Get ready to hit the open road in style with the latest addition to the Harley-Davidson lineup – the impressive Low Rider S. With a rich history dating back decades, this iconic model has been reimagined for 2023, offering riders a thrilling combination of power, performance, and unmistakable style. In this article, we will dive into the design, performance, comfort, features, and overall ride experience of the Low Rider S, giving you a comprehensive overview of this exceptional motorcycle. Whether you’re a devoted Harley enthusiast or simply curious about this legendary brand, join us as we explore what sets the new Harley-Davidson Low Rider S apart from the pack. Get ready to ride with confidence and turn heads everywhere you go.
Harley-Davidson Low Rider S (2023) – The wild and powerful cruiser
As a Harley-Davidson rider, Harley-Davidson cruisers are among the most popular options. One among them is the Harley-Davidson Low Rider S (2023). You can defy the status quo with the blacked-out styling and popular 2023 Harley-Davidson Low Rider S. This combination of fierce looks and performances makes this bike a thrilling member of the Cruiser family.
The ultimate machine is equipped with the newest riding enhancements. More suspension travel is among the major improvements that people have been asking for when it comes to V-twin Harley cruisers and the company has heard the calls. The shock stroke length on the Harley-Davidson Low Rider S (2023) was increased by an inch and it has significantly improved the quality of spirited rides as well as engine and handling performances. The 18.9 L fuel capacity will keep you on the road for longer before you have to refuel whereas the small frame-mounted fairing will provide more wind protection than before.
2023 Harley-Davidson Low Rider S Review
As an avid biker, when Harley-Davidson released the Low Rider in 2017, I was adamant that it would be the ideal Harley-Davidson bike for me. After all, this is a jack-of-all-trades motorcycle that can be ridden in perfect conditions to epitomize style, power, and prestige. Naturally, I wasn’t able to make up my mind about the Harley-Davidson Low Rider S (2023) until I rode it but with this bike, I felt truly engaged on this bike. With that said, if you’re in the market for the Harley-Davidson Low Rider S (2023) and looking to give this model a try, you will want to know all that you can. In this review blog, you will get an in-depth look into what this motorcycle is all about.
Design
Firstly, if you have a look at the bike, the Harley-Davidson Low Rider S (2023) showcases the pure Harley-Davidson attitude, thanks to its low-slung Dyna profile, muscular lines, and aggressive stance, with a single seat built for solo moments with your thoughts.
All the details in the Vivid Black variant have been thoughtfully finished to perfectly channel Harley’s rebellious nature. The bike features a bigger frame-mounted fairing and removable panniers for luggage, bringing in added practicality and rider comfort for a $4,500 premium. After a couple of rides on the bike, I just knew that the bike was perfect for me.
The Harley-Davidson Low Rider S (2023) is the pick of the bunch released this year for aspirational Harley-Davidson buyers. Its iconic design, effortless performance, and amazing maneuverability create an unrivaled Harley-Davidson riding experience. Most importantly, it is a motorcycle that truly makes you feel alive while embracing the iconic heritage and lifestyle that Harley-Davidson has built its name on. You simply cannot go wrong with the Harley-Davidson Low Rider S (2023).
Engine
The Harley-Davidson Low Rider S (2023) comes powered by the potent Milwaukee-117 engine and it is a truly peach of a thing, capable of delivering effortless acceleration and a lot of mid-range torque. The updated powertrain is capable of producing 5% more torque than the Milwaukee-Eight 114, which is something I’ve always gushed over. The 1923cc, four-valve, V-twin Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine delivers 169 Nm of torque and 105HP. This is a lot of power and you’ll be able to get a lot of torque immediately from idle.
The ergonomic single seat and riding position combined with its adjustable rear shocks will ensure rider comfort during long journeys while the responsive handling allows for precise control. Whether you are cruising on the M4 or navigating tight city streets, the 2023 Low Rider S feels adept at almost every task. You will never find it to be too cumbersome when parking or oversized when trying to lane split. It is the right size for folks who wish to be seen by other motorists but avoid them when the traffic is at a standstill.
If I had to pick out a qualm, it would be that the riding position was slightly launched for me, which means longer-armed riders will not have the same issue and this is something that you can fix easily with a riser or a custom set of handlebars. The Harley-Davidson stock pipes might not always do the trick.
What the Harley-Davidson Low Rider S (2023) does so tremendously is the transition from commuter to cruiser. You can ride it around the city and tackle some of the worst types of roads you will see. Sudden potholes can be avoided easily while open stretches of road can be greedily consumed with a blip of the throttle, whereas the sweeping corners can be tackled confidently at speed. It is a bike that I felt comfortable in from the moment I sat down. Layout, proportions, and capability are exactly how you would want it to be.
Further, it is a motorcycle that everyone loves. It is a lot more approachable than other cruisers as it doesn’t have the older man “bikie” vibe. Folks will want to stand next to it, repeatedly look at it, and talk about it. For me, this is a huge part of the overall Harley-Davidson experience, something that you will not get with other brands. It is grounding and will remind you to step back and truly appreciate the nice thing.
