There aren’t many motorcycles that can take a punch from the future and still smile back, but the Harley-Davidson Sportster S is one of them. While the industry keeps shifting toward electric platforms and lightweight scramblers, this bruiser still walks into the ring like it owns the place. And somehow—it still does.
Scroll through rider forums, weekend meetup groups, or even the parking lot of your local coffee shop, and you’ll hear the same thing: “I thought the Sportster S would slow down by now… but wow.” That’s exactly why this motorcycle is making headlines again in 2025. Riders are trying to understand how a heavyweight, high-character machine keeps outselling sleeker, trend-driven rivals.
If you’re curious why the Sportster S is still dominating while an electric scrambler was just revealed at EICMA with 19/18-inch wheels, USD forks, and a high-torque EV motor—then buckle in. You’re about to see why the conversation is getting louder, not quieter.
Why Riders Are Suddenly Talking About It Again
Something shifted this year. The buzz isn’t coming from Harley’s marketing—it’s coming from riders who thought they were done with big V-twins. They’re circling back, test-riding the Sportster S again, and admitting something many didn’t expect: It still hits different.
Part of the curiosity came after the 2025 EICMA electric scrambler reveal, which showcased modern EV torque, TFT connectivity, and Bluetooth features. You’d think that would pull attention away. Instead, it made riders appreciate what the Sportster S represents—raw, mechanical punch in a world that’s getting quieter.
Interestingly enough—some younger riders who were leaning toward lightweight adventure bikes have been giving the Sportster S a second look. And if you’re new to the game, checking our Beginner Guides can save you a ton of time.
There’s a weird nostalgia-meets-modern-energy feeling attached to this bike, and that’s something no EV spec sheet has managed to replicate yet.
You should also read this: Harley-Davidson X440T Unveiled: Why This New Budget-Friendly Harley Is Suddenly Everywhere Today
The Feature That Changes More Than You Think
You’ve probably heard about Harley’s Revolution Max 1250T engine, but hearing about it and feeling it are two different experiences. Twist the throttle and there’s a moment—just a beat—where the bike feels like it’s deciding whether to lung forward or roar first. It usually does both.
What’s surprising riders is how civilized it can be when you’re not in a hurry. It doesn’t shake you apart, doesn’t bully you, and doesn’t demand a constant fight. For a bike with this personality, that’s rare.
And here’s the catch—when you’re riding a machine that handles torque with this kind of confidence, you start to understand why many still choose it over modern EV alternatives with all their digital polish.
If you’re thinking about off-road transitioning or mixed riding, don’t skip our Motorcycle Tips section. It can make this bike feel even more rewarding.
How It Stacks Against the EV Wave
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room—or rather, the electric scrambler everyone keeps mentioning. With 19-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels, USD forks, and a torquey EV power unit, it’s clearly designed for agility and modern trail versatility.
But here’s what riders keep whispering: “It feels impressive… but not emotional.”
The Sportster S brings a weight and heat that mean something. It vibrates (in a good way). It growls. It tells a story every time you roll out of a corner. Meanwhile, EV bikes offer instant torque but lack the imperfections that make a motorcycle feel alive.
Picture ripping through a canyon road—one bike hums like a drone, the other snarls like it’s daring the world to push back.
That contrast is exactly why the Sportster S hasn’t been dethroned yet.
Real-World Ride: What the Specs Don’t Tell You
2025 Harley-Davidson Sportster S – Key Specs
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | Revolution Max 1250T V-twin |
| Torque | ~94 lb-ft |
| Power | ~121 hp |
| Weight | Approx. 502 lbs (wet) |
| Front Suspension | Inverted USD forks |
| Rear Suspension | Mono-shock |
| Seat Height | 28.9 in |
| Wheels | 17-inch front / 16-inch rear |
| Top Speed | Around 140 mph |
| Electronics | Ride modes, TFT display, cornering ABS |
Specs tell you numbers. The ride tells you the truth.
On a real street, the Sportster S feels like a muscle bike that learned manners. The low seat height gives you that “sitting in the bike” stance, while the wide front rubber gives it a planted, almost supermoto-inspired feel. Is it light? No. But it carries its weight with charm.
On tighter backroads, it surprises you with how eager it feels, especially with the torque hitting early and hard.
Should You Buy It Now or Wait?
This is the fun part—because riders are split right down the middle.
Some say buy it now because Harley has been refining this platform quietly and consistently. It’s mature. It’s proven. And it’s holding its value better than expected.
Others argue you should wait for Harley’s next EV or hybrid announcement. But here’s the truth riders admit when you catch them off guard: “Waiting for the future is cool… but riding now is better.”
If you’re someone transitioning from dirt to street or juggling both worlds, exploring the Electric Dirt Bikes category on the site can give you perspective on where the market is heading.
The Sportster S, meanwhile, feels like a chapter that isn’t ready to close—maybe because it’s still too much fun to ride.