2023 NIGHTSTER

Revolution Max Literbike

The third product based on Harley-Davidson’s latest Revolution Max engine architecture, the new Nightster followed the Pan America and Sportster S to market in mid-2022. Priced at $13,499, it’s available in standard Vivid Black, or for $400 more, Gunship Gray and Redline Red. Having seen all three at Harley-Davidson’s media launch in California, we think that the Redline Red version rocks.

Like the exotic V-Rod of 2001-2017, the Nightster uses a liquid-cooled DOHC, eight-valve “Revolution Max 975T” V-twin, this time with a 60-degree V-angle compared to Harley’s typical 45-degree cylinder angle. Happily, this enables smoother running. Like Honda’s inventive 1975 Gold Wing, the Nightster also carries its 3.1 gallons of fuel under the seat, lowering the center of mass and freeing up room under the faux peanut-style gas tank for the airbox and electronics. The actual tank’s filler cap lives under the flip-up seat.

Weighing a claimed 481 pounds fueled and ready to ride, the Nightster is a spirited performer — not monstrous like some literbikes, but usefully powerful as well as entertaining.