MILWAUKEE (July 20, 2011) – Harley-Davidson celebrates a decade of high-octane 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 led a new era of Harley-Davidson performance. Its 1130cc 60-degree Revolution® V-Twin engine was the first Harley-Davidson production engine equipped with overhead cam shafts and liquid cooling, and came with a high-winding 9000-RPM redline. Inspired by drag-racing bikes and monster-motor customs, the V-Rod debuted with aluminum disc wheels, a raked out chassis and anodized aluminum 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. V-Rod took to the track as the basis for the 2007 Custom Vehicle Operations V-Rod Destroyer, a factory drag racing bike. 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 provide 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 1250cc 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 high-performance carbon-fiber drive belt. Tyres are Michelin Scorcher radials, including a 240mm rear. Brembo® triple-disc performance brakes and anti-lock braking system (ABS) is fitted as standard. The Smart Security System with proximity-based, hands-free security fob is also fitted on all V-Rod models.

Night Rod Special

Dark and sinister, the restyled Night Rod Special features a new tapered tail section, lighter-weight wheels, and improved ergonomics with reduced reach to both the rider footpegs and handlebar. Inverted front forks and retuned rear suspension enhance ride and handling. This is a blacked-out, dead-on power cruiser that’s at home in a back alley.

Key Night Rod Features:

• Rubber-mounted, liquid-cooled, 1250 cc Revolution® engine with Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI); 125 hp @ 8,250 RPM; 82 ft. lbs.(111 Nm) @ 7,250 rpm.

• Straight-shot exhaust with brushed finish dual mufflers; black end caps and exhaust shield.

• NEW Black, split five-spoke cast aluminum wheels are 1.4 kg lighter than previous wheels.

• NEW Tapered tail section with flush-mount LED tail light.

• NEW Pullback handlebar places controls three inches (7.62cm) closer to the rider.

• NEW Reduced reach, forward-mounted rider footpegs.

• NEW Inverted front forks.

• NEW Two-up seat with custom stitching.

• NEW Stylised black speed screen visor.

• NEW Graphics, including V-Rod 10th anniversary emblem.

• Black powder-coated engine with black covers.

• Blacked-out frame, handlebar, front fork, triple clamps and covers.

• Racing stripe on airbox and tail section.

• Sport front fender with painted brace supports.

• 240 mm wide rear tyre.

V-Rod 10th Anniversary Edition

A tribute to the original V-Rod that will be offered only in 2012, its Brilliant Silver Pearl bodywork with colour-matched frame is exclusive in the V-Rod line. Extra chrome and polished surfaces on the engine, exhaust and speed screen. This special edition features all of the new additions made to the Night Rod Special for 2012.

Key V-Rod 10th Anniversary Edition Features:

• Rubber-mounted, liquid-cooled, 1250 cc Revolution® engine with Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI); 125 hp @ 8,250 rpm; 82 ft. lbs. (111 Nm) @ 7,250 rpm.

• NEW Straight-shot exhaust with dual, chrome slash-cut mufflers and chrome exhaust shield.

• NEW Silver, split five-spoke cast aluminum wheels are 1.4 kg lighter than previous wheels.

• NEW Tapered tail section with flush-mount LED tail light.

• NEW Pullback handlebar with polished finish.

• NEW Inverted front forks in silver and polished finishes.

• NEW Two-up seat with custom stitching.

• NEW Stylised, chrome speed screen visor.

• NEW Graphics, including V-Rod 10th anniversary emblem.

• NEW Chrome powertrain with platinum crankcase and heads.

• Polished, handlebar, front fork, and triple clamps.

• 240 mm wide rear tyre.

MY2012 VRSC Harley-Davidson press release