The Harley-Davidson Nightster is the most affordable MoCo motorcycle in Canada this year. PHOTO CREDIT: Harley-Davidson
So, let’s talk about tariffs.
If you haven’t noticed, the chatter over the winter has been all about tariffs. The U.S. government has been signaling plans to impose tariffs on Canadian goods, prompting us to respond with our own tariffs on American products, including motorcycles. As a result, Harley-Davidson and Indian motorcycles are expected to see price increases until this situation is resolved… with a couple of exceptions.
First, Harley-Davidson successfully imported a significant number of motorcycles into Canada before any tariffs were implemented, which helped maintain lower prices. Smart move.
Additionally, Harley-Davidson shifted its Sport and Adventure production lines overseas in 2024, moving away from the York, Pennsylvania plant (originally intended for EV production); these models are now made in Thailand. This may help them evade tariffs in Canada and Europe (despite previous disputes with European trade courts). Regardless of tariff implications, moving production to Thailand, where costs are lower, will likely aid in keeping prices down.
Producing in Thailand and importing bikes before tariffs have helped keep the Nightster’s price reasonable this year. PHOTO CREDIT: Harley-Davidson
We are already witnessing the benefits with the 2024-model Harley-Davidson Nightster. The Nightster serves as a replacement for the previous Sportster 883, featuring its air-cooled EVO engine. It boasts a 975cc liquid-cooled engine, which is the smaller version of the Revolution Max engine found in the Pan America adventure bike, just as the earlier EVO engines were available in two sizes.
As of March 2025, Harley-Davidson lists the Nightster at an MSRP of $12,499 in Canada, provided you’re okay with the Billiard Gray color option (upgrading to fancy trims or paint will increase the cost). This is only about $500 more than the last edition of the 2021 Sportster 883, which utilized outdated technology and was produced using antiquated tools on a design that has long since been paid off. Given the decline of the CAD against the USD and the expectation of continued unfavorable exchange rates in the coming months, this might be the ideal time to purchase an entry-level Harley.
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.
American motorcycle brands, including Harley-Davidson, could see a price drop in India following the Budget 2025 announcement by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1, 2025. The budget has reduced import duties on high-capacity motorcycles.
The import duty for motorcycles with engine capacities up to 1,600 cc, which are imported as completely built-up (CBU) units, has been decreased from 50 percent to 40 percent.
Harley Davidson is renowned for its high-capacity motorcycles.
Moreover, the import duty on semi-knocked down (SKD) kits has been lowered from 25 percent to 20 percent, while completely knocked down (CKD) units now incur a tax of 10 percent, reduced from the previous 15 percent.
This tariff reduction is a response to threats from US President Donald Trump regarding reciprocal taxes on nations imposing high tariffs on American goods.
In December, Trump remarked that India’s taxes are excessive, asserting, “If they tax us, we tax them the same amount.”
According to the Ministry of Commerce, India emerged as the largest trading partner of the US last financial year.
Additionally, the tariff on Harley-Davidson bikes has been a contentious issue between India and the US for years, with Trump advocating for its reduction.
