Of course. Here is a full article about the Harley-Davidson Sportster S, written to your specifications.
The 2021–2024 Harley-Davidson Sport Revolution Max 1250T (RH1250S Sportster S) marks a radical redefinition of the longest-running model family in the company’s history. Unveiled as a complete departure from the air-cooled, Evolution-engine-powered predecessors, the Sportster S was engineered as a modern, high-performance cruiser. It utilizes the liquid-cooled Revolution Max powertrain, first introduced in the Pan America adventure touring motorcycle, and integrates advanced electronics and a contemporary chassis design. This model represents a significant strategic shift for Harley-Davidson, aiming to attract a new generation of riders with a focus on power, technology, and aggressive styling.
Development and Design
The development of the RH1250S Sportster S was part of Harley-Davidson’s broader strategy to diversify its lineup and embrace modern motorcycle technology. With tightening global emissions standards making the future of the traditional air-cooled V-twin challenging, the company invested in a new, modular liquid-cooled engine platform: the Revolution Max.
The design of the Sportster S is deliberately muscular and compact. It draws styling cues from classic bobbers and flat-track racers, characterized by its chunky, high-profile tires—especially the fat 160mm front tire—a high-mounted dual exhaust, and a solo seat. The powertrain is not housed within a traditional frame but acts as a central, stressed member of the chassis, to which the front frame, mid-frame, and tail section are bolted. This modern engineering approach reduces overall weight and increases chassis rigidity, contributing to more responsive handling.
The Harley-Davidson Sport Revolution Max 1250T Powertrain
At the core of the Sportster S is the Revolution Max 1250T engine. The “T” designation signifies that this version of the 1252cc, 60-degree V-twin has been specifically tuned for tremendous low- and mid-range torque. Key features of this engine include:
Liquid Cooling: Provides superior thermal management, allowing for higher, more consistent performance compared to its air-cooled ancestors.
Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC) and Variable Valve Timing (VVT): These technologies, common on high-performance sportbikes, broaden the powerband, delivering both strong low-end grunt and a willingness to rev.
Internal Balancers: Dual internal counter-balancers are used to quell engine vibrations, providing a smoother riding experience without eliminating the characteristic V-twin feel.
The engine is paired with a six-speed transmission and a final belt drive, a long-standing feature of Harley-Davidson motorcycles appreciated for its smooth and low-maintenance operation.
Chassis, Suspension, and Electronics
The Sportster S is built on a chassis that prioritizes performance. The engine’s role as a stressed member is central to its design. The front suspension features fully adjustable 43mm inverted forks from Showa, while the rear uses a linkage-mounted, piggyback monoshock, also from Showa, with adjustable preload and rebound damping. Braking is handled by a single four-piston, radial-mounted Brembo monoblock caliper at the front.
A significant upgrade over any previous Sportster is the comprehensive electronics suite. The bike features a 4-inch round TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity for navigation and media. It comes standard with three pre-programmed ride modes (Sport, Road, and Rain) and two customizable modes. These modes adjust throttle response, engine braking, and the intervention levels of the Cornering Rider Safety Enhancements, which include Cornering Enhanced Antilock Braking System (C-ABS) and a Cornering Enhanced Traction Control System (C-TCS).
Differences from the Previous Air-Cooled Sportster
The RH1250S is a Sportster in name only when compared to its predecessors like the Iron 883 or Forty-Eight. The key differences are fundamental:
Engine: The most significant change is the move from an air-cooled, 45-degree, pushrod V-twin (the Evolution engine) to the liquid-cooled, 60-degree, DOHC Revolution Max 1250T. This results in a substantial increase in horsepower (from approximately 50-60 hp to a claimed 121 hp) and a much broader powerband.
Chassis: The traditional steel double-cradle frame of the old Sportster is gone, replaced by a modern design where the engine serves as the main structural component, enhancing rigidity and reducing weight.
Technology: The previous models were analog and mechanically simple. The new Sportster S is fully integrated with modern electronics, including multiple ride modes, lean-sensitive traction control, and cornering ABS.
Performance and Handling:** With premium, fully adjustable suspension, powerful Brembo brakes, and a much more rigid chassis, the RH1250S offers handling dynamics and performance capabilities far beyond what the classic Sportster could achieve.
Specifications
| General | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Harley-Davidson |
| Model | Sportster S |
| Model Class | RH1250S |
| Model Year | 2021–2024 |
| Type | Cruiser / Performance Cruiser |
| Maximum mass (GVWR) | 950 lb. (431 kg) |
| Maximum passengers | 1 (2 with accessory passenger kit) |
| Performance | |
| Max. power | 121 Hp (90 kW) / 7500 RPM |
| Max. torque | 94 ft-lb (127 N•m) / 6000 RPM |
| Lean Angle, Right / Left | 34° / 34° |
| Top designed speed | Approx. 137 mph (220 km/h) |
| Size | |
| Length | 89.4 in. (2270 mm) |
| Width | 37.9 in. (963 mm) |
| Height | 42.7 in. (1084 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 59.8 in. (1520 mm) |
| Seat height (laden) | 28.9 in. (734 mm) |
| Ground clearance | 3.5 in. (90 mm) |
| Curb weight | 502 lb. (228 kg) |
| Engine | |
| Type | Revolution® Max 1250T, V-Twin, Four Stroke, Liquid Cooled, DOHC |
| Displacement | 1252 cc (76.4 cu in) |
| Bore × Stroke | 4.13 in. × 2.85 in. (105 mm × 72.3 mm) |
| Compression ratio | 12.0:1 |
| Starting system | Electric starter |
| Fuel supplying system | Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) |
| Ignition control system | ECU Ignition |
| Lubricating system | Dry sump |
| Oil capacity | 4.75 qt (4.5 L) |
| Engine oil type | SAE 20W-50 HD 360 Motorcycle Oil |
| Coolant capacity | 2.3 qt (2.2 L) |
| Coolant type | Harley-Davidson Pre-diluted Antifreeze and Coolant |
| Idle speed | 1100 RPM ± 50 RPM |
| Transmission | |
| Transmission type | 6-speed, manual gear shift |
| Clutch type | Wet, multi-disc, assist & slipper |
| Driving system | Belt drive |
| Primary reduction ratio | 49/89 |
| Final reduction ratio | 34/80 |
| Gear ratio | 1st: 12.21; 2nd: 9.022; 3rd: 6.994; 4th: 5.641; 5th: 4.731; 6th: 4.131 |
| Chassis | |
| Tire size | Front: 160/70TR17 73V; Rear: 180/70R16 77V |
| Rim size | Front: 17 in. x 4.5 in.; Rear: 16 in. x 5.0 in. Cast Aluminum |
| Capacity of fuel tank | 3.1 gal (11.8 L) |
| Fuel consumption | Approx. 49 MPG (4.8 L / 100 km) |
| Electric | |
| Battery | 12V, 12Ah, 225 A CCA, Sealed Lead Acid |
| Headlight | LED Daymaker Signature Headlamp |
| Position Light | LED |
| Turning light | LED |
| Tail light | LED |
| Suspension | |
| Front travel | 3.6 in (92 mm) |
| Front suspension | 43mm inverted fork with compression, rebound and spring preload adjustability |
| Rear travel | 2.0 in (51 mm) |
| Rear suspension | Linkage-mounted, piggyback monoshock with compression, rebound and hydraulic spring preload adjustability |
