Indian Scout 101 VS Harley Sportster S

[@olboymotoaustralia4294]

My opinion, the 101 is a style triumph. The sportster looks like the design came from Toon town. Once you’re up to those sorts of HP, who cares.

[@Duckie313]

I don't care about specs and features, I can't get over the looks of the Sportster S, so Indian easy choice for me. The new Scout is beautiful.

[@savagewalker1able]

EXACTLY!!!

[@barrybarnes96]

Both of them have nasty car radiators. Can't get past it.

[@etishbite456]

I love big radiators

[@savagewalker1able]

@barrybarnes96 some motorcycle companies do it better the others

[@noahknight4039]

Can’t admit Harley made a superior bike for a similar price? This is when the Harley hate gets pathetic. Aesthetics is subjective, hard numbers the Sportster S is simply superior. So are you willing to pay the same money, probably more for an inferior bike?

[@nolancannedy6482]

I can't get over the looks of the Sportster S. I've owned two of the last gen Sportsters and loved them both, but the new ones do nothing for me. The Scout 101 is super sexy in every way. It looks like what we all wanted the new Sportsters to look like. The Sportster S looks like someone over inflated it, and it could POP at any minute. It's just silly looking. The new Scout 101 is beautiful!! Indian beat HD by making what we all wanted HD to make. I'm hoping to get a new Scout when they come out!! I'll probably go with the Sport Scout.

[@barrybarnes96]

The Indian is def prettier than the Sportster.

[@bmagada]

Shouldve been a big red flag when they can't show the bike from the left side lol

[@zzDarkwingDuck]

yeah this has been one of the main issues with HD and doing when liquid-cooled, they don't put the engine i regular setup but some design style exercise. The new revolution engine in a light-weight regular style frame, like a new dyna, would be killer and sell a shit ton more than what they attempt.

[@DestinyLeap]

If anything this video proves how much of a styling failure the sportster is considering that everyone would choose the 101 on style alone

[@DallasBurgher]

I think the Scout is better looking but the Harley is a good looking bike .

[@AnonymousBosch3158]

This is actually why we buy this bike. If we wanted performance we would by a sports bike (sometimes, cheaper).

[@anfman1986]

Eh, it definitely looks better than the cafebobbervrod Sportster S, but the Nightster is a pretty sharp bike. They just need to pair the regular looking motorcycle with the 1250.

[@anfman1986]

Oh sorry, I also forgot the high pipes, so cafebobbertrackervrod

[@0.Kiano.0]

Not to mention, the Indian Scout 101 is compatible with other Scout models, meaning it has more styling capabilities.

[@firestarter8202]

It’s apples and oranges. The new Sout 101 is a perfected American cruiser. The Sportster S is a sort-of ambiguous, naked bike thingy.

[@bmagada]

This right here. Hell, the nightster was them trying to take market share from the metric market Honda opened up with the rebel 1100 with less tech and charging way more and even fans of the Rebel will tell you it's more of a torque-y naked mid sport cruiser than an actual cruiser.

[@slim56]

The 101 comes standard with the tech plus package

[@duanetucker]

I was writing it but then saw you already mentioned this. I am surprised this wasn't known in the video. It reminds me of going to Best Buy and I find myself educating the hired help on the products they are supposed to be selling.

[@KH-qs1di]

Exactly and more reasonable in terms of price.

[@dannysmits9706]

The dealer promised that it will come standard like that in my region... and he actually had one in the showroom. But, he also told me not to sit on it... so, why would I want a plus on a bike that technically is only available to be admired from a distance? It probably is better than those for the US market: my camera is. Yanks mainly want their vehicles to rattle and shake, and buy on credit while the children in Gaza are starving. When you ask me...which you did, that is what I found. The obligated warranty on bikes sold in my country is much stricter than in neighbouring countries: Manufacturers therefore are less likely to risk being convicted by our consumer protector. Be aware that she is a woman. They have no mercy. My guess is that they do not export bikes to my country that were produced on a Monday.

[@Minion-J]

I prefer the Indian Scout 101, it looks a lot like my lovely Victory Octane. 😅

[@geo.037]

Ah yes. The Victory Octane, the original and ONLY pedigree of the Indian Scout. It was perhaps the most under rated motorcycle of its time. An innovative motorcycle that I am happy did not die with the retired Victory line. Cheers!

