1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster: Beginning of an Era
By Brett Foote

Whether you love 'em or hate 'em, there's no denying that Harley's Sportster has been a hit since day one.

 

Yup, been many of them in my families and friends life that seems like forever. A lot of sprints in the day as well. Still have a sporty in the garage.

 

Why would anyone hate them?
Most do not they are the racers edge.
Others call it a little bike but will blast past most big twins
There is not much there to hate.
Lots to love!

 

Beautiful motorcycle...

 

They were the racers edge back in 1957.

 

They have done flat tracking pretty well into to modern era too

 

I truly like that '57.
Would like to ride.
Just wondering if it is capable with today's traffic and could
be used as a daily driver?.
Noting maybe it has 35 horsepower vs modern Sportsters at 70 HP?

 

LOl
the shovels, evos, TC cams were all very shallow in horsepower
55 , 60 ,maybe?
Sportsters from 1975 76 era made 65 HP as i rember.
They were pretty snappy and left a shovel in the dirt.
They were no slouch and could beat a Kaw 900 with not much of a problem.

 

A Sportster 883 makes mid-40's hp at the rear wheel.

 

I like that Sportster! 1957 was a great year!