| Model Name | Softail® Low Rider® S |
| Year | 2023 |
| Engine Size | 1923 cc (117 ci) |
| Engine Type | Milwaukee-Eight™ 117 V Twin |
| Horsepower | Not provided |
| Torque | 169 Nm @ 3500 RPM |
| Dry Weight | 650 lbs (295 kg) |
| Wet Weight | 679 lbs (308 kg) |
| Length | 93.1 in (2365 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 63.6 in (1615 mm) |
| Ground Clearance | 5.7 in (144.8 mm) |
| Fuel Capacity | 5 gallons (18.9 liters) |
| Fuel Efficiency | 47 US MPG (5 L/100km) |
| Seat Height | 28 in (710 mm) |
| Price | MSRP: $18,199 |
| Cooling | Air / Oil |
| Valve Configuration | OHV – Pushrod |
| Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Starter | Electric |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| Fuel Requirements | Premium |
| Fuel Injector | Yes |
| Transmission Type | Manual |
| Number Of Speeds | 6 |
| Primary Drive (Rear Wheel) | Belt |
| Front Suspension Type | Inverted Fork |
| Rear Suspension Type | Twin Sided Swing Arm |
| Front Brake Type | Dual Hydraulic Disc |
| Rear Brake Type | Hydraulic Disc |
| Anti-Lock Brakes | Optional |
| Seat Type | One-Piece |
| Number Of Seats | 1 |
Performance
Harley-Davidson has equipped the 2023 Low Rider S with 43mm Showa forks instead of the telescopic forks that were seen on older Dyna models. The new setup helps to sharpen the steering, such that you’ll feel more connected to the asphalt when navigating curvy bits of road. Moreover, the brand has also increased the rear height to deliver better weight distribution.
This, coupled with the 19-inch front wheel and the long wheelbase keeps the motorcycle stable and balanced through corners. The Michelin Scorcher 31 tires on the motorcycle have plenty of grip and they’re able to handle twisty sections of the road across wet and dry surfaces phenomenally.
A comfy solo seat, four-inch handlebar risers, and mid-mounted foot controls will keep you in a rather commanding, upright position while your bike lays down the law on the highway. The motorcycle feels compact, locking your bottom in place, and making sure your legs help you when you are cornering. The controls are user-friendly and they have a certain premium feel about them. However, it is worth pointing out that taller riders might face some discomfort bending their knees due to the low seat height and mid-controls. A possible solution would be to get a taller saddle via the aftermarket.
The Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine is paired with Harley’s 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission to ensure that you get the Low Rider S to 60 mph in merely four seconds. Getting to 90 mph from there on will be a piece of cake. It might not be the biggest and fastest bike out there but it is definitely one of the quickly accelerating Harley models. Its 694.5 lbs curb weight may seem high but it’ll keep the bike balanced on the road and it’ll feel planted at highway speed.
What makes the Harley-Davidson Low Rider S (2023) so special?
For many individuals, a Harley-Davidson is a lifestyle choice. This is a way to tell the world that you have opted for freedom and individuality. The Harley-Davidson Low Rider S (2023) truly embodies this mentality. The aggressive motorcycle is designed with the classic West Coast style. With a moody blacked-out visage and the monstrous engine, it is just what rebel riders have been asking for. The bike perfectly combines an aggressive knuckles-to-the-wind riding position, improved handling, a lighter frame, and unapologetic power. The bike also resolves many of the complaints about the earlier Low Rider S models, making it one of the most popular models in its lineup. Here are some of the reasons that make the Harley-Davidson Low Rider S (2023) so special –
#1. A cool, understated appearance
Harley-Davidson has gotten some criticism as of late for over-styling some of its models and it seems that the company is listening. The Low Rider S 2023 is completely blacked out and only a few parts of the motorcycle, such as the push rod tunes, the bronze embossed logo, and the edge of the cooling fins are painted in brighter colors.
The paint is smooth and shiny whereas the motorcycle looks fantastic. None of the cables and wires are visible as the whole package is about sleek lines. Despite its understated, stripped-down appearance, the Low Rider S comes equipped with many modern tech features and creature comforts that you need. Moreover, there is a 2.14-inch LCD, cruise control, ABS, and an anti-theft system.
#2. Electronic cruise control
The Harley-Davidson Low Rider S (2023) has a minimalist design and there are a few nice-to-have features. One of those inclusions is the cruise control features. With just a push of a button, you will be able to fix your motorcycle’s accelerator to any speed you see fit, and then relax to enjoy the ride. This will help you avoid discomfort and the cramping sensation that might come with riding your Harley-Davidson bike over long distances. It is interesting as the motorcycle doesn’t have any traction control or a fully-featured gauge system yet Harley has equipped it with cruise control.
#3. The bike sounds genuinely glorious
One of the primary reasons folks love Harley-Davidson bikes is due to the sound. The brand has had many decades to refine its signature sound. Today, even without visibly seeing the bike, you will know that it is a Harley once you hear the sound. However, Harley models have different engines, giving each a unique sound. Similar to other Harley-Davidson bikes, the tuned heavy breather intake of the Harley-Davidson Low Rider S (2023) sounds fierce on full throttle. What sets this bike apart is its higher state of tune throughout the rev range, something that is not present in most cruisers in its class.
#4. The abundance of heritage touches
The design of the newest Low Rider S is inspired by the original, best-selling Low Rider released in 1977. The frame, five-spoke cast aluminum wheels, and tank badge harken back to the original. The heavy influence of modern advances in design, technology, engine efficiency, and build quality is a reminder that the bike belongs to this generation. It is lighter whereas the engine and handling performance are on another level. Meanwhile, the LED forward lighting and LCD controls bring in enough modern flash.
#5. A raw and aggressive character
The more you ride the Harley-Davidson Low Rider S (2023), the more you’ll discover how aggression is a vital part of the motorcycle’s personality. Its outrageous performance will feel raw and if you’ve been longing for a bike that will give you the thrills at a dignified pace, you’ll enjoy every minute that you spend on this impressive cruiser. It is a motorcycle with a lot of Harley character and you will be able to push a bit harder than most cruisers in its class.