[@Fieltrom]

I wouldn't call that Harley a cruiser, it looks confused on what it wants to be.😅 101 wins the beauty pageant.

[@romapavlov4763]

If You check HD web site it isn't in the crushers anymore. It is a performance bike. But, god, is ugly

[@JacobWillits]

Harley seems to be confused about a lot recently. Like their sexualities. That dumb woman assassinated that company

[@bikerbeliever8169]

The Indian looks great. One of best looking bikes out imo. No detail seems to have been overlooked and it's gonna sound way better than the Harley revmax.

[@callumsmith338]

Hi mate, just a correction on trim levels. I believe the 101 only comes standard with top trim levels, the same as the super scout as well

[@BikesILike]

Ok cheers, thanks Callum I appreciate that. 👍

[@joel8034]

I work at a harley dealership. The new models, from the liquid cooled rev-max in both displacements to basically every M8 powered bike has come back for fixing. Not just routine maintenance. Computer flashing so the motors don't cut out even brand new untitled bikes. Bikes won't TURN OFF. Electronic suspension staying stuck in place. Basically, it can be said harley davidson may offer tech and whatnot but HARLEYS CURRENTLY ARE NOT WORTH THE HARD TO COME BY MONEY they charge or allow you to screw yourself out of. H-D monthly payments on bigger baggers is a mortgage payment...

[@BikesILike]

Geez. Had no idea the issues were this significant. Thanks for sharing the info Joel.

[@ErickNagy]

Thanks, found that out the hard way. I didn't finance with them, but I could see how they are eager to screw people over with high interest rates on already overpriced products. 😢

[@royjames196]

I had zero issues with my 2020 M8 softail slim before I sold it. The dealer was always trying to upgrade me to a bagger. I told the sales guy “you know I can buy brand new Toyota Rav 4 for the same price. Sorry not paying that for motorcycle.

[@yungoldhead5600]

@@joel8034 I'm also a technician at a Harley dealership in Pennsylvania and what you speak of is bs... I've seen wear and tear on these new m8's and revolution Max's but it was due to riders abuse. U are flat out lying

[@steven_scattergood]

I won’t go into details but 14 serious warranty claims on a new Harley Davidson turned me off Harleys. They flew a Harley engineer from America to look at the bike as they were concerned it may be a worldwide problem. I live in Melbourne Australia and had to contact Harley Davidson in America to get help after crap dealership customer care. A major dealership here virtually lost everything over it and they kept it so quiet. I would definitely look at the Indian Scout 101 and show HD where to go. The Scout 101 looks great and looks classic to this 63yr old. Top notch comparison video!

[@BikesILike]

Cheers Steven and thanks for sharing your experience.

[@steven_scattergood]

All good brother. Stay upright.👍

[@regularguyfritz9450]

GREAT Video. Was waiting for something like this, as I like both bikes. Like you, I've test ridden the Sportster S and can't wait to ride the Scout 101. Thanks.

[@Dnewman3402-6]

The Scout 101 looks better than the Harley Sporter S.

[@sherwinspringer2116]

@Bikes I Like - The Scout 101 comes standard with the Limited+Tech package.

[@wraymogg]

Tire pressure monitoring is within the menus, I don't know if they fitted the sensors on the rims, but the capability is there. I pre-ordered an 101, so I will know soon. The Scout is way more handsome than the Sportster in my opinion. The stock suspension on old Scouts is abysmal - the first thing you have to do is to change it with Fox, Ohlins or Progressive, on the new Scout, the stock one looks fine. The new Scout's frame made it highly customizable as well...

[@SantiagoJ76]

A good friend of mine had a H.D. sporster S and had so many problems that he had it. Problems with the gasoline pump, with the alarm, premature front tire wear on one side only and prematurely worn front brake pads at 5,000 miles.

