Six Decades of the Sportster is Possibly Coming to a Close
Three of seven Sportster models were dropped for 2020.
Production Change
Speculation is high that Harley-Davidson will cull Sportster production in the near future. Fueling the rumors is tighter European emission standards and the planned release of new models with similar displacement in the next two years. While change is imminent, there are a number of possible scenarios for the Sportster — Harley-Davidson's longest production, and bestselling, machine.
European Emission
The Motor Company is facing a dilemma and an unavoidable reality. A big part of the Sportster's draw is its traditional styling, but this poses a problem. Critically, the Sportster's current Evolution-based engine does not meet the new Euro 5 emission standards — set to roll out in January 2020. Despite being loaded with nostalgic appeal, the next batch of Sportsters will not be eligible for export to Europe.
>>Join the conversation on the possible end of the Sportster here in HDForums.com!
Sales Design
Euro 5 emission standards may seem an ocean away, but they are fast becoming a global standard. International sales figures put the financial situation into perspective. Almost half of Harley-Davidson's annual sales are offshore, with European sales accounting for one-fifth of their overall business. In order to maintain sales, Harley-Davidson must either offer a product as appealing as the Sportster or change its engine.
>>Join the conversation on the possible end of the Sportster here in HDForums.com!
Gateway Rider
The Sportster has long been the 'gateway' bike to Harley-Davidson ownership over the years. For scores of riders, the Sportster was a way into the 'Family,' with many eventually trading up for larger Big-Twin models. Yet, as the Motor Company rolled out the 2020 lineup, three of the seven Sportster models were quietly dropped, and two new models, the Streetfighter and Custom are scheduled for release in the next two years.
>>Join the conversation on the possible end of the Sportster here in HDForums.com!
Sportier Sportster
'Old-school' cool might not be the next thing. Part of the Sportster's success is rooted in a design that has not changed much in the last sixty years. It is a solid slice of history — reliable with ample power, great sound and a pedigree to match. Problem is that younger riders, the next wave of Harley-Davidson clientele, are looking for sportier rides.
>>Join the conversation on the possible end of the Sportster here in HDForums.com!
Brutish Attitude
It seems that Harley-Davidson is listening to the murmurings of enthusiasts. The Streetfighter and Custom are aggressively-styled machines. While this may work for some prospective new buyers, the design is not a catch-all. The Sportster holds a middle-ground with loads of attitude minus the brutish look. Ending Sportster production outright would create a vacuum for those wanting a compact, but traditionally-styled Harley-Davidson.
>>Join the conversation on the possible end of the Sportster here in HDForums.com!
Freedom Riders
The Motor Company has ambitious plans to release fifty new motorcycles over the next five years. President and CEO, Matt Levatich stated, “Alongside our existing loyal riders, we will lead the next revolution of two-wheeled freedom.” This suggests that Harley-Davidson is becoming a full-line manufacturer, something already evident by the LiveWire, the Pan America, and a fleet of e-bicycles and balance bikes.
>>Join the conversation on the possible end of the Sportster here in HDForums.com!
Retirement Age
It is certain that there will be no 2021 European-bound Sportsters without a new engine. Unaffected by the same emission standards, domestic production could continue for the foreseeable future, with the Sportster being logically retired at age sixty-five. It is also possible that Harley-Davidson is banking on its new models and the end of an era is already at hand — the August 2020 Dealer Meeting will reveal all.
>>Join the conversation on the possible end of the Sportster here in HDForums.com!
For information on maintenance and repairs, visit our how-to section here.
