like a ninja 300/400. They don't have the same pull and don't give you the full experience imo, but they do have a much more comfortable riding position.

[@KSMotoCafe]

@@user-gt4lu6ym4c I will look into that! thanks man

[@supergrizzidentity]

man i wish my softail had cruise control

[@KSMotoCafe]

It kinda has cruise control, you should have this knob underneath the throttle that you can turn to hold the throttle. Or at least my sportster has it . But not the safest method lol

[@supergrizzidentity]

@@KSMotoCafe I don’t think I have that. I’m pretty sure I can buy the throttle controls, but you have to pay HD to active it in the ECU

[@toofastnobrakes]

Ide recommend throwing a leg over a 2022 ftr1200

[@KSMotoCafe]

I want to. Dealership that has them are being difficult

[@toofastnobrakes]

@@KSMotoCafe Ide go to a demo day

[@kidding9987]

0:15 earned a subscribe

[@KSMotoCafe]

thanks a lot!

[@themachanic6416]

It’s kind of short for a V-Rod

[@Alfisti156]

As long as you don't do something stupid this is a good beginners bike

[@KSMotoCafe]

that goes for anybike - even a Busa. Unfortunately as a beginner or new rider, the chances of you doing something stupid accidentally or intentionally is pretty high. And this bike isn't as forgiving as something like an Iron 883 or Rebel 500, so that is where my recommendation is based off of.

[@Harleyat40]

Front tire lifting off the road 😳

[@KSMotoCafe]

yeah! not even the Ducati did that because I usually have a good throttle discipline but this one has so much torque it just lifts off! super fun tho hahaha

[@Harleyat40]

@@KSMotoCafe sounds like my kinda fun bike!

[@KSMotoCafe]

@@Harleyat40 since you already ride a Fat Bob - this will feel slightly more uncomfortable in terms of riding ergonomics but definitely faster lol

[@ronaldthomas9396]

I'm pretty sure your iron 883 has a 3.1gal tank!

[@KSMotoCafe]

what makes you say that? the Iron 883 has been 3.3G for a long time.

[@ronaldthomas9396]

@@KSMotoCafe I was mistaken! I have a roadster and thought it was 3.1 but your right it's 3.3 also!

[@jordongee2347]

Weird..... the speedo has a "dimming" function...😅

[@KSMotoCafe]

hahahhaha yessss

[@anormalguytrading2052]

USE THAT JUICE!!!! LOL

[@KSMotoCafe]

😂😂🤟

[@deltabluesdavidraye]

Forward control's are a death trap

[@KSMotoCafe]

how so?

[@FYIfuckutube2011]

You have better control with you feet under you rather than layed out. Increases the “flick ability” in turns and twisted, emergency maneuvers.

[@KSMotoCafe]

@@FYIfuckutube2011 have you ridden a fwd control bike before? I get that mid control gives you the most control with the bike but to call fwd controls a death trap is a bit absurd. It all depends on the rider's skill and what they are comfortable with. Mid controls on a cruiser bike is not a good fit with taller people because they are to cramped up.

[@TheZachjsr]

That's a little exaggerated. I rode a 2019 FXDR for 1.5 years with the forward controls never had any issues and I went to that from a CBR1000RR, so I'm pretty used to forward controls.

[@karinmueller6774]

110 M/h in US or Canada? Engine is good, but the rest....rear, exaust, left side of engine (to many open cables and hoses) looks terrible. Riding position is uncomfortable, schock absorber to short, place for passenger you can forget, front fender to little, fuel tank to little. Ist's only an expensive showbike vor good weather. The V-Rod looks much more better!

[@KSMotoCafe]

It is filmed in Canada in KPH. Yes the engine is stellar and really well designed. The rest of the bike design is attractive to some but for Sportster Evo lovers, it maybe too different. If they called this a VRod Max, it probably would have more following. The next iteration would be more in my lane I think

[@cmscms123456]

That short bike... it looks like you're riding on the roof of a car... lol

[@aviXex]

hhaha!! loved ur enthusiasm ; the bike? mfg♡

[@cmscms123456]

Yea, this bike is too small, forward controls of a Harley, and bent over upper body position of a sport bike doesnt work. Small bike, that you're sitting 'on top' of... the wind will beat you to death. I like the concept in general, just poorly executed.

