The Harley-Davidson V-Rod Night Rod Special, manufactured by the iconic American motorcycle brand from 2006 to 2017, represents a unique and compelling chapter in the world of cruisers. It was a departure from Harley’s traditional air-cooled V-twin engines, boasting a liquid-cooled, fuel-injected V-twin engine developed in collaboration with Porsche. In this article, we delve into the specifications, features, performance, and the legacy of the V-Rod Night Rod Special, a motorcycle that left an indelible mark in the cruiser genre.

Specifications:

Engine:

• Displacement: 1,247 cc (76 cu in) Revolution V-twin
• Bore x Stroke: 105.0 x 72.0 mm (4.13 x 2.83 in)
• Compression Ratio: 11.5:1
• Power: 125 hp (93 kW) at 8,500 rpm
• Torque: 113 lb⋅ft (154 N⋅m) at 7,250 rpm
• Fuel System: Electronic fuel injection
• Transmission: 6-speed manual
• Drivetrain: Belt drive
• Frame: Double-cradle steel frame
• Suspension: Front – 43 mm inverted forks with 130 mm (5.12 in) travel; Rear – Monoshock with 120 mm (4.72 in) travel
• Wheels: Front – 130/70-R17; Rear – 240/40-R18
• Brakes: Front – Dual 300 mm discs with four-piston calipers; Rear – Single 292 mm disc with two-piston caliper
• Dimensions: Length – 2,440 mm (96.1 in); Width – 890 mm (35.0 in); Height – 1,065 mm (41.9 in); Seat Height – 675 mm (26.6 in); Wheelbase – 1,705 mm (67.1 in); Weight – 289 kg (638 lb) wet

Features:

The V-Rod Night Rod Special is a cruiser that combines the classic Harley-Davidson aesthetics with innovative features:

• Liquid-Cooled V-Twin Engine: This motorcycle marked a significant departure from Harley’s air-cooled engines. The Revolution V-twin engine delivers smooth and responsive power, offering a unique riding experience.
• Six-Speed Manual Transmission: The precise control provided by the six-speed manual transmission allows riders to harness the engine’s power effectively.
• Belt Drive: Known for being quiet and efficient, the belt drive enhances the riding experience, minimizing maintenance hassles.
• Double-Cradle Steel Frame: The rigid and responsive frame ensures stability and handling.
• Suspension: The 43 mm inverted forks in the front and the monoshock rear suspension combine to provide a comfortable and controlled ride.
• Tires: A large 130/70-R17 front tire and a wide 240/40-R18 rear tire offer excellent stability and contribute to the motorcycle’s distinctive style.
• Brakes: Dual 300 mm front disc brakes with four-piston calipers and a single 292 mm rear disc brake with a two-piston caliper deliver impressive stopping power.
• Electronic Cruise Control: A convenient feature for long-distance rides, this system enhances the motorcycle’s touring capabilities.
• Optional ABS: For added safety, an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) was available as an option.

Performance:

The V-Rod Night Rod Special is a powerhouse on two wheels:

• It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds, showcasing its impressive agility.
• With a top speed of 160 mph, it offers a thrilling experience for riders who crave speed and style.

Highlights:

The V-Rod Night Rod Special is celebrated for several compelling reasons:

• Its unique, liquid-cooled V-twin engine was a groundbreaking departure from Harley’s traditional air-cooled engines, marking an era of innovation.
• The motorcycle’s iconic design and striking appearance are sure to turn heads wherever it goes.
• The collaboration with Porsche for the engine development added an extra layer of prestige to this Harley.
• Its combination of classic cruiser aesthetics and modern technology makes it a memorable motorcycle in the cruiser genre.

Conclusion:

The Harley-Davidson V-Rod Night Rod Special, produced from 2006 to 2017, is a cruiser that stands as a testament to Harley-Davidson’s spirit of innovation. With its liquid-cooled V-twin engine, striking design, and impressive performance, it left an indelible mark in the world of cruisers. While it may have been discontinued in 2017, the legacy of the V-Rod Night Rod Special lives on, and it continues to be celebrated by motorcycle enthusiasts and collectors as a milestone in Harley-Davidson’s history.