[@magnumcalibercreations2284]

Bought a used 2022 sportster s at my local harley dealer a month ago. It already had mid controls, and a windshield. I've put over 4600kms on it since i bought it. I had to adjust the clutch cable, and had a loose connector on the throttle control, both of which I corrected myself. No other issues. Starts just fine with no hangups. No battery drain issues. It has the latest software updates on it, no codes. Pros: 1. waaay faster than I expected 2. About half of the time I stop anywhere it gathers a group of onlookers 3. The most fun harley I've ever ridden 4. Very easy on fuel.... even if the tank is tiny. Lots, but cheap fill ups. Cons 1. Second gear takes a bit of effort to go in when cold. It's fine once it starts to warm up. 2. Rear suspension travel could definitely be more friendly.... fine until you hit a bump bigger than 2". Get your butt off the seat if you see it coming. Firm otherwise. 3. Takes a bit to get your butt accustomed to the seat and the suspension. Once I rode it regular for a few weeks, I had no problems with pain even with 7hrs on the bike in a day on somewhat patchy rural canadian roads. 4. Not great as a distance cruiser due to fuel, suspension and storage...but thats not its purpose anyway. In person the bike looks great. Overwhelmingly positive comments from those who have seen it. My biggest gripe was the sound, particularly when cold initially. Once its warmed up, its actually been growing on me. Nonetheless, I'll be putting an exhaust on it. It's not traditional like my old ironhead sportster... but I'm very happy with my purchase. If I want pure sound enjoyment, I jump on the ironhead. Otherwise, this thing is a blast.

[@BikesILike]

Nice one! Have you tried playing with suspension adjustment? I did get a more compliant feel after some adjustment on my test ride.

[@JacobFrancois-mm2uf]

As far as design and style of bike, I think the Sportster S almost is more akin to compare against the FTR rather than the Scout. I personally would pick the 101 over the Sportster S, but they seem like bikes in two different categories now.

[@BikesILike]

I compared the FTR S and Sportster S in this video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5jGe5aKbMSJm6csi=F5q6NQfKSKsGpqLs

[@aztecmayatainowarrior]

I agree , and that ftr blows the sportster s away in every area looks , aound etc

[@ErickNagy]

Great video! Thanks for reading and sharing my previous comment. I wanted to add on the cost side of the bikes that H-D (US) will charge you anywhere from 2-3K in transportation and prep fees, plus a $500 just because fee (they didn't provide a reasonable explanation, just pointed out the website listing it) and the maintenance is VERY expensive, which you are NOT allowed to do it yourself. I had to pay almost $500 for the 1000mi svc check (glorified oil change). If you don't, they will give you a hard time with warranty claims. Bottom line is, DO YOUR HOMEWORK, research about all the problems people are having with the S and Panamerica, which are quite a few. It feels like H-D is not really fixing the early year's issues for some reason. Just put everything together when making a decision, otherwise you will be destined to regret, like I sadly am right now!

[@alanreilly9056]

Very good comprehensive review, thanks for posting

[@bethel1242]

My friend, is the total biking experience about quarter mile times? Appeal, taste & comfort. Stop & smell the roses🌹

[@metcruza5536]

Like your vids. But numbers are numbers....imo the Sportster S has no Sportster DNA. I like classic retro bikes so despite the numbers I'd go the Indian....the rest is a pissing contest for bragging rights. Cheers

[@sangli]

Scout for sure. Sportster doesn't even sound like a v twin at all

[@mosgor]

Indian Motorcycle has, for obvious reasons, not placed its Scout 101 too close to its own FTR in terms of performance. The FTR is Indian Motorcycle's version of a sports bike, For Harley-Davidson the Sportster S is their version of a Sports bike. That's why I think the Indian Motorcycle FTR is the real competitor of the Sportster Sport (S). Then I must also say something about aesthetics. Harley-Davidson Sportster S (and Nightster) Let's be honest - The new Indian Scout is a beautiful, and oozes quality in comparison to the A and B sided, lumpy, strangely over "radiatorised" hose chaotic, exposed wire, bundled up Sportster S (and Nightster). Study the engine and plastic details, and how things are put together, covers and the like. The previous generation Scout looked better than Harley-Davidson Sportster S and Nightster, the new generation Scout makes the contrast even more noticeable.

[@BikesILike]

I compared the FTR S and Sportster S in this group video kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5jGe5aKbMSJm6csi=0HZAvBwxTuQNd-I4

[@mosgor]

A little off topic, but never the Iess, I would like to recommend the Super Hooligan races and MotoAmerica. There you will be able to see the Indian FTR engine in competition with Harley's Revolution Max engine. Great entertainment. And once you're there : King of the Baggers! - Really exciting racing

[@ImHarrisB]

First; thanks for your review. I own a challenger and a pursuit so you can say that I’m an Indian fan. However, and having said that, I would have liked the new scout to have lost some weight and I would have loved the engine, which comes from the FTR, to have more FTR-like HP and torque out of the box. I also want to point out that the engine on the 2024 scouts is not a new platform. It comes from the FTR, so one can expect teething issues to be nonexistent or perhaps minor. Looks and overall aesthetics are important. In this respect the scout is a much prettier bike. I also think that the paint on the scout is finally up the Harley’s level.

