Harley-Davidson Sportster Roadster - 2017 Specifications and Reviews

The 2017 Harley-Davidson Sportster Roadster is an accessible cruiser designed for riders seeking classic styling with modern handling capabilities. Its lightweight frame and manageable seat height make it ideal for new and returning riders, while the inverted front fork and responsive brakes deliver confidence in everyday riding. Known for blending vintage aesthetics with practical performance, this roadster excels as an entry point to the iconic Sportster family.

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General information

CategoryNaked bike
Year2017
ModelHarley-Davidson Sportster Roadster
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Exhaust systemShorty-dual exhaust with chrome tapered mufflers with laser cut black heat shields
Greenhouse gases113.7 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Fuel consumption4.90 litres/100 km (20.4 km/l or 48.00 mpg)
Driveline57/38 ratio
ClutchMulti-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath
Transmission type,final driveBelt
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemAir
Lubrication systemDry sump
Fuel controlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
Fuel systemInjection. Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection
Bore x Stroke88.9 x 96.8 mm (3.5 x 3.8 inches)
Compression10.0:1
Torque96.00 Nm (9.8 kgf-m or 70.8 ft.lbs) @ 4000 RPM
Power67.00 HP (48.9 kW) @ 6000 RPM
Engine detailsEvolution® engine
Engine typeV2, four-stroke

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

WheelsBlack Offset, Split 5-Spoke Cast Aluminum
Rear brakesSingle disc. Dual-piston. Optional ABS.
Front brakesSingle disc. Dual-piston. Optional ABS.
Rear tyre150/70-R18
Front tyre120/70-R19
Rear SuspensionTwin shocks
Front SuspensionInverted fork
Trail140 mm (5.5 inches)
Rake (fork angle)28.9°

Physical measures and capacities

Oil capacity2.60 litres (0.17 quarts)
Fuel capacity12.50 litres (3.30 gallons)
Wheelbase1,505 mm (59.3 inches)
Ground clearance150 mm (5.9 inches)
Overall length2,187 mm (86.1 inches)
Seat height785 mm (30.9 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Power/weight ratio0.2680 HP/kg
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc259.0 kg (571.0 pounds)
Dry weight250.0 kg (551.2 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
LightHigh beam, neutral, low oil pressure, turn signals, engine diagnostics, low fuel warning, low battery, security system (optional)
Instruments4-inch Speedometer mounted low and integrated into handlebar clamp electronic speedometer with odometer, time-of-day clock on odometer, dual tripmeter, LED indicator lights
StarterElectric
Color optionsVivid Black, Black Denim, Billet Silver/Vivid Black, Velocity Red Sunglo

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

67 hp
Peak Power
4.8s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track15%
City60%
Cornering50%
Daily Riding60%
Touring40%
Passenger30%

Rider Profile

Best ForSuited to riders with at least some experience handling a heavy, torque-driven V-twin with modest ground clearance.
PurposeBuilt as a stylish urban and backroad cruiser-naked hybrid rather than a performance or long-distance touring machine.
Rider FitThe low 785mm seat height makes it accessible to shorter riders, though the 259kg wet weight demands confident low-speed handling.
CharacterA characterful, torque-rich air-cooled V-twin roadster that favors relaxed, punchy acceleration and classic Harley soul over outright speed or agility.
Not Ideal ForNot a good fit for riders seeking sharp cornering agility, high-speed touring comfort, or any serious off-road capability.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

2017 Harley-Davidson Sportster Roadster Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 785mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2017 Harley-Davidson Sportster Roadster, with a relaxed knee angle of around 120 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

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