2023 Harley-Davidson Low Rider ST: Specs, Review, & More!

by Alex Braham 58 views

Hey guys! Are you ready to dive deep into the Harley-Davidson Low Rider ST 2023? This bike has been making waves, and for good reason. It perfectly blends classic Harley-Davidson styling with modern performance and touring capabilities. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just getting into the world of motorcycles, the Low Rider ST is a bike that deserves your attention. Let's break down everything that makes this bike so special.

What is the Harley-Davidson Low Rider ST 2023?

The Harley-Davidson Low Rider ST 2023 is essentially a performance-oriented bagger that takes the classic Low Rider S and elevates it with touring enhancements. Think of it as a stripped-down, hot-rod version of a touring bike. The 'ST' stands for Sport Touring, and that's exactly what this bike delivers. It’s designed for riders who want the agility and raw feeling of a street bike but also need the practicality for longer rides. The fairing and hard saddlebags are not just for show; they significantly improve rider comfort and utility, making it a versatile option for both daily commutes and weekend getaways. The bike’s design is heavily influenced by the FXRT models of the 1980s, which were known for their performance and distinctive look. The Low Rider ST captures that spirit with its aggressive stance, high handlebars, and muscular lines. This bike is not just about looks, though. It's powered by a Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine, which provides plenty of torque and horsepower for a thrilling riding experience. The combination of style, performance, and practicality makes the Low Rider ST a standout in Harley-Davidson's lineup. If you're looking for a bike that can do it all and look good doing it, the Low Rider ST might just be the perfect fit. Plus, with Harley-Davidson's extensive customization options, you can easily personalize the bike to suit your individual taste and needs. Whether you're cruising down the highway or carving through twisty roads, the Low Rider ST offers a unique and engaging riding experience that sets it apart from other bikes in its class.

Key Features and Specs

Let's get into the nitty-gritty details of the Harley-Davidson Low Rider ST 2023. This bike is packed with features that make it a true standout in the Harley-Davidson lineup. First and foremost, the heart of this beast is the Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine. This powerhouse delivers a whopping 125 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 RPM, ensuring you've got plenty of power for acceleration and passing. The engine's responsiveness and smooth power delivery make it a joy to ride in various conditions, whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the open highway. The Low Rider ST also features a frame-mounted fairing that not only looks great but also provides excellent wind protection. This fairing is designed to reduce wind buffeting, making long rides more comfortable. The fixed fairing is a game-changer, especially if you plan on doing a lot of highway riding. It significantly reduces fatigue and allows you to enjoy the ride without constantly fighting against the wind. Additionally, the bike comes with lockable hard saddlebags, offering ample storage space for your gear. These bags are perfect for carrying essentials on a daily commute or packing for a weekend trip. They are also easily removable, allowing you to switch between touring and a more stripped-down look in just a few minutes. The suspension is another area where the Low Rider ST shines. It features inverted front forks and a rear monoshock, providing excellent handling and stability. The suspension is tuned to offer a balance between comfort and performance, making it suitable for a wide range of riding styles. Whether you're tackling twisty roads or cruising on the highway, the suspension keeps the bike planted and responsive. Other notable features include a digital instrument display, LED lighting, and standard ABS. The digital display provides essential information at a glance, while the LED lighting enhances visibility and adds to the bike's modern aesthetic. The standard ABS ensures confident braking in various conditions, adding an extra layer of safety. Overall, the Low Rider ST is a well-equipped bike that offers a blend of performance, comfort, and style. It’s designed to appeal to riders who want a versatile machine that can handle both daily commutes and long-distance touring with ease.