[@GraemeBlore]

A very fair and objective commentary. For me the HD is surprisingly ugly. I couldn't stomach buying a bike that was embarassing to look at: i know I have a keeper (and that's after 53 years of riding and owning multip;le bikes) when I look back after I finish a ride to admire it. To me Indian have hit a home run witn the Scout, with interchangeability of parts across all five models, superior suspension, and whilst it has less power and torque, it should be a better and quicker handline bike, particulalry with a slightly steeper rake and thinner diameter tyres. Either way as Paul said, DYOR!

[@Beastius24]

I love the looks of my Sportster S. What I really don't like is too fat tires and short suspension travel, which are things I am going to address shortly. That said there's nothing wrong with the Scout:)

[@sherbs58]

What about the zindian FTR1200 as a closer style to the HD?

[@ianpeddle]

Hi paul, when you mounted it, what did you put between the bracket and the fender to save the paint?

[@BikesILike]

Are we talking my rack? If so, I bought some self-adhesive rubber sheet, about 3mm (1/8") thick, cut some strips and stuck them to the underside of the rack.

[@ianpeddle]

@@BikesILike sorry I should have been clear. 🙂 I was talking about your sissy bar.

[@BikesILike]

@@ianpeddle Aahh. Sean from Bar-None Moto made up some powder coated 10 mm spacers. We used those.

[@ianpeddle]

@@BikesILike also, I apologize. I meant to make this comment on your sissy bar video. 😁

[@BikesILike]

@@ianpeddle You had me confused there 😁

[@DubbleD69]

5 mins into the video, love your comparisons thus far. Looking for a bobber but haven’t decided which one as of yet. But I’m distracted by your eye glasses. Can you please tell me the model of those Oakleys?? I’m looking for some new readers and those frames would fit the bill. Cheers from Ottawa, Canada.

[@TheMotoScout]

The 101 is the trim level with the full package of features. The other trim levels are the Scout Bobber, Sport Scout, Super Scout, and Scout Classic where you can choose features based on packages.

[@seltunkoko]

"Interesting comparison between the Indian Scout 101 and Harley Sportster S! Both iconic bikes with distinct styles and performance attributes, catering to different riding preferences. We want both bike test rides in the future.

[@jamesdefrange]

Yeah I hear ya… but one question… which one will end up on the rack 4 times a year?

[@rosssteward9890]

Scout 101 or Bobber for me with the full spec tech trim,Just interested in what Australian pricing will be and hopefully some good aftermarket exhausts coming,Great video keep up the great work 👍

[@BikesILike]

Cheers Ross.

[@markcooper640]

I have owned a Bobber Black with X pipe and YSS suspension an Indian Scout Bobber with pipes and standard suspension and I currently own a Sportster S with pipes and standard suspension and hands down I feel the Harley has it over the other 2 in power, handling and suspension. I’m 80kg the Triumph was a shocker for suspension, the Scout tolerable and the Harley with my weight I can use the scope of the suspension to be more comfortable the rear short travel is an issue if you are heavier though.

[@BikesILike]

Yeah, I reckon you're right Mark. Previous Triumph's I've owned in the past have all lacked in the suspension dept. And after test riding both the Scout and the Sportster S, I'd give the win suspension wise to the Sporster S too. Although the Fox shocks on the Scout would certainly level the playing field. You have good taste in bikes! :)

[@leostgeorge2080]

I don't want any ABS, traction control or any other electronics controlling my bike. I've been ridding over 50 years both on and off road and i can ride better than whoever programed the bike not to mention conditions dictate what is needed not a damn computer. If you need the electronics to ride safe, learn to ride or don't ride at all. My skill outperforms any computer. Skill and quick reflex have kept me and my wife safe for over 50 years.

[@jonnymac8925]

Lol you think you can but that's factually untrue. I don't like ABS and the likes easier, but even the best riders on a bike all else equal except one has ABS and the other without ABS and the bike with ABS is going to stop faster. The same applies for almost very rider aid.

