Harley-Davidson Sportster S vs Indian Scout Bobber: Which one is right for you?

Are you looking to buy a new motorcycle, but can’t decide which one to choose? Then this article is for you!

The Harley-Davidson Sportster S delivers high-performance power with the Revolution Max engine and modern tech. The Indian Scout Bobber combines retro styling with a powerful V-twin, both offering competitive features with different aesthetics and ergonomics.

We will compare and contrast two of the most popular models on the market today, the Harley-Davidson Sportster S and the Indian Scout Bobber. We will discuss their features, performance and cost comparisons, so you can make an informed decision. The decision is ultimately yours, but read on to find out which one is right for you!

Overview of Harley-Davidson Sportster S

Harley-Davidson has been manufacturing world-class motorcycles for more the last 120 years, and its Sportster line has been a popular choice among bikers for decades. One of the latest additions to the Sportster family is the Sportster S, a powerful and modern take on the classic cruiser.

The Sportster S is a modern and muscular cruiser that features an extremely powerful V-twin engine and a wide range of advanced features. It is designed to offer a more aggressive riding experience than previous Sportster models, with a low seat height and forward-mounted foot pegs that position the rider in a more aggressive riding position.

The Sportster S comes powered by a liquid-cooled Revolution Max 1250T engine, which delivers a maximum output of 121 HP and 94 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with a six-speed transmission and features a range of advanced technologies, including variable timing, which helps in improving fuel efficiency and power delivery. It also features a range of advanced suspension and braking systems, including fully adjustable front and rear suspension, Michelin Scorcher tires, and Brembo brakes. The motorcycle also features a range of modern technologies like a full-color TFT display, keyless ignition, and LED lighting.

History of the Sportster line

The Sportster line was first introduced by Harley-Davidson in 1957 as a smaller and lighter alternative to the brand’s larger motorcycles. The first Sportster model was the XL Sportster, and it came powered by an 883cc V-twin engine. It featured a range of performance upgrades like a high-performance carburetor and dual exhausts.

Over the years, the Sportster line greatly evolved and expanded, with new models and upgrades getting introduced to keep up with the changing trends and rider preferences. In the 1970s, Harley-Davidson introduced the Sportster XLCR, a café racer-inspired model that came with a sleek and modern design, as well as a wide range of performance upgrades.

In the 90s, Harley-Davidson came out with the Sportster 1200, which featured a larger engine and more advanced suspension and braking systems. The brand also introduced the Sportster Custom, a model that featured a wide range of customization options and a more relaxed riding position.

Lately, the Sportster line has continued evolving, with the introduction of the Forty-Eight and Iron 883 models, which come with a more stripped-down and minimalist take on the classic cruiser. The Harley-Davidson Sportster S is the latest evolution of the Sportster line. This motorcycle comes with a focus on power, performance, and modern design.

Overview of Indian Scouter Bobber

Indian Scout Bobber is a modern cruiser bike that boasts classic American styling with modern features. It is one of the most popular motorcycle models manufactured by the Indian Motorcycle Company. The brand has a long and storied history in the motorcycle industry, and it has released numerous exciting models, but not many are better than Indian Scouter Bobber.

The Indian Scout Bobber is a stripped-down version of the Indian Scout, with a more aggressive and minimalist look. It features a low seat height, forward controls, and a blacked-out design that gives a sleek and modern appearance. The Scout Bobber is also powered by a liquid-cooled, 60-degree V-twin engine that produces 100 HP and 72 lb-ft of torque.

The motorcycle has a wide range of advanced features, including a six-speed transmission, ABS brakes, and a modern instrument cluster with a digital display. Moreover, it also features a range of customization options with various accessories and upgrades available for customizing the bike to your liking.

History of the Indian Scout Bobber

The Indian Scout Bobber has its roots in the original Indian Scout, which was introduced back in 1919. The Scout was a lightweight and nimble bike that quickly gained a reputation for its speed and performance. Over the years, the Scout was constantly refined and updated, with new models and features getting introduced to keep up with the changing trends and rider preferences.

In 2017, Indian Motorcycle introduced the Indian Scout Bobber, which was designed to be a stripped-down and more aggressive version of the Scout. The bike featured a wide range of performance upgrades, including a lowered suspension, a more aggressive riding position, and more. It even had a range of customization options, with various accessories and upgrades available to personalize the motorcycle to your liking.

Since its introduction, the Indian Scout Bobber has become one of the most popular models produced by the Indian Motorcycle Company. It has been praised heavily for its sleek and modern design, as well as its impressive performance and handling.

