Segment:
Power Cruiser / Muscle Cruiser
Target Audience:
Riders seeking performance, aggressive styling, and customizability in a Harley-Davidson platform.
Competitors:
Considered against other performance-oriented motorcycles such as Ducati Diavel, Yamaha VMAX, and other Harley-Davidson models.
Styling:
Low-slung profile, drag-style handlebars, forward-mounted foot controls, aggressive seating position, distinct "Night Rod" aesthetic.
Performance Focus:
The VRSCDX was positioned as Harley-Davidson's performance flagship in the cruiser segment for its era, emphasizing acceleration and handling.
Primary Coverage:
Mechanical, Electrical, Chassis, Bodywork, Troubleshooting
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Repair, Diagnostics, Specifications
Type:
Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual
Engine:
Revolution V-Twin (Liquid-cooled, 60° V-twin), Engine Assembly, Cylinder Heads, Valve Train, Piston and Connecting Rod, Crankshaft, Engine Balancing, Lubrication System, Fuel System (EFI), Ignition System, Cooling System
Transmission:
Clutch, Transmission Assembly, Gearshift Mechanism, Primary Drive, Final Drive (Belt Drive)
Chassis:
Frame, Front Suspension (Inverted Telescopic Forks), Rear Suspension (Dual Shocks), Wheels and Tires, Brake System (Front and Rear Disc Brakes, ABS considerations), Steering System
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System (Stator, Regulator/Rectifier), Starting System (Starter Motor, Solenoid), Ignition System (Ignition Module, Spark Plugs), Lighting System (Headlight, Taillight, Turn Signals), Instrumentation and Gauges, Wiring Diagrams, Fuel Injection System (ECM, Sensors, Injectors), Security System
Bodywork:
Fuel Tank, Fenders, Seat, Handlebars, Control Levers, Mirrors, Fairings (if applicable), Covers and Trim
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Air Filter Service, Brake Fluid Flush, Coolant Flush, Belt Inspection and Adjustment, Tire Pressure Checks, Chain/Belt Tension Adjustment (N/A for belt drive), Lubrication Points
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Fork Seal Replacement, Shock Absorber Replacement, Brake Pad Replacement, Caliper Service, Starter Motor Replacement, Alternator Service, Fuel Injector Cleaning/Replacement, ECM Diagnostics and Replacement, Wiring Harness Repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-based troubleshooting guides, Electrical system diagnostics, Fuel system diagnostics, Ignition system diagnostics, Mechanical system diagnostics
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine rebuilds and advanced electrical diagnostics)
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 60° V-twin, DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 4 valves per cylinder
Displacement:
1250 cc (76.4 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
105 mm x 72 mm (4.13 in x 2.83 in)
Compression Ratio:
12.5:1
Horsepower Est:
Approx. 125 HP @ 7500 RPM (Note: Harley-Davidson typically quotes torque over horsepower for cruisers)
Torque Est:
Approx. 84 ft-lbs @ 7000 RPM
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (Sequential Port Fuel Injection - H-D's Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection - ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
91 octane (or higher) unleaded gasoline
Ignition Type:
Electronic Spark Ignition (Dual Spark Plugs per Cylinder)
Cooling Method:
Liquid-Cooled
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil or equivalent SAE 20W-50
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.0 US quarts (3.8 L) with filter change
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycles are not subjected to typical automotive crash testing protocols)
Braking System:
Dual disc front brakes, Single disc rear brake with 4-piston calipers. Available ABS (Anti-lock Braking System).
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight and brake light, front and rear turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Robust steel frame designed for stability.
Tire Specifications:
Front: 130/70ZR18, Rear: 240/40R18
Instrumentation:
Analog tachometer, digital speedometer, gear indicator, fuel level, clock, trip meters, and diagnostic indicators.
Audio System:
Not standard on this model; often an aftermarket addition.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available.
Security:
Factory-installed security system with key fob.
Phone Integration:
Not standard; would require aftermarket integration.
First Service:
1000 miles (1600 km) or 6 months (whichever comes first)
Subsequent Service:
Every 5000 miles (8000 km) or 12 months
Valve Adjustment Interval:
Refer to manual, typically around 20,000 miles (32,000 km)
Belt Tension Check:
Check at every service interval
Engine Oil Spec:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil SAE 20W-50
Primary Chaincase Oil Spec:
Harley-Davidson Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent SAE 90W
Coolant Spec:
Harley-Davidson recommended coolant for liquid-cooled engines (typically a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, front fork seals, rear brake pads, battery life, belt tension requiring adjustment.
Potential Electrical:
Occasional issues with voltage regulators or stator components, though less common than on air-cooled models.
Fuel System Care:
Regular injector cleaning is advisable, especially with varied fuel quality.
Heritage:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, has a long and storied history in motorcycle manufacturing, particularly known for its V-twin engines and cruiser motorcycles.
Vrsd Development:
The VRSCDX is part of Harley-Davidson's VRSC (V-Twin Racing Custom) platform, which was developed in collaboration with Porsche Engineering to produce a more modern, performance-oriented motorcycle for the brand.
Night Rod Special Identity:
The 'Special' designation typically indicated a more premium or performance-oriented trim, often with upgraded components or styling elements. The Night Rod Special was known for its darker, more aggressive aesthetic.
Production Years:
The VRSCDX Night Rod Special was produced from 2007 to 2011.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (York, Pennsylvania and Milwaukee, Wisconsin plants)