[@leostgeorge2080]

@@jonnymac8925 Ignorance from a bad ridder. Why do you think NO pro bike has ABS? Because it's for idiots who don't know how ride. Not one single bike on any pro track has ABS. You ignorant little person.

[@welfare_baybee]

Yeah but catering to you old fogies is what's got HD in the position they're in now. The name of the game these days is attracting new riders, and we all want ABS and rider modes.

[@That90sKid]

Hell yea, Paul coming in with the real videos. Thanks dude.

[@guyfuller1369]

Fair-minded analysis. To me the Sportster S looks, I dunno, lumpy. It lacks the cruiser look of the older Sportsters. The new Scout 101 and the other new Scout models retain the sleek but muscular cruiser, almost chopper appeal. The smaller rear wheel really works visually.

[@BikesILike]

Cheers Guy. I agree the 101 is certainly a looker. But there's something about the more densely packed Sportster S I still find appealing.

[@ccmustanggt99]

They still make the Nightster and the Nightster Special which holds onto the more classic sportster look but also with a smaller engine

[@flatcapcaferacer]

Very nice comparisons Paul.

[@BikesILike]

Cheers Jerry.

[@racinmasonb]

Very well spoken and objective video! If it weren't for my gripes with the Sportster S's looks it'd be a no brainer.

[@stevenguajardo6049]

I saw the Harley on the expressway as I was coming home from work the other day. It looked killer. That said, the 101 is just beautiful. I think the Sportster is more of a drag bike. The Indian is more of a boulevard bruiser. That's my opinion of course. Both bikes are similar in specs but set up different. I have a VRod and I've taken her on long trips and was very comfortable. So, I can see myself on the sportster on long rides. Thank you for the specs on the Indian. I hadn't seen anything really substantial on it. Everything is on looks not specs.

[@AleCuostea]

The brands are competitotors, but I don`t think the bikes are exact competitors - scout 101 is a cruiser with a performance makeup while the sportster s is a standard-naked-ish bike with performance v twin. I tend to like cruisers estetic more, for JHarley the estetic is not for me. The specs are comparable but they seem different class of bikes, maybe against a Ducati 1200 would be more direct comparison. any way, it`s good to see bikes getting better. LE - scout has hateful ergos for taller riders, don`t like the feel on it - 6.1 and 200 pounds me.

[@carperdiem8754]

All scout 101s come with limited tech plus right?

[@BikesILike]

In Australia that is the case.

[@larryanderson3451]

Hi Paul everyone keeps trying to compare the Sportster S to the Scout range (New and Old) but i believe they should be comparing the FTR and the Sportster S. That to me is a closer comparison. Cheers Larry

[@BikesILike]

Hi Larry, I did compare the FTR S and Sportster S in this group video kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5jGe5aKbMSJm6csi=0HZAvBwxTuQNd-I4

[@chadbutler2287]

how do you do a comparison review without riding both bikes? This is just judging a book by it's cover.

[@poppysadventures2020]

Good morning, I am late to the game, however I compare the HD Sporter S vs. 25 Scout Bobber. The looks are very similar.

[@Artistxeno]

I wonder how the 101 stacks up against the ftr?

[@curtshelp6170]

I'm a short legged old guy so I like the Scouts deeper suspension and lower seat hight as well as the styling.

[@marketzero]

it's actually not in the same category, the H-D Sportster S is in the sports bike category and the Indian Scout is a cruiser. A better comparison would be the lowrider S or the Street Bob as both are in the cruiser class

[@VKMerry]

That's exactly what i was thinking. The indian scout 60 would be more comparable

[@Mcindout2022]

I have a 2022 scout rogue and it’s pretty quick. Not sure why you would want to go faster on a cruiser. With all the new tech and cruise control on the 101 it’s a no brainer. The Indian scout is a solid well built machine.

[@jimdoerr7483]

I love the looks of both. Styling is in the eyes of the holder thing. I prefer the HD Sportster personally, but the Scout 101 is undeniably a gorgeous bike. I'm not familiar at all with the reliability for either bike, having not read into it. I can say that my nephew was cross shopping these two for some time and bought the Indian Scout 101 with the top tech upgrade earlier this month (Aug 2024). It's battery died and left him in a real bind which he isn't happy about.

