Nightster vs Scout Sixty Bobber
The American cruiser market is heating up with two exceptional bobbers going head-to-head: the Harley-Davidson Nightster and the Indian Scout Sixty Bobber. Both motorcycles promise authentic American V-twin character, stripped-down bobber styling, and accessible performance. But which one offers the better package for your money? Let’s break down this power and price showdown to help you make the right choice.
Introduction: American Legends Face Off
When two iconic American motorcycle brands compete in the same segment, riders win. The Harley-Davidson Nightster brings forward the legendary Sportster lineage with modern Revolution Max engineering, while the Indian Scout Sixty Bobber channels post-war custom culture with contemporary reliability. Both target riders seeking premium cruiser experience without extreme displacement or price tags.
These bobbers represent the perfect entry point into American V-twin ownership—manageable power, low seat heights, and distinctive style that turns heads everywhere you ride. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser buyer or downsizing from a bigger bike, this comparison will help you decide which bobber deserves a spot in your garage.
Table of Contents
Power and Performance: V-Twin Showdown
Harley-Davidson Nightster: Modern Revolution
The Nightster’s Revolution Max 975T engine is a thoroughly modern 975cc liquid-cooled V-twin producing 89.7 horsepower and 95 Nm of torque. This represents Harley’s departure from traditional air-cooled engines, delivering smooth, refined power from idle to redline.
The DOHC engine paired with a 6-speed transmission offers excellent versatility for both city riding and highway cruising. What sets the Nightster apart is its selectable ride modes—Rain, Road, and Sport—allowing you to tailor throttle response and traction control to riding conditions. This modern feature enhances safety and enjoyment, particularly for newer riders.
Real-world fuel efficiency averages around 18 kmpl, which is reasonable for a performance-oriented cruiser. The engine’s refinement means consistent power delivery regardless of weather or traffic conditions, and the liquid cooling eliminates hot-running concerns during Indian summers.
Indian Scout Sixty Bobber: SpeedPlus Efficiency
Indian’s all-new SpeedPlus 999cc liquid-cooled V-twin produces 85 horsepower and 88.1 Nm of torque—representing a 7-horsepower increase over the previous generation. While slightly less powerful than the Nightster, this engine emphasizes smooth, tractable power that’s incredibly confidence-inspiring.
The Scout Sixty features a 5-speed transmission with well-chosen ratios that rarely leave you wanting for another gear. The engine’s smooth character makes it exceptionally easy to ride, with linear power delivery that novice riders will appreciate and experienced riders won’t find boring.
Where the Scout Sixty truly shines is fuel efficiency. Indian claims 25 kmpl, with real-world figures around 20-22 kmpl—significantly better than the Nightster. This translates to substantial savings over time, especially for regular riders.
Performance Verdict
The Nightster wins on pure power with 89.7 HP versus 85 HP, and delivers more torque (95 Nm vs 88.1 Nm). The ride modes and 6-speed gearbox add versatility. However, the Scout Sixty’s superior fuel efficiency and smooth power delivery make it more economical and accessible for everyday riding. Choose the Nightster for spirited performance, the Scout Sixty for effortless cruising.
Price Comparison: The Value Battle
Harley-Davidson Nightster Pricing
The Nightster is priced at ₹13.51 lakh for the standard variant and ₹14.29 lakh for the Special edition (ex-showroom). On-road prices range from ₹15.5-16.5 lakh depending on your city.
The Special variant adds chrome accents, upgraded wheels, and premium paint options including Vivid Black, Gunship Grey, Snake Venom, and Whiskey Fire. Harley offers EMI options starting around ₹24,946 per month, and festive discounts of up to ₹5 lakh have been available on select models.
Indian Scout Sixty Bobber Pricing
The Scout Sixty Bobber undercuts its rival at ₹12.99 lakh (ex-showroom) for the base variant, with on-road prices around ₹14.5-15.7 lakh. The Limited variant adds chrome touches and premium finishes at a higher price point.
EMI options start around ₹22,000-24,000 per month, making it more accessible for monthly budgets. Available in Metallic Black for the standard variant and Heavy Metal finish for the Limited edition.
Price Verdict: Clear Winner
The Indian Scout Sixty Bobber wins decisively, undercutting the Nightster by approximately ₹50,000-60,000. This makes it the most affordable premium American cruiser in India. However, the Nightster’s price premium buys you the legendary Harley badge, more power, and advanced features. For value-conscious buyers, the Scout Sixty is unbeatable; for brand prestige, the Nightster justifies its cost.
Design and Style: Contrasting Philosophies
Harley-Davidson Nightster
The Nightster channels Sportster heritage with modern execution. Key design elements include a circular LED headlamp, minimalist fuel tank with XR750-inspired graphics, exposed dual rear shocks, and blacked-out Revolution Max engine. The inverted front forks add a performance-oriented look that sets it apart from traditional cruisers.
At 688mm seat height and 218 kg wet weight, it’s light, low, and accessible. The aggressive forward-leaning stance creates a muscular profile, while the 11.7-liter fuel tank keeps the silhouette clean but limits range between fill-ups.
Indian Scout Sixty Bobber
The Scout Sixty delivers authentic post-war bobber aesthetics: chopped fenders front and rear, minimalist round LED headlamp, single tuck-and-roll solo seat, and blacked-out everything. Every component serves a purpose with zero unnecessary decoration.
