Market Segment:
Performance Cruiser / Power Cruiser
Key Competitors:
Yamaha VMAX, Honda VTX series, Kawasaki Vulcan series, Suzuki Boulevard series, other European performance motorcycles.
Revolutionary Design:
The V-Rod was a radical departure for Harley-Davidson, featuring a liquid-cooled, DOHC V-twin engine developed in conjunction with Porsche, a hydro-formed steel frame, and a modern, aggressive styling.
Performance Focus:
Designed for higher performance and sportier handling than traditional Harley-Davidson models, bridging the gap between cruisers and sportbikes.
Engine Systems:
Engine diagnosis, disassembly, inspection, assembly, timing, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel delivery system (EFI), ignition system.
Transmission Drivetrain Systems:
Clutch operation and adjustment, gearbox disassembly and assembly, final drive (belt drive) inspection and maintenance.
Chassis Suspension Steering:
Front fork (USD) disassembly, assembly, and service; rear shock absorber inspection and replacement; wheel bearing maintenance; steering head bearing service; frame inspection.
Braking Systems:
Hydraulic brake system diagnosis, front and rear caliper service, master cylinder overhaul, brake fluid flush and bleeding, rotor and pad inspection.
Electrical Systems:
Battery maintenance, charging system (alternator/stator, regulator/rectifier), starting system (starter motor, solenoid), lighting (headlamp, tail lamp, turn signals), instrumentation, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, ECM (Engine Control Module) diagnostics, EFI sensor troubleshooting.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump testing, injector diagnosis and cleaning, fuel pressure regulation, fuel tank maintenance.
Exhaust System Coverage:
Exhaust pipe and muffler inspection and maintenance.
Preventative Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, chain/belt adjustment and lubrication (where applicable, though V-Rod has belt), brake fluid replacement, coolant flush (if applicable), tire pressure checks, fastener torque checks.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (if applicable to the era), symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair And Overhaul:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, and reassembly for all major systems.
Component Replacement:
Instructions for replacing wear items and failed components such as brake pads, clutch plates, bearings, seals, bulbs, and sensors.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic rider maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed specifications, tolerances, and torque values.
Engine Type:
Revolution Engine (Porsche-developed)
Engine Configuration:
1250cc (76 cubic inches) liquid-cooled, 60-degree V-twin
Valvetrain:
Dual Overhead Cams (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder
Bore X Stroke:
100 mm x 79 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.3:1
Horsepower Est:
Approximately 115 hp @ 8250 RPM
Torque Est:
Approximately 85 ft-lbs @ 6000 RPM
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (RON+MON)/2 (e.g., 87 AKI)
Cooling Method:
Liquid-cooled
Coolant Type:
Harley-Davidson recommended ethylene glycol based coolant (e.g., Harley-Davidson P/N 63796-97 or equivalent with a 50/50 mix).
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson V-Twin Motorcycle Oil SAE 20W50 (P/N 99995-74B) or a high-quality synthetic equivalent meeting Harley-Davidson specifications.
Oil Capacity Est:
Approximately 4.0 quarts (3.8 liters) with filter change.
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety ratings are typically not standardized like automotive; focus is on rider aids and design)
Braking System:
Dual front disc brakes (292mm), Single rear disc brake (292mm), multi-piston calipers.
Frame Design:
Hydro-formed steel frame for rigidity and stability.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED tail light, amber incandescent turn signals.
First Service:
Typically at 1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 1 month, whichever comes first. Includes oil and filter change, primary chain adjustment, inspection of all systems.
Subsequent Service:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months. Includes oil and filter change, inspection of belt tension, brake system, and other key components.
Major Service:
Typically at 10,000 or 15,000 miles (16,000 or 24,000 km), involving more in-depth inspections and potential component replacements like spark plugs, air filter, and brake fluid.
Engine Oil Grade:
SAE 20W50 Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Oil (P/N 99995-74B)
Primary Chain Case Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson primary lubricant (P/N 63730-98) or SAE 90 gear oil.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Fuel Injector Concerns:
Early models could experience issues with clogged fuel injectors, leading to rough running or starting problems. Proper cleaning and maintenance are key.
Rear Shock ABSorber:
Some owners reported a tendency for rear shock absorbers to lose damping effectiveness over time, particularly under aggressive riding.
Stator And Regulator Rectifier:
As with many motorcycles of this era, charging system components (stator and regulator/rectifier) can be points of failure over high mileage.
Belt Tension:
Proper belt tension is crucial for longevity. Overtightening or undertightening can lead to premature wear of the belt and pulleys.
Harley Davidson Legacy:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is renowned for its V-twin engines, cruiser motorcycles, and distinct American brand identity. The V-Rod represented a strategic move to broaden its appeal and enter new performance-oriented markets.
V Rod Development:
The V-Rod project began in the mid-1990s, with the goal of creating a modern, high-performance motorcycle that retained Harley-Davidson's soul. The partnership with Porsche's engineering department was crucial in developing the revolutionary Revolution engine.
Production Start Year:
2002
Manufacturing Location:
Kansas City, Missouri, USA