[@christopher7310]

Small tank, one disc up front, shit suspension and mids are an extra instead of standard. If Harley-Davidson fixes those issues without making it a $20k bike, I'd be interested in owning one. As is... Nope. My Raider has been my daily and is good enough that I have yet to find a cruiser as good as it is without diving well into 5 figure price tags.

[@KSMotoCafe]

Thanks for your input - I am not familiar with the Raider bike. Who makes it?

[@christopher7310]

@@KSMotoCafe it's an old Yamaha v Star cruiser. One of the best cruisers they made before they discontinued their v Star line. That is only my opinion though since I am a fan of muscle bikes.

[@KSMotoCafe]

@@christopher7310 ah ok. Yamaha makes really nice bikes. I have eyes on a XSR700-900 for a second bike. They just look so gorgeous! As for muscle cruisers that is on the more affordable price point - I really dont think there is one better than what you already have. What do you not like about the Raider?

[@christopher7310]

@@KSMotoCafe if I had to pick out something on the Raider that I don't like, it would be it's lack of tachometer, lack of off brand parts(due to being discontinued), and its weight. Managing it in a parking lot is a chore. It's 750 lb of lead before add-ons. Other than that, the bike is very smooth, surprisingly nimble(at speed) for its size, and pulls like a freight train. I love the xsr700. If it wasn't so tall and me so short, I'd be after one myself. There are lots of good nakeds made by Yamaha and Suzuki and Triumph that I would love to ride, if I were a bit taller LOL

[@Audace1400]

Those raiders are great bikes...always loved those Yamaha V Star engines. Especially when they stuck it the the MT01, pity that bike never made it to the states.

[@midlife-crysis]

The sound is so disappointing

[@KSMotoCafe]

wait till u see the 975 one lol

[@danielb5215]

First off, even my '02 Sportster has 4 piston calipers. That's nothing new. It's disgraceful for H-D to use the Sportster name on this pile. The only reason sales of REAL Sportsters have gone down is the lack of options and different models. H-D have slowly killed it over the last five years. They push away loyal followers in favor of a crowd that has no desire to own a Harley. NASCAR has basically put themselves out of business with the same philosophy. This bike has nothing to offer a true Harley fan and it has nothing to offer a non-Harley fan that already owns a metric sportbike. It can't do anything as well as a comparative metric bike and it costs more. There is no market for that. I give it 3 years before production is stopped in Korea or wherever this heap is glued together. The Sportster was a mainstay for H-D and the last true Harley. It's really a shame they sold everyone out. Even AMF kept the Sportster basically unchanged. Shameful.

[@KSMotoCafe]

which sportster do you own? Ones I have ridden all had 2 piston single disc front brakes (2020-2021). I guess the Roadster had dual disc brakes but both were 2-piston callipers.

[@danielb5215]

@@KSMotoCafe currently I have a 2002 XLH. It's just a standard, single front disc, not a roadster. The newest Sporty I've had was an '08 so I wasn't aware they'd switched to 2-piston calipers later on.

[@peterjones4621]

