Everything You Need to Know About the Harley Roadster

Elegance. Toughness. Grace. Style. Only one motorcycle manages to capture it all (and with a healthy dose of attitude). We give to you, the Harley-Davidson 2020 Roadster. The perfect blend of classic style and modern performance, this bike can do it all. The roadster is a no-nonsense powerhouse with a chopped fender and custom styling. It’s been lauded as one of the best all-around performance bikes ever made. From die-hard riders to casual drivers, this motorcycle has something to offer everyone, and we’ve compiled everything you need to know about the Harley Roadster, right here.

History:

The very first Harley Sportster model was introduced back in 1957. They developed several key differences from the precursor models that came before it, such as the Model-K and Sport Solo models. The main difference was the switch from side valve engines to overhead engines. This boost in safety and performance allowed for more acceleration and torque, causing far fewer incidents whilst driving on the road. Since then, the Sportster model has become one of the most popular models for all-around riders with over 9 different styles to choose from. The Harley styling team led by Brad Richards, has created a minimalistic throwback to the golden age of the highway. You have full customization and control over the 2020 Roadster. It is the premiere motorcycle, created from over sixty years of experience.

Features:

Engine: The Roadster boasts a 1,200cc air-cooled Evolution v-twin engine, with a displacement of 73.4ci (1202cc) which allows for 76 lb-ft of torque at 3,750rpm. The compression ratio is 10:1, and the bore x stroke is 3.5 x 3.8. It features a pushrod 2vpc valvetrain and air-cooling system. The roadster uses dry sump lubrication and has a five-speed transmission. The primary drive is chain operated and utilizes a belt for final drive.

Chassis: the chassis is made from tubular mild steel. The front suspension is a non-adjustable 43mm inverted fork at 4.5 inches. The rear suspension is an adjustable preload variable rate spring with nitrogen charged emulsion-style shock at 3.2 inches. The wheels are 5-spoke cast aluminum with measurements of 19×3.00 for the front wheel and 18 x 4.30 for the rear. The bike features Dunlop Harley Davidson tires with measurements of 120/70 x 19 for the front tire and 150/70 x 18 for the rear (not sure how to read tires?). There are 300mm disc brakes with dual piston calipers. An ABS is optional for an additional cost but worth looking into when riding in the Northwest.

Dimensions: The wheelbase is 59.3 inches, and the rake is 28.9 degrees. The trail is 5.5 inches, while the lean angle is (r/l) 30.8/31.1 degrees. The seat sits at 30.9 inches. The fuel capacity is 3.3 gallons and uses an electronic sequential port fuel injection system. The estimated fuel economy is 48 mpg. The roadster is relatively light weight, weighing just 571 pounds.

Exhaust: the bike has a shorty-dual exhaust with chrome tapered mufflers and laser but black heat shields to prevent your engine from overheating. It has a 3.3-gallon fuel tank. The bike comes in a number of sleek colors, including vivid black, denim black, stone washed white pearl, and performance orange. It’s also one of the lightest bikes on the market, weighing just 571 pounds. The Roadster is also highly affordable, with prices around $11,400. At its core, it’s a street style performance bike that will take you anywhere you need to go. You’ll look good, feel good, and get to your destination safely.

New features of 2020 model: 1200cc Air-Cooled Engine, blacked out styling, lowered bars and speedo with tach, 43mm front suspension with inverted forks, dual disc front brakes with floating rotors, aggressive Two-Up seat, and light weight offset split 5-spoke wheels.

The dimensions of the Roadster and ease of use makes this both a great beginner bike and excellent bike for female riders. Don’t let that fool you though, the power and aggressive riding position take you back to an era where riding was life and getting to your destination was as much fun as the journey. Look deeper into the Roadster by visiting High Desert Harley Davidson.

Fun Facts:

• The original 1957 Roadster model was the first to incorporate hydraulic shock absorbers in the front and rear tires.
• All roadster and sportster models use the product code “XL” for identification
• Prior to 2003, the engine was mounted directly to the frame, making the bike lighter, but transferring engine vibration to the rider. They installed rubber isolation mounts to rectify the problem
• The 1967 XLH model was the first to use electric starters
• Traditional “overhead valve” engine model was officially retired in 1985 and replaced by the Evolution engine.
• The main difference between a Sportster and Roadster is performance based. The Roadster has the dual front disc brakes and tachometer, meaning you have better control over the bike.