So, you’re between 19 and 23 years old and decide to take your motorcycle test, you are going to pass your test getting what’s known as an A2 standard licence. By law, this means you can ride any motorcycle with a maximum of 35kw power. This licence will see you restricted for two years or until you turn 24 years old when you can take another test.

Harley-Davidson do not produce a dedicated 35kw machine, they have however been very mindful of this large European licence class when developing the new to range Nightster 975.

The 2022 Nightster is the replacement for Harley’s long standing 883, a motorcycle which has been many riders first taste of the brand, sparking a life long relationship with the dream that is Harley-Davidson

Built from the ground up the new Nightster has received a serious amount of R&D to make it capable on so many levels. First impressions are that it ticks all the boxes for the target markets.

The Nightster name is not new to Harley-Davidson having first appeared in 2007 as a bobber style Sportster with a production run of some 5 years.

The new Nightster maintains heritage well, and at first glance is so clearly a Harley. The purest will be asking about the new Revolution Max engine, it is a brand-new power plant that brings technology right up to date, variable inlet valves, water cooled and a whole host of electronic trickery.

As this motorcycle is well and truly aimed at new Harley riders though they do not need to compare it to a Panhead or Evo. Mainly they need to know that their bike is fitted with the most modern, efficient and best performing V twin available on the market today.

Restriction is carried out electronically at the dealership on the Nightster, this offers the very best results as you maintain full throttle movement and feel.

Restricting a more powerful motorcycle as your first ride is a great idea, the components fitted to a more high-end bike as standard tend to be of better quality and superior performance. Giving you a better riding experience and helping you to develop as a rider. Certainly, this is the case with Nightster, with features including ABS, Traction control and 3 dedicated rider modes: Road, Rain & Sport.

Of course, you also have looks and image to think about, no one is going to know you are riding a 35kw motorcycle. There’s no plates or signs saying 35kw, as far as the motorcycle community knows your riding one of the newest Harley’s on the street, a proper all grown up motorcycle.

Let’s fast forward two years, yes that day has come and you are now a fully fledged motorcyclist. No restrictions or limits your free to ride whatever you want. You have booked your Nightster in to be put to full power, and as if by magic another 31kw of power are on tap, taking you to 66kw and an amazing 95Nm of torque. It’s a whole new bike, however you know how it rides and handles, best of all though you didn’t lose any money part exchanging it in for an upgraded model.

How’s the 35Kw Nightster ride?

With the very low centre of gravity and neutral geometry, riding was always going to be easy on this new bike. That’s exactly how Harley designed it. The power reduction is pretty negligible at first, in fact if it was your first big bike you really wouldn’t know any different. The top end power is where the restriction comes into play, just shaving the edge of the higher revs. If you short shift up the gears you still make good progress and there is no restriction on the speed at all.

A new rider is going to feel nothing but confidence on this motorcycle, the handling, braking, ride and looks are just superb. The restricted power working alongside the pre programmed ride modes means great safety and a first riding experience that will leave you looking forward to the Harley dream.

*Additional Power Restriction charge applies

With Harley|Own Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) you have the option after you have paid all of the regular monthly repayments to: 1. Return the motorcycle and not pay the Optional Final Repayment. In this example if the motorcycle has exceeded the maximum agreed mileage, a charge of 7.2p (including VAT at 20%) will apply per excess mile. If the motorcycle is in good condition (fair wear and tear accepted) and has not exceeded the maximum agreed mileage you will have nothing further to pay. 2. Pay the Optional Final Repayment to own the motorcycle or 3. Part exchange the vehicle subject to settlement of your existing finance agreement; new finance agreements are subject to status

Harley-Davidson Finance is a trading style of Black Horse Limited. Registered office: 25 Gresham Street, London, EC2V 7HN. Registered in England and Wales with NO. 661204
Black Horse Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Black Horse Ltd is a member of the Lloyds Banking Group.