V-Rod celebrates 10 years

From Deeley Harley-Davidson Canada

CONCORD, ON – Harley-Davidson Motor Company celebrates a decade of pavement-pounding performance with the V-Rod 10th Anniversary Edition motorcycle, one of three models in a 2012 V‑Rod line that also includes an updated Night Rod Special and the V-Rod Muscle.

Introduced as a 2002 model, the original V-Rod ushered in a new era of Harley-Davidson motorcycle performance. Its 1,130cc 60-degree Revolution V-Twin engine was the first Harley-Davidson production engine equipped with overhead camshafts and liquid cooling, and it came with a high-winding 9,000rpm redline. Inspired by drag racing bikes and monster-motor customs, the V-Rod debuted with aluminum disc wheels, a raked out chassis, fast-back seat and anodized aluminium bodywork – a new styling direction for Harley-Davidson.

In just 10 years, the Harley-Davidson V-Rod family grew to include a number of new models. The V-Rod went to the track as the basis for the 2007 Custom Vehicle Operations V-Rod Destroyer, an eight-second Factory drag racer. It was also the inspiration for the Harley-Davidson Screamin' Eagle/Vance & Hines V-Rod, a four-time world champion in Pro Stock Motorcycle professional drag racing. For 2012, Harley-Davidson V-Rod models continue to serve up explosive performance and urban-cool styling for riders seeking a singular power-cruiser experience.

All 2012 V-Rod models are powered by the latest version of the Revolution engine, a 1,250cc liquid-cooled V-Twin with dual overhead camshafts, four-valve cylinder heads, and Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI). The powertrain is equipped with an Assist and Slip clutch, five-speed transmission, and a high-performance carbon fibre drive belt. The tires are Michelin Scorcher radials, including a 240mm wide rear tire. Brembo triple-disc performance brakes are available with optional Factory-installed anti-lock braking system (ABS). ABS is part of the optional Security Package that also includes the Smart Security System with proximity-based, hands-free security fob.

The restyled Night Rod Special has a suggested Canadian Retail price of $16,789 and features a new tapered tail section, lighter-weight wheels, and improved ergonomics with reduced reach to both the rider footpegs and the handlebar. Inverted front forks and retuned rear suspension enhance ride comfort and handling. This is a blacked-out, dead-on power cruiser that is at home in a back alley.

A tribute to the original V-Rod that will be offered only in 2012, the V-Rod 10th Anniversary Edition's Brilliant Silver Pearl bodywork with colour-matched frame is exclusive in the V-Rod line. Extra chrome and polished surfaces dazzle on the engine, exhaust, and speed screen. This special edition (pictured) comes with a suggested Canadian Retail price of $17,559 and features all of the new additions made to the Night Rod Special for 2012.

The V-Rod Muscle is a brawny beast for performance enthusiasts who crave power and control, with a dash of intimidation. Tagged with a suggested Canadian Retail price of $16,459, its styling features include a wide airbox cover, side cover air scoops, and dual exhaust in satin chrome with fat, turn-out mufflers. An abbreviated tail section and chopped rear fender expose the 240mm wide rear tire. A deep seat holds the rider firmly in place against the thrust of the Revolution V-Twin engine.