Harley-Davidson Street 500: Detailed Specs, Background, Performance, and More

The Harley Street 500 is an entry-level motorcycle that boasts comfortable riding posture and modern blacked-out styling. Once there was a time when Harley-Davidson motorcycles were made to last long, with their revolutionary engines and powerful performances, and H-D was well-known as the largest motorcycle production around the globe.

After many years of success, Harley felt that they were losing their respect and position because of their similar model designs and same typical ergonomics. In 2013, Harley decided to take a step to regain their fan's attention and customers' interest with a revolutionary bike that broke the records and took its valuable place in the market again.

Harley Davidson revealed its new street bikes in 2014, as the Street 500 and street 750. Both models are offered at the same time, the street 500 was shown up as a new line that was Harley’s comeback to compete with other motorcycle production companies who are offering similar bikes. These models take Harley to an entirely different level.

If you are a Harley enthusiast and looking for a reliable, beginner-level, and comfortable street bike, Harley Street 500 could be a good choice for you.

So let's find out the facts about the Harley Sportster 500 which makes this amazing bike magnificent.

In 2013, Harley Davidson announced the Harley Street Motorcycle series and 2014 was the officially launched year of Harley Street 500 across foreign markets in the U.S as well. Foreign markets include countries like India, China, and Southeast Asia.

Harley-Davidson has never failed in fulfilling the customer’s demands. They knew that some beginners want to ride slowly as the previous models were higher in power and weight which were not appropriate for starting their cruise.

By considering this thought, the Harley production line ended up making a motorcycle for riders who want to begin their journey at a very initial stage. Harley Street 500 was small and agile. This bike was ideal for scooting in and out of traffic. Riders didn't face problems with this bike while driving in narrow streets. This bike was a piece of art for riders with shorter heights. Its low weight, totally new ergonomics, ultimate design, and great performance made this bike amazing for the youth.

The first impression of the motorcycle is pretty sweet. The design is actually different from previous Harley models. There are a lot of things to admire in this bike from its paint job to its rear tire. As a matter of fact, this bike was a great success for the company because its low seat, forward-mounted pegs, and wider handlebar give a great feel to every rider. Being lower makes this street bike very accomodating for shorter people. Its affordability and lightweight are the signature points to remember.

Street 500 is designed with a 494cc (30cu. in) liquid-cooled, Revolution X™ V-Twin engine. This engine was specifically designed for the Harley Street series. There are some visible changes in the engine including the 60° V arrangement of the cylinders compared to the traditional 45°, and liquid-cooled engine rather than a traditional air-cooled one. This engine provides reliability, smoothness, and great torque which is enough for building comfort for new riders.

This bike has decently tuned suspension, a comfortable seat, good handling, sub-par brakes, stunning looks, and a basic instrument cluster. If we talk about its riding position it is more towards the standard upright configuration. This provides a very natural and familiar position that most beginners enjoy.

The Harley Street 500 is a reasonable entry-level bike from a performance point of view. Many new riders tend to ride cruiser-style bikes. This bike has a low and relaxed riding position which gives the vibes of the cruiser. Furthermore, the 494 cc X™ V-Twin engine generates enough power that can be easily handled by every rider. Please make a note that this bike is not for people above 6’ feet, taller riders may even find it a bit uncomfortable.

The low price of this motorcycle was the actual success for the company which attracted many customers. The pricing of this bike starts at $6,899 before options. They have kept this price for the base model and if you want customization, it could reach as high as $8,700. Abs brakes are optional in Street 500.

The answer is no, The Harley Street 500 has been officially discontinued. Harley’s small-and-medium displacement era has come to an end.

Harley Street 500 is an entry-level bike with a 494 cc Revolution X V-Twin engine, it is a cruiser-style bike with balanced brakes and suspension. This bike is not designed for long miles as it has a smaller engine in comparison to Harley Cruiser Motorcycles. Rather, you can plan a shorter or one-day trip as the bike is considered under power according to enthusiasts who often go for motorcycle trips. The seat is comfortable and the sitting posture is relaxed but the only thing which restricts you from going on long routes is the engine power.

Although Street 500 is an entry-level bike and made for cruising around the town, this bike is offered with total customization by fitting aftermarket parts on it, like motorcycle seats and sissy bars.

All you need to do is sit down and take a look at the available parts and accessories for the bike to modify it according to your taste and make it look more stunning when parked in your community or while urban riding.

And if you are using your Street 500 on a daily basis and you have to carry some luggage along with you, a pair of good saddlebags would be great for you, it is advised not to install large luggage bags on your bike because this is low profile bike and large bags won't suit it perfectly.