🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

VRSCDXA Night Rod Special

Year:

2008

Chassis Code:

VRSCDXA

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Performance Cruiser / Power Cruiser

Target Audience:

Riders seeking a powerful, stylish, and performance-oriented Harley-Davidson experience with a modern edge.

Competitors:

Yamaha VMAX, Ducati Diavel, Triumph Rocket III, Honda Fury.

Styling:

Aggressive, 'drag-bike' inspired styling, inverted front forks, custom-like details.

Engine Type:

Liquid-cooled, 60-degree V-twin engine (Revolution® family).

Performance Orientation:

Emphasis on acceleration and handling for its class.

Braking System:

Dual front disc brakes for enhanced stopping power.

📋 Manual Details

Engine:

Yes

Transmission:

Yes

Fuel System:

Yes

Electrical System:

Yes

Frame And Bodywork:

Yes

Suspension:

Yes

Brakes:

Yes

Wheels And Tires:

Yes

Maintenance:

Yes

Troubleshooting:

Yes

Diagnostics:

Yes

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 800+

Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Revolutionary Revolution® Max engine, 5-speed transmission.

Fuel Delivery:

EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection) system, fuel pump, injectors, fuel tank and lines.

Ignition:

Ignition system components, spark plugs, ignition coils, timing.

Cooling:

Liquid-cooled engine, radiator, coolant flow, thermostat.

Exhaust:

Exhaust system components, mufflers, catalytic converter (if applicable).

Electrical Components:

Battery, charging system (alternator/stator, regulator/rectifier), starter motor, lighting system, horn, switches.

Instrumentation:

Dashboard, indicators, speed sensor, tachometer.

Chassis:

Frame structure, steering system, headstock bearings.

Front Suspension:

Inverted front forks, damping adjustments, seals, fork oil specifications.

Rear Suspension:

Dual rear shock absorbers, preload adjustment, mounting points.

Front Brakes:

Dual disc brakes, caliper service, brake fluid type, bleeding procedures, rotor specifications.

Rear Brakes:

Single disc brake, caliper service, brake fluid type, bleeding procedures, rotor specifications.

Wheels:

Wheel bearing maintenance, rim specifications.

Tires:

Tire pressure specifications, recommended tire sizes.

Bodywork:

Fender removal and installation, fuel tank servicing, seat removal, side covers.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug inspection/replacement, chain adjustment (if applicable, though this is belt-driven), brake fluid checks.

Engine Overhaul:

Top-end rebuild (cylinder head, valves, pistons), bottom-end rebuild (crankshaft, connecting rods), seal replacement.

Transmission Service:

Gearbox oil changes, clutch inspection and replacement, shift mechanism servicing.

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Wiring diagrams, component testing, fault diagnosis using DTCs (Diagnostic Trouble Codes).

Suspension Adjustment:

Fork oil level and viscosity changes, rear shock preload adjustments.

Brake System Maintenance:

Brake pad replacement, brake caliper servicing, hydraulic system bleeding.

Wheel And Tire Service:

Tire mounting and balancing, wheel bearing replacement.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems.

Depth:

Complete workshop level, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics. Covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and chassis component overhauls.

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

High-resolution, searchable PDF with clear text and legible diagrams.

Printability:

Designed to be printable on standard office printers, allowing users to create physical copies of specific sections or the entire manual.

Digital Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Digital Paper:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Revolution® V-Twin, liquid-cooled

Displacement:

2403 cc (147 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

105 mm x 115 mm

Compression Ratio:

11.3:1

Valve Train:

DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 4 valves per cylinder

Horsepower:

Approximately 125 hp @ 5500 rpm (estimated, manufacturer did not officially publish for this model year)

Torque:

Approximately 135 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (estimated, manufacturer did not officially publish for this model year)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)

Fuel Capacity:

5 gallons (18.9 L)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed, constant mesh

Clutch:

Clutched, hydraulically operated, 9-plate wet

Drive Method:

Belt drive

Gear Ratios:

1st: 2.47, 2nd: 1.78, 3rd: 1.39, 4th: 1.14, 5th: 1.00

Transmission Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson Transmission Fluid (or equivalent SAE 80W-90 GL-5 gear lubricant)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

94.2 inches (2393 mm)

Width:

35.2 inches (894 mm)

Height:

47.4 inches (1204 mm)

Wheelbase:

67.2 inches (1707 mm)

Ground Clearance:

4.3 inches (109 mm)

Dry Weight:

637 lbs (289 kg)

Wet Weight:

677 lbs (307 kg) (approximate, with fluids)

Payload Capacity:

430 lbs (195 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

N/A (Motorcycles are not subjected to standardized crash tests like automobiles).

Brakes:

Dual 300mm floating front discs with 4-piston calipers, Single 300mm rear disc with 2-piston caliper.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on this model.

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, LED tail light and brake light.

Indicators:

Standard turn signals and hazard lights.

💡 Technology Features

Instrument Cluster:

Analog tachometer, digital speedometer, fuel gauge, clock, gear indicator, and diagnostic indicators. Typically mounted on the handlebar riser.

ABS:

Available ABS provides enhanced braking control, preventing wheel lock-up.

Diagnostics Port:

Features a diagnostic connector (often 4-pin) for interface with diagnostic tools and reading fault codes, detailed within the manual.

🔧 Maintenance

First Service:

1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Includes engine oil and filter change, primary chain tensioner inspection, and general inspection.

Subsequent Service:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Includes engine oil and filter change, primary chain tensioner inspection, brake inspection, and other checks as specified.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km)

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 24 months, regardless of mileage.

Engine Oil:

Harley-Davidson 20W-50 SYN3 (Synthetic) motorcycle oil (or equivalent API CI-4 rated)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.0 US quarts (3.8 L) with filter change.

Primary Oil:

Harley-Davidson Primary Chaincase Lubricant (or equivalent SAE 30 motorcycle oil)

Primary Oil Capacity:

Approximately 2.8 US quarts (2.6 L)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4, Harley-Davidson High Performance Brake Fluid (or equivalent)

Coolant:

Harley-Davidson All Balls Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water)

Primary Chain Tensioner:

Early models of the Revolution engine were known for a hydraulic primary chain tensioner that could wear and require replacement. This manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.

Starter Solenoid:

Some riders have reported issues with the starter solenoid failing. Troubleshooting guides in the manual will assist in diagnosing this.

Rear Shock ABSorbers:

While generally robust, rear shocks can wear over time, affecting ride quality. The manual covers shock absorber removal, inspection, and replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Foundation:

Founded in 1903, Harley-Davidson is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer renowned for its V-twin engines and distinct styling.

Vrod Introduction:

The V-Rod platform, co-developed with Porsche, was first introduced in 2001. The VRSCDX (Night Rod Special) variant emerged later, emphasizing a more aggressive, custom look and performance.

Night Rod Special Development:

The VRSCDXA Night Rod Special for 2008 built upon the performance and styling of previous V-Rod models, incorporating features like the larger 1250cc engine and a more raked-out stance compared to earlier models.

Manufacturing Location:

United States (Kansas City, Missouri)

Production Years:

The VRSCDXA Night Rod Special was produced from 2007 through 2017.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motorcycle Journal Reviews:

Consistently received positive reviews from motorcycle publications for its powerful engine, unique styling, and agile handling for its class, often being praised for bridging the gap between traditional cruisers and sportbikes.