Harley-Davidson VRSCDX Night Rod Special

Specifications
Price: $16,495 Engine: 1130cc, liquid-cooled, 60-degree V-twin Compression ratio: 11.3:1 Valvetrain: SOHC, 4 valves per cylinder Fuel System: EFI	Transmission: 5M Final Drive: Belt Suspension F/R: 49mm forks/dual shocks, preload adjustable Suspension Travel F/R: 4.0 in./2.9 in.	Brakes F/R: Dual 300mm discs/300mm disc Tires F/R: 120/70-ZR19/240/40-R18 Wheelbase: 67.2 Seat Height: 26.3 in Dry Weight: 643 lb.

The Night Rod is the rock star of this group. It’s mean and menacing and it made us feel cool just standing next to it. Its intoxicatingly techy baritone V-twin growl and seamless acceleration curve come courtesy of engine design help from Porsche. The Night Rod was the third quickest bike at the dragstrip. Even though Harley is known for low-tech, comfy cruisers, the Night Rod has a sophisticated powerplant bolted to a rather uncomfortable chassis. The riding position requires arms stretched forward, a bit like doing a lat-pull exercise at the gym. That makes the Night Rod the most difficult bike to corner at slow speeds, so this is not our favorite bike for a long-distance cruise or a trip through the canyons. But more than one buyer is willing to make the compromise. Because, wherever the Night Rod shows up, people just stare. This Harley is the second most expensive bike here. That money brings near custom- quality construction, the inimitable Harley-Davidson cachet and a bike that’s as much fun to look at as it is to ride.