Harley Davidson Sportster S vs Ducati Monster 1200 S

1. Harley Davidson Sportster S vs Ducati Monster 1200S

The Harley Davidson Sportster S is the next generation of Harley motorcycles that were first introduced in 1957. The Harley Davidson Sportster series has many remarkable models like the NIGHTSTER, FORTY-EIGHT, Roadster, SEVENTY-TWO, Iron, and Sportster S. The first Sportster S was released in 2021, being described as a “sports custom motorcycle.” According to Bennetts, the Sportster S shares many specs similar to the Harley Davidson V-Rod, such as its 1200 cc engine and liquid-cooled V-Twin engine. The V-Rod can deliver a horsepower of 125 hp and 111 Nm of torque, while the Sportster S can deliver a horsepower of 121 hp and 125 Nm of torque. But the V-Rod was a much heftier motorcycle with an overall weight of 300 kg, while the Sportster S only weighed about 228 kg.

The Ducati Monster was first released in 1993 with a 900 cc engine that could produce 75 hp of horsepower. When Miguel Angel Galluzzi designed the first Ducati Monster, he had the vision to build a drag racer-inspired STREET MOTORCYCLE capable of things most sports motorcycles could do. The design of newer Ducati Monster 1200 models still draws inspiration from the first Ducati Monster M900. However, newer models have more features, differently sized disc brakes and tires, and different exhaust designs. In 2013, Ducati launched its Monster model with an air-cooled engine for the last time. After that, the Ducati Monster was designed to look sportier rather than being built as a well-rounded commuter. Every Ducati Monster from 2014 and onwards had full spec suspensions, Brembo disc brakes, and superbike quality parts fitted to a naked upright riding style.

Also Read: HARLEY DAVIDSON SPORTSTER S VS HARLEY DAVIDSON FAT BOB 114

2. Detailed Comparison Between Harley Davidson Sportster S & Ducati Monster 1200S

2.1 Major Differences:

The key differences between both of these models are provided below:

The Sportster S is a cruiser, and the Ducati Monster 1200 S is a naked street motorcycle.

Speedometer Comparison of Sportster S & Ducati Monster 1200S

Both motorcycles have different handlebar styles and TFT displays, but the Sportster S has a circular meter, while the Monster 1200 S has a rectangular-shaped meter.

Speedometer Comparison of Sportster S & Ducati Monster 1200S

Photo Credit: @autox , @webbikeworld

Front Brakes comparison of Sportster S and Monster 1200 S

The Ducati Monster 1200 S has dual disc brakes at the front, while Sportster S has a single disc at the front.

Footrests Positions of Sportster S and Monster 1200 S

The Ducati Monster 1200 S has footrests positioned straight down, while the Sportster S has traditional footrests towards the front.

Footrests Positions of Sportster S and Monster 1200 S

Photo Credit: @harley-davidson , @ducatisupersport939

Drivetrain Comparison Of Monster 1200 S and Sportster S

Both motorcycles have six-speed transmission systems, but the Harley Davidson Sportster S has a belt drivetrain, while the Monster 1200 S has a chain drivetrain.

Drivetrain Comparison Of Monster 1200 S and Sportster S

Photo Credit: @canadamotoguide , @ducatisupersport939

2.2 Major Similarities:

Overall, there are not many similarities between the Harley Davidson Sporster S and the Ducati Monster 1200 S. However, both share a few similarities that are provided below:

Rear Suspension:

Both motorcycles have a mono-shock suspension at the rear. However, the implements and styles are different. However, the Ducati Monster 1200S has adjustable mono-shock which can help the rider increase or decrease the seat height of the motorcycle. That feature does not exist in Sportster S.

Rear Suspension

Photo Credit: @canadamotoguide , @safelyinsured

Exhaust:

The Sportster S and Scout Bobber have a two-in-one exhaust, but they have different positions and styles. In terms of sound, they both are very different from each other, Sportster produces a large sound but it feels like it has suppressed the rumble. While the Indian Scout Bobber produces a loud sound with enough wobble like the other traditional cruiser motorcycles.

Side Mirrors and Handlebar:

Both have side mirrors above the handlebars. However, the side mirrors on the Sportster S are on at the ends of the handlebars, while the side mirrors on the Monster 1200 S are between the grips.

