Positioning:
The Harley-Davidson V-Rod (VRSCA) was a groundbreaking model, diverging from traditional Harley-Davidson styling and engineering. It aimed to attract a new demographic seeking performance and modern aesthetics, challenging the sportbike and cruiser markets.
Competitors:
Competed against performance-oriented cruisers and power cruisers from manufacturers like Honda (V-TX, Rune), Yamaha (V-Max), Suzuki (Intruder M series), and Ducati.
Design Philosophy:
Developed in collaboration with Porsche, featuring a liquid-cooled, DOHC, V-twin engine with a unique V-rod architecture.
Styling:
Radical, modern styling with a low-slung profile, prominent radiator, and dual exhaust. Distinct from other Harley-Davidson models of its time.
Engine Technology:
Revolutionary liquid-cooled engine architecture, a significant departure from Harley-Davidson's air-cooled tradition.
Coverage Years:
2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008
Covered Models:
VRSCA V-Rod
Estimated Page Count:
600-800 (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF based on product description)
Engine:
Revolution Engine, Top End, Bottom End, Lubrication System, Cooling System
Fuel System:
Fuel Injection System (EFI), Fuel Pump, Injectors, Throttle Body, Fuel Tank and Lines
Ignition System:
Ignition Coils, Spark Plugs, Ignition Module, Sensors
Transmission:
Clutch, Gearbox, Primary Drive, Final Drive (Belt Drive System)
Electrical System:
Wiring Harness, Battery, Charging System (Stator, Regulator/Rectifier), Lighting System, Gauges and Instruments, Starter System, Security System
Braking System:
Front and Rear Brakes, Master Cylinders, Calipers, Rotors, Brake Lines
Suspension:
Front Fork (Inverted), Rear Shock Absorbers, Swingarm
Steering:
Handlebars, Triple Clamps, Headstock Bearings
Frame And Bodywork:
Frame, Body Panels, Fenders, Seat, Fuel Tank Installation
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Brake Fluid Flush, Coolant Flush, Belt Inspection and Adjustment
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Fault Code Interpretation, Common Problems and Solutions
Repair:
Engine Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Service, Brake System Repair, Electrical System Diagnostics and Repair
Disassembly Assembly:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal and installation
Specifications And Data:
Torque Specifications, Clearances, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Schematics
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, including electrical system troubleshooting with wiring diagrams.
Rebuilds:
Full engine and transmission disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly guidance.
Engine Type:
45-degree V-twin, Revolution Engine
Displacement:
1130 cc (69 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
100 mm x 72 mm (3.94 in x 2.83 in)
Valve Train:
Dual Overhead Cams (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Horsepower:
Approx. 115 hp @ 8,250 rpm (model year dependent, peak figures)
Torque:
Approx. 96 ft-lbs @ 6,000 rpm (model year dependent, peak figures)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline, 91 Octane Minimum
Oil Type Recommendation:
Harley-Davidson V-Twin Synthetic 20W-50 or equivalent
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter change
Transmission Type:
5-speed manual
Primary Drive:
Clutch (Wet, multi-plate), Helical-cut gears
Final Drive:
Belt drive, 32mm wide
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios for each gear, detailed in manual.
Transmission Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ Transmission and Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 2.7 US quarts (2.5 L) for primary chaincase.
Length:
Approx. 92.5 inches (2350 mm)
Width:
Approx. 33.5 inches (850 mm) at handlebars
Height:
Approx. 42.2 inches (1072 mm) at handlebars
Wheelbase:
Approx. 67.2 inches (1707 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 595 lbs (270 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 950 lbs (431 kg)
Payload Capacity:
Approx. 355 lbs (161 kg)
Cargo Capacity:
N/A (Motorcycle)
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycles are not typically subject to the same crash test ratings as automobiles)
Braking System:
Dual disc front brakes, Single disc rear brake. ABS was an optional feature on later models, check specific bike.
Lighting:
Halogen Headlight, LED Tail Light (integrated signals), Bullet-style front and rear turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Steel, hydro-formed frame providing rigidity and stability.
Security:
Factory-installed H-D® immobilizer system (alarm) with key fob.
Instrumentation:
Analog tachometer, Digital speedometer, Gear indicator, Fuel gauge, Clock, Odometer, Trip meters, Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was optional on some later models within this range, and often a dealer-installed upgrade. Check specific vehicle.
Diagnostic Port:
Diagnostic connector for accessing engine management data and fault codes.
Initial Service:
First service typically around 1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 1 month, covering oil change, filter, and basic checks.
Regular Service:
Subsequent services typically every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or annually, with major service intervals for coolant, brake fluid, etc. as specified in the manual.
Belt Tension Check:
Recommended at regular service intervals and as needed, or if any noise is present.
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson V-Twin Synthetic 20W-50 (or equivalent high-quality motorcycle oil)
Primary Chaincase Oil:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ Transmission and Primary Chaincase Lubricant (or equivalent)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific brake system requirements)
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze/coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. (Refer to manual for specific type and capacity).
Fuel Pump Reliability:
Early models sometimes experienced fuel pump issues. The manual would detail diagnostic procedures.
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many complex machines, electrical issues can arise. The detailed wiring diagrams and troubleshooting sections are critical.
Radiator Cooling:
Proper coolant level and system integrity are vital for the liquid-cooled engine; manual covers maintenance.
Belt Wear:
Regular inspection and proper tensioning are key to maximizing belt life.
Harley Davidson Legacy:
Founded in 1903, Harley-Davidson is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer renowned for its V-twin engines and cruiser styling.
V Rod Conception:
The V-Rod was a significant departure for Harley-Davidson, conceived in the late 1990s. It was a joint venture with Porsche Engineering, focusing on a high-performance, liquid-cooled powertrain.
Vrsaca Introduction:
The VRSCA (V-Rod) debuted for the 2002 model year, setting the standard for the V-Rod family.
Subsequent Models:
This manual covers the initial VRSCA model, preceding the VRSCAW (longer wheelbase), VRSCB, VRSCX, VRSCSE, VRSCF (V-Rod Muscle), and VRSCDX (V-Rod Night Rod Special) variants.
Manufacturing Location:
Kansas City, Missouri, USA
Production Run:
The V-Rod platform was produced from 2002 until 2017.
