The Harley-Davidson Sportster S is a sleek, modern powerhouse with sporty handling, while the Fat Bob brings old-school muscle and a commanding, cruiser feel. If you crave agility and tech-forward features, go Sportster S. Prefer raw torque and classic Harley vibes? Fat Bob’s your ride.
Want to dive deeper into the battle of Harley-Davidson Sportster S vs. Fat Bob? Discover which bike wins in power, style, and comfort—plus, learn which one’s perfect for your next adventure. Keep reading to find out!
In this deep dive, we’ll break down everything you need to know about these bikes, including engine performance, design aesthetics, comfort, and handling. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which Harley fits your riding style best.
Power: The Heart of the Machines
When comparing the Harley-Davidson Sportster S vs. Fat Bob, power is one of the most important factors. Harley isn’t known for being subtle when it comes to engine design, and both bikes deliver serious muscle. But they do it in distinct ways.
Sportster S: Revolutionary Max Torque
The Sportster S is powered by Harley’s Revolution Max 1250T engine. This liquid-cooled, V-twin beast churns out 121 horsepower, offering a level of performance that’s more commonly associated with sport bikes. The torque curve is smooth but aggressive, giving you quick acceleration without sacrificing control.
- Key highlights:
- Engine: Revolution Max 1250T
- Horsepower: 121 HP
- Torque: 94 lb-ft
- Top Speed: Around 120 mph
- Transmission: 6-speed
This engine marks a significant departure from the traditional air-cooled V-twins Harley fans are used to. It’s lighter, more responsive, and designed for riders who crave adrenaline-pumping speed.
Fat Bob: Old-School Muscle with Modern Twists
On the other hand, the Fat Bob houses a Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine. It’s a classic Harley V-twin that emphasizes torque over horsepower. While it produces fewer ponies than the Sportster S, the Fat Bob’s torque-heavy performance delivers that signature Harley rumble and low-end grunt.
- Key highlights:
- Engine: Milwaukee-Eight 114
- Horsepower: Around 94 HP
- Torque: 118 lb-ft
- Top Speed: Around 110 mph
- Transmission: 6-speed
This bike is built for riders who prefer cruising with raw power under their feet. The torque pulls you off the line with authority, making it perfect for urban streets and long stretches of highway.
Style: Classic vs. Futuristic
One of the most exciting parts of comparing the Harley-Davidson Sportster S vs. Fat Bob is seeing how their designs reflect two different Harley philosophies.
Sportster S: A Modern Take on a Classic Name
Harley took a bold step with the Sportster S, giving it a futuristic, almost minimalist design. It features a high-mounted exhaust, fat tires, and a stripped-down look that feels more aggressive and contemporary than its predecessors.
- Key design features:
- High-mounted dual exhaust
- Fat front and rear tires
- Minimalist LED headlight
- 4-inch round TFT display
- Low-slung profile
The Sportster S feels more like a performance-oriented street bike than a traditional cruiser. It’s a head-turner for riders who want to break away from the norm.
Fat Bob: A Rugged, Urban Brawler
The Fat Bob sticks closer to Harley’s roots but with a rebellious twist. Its beefy stance, wide handlebars, and unique LED headlight make it look like a street brawler. The large front fork and chunky tires give it a muscular, aggressive vibe that screams attitude.
- Key design features:
- Squared-off LED headlight
- Upswept exhaust pipes
- Chunky tires
- Wide, drag-style handlebars
- Forward foot controls
If you’re into the rugged, “don’t-mess-with-me” aesthetic, the Fat Bob is a perfect match. It blends traditional Harley elements with modern touches, offering the best of both worlds.
Performance and Handling: Where the Rubber Meets the Road
Now, let’s talk about how these bikes perform on the road. While both bikes are built for power, their handling characteristics are vastly different.
Sportster S: Nimble and Responsive
Thanks to its lighter frame and high-performance engine, the Sportster S feels incredibly nimble. The low center of gravity and tight suspension make cornering a breeze, which is ideal for riders who enjoy carving through twisty backroads.
- Riding dynamics: Sporty and agile
- Weight: 502 lbs (wet)
- Seat height: 29.6 inches
- Suspension: Inverted front forks and adjustable rear shock
The Sportster S feels more like a sportbike when you’re riding it. You can flick it into turns with confidence, and the quick throttle response keeps things exciting.
Fat Bob: Stable and Commanding
The Fat Bob, by contrast, offers a more planted and stable ride. Its heavier frame and wider tires give it a commanding presence on the road. While it’s not as nimble as the Sportster S, it shines in straight-line stability and comfort over long distances.
- Riding dynamics: Stable and powerful
- Weight: 676 lbs (wet)
- Seat height: 27.7 inches
- Suspension: Dual-bending valve front forks and adjustable rear shocks
The Fat Bob feels like a powerhouse cruiser. It’s the kind of bike that makes you want to hit the open road and enjoy the journey.
Comfort and Ergonomics: Long Hauls or Short Bursts?
Comfort is a key consideration, especially if you plan on spending hours in the saddle. Here’s how the Sportster S and Fat Bob stack up:
Sportster S: Sporty and Low-Slung
The Sportster S features a low, forward-leaning riding position. While this adds to its sporty feel, it may not be the most comfortable option for long rides. The seat is compact, and the controls are mid-mounted, which keeps you engaged but might lead to fatigue on extended trips.
- Ideal for: Short, spirited rides
- Seating position: Forward-leaning
- Comfort rating: Moderate
Fat Bob: Relaxed and Spacious
The Fat Bob, on the other hand, offers a more relaxed, upright seating position. The wide handlebars and forward foot controls make it a cruiser in every sense, allowing you to stretch out and enjoy the ride.
- Ideal for: Long-distance cruising
- Seating position: Upright and relaxed
- Comfort rating: High
Technology and Features: Modern vs. Classic
Both bikes come equipped with modern features, but the Sportster S takes the lead in tech innovation.
Sportster S Features: High-Tech Rider Aids
- TFT display: 4-inch round screen with customizable layouts
- Rider modes: Rain, Road, and Sport modes for different conditions
- Bluetooth connectivity: Sync your phone for navigation and music
- Cornering ABS and traction control: Advanced safety features
Fat Bob Features: Simple and Effective
- Analog-digital hybrid display: A mix of classic and modern
- Rider modes: Fewer options compared to the Sportster S
- ABS: Standard but not cornering-specific
Price and Value: What’s the Best Bang for Your Buck?
- Sportster S: Starting around $15,499
- Fat Bob: Starting around $18,899
The Sportster S offers more tech for a lower price, making it a solid choice for value-conscious riders. The Fat Bob, however, delivers a more traditional Harley experience with a premium feel.
Final Verdict: Which Harley Is Right for You?
- Choose the Sportster S if you want a modern, performance-oriented bike that’s nimble and packed with tech. It’s perfect for urban riders and those who prioritize speed and agility.
- Choose the Fat Bob if you crave a classic Harley experience with a bold, muscular design. It’s ideal for long cruises and riders who love that signature V-twin rumble.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your riding style. Whether you lean toward the futuristic charm of the Sportster S or the rugged appeal of the Fat Bob, both bikes deliver that unmistakable Harley magic.
Happy riding! 🏍️
