Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S 2023 vs. Yamaha V-MAX 2009

Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S 2023

Yamaha V-MAX 2009
Overview - Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S 2023 vs Yamaha V-MAX 2009

Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S 2023

Yamaha V-MAX 2009
Technical Specifications Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S 2023 compared to Yamaha V-MAX 2009
Pros and Cons in comparison
Pros and Cons in comparison
Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S 2023

The Sportster S returns to the tradition of this model series - yes, it really used to be about sport! That's why the latest American creation, with its 122 hp and 125 Nm of torque, doesn't want to be a cruiser, but instead is almost classless in its pursuit of customers. What is on offer is a wonderful poser bike that is surprisingly easy to ride after a little familiarisation. The single-disc brake at the front has a lot of work to do and the fat 160 front tyre does not steer in quite naturally. In addition, the rider has to cope with a hard suspension and a seating position that is energy-sapping on long stages - which of course doesn't matter at all in front of the ice cream parlour. Electronics and safety are top-notch, which mitigates the tidy price for true fans.
Yamaha V-MAX 2009

The big Vmax from Yamaha is a unique bike. This applies to the technical side, with the largest V4 engine in a bike of all time, as well as to the emotional side of riding a Vmax. Few bikes can offer such brute grunt in every riding situation, and even fewer of them are cruisers. Although its stubborn turning behaviour detracts from the riding pleasure, the seating position is quite cramped and the sound could be more indicative of the massive displacement, the propulsion is addictive. The Vmax 1700 is definitely a niche product, but also an absolutely awe-inspiring, unique bike.