Side Mirrors and Handlebar

Photo Credit: @perthhd , @asphaltandrubber

		Harley Davidson Sportster S	Ducati Monster 1200 S
Engine	Displacement Size	1,252 cc	1,198 cc
	Bore	105 mm(4.134 in)	106 mm (4.17 in)
	Stroke	72.3 mm (2.846 in)	67.9 mm (2.67 in)
	Oil Capacity	2.84 L (3 quartz)	3.7 L (3.9 quartz)
	Engine Type	V-Twin Revolution Max	L-Twin
	Compression Ratio	12:1	13:1
Performance	Torque	127.45 Nm @ 6,000 rpm	124 Nm @ 7,750 rpm
	Horsepower	121 bhp	147 bhp
	Top Speed	120.7 MPH (220 KM/H)	150 MPH (241.4 KM/H)
Dimensions	Height	1,089 mm (42.9 in)	1,040 (40.9 in)
	Length	2,270 mm (89.3 in)	2,200 mm (86.6 in)
	Width	843 mm (33.2 in)	830 mm (32.7 in)
	Ground Clearance	90 mm (3.5 in)	145 mm (5.7 in)
	Seat Height	734 mm (28.9 in)	795-820 mm (31.3 - 32.28 in)
	Fuel Capacity	3.1 gal (11.8 L)	4.35 gal (16.5 L)
	Kerb Weight	228 kg	211 kg
	Fuel Mileage	49 MPG (20.8 KM/L)	45.1 MPG (19.2 KM/L)
	Lean Angle Right (deg.)	34o	50o
	Lean Angle Left (deg.)	34o	50o
Drivetrain	Primary Drive Type	Gear, 49/89 ratio	Straight cut gears
	Gear Ratio (1st)	12.21	2.467
	Gear Ratio (2nd)	9.022	1.764
	Gear Ratio (3rd)	6.994	1.350
	Gear Ratio (4th)	5.641	1.090
	Gear Ratio (5th)	4.731	0.958
	Gear Ratio (6th)	4.131	0.880
Others	Front Fork	43 mm	43 mm
	Front brakes	320 mm radially mounted, Brembo Monoblock four-piston caliper brakes	Dual 330 mm semi-floating discs, radially mounted Brembo Monobloc four-piston caliper brakes
	Rear Shock	Linkage-Mounted, mono-shock with pre-load adjustability	Progressive-Linkage with Sachs, adjustable mono-shock
	Rear brakes	260 mm floating single-piston caliper brakes	Single 245 mm disc with dual-piston caliper
	Front tires	160/70R17	120/70 ZR17
	Rear tires	180/70R16	190/55 ZR17

2.3 Engine

Harley Davidson Sportster S:

The HARLEY DAVIDSON SPORTSTER S has a 1,252-cc liquid-cooled, V-Twin that was first used in the Harley Davidson Pan America adventure motorcycle but turned down for a bit more mid-range and low-down torque. So, as it gets a lot of the same tech like the variable valve timing and lightweight engine covers, changes have been made to the valve ports and cams to increase the velocity of flow through the combustion chamber. That results in producing 125 Nm of peak torque at 6,000 rpm.

Ducati Monster 1200S:

The Ducati Monster 1200 S has a 1,198 cc liquid-cooled L-Twin engine, the L-Twin referring to the angle between both cylinders. This engine can deliver a peak torque of 124 Nm at 7,750 rpm and a maximum horsepower of 147 hp. This L-Twin engine is currently only used by Ducati and MOTO GUZZI, The L-Twin has the smoothest angle out of any twin-cylinder engine as it does not need a balance shaft but it also makes the engine bulky and difficult to package.

Engine

Photo Credit: @robbreport , @DucatiMotor

2.4 Dimensions

The Harley Sportster S has a height of 42.9 inches and a length of 89.3 inches, while the Ducati Monster 1200 S has a height of 40.9 and a length of 86.6 inches. The Sportster S also has a non-adjustable seat height of 28.9 inches, while the Ducati Monster 1200 S has an adjustable seat height that varies from 31.3 to 32.28 inches.

Also Read: 10 BEST HARLEYS FOR BEGINNERS

Dimensions HARLEY DAVIDSON SPORTSTER S

Dimensions HARLEY DAVIDSON SPORTSTER S (2)

Dimensions 2 DUCATI MONSTER

Dimensions 2 DUCATI MONSTER (2)

2.5 Performance:

Performance

Examining the specs of the Harley Sportster S and Ducati Monster 1200 S’s engines, both have a similar engine displacement size and peak torque. However, there is a huge difference in the peak horsepower of both engines as the Ducati Monster’s engine has a slightly bigger bore size and a smaller stroke size. These qualities help the Ducati Monster’s engine provide more horsepower. It does perform well at lower rpm but has significantly better results at higher rpm.