Harley-Davidson Sportster S vs Indian Scout Bobber: Design features

Harley-Davidson Sportster S and Indian Scout Bobber are two iconic cruiser bikes that have managed to capture the attention of riders worldwide. These motorcycles come with distinctive designs and unique features that set them apart from one another. Here are how the two bikes compare in terms of design features – 

Design features of the Harley-Davidson Sportster S

The Harley-Davidson Sportster S features a modern design with a classic twist. The motorcycle has a muscular profile with a low seat height and a chopped rear fender. It comes equipped with a 1200cc Revolution Max V-twin engine that produces 121 HP and 94 lb-ft of torque, which makes it one of the most powerful Sportster bikes to date.

One of the major design features of the Sportster S is the TFT touchscreen display. The motorcycle’s display shows essential information such as speed, gear position, RPM, and fuel level. The display also comes with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing the bikers to connect their smartphone to the bike and access music and navigation while riding.

Further, the Sportster S also features a high-performance suspension system that includes a fully adjustable Showa fork and a piggyback rear shock. These features offer riders a comfortable and smooth ride even on rough terrain.

Design features of the Indian Scout Bobber

The Indian Scout Bobber features a minimalist design that is inspired by the original Scout motorcycles of the 1920s. The motorcycle has a low stance with a chopped front fender and a solo saddle seat. It comes equipped with a 1133cc V-twin engine capable of producing 100 HP and 72 lb-ft of torque, making it a powerful cruiser bike.

One of the key design features of the Scout Bobber is its stripped-down look, giving it a retro appeal. The motorcycle features blacked-out components, wire wheels, and a tracker-style handlebar. The motorcycle also has LED lighting, which offers better visibility at night and adds to its modern appeal.

The Scout Bobber features a cartridge fork front suspension and a dual shock rear suspension that provides a comfortable ride on different road surfaces. The bike also has ABS brakes, which provide excellent stopping power and improve safety on the road.

Harley-Davidson Sportster S vs Indian Scout Bobber: Performance

Harley-Davidson Sportster S and Indian Scout Bobber are popular cruiser bikes known for their incredible performance. These motorcycles are renowned for their classic American styling, modern features, and impressive performance. Here is how Sportster S and Scout Bobber compare in terms of performance – 

Engine power

The Harley-Davidson Sportster S comes powered by a liquid-cooled Revolution Max 1250T engine, capable of producing a whopping 121 HP and 94 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with a six-speed transmission that provides smooth and precise shifts. The Sportster S is among the most powerful bikes in the Sportster lineup, and it certainly offers a thrilling riding experience.

Meanwhile, Indian Scout Bobber comes powered by a liquid-cooled, 60-degree V-twin engine that produces 100 HP and 72 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to a six-speed transmission that provides seamless shifting. While the Scout Bobber’s engine is not as powerful as the Sportster S, it still offers impressive performance and acceleration.

Acceleration

When it comes to acceleration, the Harley-Davidson Sportster S turns out to be a clear winner. The Sportster S is capable of going from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds, which makes it one of the fastest motorcycles in its class. The Sportster S’ powerful engine and lightweight design make it an incredible choice for bikers who want to experience the thrill of speed and acceleration.

The Indian Scout Bobber, on the other hand, has a 0 to 60 mph acceleration time of around 4.5 seconds. While it is not as fast as the Sportster S, it’s still rather impressive for a cruiser motorcycle. The Scout Bobber’s engine provides ample power and torque, allowing riders to easily navigate city streets and highways.

Braking

The Harley-Davidson Sportster comes equipped with dual 320 mm disc brakes with Brembo calipers on the front and a single 260 mm disc brake on the rear. The motorcycle also features a cornering ABS system, which adjusts the braking force based on the lean angle of the motorcycle. The braking performance of the Harley-Davidson Sportster S is tremendous, as it offers smooth and precise stopping power.

Meanwhile, the Indian Scout Bobber features a single 298 mm disc brake with a two-piston caliper on the front and a single 298 mm disc brake with a single-piston caliper on the rear. Further, it also comes equipped with ABS, which provides amazing stopping power and stability. However, the braking system on the Scout Bobber is not quite as advanced as the Sportster S.

Handling and suspension

The Harley-Davidson S is designed for sportier handling and performance, largely because of its lightweight frame and advanced suspension system. The motorcycle features a premium fully adjustable Showa suspension system, including a 43 mm inverted fork on the front and a piggyback reservoir shock on the rear. The suspension system offers excellent handling, stability, and comfort, even on bumpy roads.

Coming to Indian Scout Bobber, it is designed for a more relaxed and comfortable riding experience. The motorcycle features a telescopic fork on the front and dual shocks on the rear, which offers ample comfort and handling for most riding situations. However, the suspension system on the Scout Bobber is not as advanced or adjustable as the Sportster S.

Harley-Davidson Sportster S vs Indian Scout Bobber: Fuel economy

Harley-Davidson Sportster S and Indian Scout Bobber are iconic bikes known for their stylish looks and impressive performance. But how the two bikes compare in terms of gas mileage and economy features?

