Monday morning eight o’clock – a phrase that strikes fear into the hearts of many. A symptom of a rat-race society, enslaved by the workplace. Well, not today, I told myself as the big V-twin thumps the iconic Harley soundtrack over the vineyards of Wellington at the start of our Detour ride (watch a short video here)… We had three bikes, almost 600 km of scenic Western Cape landscape and all the time in the world – well almost.
My steed for the trip was the 1200 CA Sportster. Do not be fooled by the name – you’ll not be slaying any superbikes on the road. What this does mean is that, in Harley world, this bike is light, nimble and surprisingly fast. An impromptu drag race confirmed that although it only has a “small” 1 200 cm3 engine, it still managed to shame the other two Harleys owing to the good power-to-weight ratio. Ground clearance is again surprising and allows the rider to enjoy the twisties without the loss of chrome or worse. As with any Harley, the saying “remembering the scenery rather than the road” stills applies.
Styling wise, the bike is low, slim and devoid of any unnecessary hang-on items – true bike essence. The beautiful tricolour paint scheme makes the bike stand out and draws many eyeballs. The short, straight handlebars are comfortable and add to the sporty feel. If your neighbourhood is still unaware of you latest acquisition, the optional Screaming Eagle exhaust pipes will bellow out the message in no uncertain terms.
Harley was not so keen for us to take the bike on such a long trip as it is not its forte (no fuel gauge, low seat, highish bars, etc.) but the optional screen certainly transformed the bike into a comfortable cruiser. The best part, however, is the price: R118 000. This means that the Harley lifestyle is within reach of mere mortals and not only reserved for doctors, lawyers or the Gupta family. Obviously all Harley riders are equal once on the road…
If you are sitting at work and feeling trapped – get yourself the Sportster and break free, in true rock ‘n’ roll style, of course.
Fast Facts
Engine: V-twin, four-stroke, air-cooled
Displacement (cm3): 1 202
Power (kW/r/min): n/a
Torque (N.m/min): 98/3 200
Transmission: five-speed
Tyre sizes: f: 130/90 B16 r: 150/80 B16
Frame: tubular steel
Seat height (mm): 710
Fuel tank capacity (L): 17
Mass (kg): 251 dry weight
Warranty: 2 years
Service Intervals (km): 8 000
Price: R118 000 (starting price)
Special thanks to Harley-Davidson South Africa for the test bike.