	Harley Davidson Sportster S	Ducati Monster 135% S
Horsepower	121 hp	147 hp
Max Torque @ rpm	127.45 Nm @ 6,000 rpm	124 Nm @ 7,750 rpm
Top Speed	120 mph (194.2 km/h)	150 mph (241.4 km/h)
Fuel Mileage	49 mpg (20.8 km/l)	45.1 mpg (19.2 km/l)
Fuel Capacity	3.1 gal (11.8 L)	4.35 gal (16.5 L)

2.6 Chassis and Frame:

DUCATI MONSTER 1200 S

Photo Credit: @auto.hindustantimes , @ridermagazinereviews

DUCATI MONSTER 1200 S:

The Ducati Monster 1200 S has a traditional NAKED MOTORCYCLE frame, but its exterior design is different from other naked motorcycles. It has strong aluminum pipes around the engine unlike other naked motorcycles, except the SUZUKI SV650 and KTM Duke.

DUCATI MONSTER 1200 S

Photo Credit: @bike.net

HARLEY DAVIDSON SPORTSTER S:

The HARLEY DAVIDSON SPORTSTER S uses the engine as the stress member that transfers the forces and torque throughout its structure. But it also has a fully adjustable 43 mm front shock and an adjustable rear mono-shock.

HARLEY DAVIDSON SPORTSTER S

Photo Credit: @webbikeworld

2.7 Features

Harley Davidson Sportster S	Ducati Monster 1200 S
Round 4” TFT display Bluetooth connectivity for calls and music Moving map navigation Six Axis IMU Selectable and customizable ride modes ABS Enhanced traction control Tire pressure monitoring Drag-torque slip control Wheel lift mitigation Assist & slipper clutch All led lighting Adjustable performance suspension Cruise control and USB charging port	Full TFT color display Cornering ABS Ducati traction control Ducati Wheelie Control Riding Mode (Sport, Touring, Urban) Power Mode USB charging port Ducati Multimedia System Anti-Theft system Ducati Quick Shifter Euro 4 Standard CO2 emission 119 g/km Oil change required after 15,000 km Valve clearance after 30,000 km

2.8 Price

Harley Davidson Sportster S	Ducati Monster 1200 S
The base variant starts at $15,499, for Mineral Green Metallic and White Sand Perl color, another $400 is added to the base price.	The red color variant costs $17,595 while the black color requires an additional $200 to be added.

2.9 User Reviews

The Ducati Monster 1200 S performs well if the engine is warmed up. The rider can give a quick throttle pull while it is cold to speed up the process. Most riders who prefer the loud and brutish sound might prefer changing out the Ducati Monster 1200 S’s exhaust. For a beginner, the clutch might feel a bit stiff but will become easier to use the more you ride this vehicle.

Riding Experience

Riding Position

HARLEY DAVIDSON SPORTSTER S Riding Position:

The Harley Davidson Sportster S has an aggressive sporty riding position despite being a cruiser, with a lower handlebars position and high seat height. The Sportster S does have a powerful engine and provides a sporty vibe. However, its footrests are on the front side which is a traditional position for cruisers. With a wet weight of 228 kg, the Sportser S is easy to ride for beginner and female riders.

HARLEY DAVIDSON SPORTSTER S Riding Position

Photo Credit: @laidlawsharley

DUCATI MONSTER 1200 S Riding Position:

Meanwhile, the Ducati Monster 1200 S has a better leaning angle and adjustable suspension that makes turning corners easy and relaxing for the rider. The Ducati Monster 1200 S performs well at 4,000 rpm or above. The Ducati Monster 12000 S’s engine produces fewer vibrations at higher speed and rpm, ensuring the motorcycle remains stable. The higher the rpm, the more stable the motorcycle feels to the rider, making it unique from other naked motorcycles.

Also Read: BEST STREET MOTORCYCLES FOR BEGINNERS 2022

DUCATI MONSTER 1200 S Riding Position

Photo Credit: @bikescatalog

Handlebars Position

HARLEY DAVIDSON SPORTSTER S Handlebars Position:

Harley Davidson Sportster S has a higher HANDLEBARS position with its high seat height comparable to other traditional cruisers.

DUCATI MONSTER 1200 S Handlebars Position:

The Ducati Monster 1200 S is a naked motorcycle with straight handlebars. This provides a natural and comfy riding position when riding a motorcycle.

Handlebars Position

Photo Credit: @team-bhp , @ultimatemotorcycling

Braking

The Harley Davidson Sportster S has a 320 mm radially mounted, Brembo Monoblock, four-piston single caliper brakes at the front, and 260 mm floating single-piston caliper brakes at the rear. These parts work together with the enhanced ABS as well.

The Ducati Monster 1200 S has dual 330 mm semi-floating discs at the front and a single 245 mm disc at the rear. Compared to the Sportster S, the Ducati Monster 1200 S has bigger disc brakes at the front and it has two discs instead of one disc like the Sportster S. However, the Sportster S has a larger disc brake at the rear. Overall, the Ducati Monster 1200 S has more reliable braking.