Really? You're a young guy and you don't like buttons and technology, really? I just bought a new 2023 Sportster S, I'm 70 and I want all the technology and speed I can possibly get, for Christ sakes it's a sports bike. Oh,well....I'll suggest you stick to a bagger, LOL, you've barely started riding, i've been riding for 52 years, I've ridden all the bikes, I've almost killed myself a multitude of times in near accidents, I broke my body into 7 pieces in 2004 on my Yamaha R1, soon as I healed a year later I bought a CBR1000RR Repsol, after the break in I took her up to 165 mph, you can't appreciate a fast bike until you've almost killed yourself on it, hahahaha!! The exhaust heat is there but it doesn't bother me much, yeah, you feel some heat sometimes but I never touch the pipes with my right leg, I'm 5'10. I've ordered the mid controls, front controls blow on a sportbike, what was Harley thinking, front controls on a sportbike? They just can't get away from the cruiser mentality, gotta make a sport bike a cruiser / sport bike. Harley needs to wake up and make more bikes with newer technology and utilize the new 1250 on newly designed bikes that will appeal to a younger crowd, they won't be selling their old cruisers for much longer, their long time customers will be dead soon. The exhaust is getting swapped out in a month, those cans need to be replaced with something that can breath. The weird looking stop light is going away, gonna put on a strobe stop light under tail, still shopping for turn signals that fit a sportbike. If you buy the passenger pillion which I really don't want to do but the tale gets moved out putting the new stop light further back and stops more of the dirt and crap from hitting your back as you ride. Organized and well thought out review, good job! My advice, don't ride that fast in a parking lot, you're asking for trouble. Ride safe, watch out for the cagers, they are the real danger in riding, new subscriber. Peace.

[@ralphvalente9807]

The terminology that this guy uses tells me he has no idea what he's talking about.

[@KSMotoCafe]

appreciate the feedback. My reviews are made for new riders/future riders who want to see what it is like for a beginner rider (me) take it for a spin. So your thoughts are correct - I can only explain things about the bike in words only I come to know as a beginner rider. I figured that there are many professional reviews out there that if someone wants more technically correct review, they can find it. My channel is more for "new rider experience" and how these bikes feel to an actual new/beginner rider.

[@ralphvalente9807]

@@KSMotoCafe 10-4. Sorry. Started at 13yrs. and road till I hit 35yr. That was a harsh statement I made. The older you get the harder it is to cut slack. Rubber side down.

[@KSMotoCafe]

@@ralphvalente9807 it's ok! I need a reminder once a while to keep me grounded. I am a late bloomer rider who learned how to ride in my late 30s 😬. I wish I had started to ride earlier but life didn't turn out that way but boy am I glad I pushed myself to try it out before the Army broke me even more 😅. Cheers!

[@ralphvalente9807]

@@KSMotoCafe Better late than never. Watch those close calls.

[@j.moto3435]

What a rip off for $15k. This bike puts out 111hp on the dyno. MT-09 is 110hp on dyno for $9399. Z900 is 115hp on dyno $8999. HD claims this is a "sport motorcycle". What a joke. I am the target market and I’m taking a hard pass.

[@KSMotoCafe]

lol that is Harley for you. You don't buy a harley for the best bang for the buck - that is Honda or Yamaha. Plus when comparing a naked bike to a cruiser - naked will always win in every category for best bang for the buck. But people like riding cruisers and pay a little extra to go slower 😅

[@JohnGarcia-oh2le]

It's definitely a move in the right direction for Harley. I just didn't understand how they've made some of the largest displacement engines yet they made so little horsepower.

[@KSMotoCafe]

@@JohnGarcia-oh2le torque torque torque. Cruisers are heavy and require a lot of torque to accelerate confidently. Although there are cruisers out there than can weave through traffic at higher speeds, most cruiser riders rather ride in chill fashion. So having a good low to mid end torque is all what cruiser rides want

[@TheAsheybabe89]

@@JohnGarcia-oh2le low compression ratios due to air-cooled engines was a huge part of it. The other is that their traditional engines couldn't spin high enough rpms to make big hp numbers either.

[@randomguy2369]

I'm still watching the video so idk if you go over it but does it feel different once you adjust the suspension weight? If so could that be why every other reviewer said that the suspension wasn't comfortable because they didn't adjust it

[@KSMotoCafe]

So at this point you probably already know but I didn't adjust the suspension during this ride but I tried it without camera another time and I can say, rear suspension just sucks on this lol

[@randomguy2369]

@@KSMotoCafe okay thank you