It was also the direct rival of many British models in the late 1950s and early 1960s, particularly the Triumph Bonneville 650cc.
In 1957, the world of motorcycling experienced a major turning point when Harley-Davidson launched the legendary Sportster. This motorcycle has been in production for over 50 years and has been the model of choice for a strong and agile motorcycle that is easy to maneuver around town while still being powerful. It was also the direct rival of many British models in the late 1950s and early 1960s, particularly the Triumph Bonneville 650cc. With advances in riding technology and engine upgrades over the decades, the Sportster also evolved, seeing a major jump in displacement from 883cc to 1000cc in 1972. These motorcycles only benefited from 'a five-speed transmission only at the end of the 20th century, in 1991, after several refreshed variations over the decades. Today, the Sportster has evolved into the tech-rich, acceleration-hungry Sportster S that would make its predecessors proud with what it has become today.