Sportbike Versus Harley-Davidson
In today’s post, we look at the critical differences between riding a Harley compared to riding a sportbike.
Around the world, we have seen extreme hardship and frustration over the past year due to the Coronavirus. It has been a trying time, and if you are anything like me, you’ve felt some level of anxiety and frustration.
Yes, much of this comes from being indoors and working from home.
Bearing this in mind, I feel that if there were ever a time to get into riding a motorcycle, this would be it.
I have been riding on racetracks and public roads since 1997 and have been fortunate enough to ride some of the world’s fastest Superbikes.
At the same time, I’ve also had my fair share of fun on Harley-Davidsons and V-Twin motorcycles.
So, with that in mind, let me break down my opinion regarding Harleys, sportbikes, and the critical differences you should consider when purchasing a motorcycle.
Motorcycle Riding – Key Considerations
If you’re thinking about starting motorcycle riding as a hobby, you’ll probably be researching what type of motorcycle would best satisfy your craving for adrenaline.
I believe you can get your fair share of adrenaline from both sportbikes and Harley-Davidson / V-Twin motorcycles.
As someone who grew up on racetracks riding Superbikes, I once believed Harleys could never offer adrenaline or inspiration.
Well, I was wrong.
About five years ago, I bought my first Harley-Davidson Dyna — and I still own it today.
I was genuinely surprised at how much enjoyment this motorcycle provided me.
Essential Factors to Consider When Buying a Motorcycle
When starting motorcycling as a hobby, consider asking yourself these questions:
- What am I looking to get out of my riding?
- What sort of image do I want to portray?
- Am I prepared for the speeds and risks of a modern sportbike?
- Do I believe in my ability to control a sportbike at high speeds?
- Can I ride with a level head?
- Will I respect the extreme power of a sportbike?
- What is my current level of riding skill?
If you’re a beginner with no riding experience, I recommend starting on a V-Twin rather than a sportbike.
Here’s why:
- Less aggressive riding style
- More forgiving handling
- Fast, but not overwhelming
- More relaxed and spacious riding position
- Less peer pressure to ride fast
- Plenty of performance still available
- Harleys feel less intimidating
- Sportbikes are often too fast for beginners
Harley-Davidson – The Perfect Bike for Beginners?
You don’t need to be a beginner to appreciate a Harley-Davidson.
Before owning my Dyna, I was stubborn and stuck to sportbikes. But once I started riding the Dyna, it brought back my love for road riding.
On sportbikes, I was used to dangerously high speeds on public roads. Even though I could handle the power, I always felt like I was pushing too close to the edge.
The Dyna allowed me to relax, breathe, and enjoy the ride again. It even became somewhat meditative.
For beginners, a Harley-Davidson offers a therapeutic, confidence-building experience.
Harley-Davidson Versus Sportbike – The Lowdown
It’s easy to spot the visual differences between these two classes of motorcycles.
From an aesthetic perspective:
- Harleys project a more classic, lifestyle-oriented image, appealing to an older demographic and often tied to Harley fashion and culture.
- Sportbikes project speed and aggression, often attracting younger riders who may be more competitive.
That said, I’ve seen incredible Harley riders extract impressive performance from their bikes.
A sportbike, however, offers extreme cornering speeds and top-end performance that can deliver unmatched adrenaline — but also greater danger, especially for inexperienced riders.
Harley-Davidsons – Faster Than You Think!
Yes, a Harley can corner aggressively and is far from slow.
I’ve learned more about performance riding on my Dyna than I expected.
Although it’s heavy, it can move — and I’ve even passed sportbikes through mountain passes.
This isn’t something you see every day, but it gave me a new respect for the Dyna’s capabilities.
Closing Thoughts
When choosing your first or next motorcycle, consider your riding experience.
Whether it’s an HD or a sportbike, riding is not a game.
Respect the machine, respect the road, and ride within your limits.
Personally, at age 36, I enjoy my Harley more due to the reduced risk. That said, the urge to get my knee down on a sportbike may return one day.
Until then, I’ll enjoy the roads at a more relaxed pace — I’ve had enough crashes on the racetrack.
Ride safe, keep a level head, and appreciate the art of riding — no matter which bike you choose.