When you think of Harley-Davidson, images of thundering V-twins, a muscular stance, and freedom on the open road immediately come to mind. The 2025 Harley-Davidson Low Rider S captures all of this and then some. With a sharper design, a more powerful engine, and modern ride tech, this performance cruiser is built to satisfy both traditional Harley purists and a new wave of aggressive riders.
Let’s take a deep dive into what makes the 2025 Low Rider S an absolute beast on the streets and highways.
A Legacy Reborn
The Low Rider S has always had a reputation as Harley’s dark horse – a bike that blends the soul of a cruiser with the heart of a performance machine. In 2025, Harley-Davidson has taken that DNA and turned the dial up to 11. With the latest version of their Milwaukee-Eight® 117 V-Twin engine, inverted front forks, and minimalist West Coast styling, the Low Rider S is a power statement with attitude.
Design: All Black, All Business
Right out of the crate, the 2025 Low Rider S is unapologetically aggressive. Every inch of this motorcycle screams performance. From the low stance to the drag bars, it feels like it’s poised to launch forward even while at a standstill.
Highlights of the design:
- Blacked-out components, including the engine, exhaust, and wheels.
- Signature cowl fairing around the headlamp – a nod to West Coast style.
- Compact solo seat and chopped rear fender for a clean, aggressive silhouette.
- Color options include classic Vivid Black, Red Rock, and a new Industrial Yellow variant.
The tank-mounted gauges and minimalist LED lighting keep the cockpit clean, functional, and visually low-profile.
Engine & Performance: The Milwaukee-Eight® 117
The biggest highlight of the 2025 Low Rider S is the 1,923cc Milwaukee-Eight® 117 V-Twin engine, Harley’s most powerful factory-installed powertrain on a cruiser. It produces:
- 114 horsepower at 5,000 rpm
- 128 ft-lb of torque at 4,000 rpm
This engine is tuned for a more responsive throttle, higher revving capability (up to 5,900 rpm), and blistering acceleration that puts most muscle cars to shame in short bursts.
Paired with a 6-speed transmission, the power is smooth yet ferocious. The Heavy Breather air intake and 2-into-2 exhaust system not only improve flow but produce that signature Harley thunder that resonates deep in your chest.
Ride Quality & Handling
Though it looks like a classic cruiser, the Low Rider S is much more than that when you get on the saddle. Harley has equipped the 2025 model with performance-focused components:
- Inverted 43mm Showa front forks for better front-end stability.
- Premium rear monoshock with easy preload adjuster.
- Dual front disc brakes with ABS.
- Low center of gravity with a seat height of just 715mm.
The handling is surprisingly nimble for a bike this size. The cornering clearance of over 31 degrees on either side allows for spirited riding through twisties, while the solid chassis ensures stability on highways.
Tech & Electronics
Though the Low Rider S keeps things minimal in terms of interface (in line with its old-school roots), it still packs useful modern tech features:
- LED lighting system (headlight, tail light, turn indicators).
- Digital tank-mounted instrument cluster with speed, gear indicator, range, tachometer, and clock.
- Standard cruise control – a blessing for long hauls.
- Keyless ignition and ABS standard.
- USB charging port discreetly placed near the bars.
What it doesn’t have – and doesn’t need – is a touchscreen infotainment system or traction control. The bike is all about raw control and rider engagement.
Riding Experience: Power With Purpose
Get in the saddle, start the ignition, and you’re greeted by the unmistakable throb of the Milwaukee-Eight V-Twin. The seating posture is aggressive but not uncomfortable, perfect for city cruising or weekend highway domination.
The torque is available early in the rev range, making overtakes a breeze. Whether you’re launching off a green light or hitting open roads, the bike feels responsive and confident. The inverted front forks give great feedback, and the wide handlebars offer strong leverage for control.
You feel the road – not in a harsh way, but in a way that keeps you connected. This bike doesn’t isolate the rider from the experience – it puts you at the heart of it.
Customization Potential
Being a Harley-Davidson, the Low Rider S offers vast customization possibilities:
- Exhaust swaps (Screamin’ Eagle, Vance & Hines, etc.)
- Tall sissy bars or solo rear racks
- T-bar handlebars or mini ape hangers
- Aftermarket fairings and LED enhancements
You can tailor the bike to suit your look, ergonomics, or performance needs. Harley-Davidson’s Genuine Accessories catalog is packed with options, and the aftermarket scene is thriving for this model.
Who Is This Bike For?
The 2025 Harley-Davidson Low Rider S is not for everyone—and that’s exactly the point. It’s built for:
- Experienced riders who want power with control.
- Cruiser fans who like performance over frills.
- Younger Harley riders who prefer stripped-down, aggressive styling.
- Muscle bike enthusiasts looking for something raw and American.
If you’re looking for a relaxed tourer, this isn’t your bike. But if you want something with soul, speed, and presence—this is it.
Price & Availability
The 2025 Low Rider S is available globally and comes at a base price of around $18,000 USD (₹21–22 lakhs in India, depending on import duties and local dealer pricing). With added accessories, the cost can go significantly higher.
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
- One of Harley’s most powerful factory engines
- Refined yet aggressive West Coast styling
- Improved suspension and braking
- Solid ride quality and handling
- Immense customization options
❌ Cons:
- No traction control or rider modes
- Not ideal for beginners or short riders
- Minimal touring features
- Pricey compared to metric cruisers
Final Verdict
The 2025 Harley-Davidson Low Rider S is a pure, unapologetic performance cruiser that brings attitude, muscle, and soul to the streets. It’s not overloaded with tech. It’s not made to be easy. It’s made to thrill.
For riders who want something bold, fast, loud, and dripping with character, the Low Rider S might just be the last of a dying breed—and that’s what makes it so special.
