If you thought the $110,000 price of the 2025 Harley Davidson CVO Road Glide RR made it impossible for you to own a Harley-Davidson due to its steep prices, Harley-Davidson offers another model that is far more affordable. The 2025 Nightster is now priced at $9,999, which is $500 less than its 2024 predecessor, bringing the starting cost down from $10,499.
Why a sub-$10K Harley-Davidson matters
The Nightster is priced just shy of $10K, but perception is crucial. As Harley’s entry-level motorcycle, the Nightster stands out as it boasts a V-Twin engine, unlike previous budget models which lacked this feature. With the liquid-cooled Revolution Max 975T V-Twin motor, it earns its reputation as a genuine Harley.
In recent years, motorcycle prices have surged, and U.S. sales growth lags behind Europe and Asia. If every Harley-Davidson model exceeds $10,000, it disqualifies the brand from consideration for many first-time buyers whose budgets are limited to under $10K. The reality is that many impressive models from competing brands are available below this price point, making it essential for Harley-Davidson to capture new customers.
What you get with a 2025 Nightster
As with all Harley-Davidson motorcycles, the Nightster offers a broad array of factory and dealer-installed accessories for customization. However, the base model itself is already a well-equipped and impressive package.
The Revolution Max 975T V-Twin engine produces a robust 91 horsepower and delivers substantial low-end torque. With a ready-to-ride weight of 481 pounds and a seat height of 27.1 inches, it is suitable for both smaller riders and novices.
The Nightster comes standard with various safety features including antilock brakes with Brembo components, traction control, selectable ride modes (Road, Rain, and Sport), and LED lighting.
The 2025 Nightster is currently available at Harley-Davidson dealerships, starting at $9,999 for the model with black trim and Brilliant Gray paint. Color options include Vivid Black for an additional $500 and Whiskey Fire for $750. It is also available with chrome trim and Snake Venom finish for an extra $900.
HARLEY Davidson has reduced the price of one of its latest motorcycles to below $10,000 in a bid to boost sales.
This fresh model is ideal for motorcycle enthusiasts seeking a premium and sporty experience.
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Harley-Davidson is slashing the price of one of its top sports bikes to under $10,000 (stock image)Credit: Getty
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The 2025 Nightster now starts at $9,999, marking a new era of affordable, high-performance bikesCredit: Harley Davidson
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The sleek blacked-out bike is now hundreds of dollars less than its original priceCredit: Harley Davidson
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Harley is making some major business moves to broaden its audienceCredit: Getty
The price reductions impact three of Harley’s more budget-friendly models – the Nightster, the Sportster, and the Nightster Special.
Currently, the entry-level Nightster can be acquired for just $9,999, while the Sportster begins at $15,999, and the Nightster Special is listed at $12,499, as reported by Auto Evolution.
The base Nightster, previously priced at $10,499, boasts a 975cc Revolution Max V-Twin engine, delivering 91 horsepower and 97 Nm of torque.
At this competitive price, buyers also receive 14-spoke cast aluminum wheels, Brembo brakes, LED lighting, and a 27-inch seat height, which is perfect for riders seeking a nimble experience.
The Nightster Special features the same engine but includes premium enhancements like a 4-inch TFT screen with Bluetooth, ABS, selectable ride modes, and a passenger seat for added comfort.
At the top tier, the Sportster S comes with a 1,252cc Revolution Max 1250T engine that generates 121 horsepower and 127 Nm of torque.
This model is outfitted with high-performance Brembo brakes, fully adjustable suspension, and a low, aggressive stance designed for optimum power and handling.
While the bike may not exude luxury, its performance capabilities and sleek, blacked-out design make it a standout competitor.
The entry-level model, showcased in Billiard Gray, serves as the most affordable entry point into Harley’s sports bike range.
However, it’s important to note that the final costs for these models can be significantly higher than the base prices once optional upgrades are included.
Harley-Davidson’s 2025 Lineup: 7 New Bikes Unveiled
While the starting price appears attractive, potential riders should be aware that taxes, title, registration, and other fees will increase the overall expenditure.
This pricing strategy marks a new chapter for the Milwaukee-based manufacturer, merging affordability with high-performance motorcycles.
This new price approach is likely a tactical shift aimed at drawing in a wider range of riders, particularly in the competitive sportbike sector.
Despite the additional details, Harley’s decision to lower prices indicates a shift in their business strategy, possibly targeting younger, cost-conscious customers.
What are the new and refreshed Harley-Davidson motorcycles for 2025?
The lineup of completely new 2025 models features:
The Street Glide Ultra designed for long-distance touring alongside the Pan America 1250 ST, a versatile adventure sport motorcycle.
Additionally, Harley-Davidson has refreshed six iconic Cruiser models for 2025: the Low Rider S; Low Rider ST; Breakout; Heritage Classic; Fat Boy; and Street Bob.
The brand’s Sportster S has also received updates.
A series of limited-edition Custom Vehicle Operation (CVO) motorcycles features four models: CVO Street Glide; CVO Road Glide; CVO Road Glide ST; and CVO Pan America.
The manufacturer announced that these new models complete the 2025 Harley-Davidson Grand American Touring, Cruiser, Sport, Adventure Touring, and Trike motorcycle collections.
The revised pricing strategy may help the brand attract new supporters, particularly in a market already saturated with Japanese and European motorcycles that are presenting competitive offerings at lower costs.
2025 LINEUP
Harley-Davidson, headquartered in Milwaukee, has unveiled its all-new and updated motorcycles for the 2025 model lineup.
This collection encompasses the new Street Glide Ultra long-distance touring model, the Pan America 1250 ST adventure sport motorcycle, and a series of six revitalized Cruiser models for 2025.
Additionally, this year marks the upgrades of the powerful Sportster S model, alongside a selection of four limited-production Custom Vehicle Operation (CVO) motorcycles.
Harley is also launching six new 2025 Cruiser models, blending modern technology with the classic appeal.
Other enhancements include improved suspension for the Sportster S and four exclusive Custom Vehicle Operation (CVO) models featuring unique designs and premium attributes.
