Harley-Davidson has given the Low Rider S a major update for 2022 and at the same time added a Low Rider ST version. Both versions are powered by the new Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-twin.
If we can believe the fans, you have cruisers, and you have the Low Rider S, the most ultimate cruiser with which we went Oerend Hard to the Achterhoek last year.
We were then on the road with the 114 ci version, for model year 2022 the Americans have set the displacement at 117 cubic inches, 1,923 cc according to our metric system. This has been achieved by increasing both the bore and the stroke to 103.5 x 114.3 mm. The Milwaukee-Eight 117 is good for 169 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm, which is 5% more than the 155 Nm at 3,000 rpm of its predecessor.
In addition to the new engine, Harley has equipped the 2022 Low Rider S with a new handlebar-mounted analog tachometer with digital speedometer combination, which replaces the instruments of the tank console. That will be a disappointment for the die-hard fans, but the big advantage is that the counters are now better in your field of view.
Also interesting is the higher rear monoshock (mounted out of sight) (13mm more travel, 25mm more rear travel, 19mm higher at the seat), which has raised the rear end and gives the Low Rider S 1 degree more lean angle. That saves some wear and tear on your footrests.
While the Low Rider S should be seen as an aggressive performance cruiser, designed for those looking for raw power, the new Low Rider ST offers the versatility of hard saddlebags and a fixed fairing.
“A key element of this model is the frame-mounted fairing. The shape is inspired by the classic FXRT Sport Glide fairing popular with West Coast customizers.”
“With the dominant central headlight flanked by side vents, the genetic connection to the original FXRT is clearly visible. The sharper pleats and new proportions in the Low Rider ST fairing create a look that is modern, sporty and aerodynamically superior to the FXRT fairing. The saddlebags high above the exhaust improve the performance of the ST because they don’t limit lean angles, encouraging the rider to attack every corner.”
The shape of the new frame-mounted fairing has been developed through computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis and field testing. Triple fixed splitstream vent shafts are designed to limit turbulence around the helmet at highway speeds. A 6-inch windshield has a Dark Smoke tint, and the fairing houses a single 5.75-inch LED headlight.
The lockable, hardcase saddlebags have a streamlined clam-shell design that makes them easy to load and unload. The bags can be opened with one hand by a seated rider, and a damping mechanism ensures the saddlebag lids open and close smoothly. The bags can be removed in seconds with an internal quick release mechanism. The combined capacity of the saddlebags is 54 liters.
A deep solo seat helps keep riders in place during aggressive acceleration and cornering. A 1-inch motocross handlebar is mounted on 4-inch pull-back risers, while a subtle, textured black console sits atop the 19-gallon fuel tank. Instrumentation is presented by a compact digital display in the riser for a sleek custom look.
Ride and handling are enhanced by the chassis, which has been optimized to reduce weight without sacrificing stiffness. The Milwaukee-Eight 117 drivetrain is rigidly mounted in the frame to further improve chassis stiffness. A 43mm upside-down fork stiffens the front end for a responsive ride, and internal single cartridge technology keeps the front wheel planted on the tarmac for improved braking and handling performance.
Like the S, the Low Rider ST is equipped with a larger monoshock at the rear, which must have improved riding comfort and lean angle. Hydraulic under-seat spring preload adjustment allows the ride height to be adjusted for all conditions.
Both models are available in Vivid Black and Gunship Grey. The Low Rider ST will be available worldwide from the end of 2022, the Low Rider S can already be viewed at dealers.
– Thanks for information from Motorfreaks.