Suspension

The Harley Davidson Sportster S has a Showa 43 mm inverted fork with compression rebound and spring preload-adjustable shocks at the front and a linkage-mounted, piggyback fully adjustable mono-shock at the rear. It also has a lean angle of 34^o. This motorcycle has aggressive and sporty riding capability suited for riders who desire a motorcycle with top-of-the-line performance and a stunning style.

The Ducati Monster 1200 S’s suspensions are fully adjustable, while the Sportster S does not. For a heavyweight or taller rider, the Ducati Monster 1200 S is comfortable and easy to ride. This motorcycle has decent suspension and an adjustable seat height suited for average and taller riders.

Suspension

Photo Credit: @bikewale , @mynetmoto

Overall Maintenance

Most Common Modifications

Exhaust

Despite the fact that the Harley Sportster S is one of the most good-looking, sporty cruisers, it does not produce the same sound as other SPORTSTER models.

Exhaust

Photo Credit: @bennetts , @cycleworld

On the other hand, the Ducati Monster 1200 S has a fine exhaust despite being a naked motorcycle. However, because of its sporty riding position, this motorcycle produces a loud and rumbling sound. Therefore, many riders prefer to modify the r Ducati Monster 1200 S’s exhaust pipes.

2.10 Aftermarket Parts:

The Sportster S is a slightly newer model released in 2021 with most of its parts being available from Harley’s official dealers. On the other hand, the Ducati Monster 1200 S was first released in 1993 and has more aftermarket parts readily available since no significant external changes have been made in recent years.

3. FAQ

3.1 Is the Ducati Monster 1200 S a good touring motorcycle?

The Ducati Monster 1200 S has all the features of a typical touring motorcycle, including an enhanced ABS, traction control, a TFT display, different riding modes, a Multimedia system, an anti-theft system, adjustable suspension, etc. However, the problem is that the Ducati Monsters 1200 S’s riding position is unsuitable for touring. Normally, in touring motorcycles, the seating and handlebar positions help keep the rider’s spine straight rather than bending forward. However, the Ducati Monster 1200 S’s riding position is slightly more aggressive. The Ducati Monster 1200 S can be used for touring. However, the rider will have to take several rest breaks when traveling for several hours over long distances.

Also Read: BEST CRUISER MOTORCYCLES FOR BEGINNERS IN 2022

3.2 How much does it cost to maintain a Ducati Monster 1200 S?

The Ducati Monster 1200 S has a base price of $17,595. However, maintenance costs for the Ducati Monster 1200 S are not too expensive. The Ducati, Monster 1200 S’s engine oil only needs to be replaced every 15,000 km (9,000 miles), and the motorcycle will need valve clearance adjustment every 30,000 km (18,000 miles), which can cost around $800-$1200 if provided by the Ducati’s Service Center.

3.3 How much does the Ducati Monster 1200 S depreciate in value?

In general, the Ducati Monster 1200 S doesn’t depreciate in value by much. If the Ducati Monster is kept well-maintained over time, it should not depreciate in value significantly for a long time.

3.4 How fast is the Harley Sportster S?

The Harley Sportster S is powered by a 1,252-cc V-Twin engine, which can deliver a horsepower of 121 hp and peak torque of 127.7 Nm, making it possible to reach a top speed of 137 MPH (220 KM/H).

3.5 What type of bike is the Harley Sportster S?

At first glance, the Harley Sportster S looks like a sports bike, but it is actually a cruiser built to look like a sporty-cruiser motorcycle. Among all the other cruisers in the world, the Sportster S is a cruiser that provides a riding experience and feels similar to a sports bike as well.

3.6 Is the Harley Davidson Sportster S a good beginner motorcycle?

The Harley Davidson Sportster S weighs around 228 kg, which is considered lightweight among cruisers. Other than being a lightweight cruiser, the Sportster S also has useful features like N ABS, traction control, map navigation, Six-axis IMU, Tire pressure monitoring, and an assist & slipper clutch.

4. Conclusion:

The Harley Davidson Sportster S and the Ducati Monster 1200 S represent the best their respective manufacturers have to offer, but having to choose between the two can be a tough decision to make. In terms of features, performance, and speed, the Ducati Monster 1200 S is clearly the winner. But when it comes to the price of the motorcycle, the Harley Sportster S has a significant advantage. If the rider wants to decide which motorcycle to pick based on the user and riding experience, it ultimately comes down to the rider’s decision. If the rider is tall or heavyweight and wants a motorcycle with good clearance, seat height, and suspensions, then the Ducati Monster 1200 S is the better option to pick. However, if the rider is more concerned about a relaxed riding position, then the Harley Sportster S is the better option. In terms of long-distance rides, both motorcycles are suited to the task.