Riding Experience

Okay, so what’s it actually like to ride the Harley-Davidson Low Rider ST 2023? Let me tell you, it’s a blast. The Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine is an absolute beast, providing you with tons of torque right off the bat. You’ll feel a surge of power every time you twist the throttle, making acceleration and passing maneuvers a breeze. The engine is not just powerful; it's also incredibly smooth. Harley-Davidson has done an excellent job of refining the Milwaukee-Eight, ensuring that it delivers power in a linear and predictable manner. This makes the bike easy to control and confidence-inspiring, even for less experienced riders. The handling on the Low Rider ST is surprisingly nimble for a bike of its size. The inverted front forks and rear monoshock work together to provide excellent stability and control. You'll feel confident carving through corners, and the bike responds well to rider input. The suspension is well-tuned to handle a variety of road conditions, providing a comfortable ride even on rough surfaces. The frame-mounted fairing is a game-changer when it comes to comfort. It effectively blocks the wind, reducing fatigue on long rides. You'll be able to cruise at highway speeds for hours without feeling beat up by the wind. The fairing also helps to reduce noise, making the riding experience more enjoyable overall. The seating position on the Low Rider ST is upright and comfortable, allowing you to maintain a relaxed posture. The handlebars are positioned in a way that puts your hands in a natural and comfortable position, reducing strain on your wrists and shoulders. The combination of the comfortable seat and well-placed handlebars makes the Low Rider ST a great choice for long-distance riding. One thing that really stands out about the Low Rider ST is its versatility. It's equally at home cruising around town as it is tackling long highway stretches. The bike is nimble enough to navigate city streets with ease, and it has plenty of power for passing and accelerating. When you hit the open road, the fairing and saddlebags make it a comfortable and practical touring machine. Overall, the riding experience on the Low Rider ST is engaging, comfortable, and fun. It's a bike that you'll look forward to riding every time you get the chance.

Pros and Cons

Let's break down the Harley-Davidson Low Rider ST 2023 with a good ol' pros and cons list, shall we? This will help you get a clear picture of what this bike brings to the table and where it might fall short for some riders.

Pros:

  • Powerful Engine: The Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine is a beast, offering tons of torque and horsepower for a thrilling ride. You'll never feel like you're lacking power, whether you're accelerating from a stop or passing on the highway.
  • Great Handling: The inverted front forks and rear monoshock provide excellent handling and stability, making it fun to carve through corners.
  • Comfortable Ride: The frame-mounted fairing and comfortable seating position make it a great choice for long-distance touring. You can ride for hours without feeling fatigued.
  • Stylish Design: The Low Rider ST has a cool, retro-inspired design that turns heads wherever you go. It's a bike that looks as good as it performs.
  • Versatile: This bike is equally at home in the city as it is on the open road, making it a great all-around choice. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a weekend adventure, the Low Rider ST can handle it all.
  • Ample Storage: The hard saddlebags offer plenty of space for your gear, making it practical for daily use and touring.

Cons:

  • Price: The Low Rider ST is not the cheapest bike on the market, which may put it out of reach for some riders. It's an investment, but one that many feel is worth it.
  • Weight: It's a fairly heavy bike, which can make it a bit challenging to maneuver at low speeds. However, once you get moving, the weight becomes less noticeable.
  • Heat: The Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine can generate a fair amount of heat, especially in hot weather. This can be uncomfortable for some riders, particularly in stop-and-go traffic.
  • Limited Instrumentation: The digital instrument display is functional, but some riders may prefer a more traditional analog setup. It's a matter of personal preference.
  • Stock Exhaust: While functional, the stock exhaust note might not satisfy riders looking for a more aggressive sound. Upgrading the exhaust is a common modification for Low Rider ST owners.

Overall, the Low Rider ST is a fantastic bike with a lot to offer. The pros definitely outweigh the cons, making it a top choice for riders looking for a versatile and stylish machine. Just be aware of the potential drawbacks and consider whether they are deal-breakers for you.

Customization and Aftermarket Options

One of the coolest things about owning a Harley-Davidson Low Rider ST 2023 is the sheer endless customization options available. Harley-Davidson itself offers a vast catalog of accessories, and the aftermarket is even bigger! You can truly make this bike your own, tailoring it to your individual style and needs. Let's dive into some of the most popular customization options.

