Cruisers

2023Harley-Davidson Nightster Special

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The 2023 Harley-Davidson Nightster Special is a lightweight sport cruiser powered by the 975cc Revolution Max engine delivering 90 horsepower and 95 Nm of torque. Designed for riders seeking modern performance with classic cruiser styling, it combines agile handling with the iconic V-twin character Harley-Davidson is known for. The Nightster Special excels as an accessible entry point to the brand for younger riders and those transitioning from smaller bikes.

Capacity: 975.1 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Dry weight: 210.9 kg
Seat height: 688 mm
Power: 90.0 HP (65.7 kW) @ 7500 RPM

⇄ Compare with another bike ＋ Add to garage All model years

Other years 2023 2024 2025 2026

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail15%

Cornering65%

City riding75%

Daily riding72%

Touring45%

Two-up40%

Track25%

Best for: Built primarily for stylish, engaging around-town and weekend riding rather than outright speed or long-distance touring.
Built for: A modern, muscular take on the classic cruiser with sharp styling, a punchy air/oil-cooled V-twin, and enough chassis composure to enjoy backroads.
Not ideal for: Not well suited for off-road adventures, heavy touring with a passenger, or riders seeking top-tier highway sport performance.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 688mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2023 Harley-Davidson Nightster Special, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 degrees and an upright riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 750 mm or under — Short Kings →

Find bikes that fit your height →

Range and running costs

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Units

Currency

Fuel per litre

Riding a year

Based on the maker's published fuel consumption and tank size. Real-world figures depend on how and where you ride, and the last litres of a tank are reserve. Prices shown greyed are examples - type your own.

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 975.1 ccm
Power: 90.0 HP (65.7 kW) @ 7500 RPM
CO2 Emissions: 128 CO2 g/km
EPA Est. Fuel Consumption: 5.45 L/100km (43.2 US mpg)
EPA CO Emissions: 1.6 CO g/km
Torque: 94.9 Nm (9.7 kgf-m) @ 5000 RPM
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Fuel consumption: 4.50 litres/100 km (22.2 km/l)
Power/weight ratio: 0.4267 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 97.0 x 66.0 mm
Compression: 12.0:1
Cooling system: Liquid
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
Valves per cylinder: 4

Transmission

Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Belt
Clutch: Multi-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1557 mm
Overall length: 2271 mm
Overall width: 861 mm
Seat height: 688 mm
Dry weight: 210.9 kg
Wet weight: 219.1 kg
Fuel capacity: 11.70 litres
Ground clearance: 114 mm
Oil capacity: 4.50 litres

Chassis & suspension

Front suspension: 41mm SHOWA Dual Bending Valve conventional forks. Aluminum fork triple clamps.
Rear suspension: Rear suspension is dual outboard, direct-acting (no linkage) emulsion technology shock absorbers with coil springs and a threaded collar for pre-load adjustment.
Rake (fork angle): 30.0°
Trail: 137 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc. ABS. Axially mounted, 4-piston caliper
Rear brakes: Expanding brake (drum brake). ABS. Floating, single piston caliper
ABS: Yes
Front tyre: 100/90-19
Rear tyre: 150/80-B16

Other

Color options: Vivid Black, Black Denim, Industial Yellow, Bright Billiard Blue
Comments: Ride modes: Road, Rain and Sport. Traction control. Bluetooth. Tire pressure monitor.
Fuel Tank Material: Plastic

Specs last verified against published sources: October 2026.

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted

Specification	2023	2024	2025	2026
Capacity	975 cc	975 cc	975 cc	975 cc
Dry weight	211 kg	211 kg	211 kg	211 kg
Seat height	688 mm	688 mm	688 mm	688 mm
Fuel capacity	11.7 L	11.7 L	11.7 L	11.7 L

Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.

Rider Reviews

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MotorcycleDB

The 2023 Harley-Davidson Nightster Special is a sleek and powerful bike that captures the essence of classic Harley-Davidson style with a modern twist. With its blacked-out components and aggressive stance, this bike is sure to turn heads on the road. The Nightster Special is equipped with a 1200cc V-twin engine that offers plenty of power and torque for a thrilling ride. Its low slung solo seat and mid-mount controls provide a comfortable riding position, while its blacked-out exhaust and hand controls add an extra touch of style.

Overall, the 2023 Harley-Davidson Nightster Special is a stunning and high-performance bike that exudes attitude and style. Whether you're cruising through city streets or hitting the open highway, this bike is sure to deliver an exhilarating and unforgettable riding experience. With its powerful engine, sleek design, and comfortable riding position, the Nightster Special is a top choice for those seeking a modern take on classic Harley-Davidson craftsmanship. If you're in the market for a bike that offers both style and performance, the 2023 Harley-Davidson Nightster Special is definitely worth a closer look.

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