Positioning:
The V-Rod series represented Harley-Davidson's foray into the performance cruiser segment, blending American muscle with European sportbike handling inspired by Porsche engineering.
Competition:
Competed with performance cruisers and power cruisers from brands like Yamaha (VMAX), Ducati (Diavel), and other manufacturers offering more aggressive styling and performance.
Distinctive Features:
Liquid-cooled Revolution engine, distinctive styling, premium components, and performance-oriented chassis.
Engine:
Revolution V-Twin engine, internal components, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel injection system.
Transmission:
Clutch, gearbox, drive belt system, maintenance, and repair.
Electrical:
Ignition system, lighting, starting system, charging system, electronic control module (ECM), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (front forks, rear shocks), steering, wheels, brakes (front and rear), tires.
Bodywork:
Body panels, fenders, fuel tank, seating, controls, instrumentation.
Fuel System Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting and repair of fuel injectors, fuel pump, pressure regulator, and related sensors.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, brake fluid flush, clutch fluid flush, spark plug replacement, belt tension adjustment.
Repair:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension repair, brake system repair, electrical component replacement, fuel system diagnostics.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common issues, fault finding based on symptoms, wiring diagrams for electrical diagnostics.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Suspension Adjustment:
Guidance on front fork adjustments and rear shock preload settings.
Wheel And Tire Service:
Procedures for wheel balancing, tire mounting/dismounting, and inspection.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for complete engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly, including torque specifications and tolerances.
Transmission Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for gearbox component overhaul, including gear inspection and bearing replacement.
Engine Type:
1250cc (76 cu in) Liquid-cooled, 60-degree V-twin, DOHC, 8 valves
Bore X Stroke:
100 mm x 79 mm (3.94 in x 3.11 in)
Compression Ratio:
11.3:1
Fueling:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled with radiator and fan.
Horsepower Approx:
125 hp @ 8000 rpm (estimated)
Torque Approx:
82 ft-lbs @ 7000 rpm (estimated)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane recommended.
Safety Certifications:
Complies with applicable US EPA, CARB, and DOT standards.
Brakes:
Dual front disc, 4-piston calipers; Single rear disc, 4-piston caliper. Optional ABS available.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED taillight and brake light, amber LED front turn signals, red LED rear turn signals.
Immobilizer:
Harley-Davidson Smart Security System (optional/standard depending on trim).
Instrumentation:
Analog tachometer, digital speedometer, gear indicator, fuel gauge, clock, trip meters, diagnostic indicators.
Lighting Control:
Integrated handlebar controls for lights and signals.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option or standard on certain trims.
Diagnostic System:
On-board diagnostics with Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) readable via a diagnostic tool, as detailed in the manual.
First Service:
1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Subsequent Service:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months.
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson V-Twin 20W-50 Synthetic (or equivalent API CI-4 or higher).
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson primary chain case lubricant (or equivalent SAE 15W-50 API SG or higher).
Coolant:
Harley-Davidson Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors).
Common Problems:
Potential for coolant leaks from hose connections, occasional electronic control module (ECM) issues, wear on internal engine components with high mileage, and brake system maintenance.
Spark Plug Part Number:
Harley-Davidson part number 6R12VT (or equivalent).
Oil Filter Part Number:
Harley-Davidson part number 63796-77A (or equivalent).
Heritage:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer known for its V-twin engines and cruiser motorcycles.
V Rod Development:
The V-Rod platform was developed in collaboration with Porsche, debuting in 2001 with the VRSC (V-Twin Racing Street Custom). The 2015 models are part of this performance-oriented evolution.
Production Period:
The V-Rod line was produced from 2001 to 2017.
