Harley-davidson Nightster vs Harley-davidson Sportster Xl1200x Forty-eight
Side-by-side comparison for used motorcycle buyers
Performance at a Glance
Green = winner per metric · Bars are relative to the higher value
Harley-davidson Nightster
Harley-davidson Sportster Xl1200x Forty-eight
Horsepower (hp)
89 hp
66 hp
Torque (Nm)
95 Nm
96 Nm
Top Speed (km/h)
185 km/h
175 km/h
Weight (kg) — lower is better
220 kg
253 kg
Type
Cruiser
Cruiser
Horsepower
89 hp @ 7,500 rpm
66 hp @ 5,500 rpm (estimated SAE net; Harley-Davidson did not officially publish figures for this model)
Torque
95 Nm @ 5,000 rpm
96 Nm @ 3,500 rpm
Top Speed
185 km/h (estimated)
175 km/h (estimated; note: varies with rider and conditions)
Weight
220 kg (wet/curb weight)
253 kg (wet/curb weight)
Fuel
5.5 L/100km (approx. 18 km/L typical real-world average)
5.5 L/100km (approx. 18.2 km/L, typical real-world average)
Fairing
No
No
Individual Reviews
Harley-davidson Nightster
7.8/10
"A genuinely good motorcycle that earns respect beyond the badge."
Pros
+Revolution Max engine is excellent
+Actually corners with confidence
+Low, manageable seat height
Cons
−Stock seat is punishment
−Cramped for tall riders
−Limited wind protection
Harley-davidson Sportster Xl1200x Forty-eight
7.5/10
"Brilliant urban bruiser, but that tank will break your heart."
Pros
+Punchy low-end torque delivery
+Iconic aggressive bobber styling
+Low seat, beginner-friendly height
Cons
−Tiny tank kills range
−Suspension soft stock
−Vibration fatigues on highways
Top 10 Accessories
Picks that work on either bike.