[@viperq]

Looks, Scout 101. Performance, Sportster S.

[@markmcintosh7095]

I test rode a Sportster s and was very impressed with it. It needs duel rotors or a bigger single rotor.

[@tinman3586]

I'm interested to see if they're going to improve the FTR with a souped up version of this new 1250 Scout engine. As for the new Scout, I'm kind of surprised by the lack of performance increase with this new engine. Only 5 more HP for the base model (100 HP vs 105 HP) and for the fancy 101 it's only 1 more HP than the stage 1 tuned older Scouts (110 HP vs 111 HP).

[@Carcyclechronicles]

G'day Paul, i test rode the sporster s when they launched here. I did a video on it, i found the engine and tech quite good. But the price point is high $26k i think?? Scouts were $18-20k then so i think they're a better base to work with. Looking forward to seeing the new scout, I'm expecting them here about spring time and curiours to see what they price them at. Speaking to Indian sales reps when the rogue launched they said that was introduced too low of a price point so in '23 they went up 3k

[@kevincrawford6864]

Personally I never buy a bike the first 2-3 years after release. I give it a few years before purchasing to make sure majority of the problems are worked out.

[@s.a.l.te.p.c8187]

Tall guys over 6ft2 ? Which bike ? Sports or 101 ?

[@labelskater613]

I still have my 05 soft tail. Bought a 2022 street bob and traded it in withing a year. Harley has gone down hill. I have a 2022 scout rogue that i love to ride. I did put some $$$ into it to add some big power. That 101 it way bettwr looking than any newer sportster for sure. Love my old harleys but my next may be the 101 or the sport chief. Both look bad ass. Harley has been struggling with the warranty latelay also.

[@terryburgau7792]

My back hurts just looking at the sportster s. I don't think the sales numbers on the sportster s are near what Harley was hoping for.

[@corujariousa]

Thanks for the video! I have not had the opportunity to ride the bikes but I can imagine handling on the Scout 101 is superior (smaller wheel base and thinner front tire). I imagine reliability would also be better on the Indian (assumptions of course). To me, the Sportster S wins in looks. I wish both bikes had dual-gauge clusters. Both bikes could use more ground clearance. I don't think there is a wrong choice here. Cheers.

[@paler1der136]

For the price of the 101 in the US, I would probably just look at something in the Chief line-up.

[@jasonp1177]

2 different rides. The scout is a faster, more nimble and lighter bike, the chief is a mid weight, cruiser.

[@roar666]

I was trying to think who you sound like. Then it hit me - Elliot Goblet; "I'd just like to change the pace now" Good comparison BTW, without actually riding the bikes.

[@BikesILike]

Lol cheers... Elliot Goblet! 😂

[@MGWediEri]

Hello there, you being 6.1 what would you consider?

[@BikesILike]

There are tons of bikes suitable for a 6'1" rider.

[@keithswiercz3890]

I enjoy your channel and the reviews you do. Would like to know if you ever rode and reviewed the indian Springfield. If not would you consider doing a review on it?. Ty

[@BikesILike]

I did ride the Springfield Dark Horse but I wasn't comfortable with the handlebar position and setup on the test bike I rode. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rn6lg6Skj9adsK8si=6nunJ-UsUOUOiMWk I made a video but would like to revisit this one and do another test ride. I've since sat on the Springfield with different handlebars and was much more comfortable. If I was doing longer distances the Springfield, Chieftain line would definitely be a good option for me.

[@kirk9899]

Well, I just placed my order for the Indian Scout 101. We will see what I think of it when it shows up.

[@Scout4x]

The Scouts look better.

[@JEviston]

Facts

[@grahamtricker4103]

I rode the Sportster S when it came out and I thought it was awful and I own 2 proper air cooled Harley Davidsons. The engine sounded like a bag of spanners and the ride and comfort, or lack of it, was dreadful. With those tyres and their profile it was like the bike was balancing on a knife edge. I cut short the test ride to get it back to the dealer so I could get off the damn thing. If you are considering these two bikes, get a good ride of both before buying. I ended up buying a Triumph Speedmaster which I much preferred. I also can't wait to get a test ride of the new Scout 101. The new Scout update is a master stroke for Indian.

[@frankabelbobadillacorbillo3639]

Nice video. I would like a comparison between Indian Scout Classic and Triumph Speedmaster

[@BikesILike]

Nice idea Frank, I'll look into it.

