Harley-Davidson Sportster Roadster Dark Custom 2018 - Specifications & Review

Article Complete Info
| Articleid | 241025 |
|---|---|
| Category | Naked bike |
| Make | Harley-Davidson |
| Model | Sportster Roadster Dark Custom |
| Price | US$ 11299. Euro 12915. Prices depend on country, taxes, accessories, etc. |
| Year | 2018 |
Chassis, Suspension, Brakes & Wheels
| Frontbrakes | Single disc. Dual-piston. Optional ABS. |
|---|---|
| Frontsuspension | Inverted Fork |
| Fronttyre | 120/70-R19 |
| Rake | 28.9° |
| Rearbrakes | Single disc. Dual-piston. Optional ABS. |
| Rearsuspension | Twin shocks |
| Reartyre | 150/70-R18 |
| Trail | 140 mm (5.5 inches) |
| Wheels | Black Offset, Split 5-Spoke Cast Aluminum |
Engine & Transmission
| Borexstroke | 88.9 x 96.8 mm (3.5 x 3.8 inches) |
|---|---|
| Clutch | Multi-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath |
| Compression | 10.0:1 |
| Coolingsystem | Air |
| Displacement | 1202.00 ccm (73.35 cubic inches) |
| Driveline | 57/38 ratio |
| Enginedetails | V2, four-stroke |
| Enginetype | Evolution® engine |
| Exhaustsystem | Shorty-dual exhaust with chrome tapered mufflers with laser cut black heat shields |
| Fuelconsumption | 5.20 litres/100 km (19.2 km/l or 45.23 mpg) |
| Fuelsystem | Injection. Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection |
| Gearbox | 6-speed |
| Greenhousegases | 120.6 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission) |
| Lubricationsystem | Dry sump |
| Power | 67.00 HP (48.9 kW)) @ 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 96.00 Nm (9.8 kgf-m or 70.8 ft.lbs) @ 4000 RPM |
| Transmissiontypefinaldrive | Belt |
Other Specifications
| Coloroptions | Vivid Black, Black Denim, Billet Silver/Vivid Black, Velocity Red Sunglo |
|---|---|
| Instruments | 4-inch Speedometer mounted low and integrated into handlebar clamp electronic speedometer with odometer, time-of-day clock on odometer, dual tripmeter, LED indicator lights |
| Light | High beam, neutral, low oil pressure, turn signals, engine diagnostics, low fuel warning, low battery, security system (optional) |
| Starter | Electric |
Physical Measures & Capacities
| Dryweight | 240.0 kg (529.1 pounds) |
|---|---|
| Fuelcapacity | 12.50 litres (3.30 gallons) |
| Groundclearance | 152 mm (6.0 inches) |
| Oilcapacity | 2.60 litres (0.17 quarts) |
| Overalllength | 2,186 mm (86.1 inches) |
| Powerweightratio | 0.2792 HP/kg |
| Seatheight | 785 mm (30.9 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Weightincloilgasetc | 258.0 kg (568.8 pounds) |
About Harley-Davidson Sportster Roadster Dark Custom 2018
Introducing the 2018 Harley-Davidson Sportster Roadster Dark Custom—a motorcycle that encapsulates the spirit of freedom and adventure that defines the Harley-Davidson brand. Positioned in the Naked Bike category, the Roadster is a well-rounded urban cruiser that appeals to riders seeking both style and performance. With a starting price of $11,299 in the U.S. and €12,915 in Europe, this bike offers a compelling blend of classic Harley aesthetics and modern engineering, making it an attractive option for both seasoned riders and newcomers alike.
At the heart of the Sportster Roadster is a robust 1202cc V2 engine, delivering a thrilling 67 horsepower at 6,000 RPM and a torque of 96 Nm at 4,000 RPM. This powerful engine is coupled with a 6-speed gearbox that ensures smooth transitions through gears, whether you're cruising down the highway or navigating through city streets. The air-cooled, four-stroke engine is designed not just for power but for efficiency, achieving a fuel consumption of 5.20 litres per 100 km (or 45.23 mpg). With a power-to-weight ratio of 0.2792 HP/kg, the Roadster provides a dynamic riding experience, enhanced by its lightweight design of 240 kg (529 lbs), allowing for agile handling and responsive steering.
The Roadster doesn’t just excel in performance; it’s also packed with features that enhance the riding experience. The inverted front forks and twin rear shocks provide a responsive suspension setup, offering a smooth ride even on rough terrain. With a rake angle of 28.9° and a trail of 140 mm, the handling is precise, making cornering feel effortless. The dual-piston front and rear disc brakes, with optional ABS, ensure reliable stopping power for confident braking. Riders can personalize their experience with a choice of striking colors including Vivid Black, Black Denim, and Velocity Red Sunglo, further emphasizing the bike's custom appeal.
PROs:
- Strong Performance: The 1202cc engine delivers impressive horsepower and torque, ideal for both urban commuting and longer rides.
- Agile Handling: The lightweight design, combined with advanced suspension, offers exceptional maneuverability and comfort.
- Customizable Aesthetics: A variety of color options and accessories allow riders to personalize their motorcycle to reflect their unique style.
CONs:
- Limited Fuel Capacity: With a 12.50-litre tank, longer trips may require more frequent refueling.
- Seat Height: At 785 mm (30.9 inches), it may pose a challenge for shorter riders when it comes to reaching the ground comfortably.
- Basic Technology Features: While the bike offers essential modern features, it lacks advanced electronics found in some competitors, which may not appeal to tech-savvy riders.
In summary, the 2018 Harley-Davidson Sportster Roadster Dark Custom stands as a testament to the brand's legacy, merging timeless design with contemporary performance. It’s a motorcycle that invites you to hit the road and embrace the freedom that comes with every ride.
