2022–2024 Harley-Davidson Sport Revolution Max 975T (RH975 Nightster)

The Harley-Davidson Sport Revolution Max 975T (RH975 Nightster) is a motorcycle in the Sport category, first introduced by Harley-Davidson for the 2022 model year. It represents a significant technological and philosophical evolution from the company’s long-standing Sportster platform, replacing the traditional air-cooled Evolution engine with a modern, liquid-cooled powertrain. The Nightster name, a revival from a previous dark-custom Sportster model, is used to market a motorcycle designed to be a nimble, performance-oriented entry point into the Harley-Davidson brand, blending classic styling cues with contemporary engineering.

At the heart of this new platform is a departure from the quintessential Harley-Davidson formula. Unlike the previous generation of Sportsters, which used the air-cooled, 45-degree Evolution V-twin engine and a traditional cradle-style frame, the RH975 Nightster is built around its engine. The liquid-cooled Revolution Max 975T acts as a stressed member of the chassis, with the front frame, mid-frame, and tail section bolting directly to it. This design improves chassis rigidity while reducing overall weight. The fuel tank, a 3.1-gallon (11.7 L) cell, is located under the seat to lower the center of gravity, while the traditional “peanut” tank profile is a steel airbox cover, maintaining a key element of the classic Sportster silhouette.

The Harley-Davidson Sport Revolution Max 975T Engine

The Revolution Max 975T is a liquid-cooled, 60-degree V-Twin engine with a displacement of 975 cc. It is a derivative of the larger 1250T engine found in the Sportster S and Pan America models. This powertrain features double overhead camshafts (DOHC) and variable valve timing (VVT) on the intake cams, a first for the Sportster family. This technology allows the engine to deliver a broad, flat torque curve, providing responsive acceleration across the rev range. The engine is tuned to produce a claimed 90 horsepower and 70 ft-lb of torque. The use of internal balancers helps to minimize engine vibration, offering a smoother ride experience compared to the raw character of its air-cooled predecessors.

Technology and Model Variations

The introduction of the Nightster brought a suite of modern electronics to the Sportster line. It comes standard with the Rider Safety Enhancements by Harley-Davidson, which includes an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), a Traction Control System (TCS), and a Drag-Torque Slip Control System (DSCS). These systems are designed to match motorcycle performance to available traction during acceleration, deceleration, and braking.

The motorcycle also features selectable Ride Modes:
Road Mode: Intended for daily use, offering balanced throttle response and less aggressive mid-range power, with higher levels of ABS and TCS intervention.
Sport Mode: Provides the full performance potential of the motorcycle with direct, crisp throttle response and maximum power. TCS is set to its lowest intervention level.
* Rain Mode: Offers restrained throttle response and power output, with the highest levels of ABS and TCS intervention for wet or slippery conditions.

For the 2023 model year, Harley-Davidson expanded the lineup with the introduction of the Nightster Special (RH975S). The Special model builds on the base platform with several key upgrades aimed at improved versatility and technology. It includes a passenger pillion and footpegs as standard equipment, revised handlebar risers for a more comfortable reach, and premium cast aluminum wheels with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). The most notable upgrade is the replacement of the base model’s 4-inch analog gauge with a round 4-inch TFT screen that offers Bluetooth connectivity for navigation, music, and call management via the Harley-Davidson app.

Specifications