The 649mm seat height—lowest in Indian’s lineup—makes it incredibly accessible, while the 243 kg kerb weight provides stability. Wide handlebars give a commanding riding position, and the 13-liter fuel tank offers slightly better range than the Nightster.
Style Verdict
Choose the Nightster for modern Harley styling with performance edge and inverted forks. Choose the Scout Sixty for traditional bobber purity with authentic minimalist aesthetics. Both are head-turners, just with different personalities.
Handling and Features: Capability Comparison
Riding Dynamics
The Nightster features 43mm inverted front forks and dual rear shocks providing firm, controlled handling that’s sportier than typical Harley cruisers. The riding position with mid-mounted controls feels slightly forward-leaning, encouraging spirited riding. Front and rear disc brakes with dual-channel ABS deliver strong, progressive stopping power.
The Scout Sixty Bobber uses conventional telescopic forks and twin rear shocks tuned for comfort over performance. The ultra-low seat and long wheelbase create exceptional stability, particularly at highway speeds. Single disc front brake with ABS is adequate but not as powerful as the Nightster’s setup.
Technology and Features
Nightster Tech Suite:
- 4-inch circular digital instrument cluster
- Selectable ride modes (Rain, Road, Sport)
- Traction control system
- LED lighting throughout
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- Keyless ignition
- USB charging port
Scout Sixty Bobber Features:
- New analog gauge with fuel indicator
- LED lighting
- Keyed ignition (traditional)
- Dual-channel ABS
- New hand controls for 2025
- Simplified, back-to-basics approach
Handling and Features Verdict
The Nightster wins convincingly with sharper handling, more powerful brakes, comprehensive technology including ride modes and traction control, and better ground clearance. The Scout Sixty prioritizes comfort, accessibility, and simplicity—which some riders prefer, but objectively offers less in this category.
Running Costs and Ownership
Both bikes are imported CBU models affecting parts availability, but both manufacturers have expanded their Indian presence significantly.
Harley-Davidson benefits from its Hero MotoCorp partnership, improving service network reach. Service intervals are at 5,000 km or 6 months with annual costs around ₹8,000-12,000. The Nightster averages 18 kmpl, resulting in higher fuel costs.
Indian Motorcycle offers comparable service network support with similar service intervals. Annual maintenance costs run ₹7,000-11,000. The Scout Sixty’s 22-25 kmpl fuel efficiency delivers significant savings—potentially ₹15,000-20,000 annually compared to the Nightster for regular riders.
Customization Potential: Both manufacturers offer extensive accessories catalogs. Harley’s legendary customization culture provides countless options, while Indian offers over 100 accessories specifically for the Scout Sixty Bobber with four curated collections.
Resale Value: Harley-Davidson traditionally holds strong resale value due to brand prestige. Indian is building its reputation with early indications suggesting good value retention. Both should maintain reasonable resale values over 3-5 years.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the Harley-Davidson Nightster if:
- The legendary Harley badge matters to you
- You want more power and torque (89.7 HP vs 85 HP)
- Advanced features like ride modes and traction control appeal
- You prefer sportier handling and modern technology
- Brand prestige influences your decision
- You’re willing to pay premium for the complete Harley experience
Choose the Indian Scout Sixty Bobber if:
- You want the best value in American cruiser ownership
- Fuel efficiency and lower running costs matter (22-25 kmpl vs 18 kmpl)
- You prefer authentic, traditional bobber styling
- Ultra-low seat height (649mm) is important for confidence
- You appreciate simplicity over technology
- You want ₹50,000-60,000 savings at purchase plus lower running costs
- Smooth, effortless power delivery appeals more than outright performance
Final Verdict
The Harley-Davidson Nightster and Indian Scout Sixty Bobber are both excellent bobbers targeting similar buyers with different priorities.
The Harley-Davidson Nightster is the more powerful, technologically advanced option. It delivers authentic Harley experience with modern engineering, comprehensive features, and the badge carrying over a century of heritage. You’re paying premium, but you’re getting a thoroughly contemporary cruiser wrapped in retro styling. Perfect for riders who want performance, technology, and the prestige of Harley ownership.
The Indian Scout Sixty Bobber offers unbeatable value—cheaper to buy, cheaper to run, and arguably more faithful to traditional bobber aesthetics. The smooth, efficient powerplant and ultra-low seat make it incredibly accessible. Indian has created an entry-level cruiser that doesn’t feel entry-level. Ideal for value-conscious buyers and those preferring traditional simplicity.
The Bottom Line: Can’t decide on specifications alone? The Scout Sixty Bobber saves you approximately ₹50,000-60,000 upfront plus ₹15,000-20,000 annually in fuel costs. Over three years of ownership, that’s over ₹1 lakh in savings. However, if the Harley badge, extra power, and advanced features justify the premium for you, the Nightster delivers an exceptional ownership experience.
Both bikes offer authentic American V-twin character with modern reliability. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize value and efficiency (Scout Sixty) or brand heritage and technology (Nightster). Either way, you’re getting a fantastic bobber that’ll put a smile on your face every time you ride.
Take extended test rides of both motorcycles, consider your budget and riding style, and choose the one that speaks to your heart. That’s what American cruiser ownership is really about—and both these bobbers deliver that feeling beautifully.
