‘It’s the H-D… but only just’

After riding the Nightster I am left feeling conflicted. On one hand I love the fact it is sporty and has a chassis that lets you enjoy the bends. I also like the fact Harley have given it TC, which although not really necessary is good to see, and brakes that perform. But on the other hand, I feel a tad let down.

Compared to the Indian the level of build quality on the Harley is noticeably below the standard I would expect on a £13k bike, the power modes are pointless and the fuel-injection system is poor with too many glitches. And then there is the engine which, while undeniably fast when allowed to rev, is tinny and lacking in midrange when ridden back-to-back with the thumping Indian at a slower pace. It just doesn’t feel ‘Harley’ to me. Of course, this is a personal opinion and others, Bruce included, are drawn to its more ‘modern’ attitude.

Conflicted as I am, after the MCN250 I tend to agree with Bruce and find myself leaning slightly more towards the Harley. In this class the Nightster gives performance precedence over cruiser where the Rogue swings the other way. The Harley’s sporting focus suits my demands better, but I would need to do something about that fuelling and lack of midrange.

LIKES

● The Nightster’s remarkable agility and impressive handling

● The Rogue’s thumping engine character

● The Indian’s overall feeling of quality

DISLIKES

● The ridiculous mirrors on the Indian Rogue

● Harley’s cluttered and tricky-to-read instruments

● A lack of ground clearance on the Indian Rogue

● The Nightster’s peaky and whirry-sounding motor