IN BRIEF
High Points: Advanced design, visually stunning, very fast.
Low Points: High price, squirrely handling.
First Changes: New seat, new rubber.
Andrew Cherney: "That new Harley rips!" It's starting to sound like a broken record around here. The Motor Company has blown open the cruiser performance envelope again, but in a big way with the V-Rod. Frankly, it's getting embarrassing to admit that I like Harleys as much as any cruiser out there -- probably because the V-Rod's so unlike any other cruiser out there. Any comparison of this bike to other cruisers would be moot. The V-Rod has created its own category, which is not to say this bike isn't going to have detractors. I've already heard people say it's not really a Harley -- it doesn't shake enough.
Early models came only in...
Early models came only in one finish. No colors were available.
I just have one question. Why even bother putting passenger pegs on the V-Rod? A squirrel couldn't fit on that patch of pillion.
Jamie Elvidge: Harley-Davidson has made so many huge strides since the debut of its Twin Cam motor in 1999; our hands are stinging from drawn-out applause. But this bike, the V-Rod, well, I can't figure out whether I'm standing in ovation or passed out on the floor from amazement. Either way I'm still clapping (not a bad trick when you're passed out). It's not only a showstopper. The V-Rod's a world-changer. Harley just made it snow in July. Visually, the V-Rod hits every nerve ending that matters to me. It's sleek, yet voluptuous, and unspeakably elegant all dressed in alloy. Within the first mile of riding the thing it become totally obvious to me that this isn't just another cruiser. It's a hybrid of sport and custom intentions -- a new breed. I can't wait to see what follows. The hard-core Harley "biker" types will probably never understand or appreciate this bike, or realize that H-D doesn't really care if they do. It's a machine built for their children...a way for Harley to invest in new blood before all those grizzled gray hairs die off. Even if this bike doesn't impress you, The Motor Company's savvy must.
The 2003 V-Rod has 100th-anniversary...
The 2003 V-Rod has 100th-anniversary graphics.
SPECIFICATIONS
2001 Harley-Davidson V-Rod
ENGINE & DRIVETRAIN
Type: Liquid-cooled 60-degree 1130cc V-twin
Valve arrangement: Dual overhead cam, chain driven
Displacement, bore x stroke: 1130cc, 100 x 72mm
Compression ratio: 11.3:1
Carburetion: Sequential Port Electronic Fuel Injection (SPEFI)
Lubrication: Wet sump, 4.5 qt.
Minimum fuel grade: 92 octane
Transmission: 5 speed, dog and pocket (spur type first-fifth gear, others helical)
Final drive: Belt
For 2004, the V-Rod is available...
For 2004, the V-Rod is available in colors, including blue.
CHASSIS
Wet weight: 620 lb.
GVWR: 1022 lb.
Wheelbase: 67.5 in.
Overall length: 93.6 in.
Rake/trail: 34 degress / 3.9 in.
Front tire: 120/70ZR-19
Rear tire: 180/55ZR-18
Front brake: Four-piston caliper, dual 293mm discs
Rear brake: Four-piston caliper, single 293mm disc
Front suspension: 49mm custom stanchions, 3.94 in. travel
Rear suspension: Dual shocks, 2.36 in. travel
Fuel capacity: 3.7 gal.
Seat height: 26.0 in.
Inseam equivalent: 32 in.
Handlebar width: 28.5 in.
2004 also brought the very...
2004 also brought the very similar VRSCB, with black frame and different handlebar mounting.
ELECTRICAL & INSTRUMENTATION
Charging output: 360 watts
Battery: 12v, 12 AH
Instruments: Electronic speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, LCD odometer/tripmeter with diagnostic capabilities, warning lights for high beams, neutral, oil pressure
PERFORMANCE
Fuel mileage: 33 to 39 mpg, 36.9-mpg average
Average range: 137 miles
Rpm at 60 mph, top-gear: 2700
200 yard, top-gear acceleration from 50 mph, terminal speed: 82.7 mph
Quarter-mile acceleration: 11.92 sec., 112.8 mph
H-D has a complete accessory...
H-D has a complete accessory line for the 'Rod.