[@furocity]

Aren’t those sportster motors meant to be super unreliable? I thought they put those in the pan am bikes and they have nothing but problems

[@BikesILike]

I addressed that issue later in the video. ;)

[@furocity]

@@BikesILike you did mate my apologies. Too quick on the keyboard sometimes lol

[@mrdude3540]

I really don’t think there’s a comparison from this 101 to the sporster s. They look like two different bikes if you’re looking for speed then I would skip both these bikes and jump on a sports bike if you’re looking for speed and looks 101 all day.

[@jasonkrumvieda1053]

Big Harley fan here. Owned many but I think they missed an opportunity with the Sportster. They have the Sportster S, and the Nightster and the Nightster S. Indian debuted with loads of models and options to separate the offerings. I would buy a Sportster with the 1250 and normal styling, a real seat, saddlebags and a windshield.

[@welfare_baybee]

Nightster is a girls bike that's the saddest thing about the Harley crowd, they even hate on their own brand's entry level models. Sportsters don't even get respect from all the fat boomers on their "big boy" Harleys. The scene alone is enough to make us younger guys want nothing to do with an HD.

[@jonnymac8925]

The Scout 101 and the Sportster S really need to come standard with mid controls. It makes no sense to make a performance oriented bike with forward controls lol it's so counter productive it's wild.

[@wesleymyers6906]

I think a lot of the issues with the Sportster S have to do with a weak battery, as well as software hiccups in the earlier years. I've heard stories of some having catastrophic engine failures, but it seems as a rule of thumb that those are rare, and unfortunately some bad apples are to be expected with a completely new motor design in the early years. I think it's very interesting what you said about turning the Sportster S into a cafe racer, I bought a 22 Sportster S with 2200 miles on it, and I've been riding almost daily for three months, putting about 1200 miles on it in that time. I've done exactly what you're talking about, I switched it to a set of rear controls, and changed the seat to something more low-slung with some lumbar support. To be honest, I think this is the way the bike should have come in the first place, the riding position and control are significantly better, I'm quite tall at 6'1" and I'm comfortable riding for 30-45 minute stints, haven't had a chance to really push for a longer ride. My knees are on the tank so it's easy to grip in corners, and I put the H-D windscreen on it so it's easy to tuck a bit and avoid wind even at higher speeds. Overall, I think the Sportster S has a fantastic powertrain that is let down by some of the decisions that Harley made as far as the ergonomics are concerned, leading to it being a bit of a black sheep, when in my opinion, Harley should have really committed to making it into a naked bike, similar to an Indian FTR.

[@BikesILike]

Awesome! I would love to see a pic of the bike. Where did you source the rear-sets from? I'm also 6'1".

[@wesleymyers6906]

@@BikesILike I sourced the rear sets from Thunderbike customs in Germany, there's also another company based in the US that offers them. Basically they just mount up from where you'd normally install the passenger pegs. What would be the best way for me to share a picture of the bike so you can see it?

[@BikesILike]

@wesleymyers6906 OK cheers Wesley. I'll check them out. You can send pics to my email address listed in the video description.

[@garryhaig5701]

Foot in each camp, fence sitting. What a tough line you draw..😂

[@brookcampbell2940]

if the H-D Rev Max motor was in the Indian 101 Scout, then you would have something people want!

[@Ch-ui6mw]

I would choose the Indian over the H-D simply for the fact that the Scout has LESS electronic nannies....

[@coyote4936]

Someone should make a sport bike style body kit with full fairing for the sportster S

[@BikesILike]

That would be cool

[@randomstuff4176]

The Sportster S looks like a Lego bike made in China.. What is going through the mind of someone who buys one??

[@marcusgeorge1825]

The 101 has the lot standard. Not as how you described it. The only upgrade for the Indian is to opt for the Fox suspension. However, 99% of riders, even with a back to back ride comparison you can’t tell/feel the difference. Like I said, the 101 does have all the bells and whistles. Comparing both of these ones back to back, in my opinion the Indian is better (arguably the best handling) bike out of America in the cruiser segment. The FTR is the better handling however it’s not a cruiser. The win goes to Indian 101 hands down, just keep it on a tender when not in use. 👍😎🇦🇺

[@usmcmsgt5487]

If I'm worried about speed and weight I'd get a 1000cc sports bike..... but to cruse and no where particular to go, I'm getting a Indian 101 Scout in red top of the line trim. Looks better IMO between the two.

