Harley-Davidson is one of the most iconic and recognizable motorcycle brands in the world. For many riders, owning a Harley is a dream come true. However, not all Harleys are created equal. Some models are more suitable for beginners than others, depending on factors such as size, weight, power, price, and features.
If you are new to riding and want to start your journey with a Harley-Davidson, you might be wondering which model is the best for you. To help you out, we have compiled a list of the top 10 entry-level Harley-Davidson motorcycles that you can consider. These bikes are easy to handle, affordable, and offer a great riding experience.
1. Sportster S
The Sportster S is the latest addition to the Sportster line of Harley-Davidsons, which is one of the oldest and most popular lines in the company's history. The Sportster S is a modern and powerful bike that combines the classic Sportster style with the latest technology and performance.
The Sportster S features a 1250cc Revolution Max engine that delivers 121 horsepower and 94 lb-ft of torque. It also has a six-speed transmission, a slipper clutch, a 4-inch round TFT display, cornering-enhanced ABS and traction control, cruise control, drag bars, mid-mount controls, LED lighting, and a 3.1-gallon fuel tank.
The Sportster S has a low seat height of 29.6 inches and a wet weight of 502 pounds, making it easy to maneuver and control. It also has a sleek and aggressive design that will turn heads on the road. The Sportster S starts at $16,399 and is available in four colors: Vivid Black, Stone Washed White Pearl, Midnight Crimson, and Deadwood Green.
2. Nightster
The Nightster is another model from the Sportster line that offers a great entry-level option for beginners. The Nightster is a retro-inspired bike that pays homage to the original Sportsters of the 1950s and 1960s. It has a stripped-down and minimalist look that showcases the raw beauty of the machine.
The Nightster features a 1200cc Evolution engine that produces 79 horsepower and 70 lb-ft of torque. It also has a five-speed transmission, a dual disc front brake, a single disc rear brake, an analog speedometer and tachometer, mid-mount controls, drag bars, LED lighting, and a 3.3-gallon fuel tank.
The Nightster has a low seat height of 25.7 inches and a wet weight of 548 pounds, making it accessible and comfortable for riders of different heights and sizes. It also has a dark and edgy design that reflects its rebellious spirit. The Nightster starts at $13,499 and is available in two colors: Vivid Black and Billiard Red. LED Factory Mart offers a wide range of Harley motorcycle parts.
3. Softail Standard
The Softail Standard is one of the most affordable models from the Softail line of Harley-Davidsons, which is known for its hidden rear suspension that gives the appearance of a hardtail bike. The Softail Standard is a classic cruiser that offers a smooth and comfortable ride.
The Softail Standard features a 107ci Milwaukee-Eight engine that delivers 110 horsepower and 110 lb-ft of torque. It also has a six-speed transmission, a single disc front brake, a single disc rear brake, an analog speedometer, mini-ape hanger bars, forward controls, LED lighting, and a 3.5-gallon fuel tank.
The Softail Standard has a seat height of 26 inches and a wet weight of 642 pounds, making it stable and easy to balance. It also has a simple and elegant design that can be customized with various accessories and options. The Softail Standard starts at $14,399 and is available in Vivid Black.
4. Street Bob 114
The Street Bob 114 is another model from the Softail line that offers a great entry-level option for beginners. The Street Bob 114 is a bobber-style bike that has a stripped-down and minimalist look that emphasizes its performance and agility.
The Street Bob 114 features a 114ci Milwaukee-Eight engine that produces 119 horsepower and 119 lb-ft of torque. It also has a six-speed transmission, a dual disc front brake, a single disc rear brake, a digital riser gauge, mini-ape hanger bars, mid-mount controls, LED lighting, and a 3.5-gallon fuel tank.
The Street Bob 114 has a seat height of 25.8 inches and a wet weight of 659 pounds, making it nimble and fun to ride. It also has a rugged and cool design that will appeal to riders who like to stand out from the crowd. The Street Bob 114 starts at $16,599 and is available in three colors: Vivid Black, Baja Orange, and Deadwood Green.
5. Iron 883
The Iron 883 is one of the most popular models from the Sportster line of Harley-Davidsons, and for good reason. The Iron 883 is a sporty and stylish bike that offers a great entry-level option for beginners who want to experience the thrill of riding a Harley.
The Iron 883 features an 883cc Evolution engine that produces 53 horsepower and 54 lb-ft of torque. It also has a five-speed transmission, a single disc front brake, a single disc rear brake, an analog speedometer and tachometer, drag bars, mid-mount controls, LED lighting, and a 3.3-gallon fuel tank.
The Iron 883 has a low seat height of 25.7 inches and a wet weight of 564 pounds, making it easy to handle and control. It also has a blacked-out and aggressive design that reflects its attitude and personality. The Iron 883 starts at $9,999 and is available in four colors: Black Denim, River Rock Gray Denim, Deadwood Green, and Snake Venom.
6. Low Rider S
The Low Rider S is another model from the Softail line that offers a great entry-level option for beginners who want to ride with style and power. The Low Rider S is a performance-oriented bike that has a low-slung and muscular look that draws inspiration from the custom scene.