  • Exhaust Systems: Swapping out the stock exhaust is one of the most common modifications. A new exhaust can not only improve the bike's performance but also give it a more aggressive and throaty sound. Brands like Vance & Hines, S&S Cycle, and Rinehart offer a wide range of options, from slip-on mufflers to full exhaust systems.
  • Suspension Upgrades: While the stock suspension is pretty good, upgrading it can significantly improve the bike's handling and comfort. Options include aftermarket shocks, fork cartridges, and even air suspension systems. Brands like Öhlins, Progressive Suspension, and Legend Suspensions are popular choices.
  • Handlebars and Controls: Changing the handlebars can dramatically alter the bike's look and feel. You can choose from a variety of styles, including ape hangers, T-bars, and clubman bars. Upgrading the controls, such as grips, levers, and footpegs, can also enhance comfort and style. Arlen Ness and Roland Sands Design offer some great options.
  • Seats: A comfortable seat is essential for long rides. There are many aftermarket seats available, ranging from touring-focused options to more stylish and minimalist designs. Saddlemen, Mustang Seats, and Corbin are well-known brands in this category.
  • Lighting: Upgrading the lighting can improve both the bike's appearance and visibility. LED headlights, taillights, and turn signals are popular choices. Custom Dynamics and JW Speaker offer high-quality lighting solutions.
  • Cosmetic Upgrades: The possibilities are endless when it comes to cosmetic upgrades. You can add custom paint, chrome accents, and various other accessories to personalize the bike's look. Harley-Davidson offers a wide range of cosmetic accessories, and there are also many independent shops that specialize in custom paint and fabrication.
  • Performance Enhancements: If you're looking to squeeze even more power out of the Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine, there are several performance enhancements you can make. These include installing a high-flow air cleaner, upgrading the fuel injectors, and remapping the ECU. Screamin' Eagle (Harley-Davidson's performance brand) and Dynojet offer a variety of performance parts and tuning solutions.

No matter what your style or preferences, there are plenty of ways to customize your Low Rider ST and make it truly your own. Don't be afraid to experiment and try different things until you find the perfect combination that suits you.

Is the Low Rider ST Right for You?

So, after all this, the big question remains: Is the Harley-Davidson Low Rider ST 2023 the right bike for you? Let's break down the key considerations to help you make an informed decision.

Consider this bike if:

  • You want a powerful and stylish bike: If you crave the raw power of the Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine and appreciate the retro-inspired design, the Low Rider ST is a great fit. It's a bike that looks as good as it performs, and it's sure to turn heads wherever you go.
  • You need a versatile machine: If you want a bike that can handle both daily commutes and long-distance touring, the Low Rider ST is an excellent choice. The frame-mounted fairing and hard saddlebags make it comfortable and practical for long rides, while its nimble handling makes it fun to ride in the city.
  • You value customization: If you enjoy personalizing your bike and making it your own, the Low Rider ST offers endless customization options. From exhaust systems to suspension upgrades, there are countless ways to tailor the bike to your individual style and needs.
  • You appreciate Harley-Davidson's heritage: If you're a fan of Harley-Davidson's history and iconic styling, the Low Rider ST is a great way to experience that heritage in a modern package. It's a bike that pays homage to the FXRT models of the 1980s while offering modern performance and technology.

Maybe it's not for you if:

  • You're on a tight budget: The Low Rider ST is not the cheapest bike on the market, and the cost can add up quickly if you start adding customization options. If you're on a limited budget, there may be more affordable alternatives to consider.
  • You prefer a lighter and more agile bike: While the Low Rider ST handles well for its size, it's still a fairly heavy bike. If you prioritize agility and maneuverability above all else, you may prefer a lighter and more compact machine.
  • You live in a very hot climate: The Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine can generate a fair amount of heat, which can be uncomfortable in hot weather. If you live in a very hot climate and do a lot of stop-and-go riding, you may want to consider a bike that runs cooler.
  • You're looking for advanced technology: While the Low Rider ST offers some modern features like a digital instrument display and LED lighting, it doesn't have the advanced technology found on some other bikes. If you prioritize features like rider modes, traction control, and a large infotainment screen, you may want to look elsewhere.

Ultimately, the best way to decide if the Low Rider ST is right for you is to take one for a test ride. Visit your local Harley-Davidson dealer and see how the bike feels in person. Pay attention to the engine's power delivery, the bike's handling, and the overall comfort. If you enjoy the riding experience and the bike fits your needs and preferences, then the Low Rider ST may just be the perfect machine for you.