The 2015 Harley-Davidson Night Rod Special and Ultra Limited are large American V-twins with entirely different priorities. The Night Rod Special is a low, muscular power cruiser built around the liquid-cooled Revolution engine. The Ultra Limited is a full-dress touring motorcycle designed for a passenger, luggage and long days on the highway.
Both are heavy motorcycles, but the Ultra Limited adds roughly another adult passenger’s worth of mass before an actual passenger climbs aboard.
2015 Harley-Davidson Specifications
| Specification | Night Rod Special | Ultra Limited |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1,247 cc liquid-cooled Revolution V-twin | 1,690 cc Twin-Cooled High Output Twin Cam 103 V-twin |
| Claimed output | 121 hp; 111 Nm | Torque-focused; approximately 138 Nm |
| Transmission | 5-speed; belt drive | 6-speed; belt drive |
| Dry weight | Approximately 289 kg | Approximately 398 kg |
| Seat height | 675 mm | Approximately 740 mm unladen |
| Fuel capacity | 18.9 liters | 22.7 liters |
| Touring equipment | Minimal | Fairing, luggage, passenger backrest and infotainment |
Power Cruiser or Long-Distance Tourer?
The Night Rod’s stretched riding position, wide rear tire and strong high-rpm engine make it the more aggressive machine. ABS and a slipper-style clutch improve control, but limited wind protection and luggage capacity restrict its touring usefulness.
The Ultra Limited supplies a large fairing, heated grips, cruise control, integrated luggage, audio and a supportive passenger seat. Its Twin-Cooled cylinder heads and lower gearing are designed around sustained loaded travel rather than sharp acceleration.
Choose the Night Rod for dramatic styling and performance-focused solo riding. Choose the Ultra Limited for two-up touring and interstate range. One makes every fuel stop an occasion; the other has enough storage to bring the occasion with it.