The Low Rider S features a 114ci Milwaukee-Eight engine that produces 119 horsepower and 119 lb-ft of torque. It also has a six-speed transmission, a dual disc front brake, a single disc rear brake, a digital riser gauge, speed screen fairing, mini-ape hanger bars, mid-mount controls, LED lighting, and a 5-gallon fuel tank.
The Low Rider S has a seat height of 26.5 inches and a wet weight of 679 pounds, making it stable and responsive. It also has a bold and sleek design that will make you feel confident and powerful on the road. The Low Rider S starts at $18,199 and is available in two colors: Vivid Black and Midnight Crimson.
7. Street Rod
The Street Rod is one of the most affordable models from the Street line of Harley-Davidsons, which is designed for urban riders who want to navigate the city with ease and agility. The Street Rod is a nimble and sporty bike that offers a great entry-level option for beginners who want to ride with fun and flair.
The Street Rod features a 750cc Revolution X engine that produces 69 horsepower and 47 lb-ft of torque. It also has a six-speed transmission, a dual disc front brake, a single disc rear brake, an analog speedometer and tachometer, drag bars, mid-mount controls, LED lighting, and a 3.5-gallon fuel tank.
The Street Rod has a seat height of 29.8 inches and a wet weight of 505 pounds, making it light and easy to maneuver. It also has a dynamic and colorful design that will make you stand out from the crowd. The Street Rod starts at $8,999 and is available in three colors: Vivid Black, Stone Washed White Pearl, and Performance Orange.
8. Heritage Classic
The Heritage Classic is one of the most versatile models from the Softail line of Harley-Davidsons, which can be transformed from a touring bike to a cruiser with ease. The Heritage Classic is a comfortable and reliable bike that offers a great entry-level option for beginners who want to ride with convenience and class.
The Heritage Classic features a 107ci Milwaukee-Eight engine that produces 110 horsepower and 110 lb-ft of torque. It also has a six-speed transmission, a dual disc front brake, a single disc rear brake, an analog speedometer and tachometer, detachable windshield, saddlebags, mini-ape hanger bars, forward controls, LED lighting, cruise control, ABS, security system, keyless ignition, and a 5-gallon fuel tank.
The Heritage Classic has a seat height of 26.3 inches and a wet weight of 728 pounds, making it comfortable and easy to balance. It also has a classic and elegant design that can be customized with various accessories and options. The Heritage Classic starts at $21,199 and is available in seven colors: Vivid Black, Billiard Teal/Birch White, Billiard Red/Vivid Black, Deadwood Green/Vivid Black, Gauntlet Gray Metallic/Vivid Black, Snake Venom, and Midnight Crimson.
9. Pan America 1250
The Pan America 1250 is one of the newest models from the Adventure line of Harley-Davidsons, which is the company’s first foray into the adventure touring segment. The Pan America 1250 is a versatile and capable bike that offers a great entry-level option for beginners who want to explore the world with adventure and excitement.
The Pan America 1250 features a 1250cc Revolution Max engine that produces 150 horsepower and 94 lb-ft of torque. It also has a six-speed transmission, a dual disc front brake, a single disc rear brake, a 6.8-inch TFT display, adaptive ride height, cornering-enhanced ABS and traction control, cruise control, five ride modes, LED lighting, a 5.6-gallon fuel tank, and a luggage system.
The Pan America 1250 has a seat height of 31.1 inches and a wet weight of 559 pounds, making it agile and easy to adjust. It also has a modern and rugged design that can handle any terrain and weather conditions. The Pan America 1250 starts at $19,999 and is available in two colors: Vivid Black and River Rock Gray.
10. Road King
The Road King is one of the most classic models from the Touring line of Harley-Davidsons, which is designed for long-distance riding and comfort. The Road King is a timeless and reliable bike that offers a great entry-level option for beginners who want to ride with luxury and grace.
The Road King features a 107ci Milwaukee-Eight engine that produces 110 horsepower and 110 lb-ft of torque. It also has a six-speed transmission, a dual disc front brake, a single disc rear brake, an analog speedometer and tachometer, detachable windshield, saddlebags, mini-ape hanger bars, forward controls, LED lighting, cruise control, ABS, security system, keyless ignition, and a 6-gallon fuel tank.
The Road King has a seat height of 26.3 inches and a wet weight of 836 pounds, making it comfortable and easy to balance. It also has a classic and elegant design that can be customized with various accessories and options. The Road King starts at $21,999 and is available in six colors: Vivid Black, Billiard Red, Gauntlet Gray Metallic, Snake Venom, Deadwood Green/Vivid Black, and Midnight Crimson/Vivid Black.
These are the top 10 entry-level Harley-Davidson motorcycles that you can consider if you are new to riding and want to start your journey with a Harley. Each model has its own strengths and weaknesses, so you should do your own research and test ride before you make your final decision. No matter which model you choose, you will enjoy the quality, performance, and style that Harley-Davidson is known for.