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2021 Harley-Davidson Low Rider S — Should You Buy One?

Typical asking price: $15,000–$20,000. This is one of the more reliable vehicles in its class — here's what to watch for anyway.

Kestrel Take

The performance cruiser in Harley's lineup — the Low Rider S pairs the big 114 (or later 117) Milwaukee-Eight with sportier suspension, a blacked-out aggressive look, and genuinely fun handling for a cruiser. It's a hot rod, so some were ridden hard. Watch for heavy mods and drops. A clean, well-maintained Low Rider S with records is a characterful, quick, and desirable cruiser that holds value strongly.

Known Issues for the 2021 Harley-Davidson Low Rider S

Ranked by wallet impact. These are documented, recurring problems — not freak accidents.

Hard riding / drop damageMedium

A performance cruiser ridden hard; inspect for tip-over/crash damage and abuse.

Repair cost range: Varies

Heavy aftermarket modificationMedium

Inspect exhaust/tune/suspension mods for quality; a bad tune runs hot/lean.

Repair cost range: Varies

Drive belt / tire / brake wearMedium

Check the belt, tires, and brakes.

Repair cost range: $300-$1,000

Milwaukee-Eight heat / oil serviceLow

The big V-twin runs hot; verify oil service.

Repair cost range: $100-$400

Walk-Away Red Flags

  • Crash/drop damage
  • Poor mods or bad tune
  • Worn belt/tires/brakes
  • No service records

Good Signs

  • Stock or quality documented mods
  • Fresh consumables, healthy belt
  • Documented service, honest miles

Found a specific Harley-Davidson Low Rider S?

This page covers what goes wrong on the 2021 Harley-Davidson Low Rider S in general. The Kestrel report covers this specific car— the asking price vs. market, the photos, the seller's description, and a BUY / NEGOTIATE / WALK AWAY verdict with a negotiation script.

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Known issues on this page are based on documented owner reports, NHTSA complaints, class-action records, and manufacturer technical service bulletins. Individual vehicles vary. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is always worth doing.