Low Rider S 117 – My first impression of the 2025 model year

The new Low Rider S 117 will remain in the Harley-Davidson lineup for the 2025 model year. I took the current model for a spin—not in test mode with a data sheet, but the way you would really ride it. Helmet on, engine running, and off we go.

This isn't a traditional test report. It's about how the bike feels. Just first impressions, straight from the road.

Powerful acceleration and clear performance

The Low Rider S is powered by a Milwaukee-Eight 117 High Output with 1923 cubic centimeters. The V2 responds cleanly to the throttle, pushes powerfully from low revs and delivers exactly what you would expect from a sporty cruiser. No delay, no hesitation – just power from the bottom end.

The suspension is firm but not uncomfortable. The bike performs particularly well on solo stages. The seating position is low and active, and the handling feels more compact than on the touring models.

Low Rider S or ST?

If you're wondering whether the Low Rider S is a better choice than the ST, you should be clear about how you intend to use it. The ST comes with fairings and luggage options and is aimed more at touring enthusiasts. The S is the opposite – more minimalist, more direct, lighter.

The S has the advantage on short distances and in the city. It feels more agile and conveys that classic low rider feeling better. If you don't need a lot of comfort but are looking for pure riding pleasure, this is the bike for you. It also has a sportier factory mapping, which you can definitely hear and feel when riding.

My impressions

The workmanship makes a solid impression, but I'm not particularly fond of the visible gaps in the fittings—they could do better in that regard. The factory sound is robust, and the large Heavy Breather air filter in particular is impossible to ignore when the engine demands more air.

If you want to know more

I have published another article on Harleysite about the Low Rider S 117 High Output 2025. There you will find technical details, available colors, and further background information.

👉 Low Rider S 117 High Output 2025 – Technical information and details

My video about the Low Rider S 117

If you want to know how the bike performs on the road, you can watch my video about it. I kept my camera rolling—no show, just my first impression.

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