Better Half Accommodations for 2023 Nightster Special

Taco Riding

Provoking a sense of nocturnal allure, Harley-Davidson pitches the new 2023 Nightster Special as an “Escape into the night.” Released with a promotional video of two young women doubling up on a late evening taco run, the advantages are clear—it has a back seat. Built with performance and riding confidence in mind, the Special party is just getting started.

Diverse Riders

As the second iteration in the Nightster collection, the Special offers custom touches and advanced technology. Although in the same lightweight category as the still new-ish Sportster S, the Nightster more closely follows the styling footprint of its now-defunct Evolution-powered, predecessor. In looking to attract new riders, versatility is at the forefront of the Special's diverse thinking.

Light Praise

When Harley-Davidson released the Nightster in 2022, Women Riders Now gave it a glowing review. The well-respected publication equated the bike with the 1988 Sportster Hugger—“The first Harley-Davidson for nearly an entire generation of Harley-owning women riders today.” That same praise was imparted to the new Nightster Special, noting its light weight, low seat height and ease of handling.

Past Appeal

The Nightster concept was first introduced in 2007, with the bobber-inspired XL1200N. Befitting that namesake, the new Special carries forward the same 'Dark Custom' appeal with its blacked-out appearance. AMF-era tank badging also helps to place one wheel in the past, while the bike's high-tech features keep the other solidly planted in the future.

Blast Question

The Special is powered by the Revolution Max 975T liquid-cooled V-Twin. The engine is the smaller displacement version of the Revolution Max 1250 that proved itself with the Pan America. In reviewing the Nightster, Women Riders Now asked a critical question, “Is it ideal for beginning riders?” The answer is a cautious 'almost,' stating that “confident beginners will have a blast.”

Thrill Mode

Cruising confidence is a strategic blend of engineering and software. The Revolution Max 975T powertrain can be aggressive, but only by choice. Three riding modes can be selected. Cautious riders can place the bike in Rain mode, which throttles down the power and makes for a subdued ride. Road or Sport mode easily turns up the thrill factor.

Standard Services

Along with a new 'bikini' fairing, the Special's other noticeable feature is a set of taller bars. Taking a cue from the XL Custom, the Bluetooth-enabled, 4'' TFT display is slung closer to the air box that masquerades as a gas tank. Functional services include a USB-C port—now a prerequisite among contemporary motorcycle riders. Cruise control is also standard on the Special.

Bite Handling

Rider Safety Enhancements are bundled into the 2023 Nightster Special package. The up-to-date features include anti-lock brakes, traction control, 'drag-torque' slip control, and a tire pressure monitoring system. With its modern features, backseat, and ease of handling, the new Special lends itself to better half accommodations—even if it is only for a quick taco bite!

>>Join in the conversation about the 2023 Nightster Special right here in Harley-Davidson Forums.

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