Gas mileage comparison

The Harley-Davidson Sportster S comes powered by a high-performance Revolution Max 1250T engine that delivers impressive power and acceleration. However, the motorcycle’s fuel efficiency isn’t its strongest point as it has an estimated fuel economy of 48 miles per gallon (MPG) on the highway and 38 MPG in the city. The motorcycle features a 3.1-gallon fuel tank, which provides a range of around 148 miles on the highway and 117 miles in the city.

Indian Scout Bobber comes powered by a liquid-cooled, 1133cc V-twin engine that delivers a balance of power and fuels efficiency. It has an estimated fuel efficiency of 65 MPG on the highway and 45 MPG in the city. It also comes with a 3.3-gallon fuel tank, which delivers a range of around 214 miles on the highway and 148 miles in the city.

Cost of ownership

The cost of ownership of a Harley depends on various factors, including maintenance, repairs, insurance, and depreciation. The Harley-Davidson Sportster S is a relatively new model, and there isn’t a particular long-term cost of ownership for this bike. Based on the price of the motorcycle and the cost of Harley-Davidson’s recommended maintenance schedule and the estimated cost of ownership of this bike is relatively high.

Indian Scout Bobber has been on the market for numerous years, and its long-term cost of ownership is more predictable. As per numerous owner reviews, the Indian Scout Bobber has a rather low cost of ownership, with affordable maintenance, repair costs, and insurance premiums. The motorcycle manages to retain its value quite well, which helps minimize the depreciation costs.

Harley-Davidson Sportster S vs Indian Scout Bobber: Comfort

Harley-Davidson Sportster S and Indian Scout Bobber are both incredibly popular, and they have become particular favorites of bikers. Both of these bikes offer exceptional features, great design, powerful performance, and more. But how do the Harley-Davidson Sportster S and Indian Scout Bobber compare in terms of comfort and ergonomics to help you make a better decision?

Comfort and ergonomics

The ergonomics of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle are critical to its comfort and handling, especially during long rides. The Harley-Davidson Sportster S comes with a relaxed riding position, with mid-mounted foot controls and a low-rise handlebar that offers a comfortable riding position for most bikers. The motorcycle has a low seat height of 29.6 inches, which makes it accessible for bikers of all experience levels and sizes.

The Indian Scout Bobber, on the other hand, has a much more aggressive riding position, with forward-mounted foot controls and a flat handlebar that places the rider in a more leaned-forward position. The Scout Bobber also has a slightly higher seat height of 25.6 inches, which might not be as comfortable for shorter riders.

Additional features

The Harley-Davidson Sportster S comes with a wide range of additional features, including a TFT touchscreen display that offers access to the bike’s navigation, media, and ride modes. Further, it also comes with a keyless ignition, a USB port, and a security system as standard. In addition, the Harley-Davidson Sportster S also brings along LED lighting, including a Daymaker headlight, which provides improved visibility and safety during nighttime riding.

Meanwhile, the Indian Scout Bobber also comes with a wide range of additional features, such as a USB charging port, a security system, and keyless ignition. The motorcycle also features LED lighting, including a headlight, taillight, and turn signals. However, the Indian Scout Bobber does lack a touchscreen display. This could be a disadvantage for riders who prioritize advanced technology features.

Harley-Davidson Sportster S vs Indian Scout Bobber: Value and price

When you are purchasing a new motorcycle, its price and value will be key factors to consider. Harley-Davidson Sportster S and Indian Scout Bobber come with a wide range of features and benefits to riders. But how do the Sportster S and Scout Bobber compare in terms of value and price?

Price point

The Harley-Davidson Sportster S comes with a starting price of around $14,999, which makes it a relatively expensive option compared to other cruiser bikes in its class. However, the motorcycle offers a wide range of advanced features and technology, such as a TFT touchscreen display, which justifies its higher price point.

Meanwhile, the Indian Scout Bobber comes with a starting point of $11,499, which is comparatively lower than the Sportster S. However, the motorcycle lacks some of the advanced features and technology that the Harley-Davidson Sportster S offers, such as the touchscreen display.

Availability

Harley-Davidson is a brand known for having a vast network of dealerships and service centers all over the world. This makes the Sportster S readily available to riders in most countries. The brand has a reputation for quality and reliability, and its bikes are popular among riders of all levels of experience.

Indian Motorcycles, the manufacturer of the Scout Bobber, also has a strong dealership network, even though it isn’t as extensive as Harley-Davidson bikes. However, the brand is known for producing high-quality bikes and has a dedicated following among riders.

Resale value comparison

Harley-Davidson motorcycles, including the Harley-Davidson Sportster S, typically have a higher resale value compared to other cruiser bikes in the market. This is because of the brand’s reputation for quality, reliability, and longevity. The Sportster S is no exception and will likely to hold its value over time.

Meanwhile, the Indian Scout Bobber also has a strong resale value, although it might not be as high as that of the Sportster S. However, the motorcycle’s unique design and styling make it an incredibly popular choice among bikers, which could help in maintaining its value over time.

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