[@seanannigan7914]

I prefer the looks of the Indian Scout. However I've thrown enough dirt at Harley to applaude and congratulate them on making a liquid cooled bike with overhead camshaft as opposed to air cooled pushrods. Cool bike.

[@mozeby]

I looked and sat on the Sportster S this past weekend. It’s comfortable for my height (6’1) but other than that, there’s little reason why I’d buy one. I actually prefer the cheaper Nightster over the S. I’ve looked at Scouts and they’re much more appealing plus the range covers a lot of different styles, comfortable positions, and riding styles. The 101 especially is miles better looking.

[@Diabeekei]

As a Sportster S owner and 28 years old. I absolutely agree with the comparison and the comments here. One of the most common things I see is that people ride the sportster like a cruiser, but it really likes to be revved, and so far my 2023 has not had any issues and I ride her like a naked bike. EDIT: i got a stage 1 on my sportster S with an FPE exhaust and it’s currently at 114.57 hp @ 7.15k rpm and 91.12 @ 5.07k rpm

[@derjenichederscheissebaut5922]

the question is: who buys a Harley/Indian if you want to race. Almost every Bike is lighter and has more HP than a these.

[@swolepatrol2139]

Quit being nice. How many Sportster S have you actually seen on the road. I am from Kansas and have never seen anyone actually driving an S. I see Scouts all the time. Harley dominates overall in Kansas. I am an Indian fan boy, but nobody ownes a Sportster S. I really want to see a Sportster S but they are no where to be seen.

[@HDR20]

That's funny because here in Ohio and five state radius we don't see Indians period unless they are at a dealer

[@midlifecruiser]

Sportster s is more of an FTR alternative to me. Scout is a 25” seat height vs the 30” sportster.

[@BikesILike]

I did compare the FTR S and Sportster S in this video if you're interested kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5jGe5aKbMSJm6csi=0HZAvBwxTuQNd-I4

[@benyo3622]

I definitely prefer the 101 but HD would dominate the market if they would just build a modern FXR that sticks to its roots. My next purchase will likely be the Buell Super Cruiser

[@aiv4873]

I bought a sportster S last year over the scout because of the electronics and performance. If I were to do it again, I’d buy a Scout 101 with the new screen.

[@coreyslusars3341]

Thought the Chief was 27* degrees n 101 was 33* for lean angle

[@43tubularbells]

Not close for me. The non exhaust side of the Sportster S looks unfinished and untidy, which is a shame because I like the other side.

[@shadyss96]

The other down side to owning a sportster in 2024 is you'd have to say you own an HD. The 101 has a much cleaner look.

[@RobDaKid87]

I'm liking the 101 better. That said they do seem quit different. I also like that it seems like a cruiser with a sporty flair. Where the Sportster. Well, it looks more sport focused and not really like a cruiser. More of a naked bike with some cruiser flair.

[@jimziegler4511]

in the US 101 only comes with the tech plus only. ( no standard or limited. )

[@farracuda]

The Sportster S is so ugly on the left hand side that I would have to learn to throw my leg over from the right hand side as I couldn’t stomach looking at the ugly side every time I get on the bike. HD sales brochures don’t show the ugly side photos that not even a mother could love.

[@Hagrid15SYLO]

willing to bet it's because it's detuned like the last scout was because the scout 60 made the same as the big one with a tuner and the big one gained HP thing probably makes 130+HP stage 1

[@rowdyriemer]

I really enjoyed demo riding both bikes. But the Sportster S motor is still relatively new, and I don't trust Harley with new engine designs. Maybe in a few years, I might be more comfortable with the idea of owning a Sportster S. (I'd probably buy the FTR1200 before either, though. Damn, that bike is fun!)

[@johnzsiga]

The Indian would be my choice. I test rode one and it was agile, snappy throttle and mean looking. Only wish there were more color choices other than white and red. I'd have to go with the white color.

[@shrugger1]

The #1 reason I started looking at Indian Harley Davidson: WOKE Polaris/Indian: NOT WOKE Aside from that the more I research the Indian the more I like it.

[@ecc5119]

I’ll take the Scout built to my selected add-ons.