"We understand the jewel-like styling which is enduring to our air-twins, and so do our customers," said Vice President of Styling, Willie G. Davidson. "The V-Rod is an extension of our air-cooled V-twin heritage."

This blend of qualities aims appeal to both traditional Harley owners, and enthusiasts new to the Harley-Davidson as well.

The anodized aluminum V-Rod's Revolution engine combines a host of technical traits including liquid-cooling, 60° geometry and dual overhead cams with a "jewel-like styling."

Inspired by the VR 1000 Superbike race program and developed by Harley-Davidson’s Powertrain Engineering team, the Revolution has a one-piece forged crankshaft with side-by-side rods featuring automotive-style full pressure bearing journals. Displacing 1130cc, the Revolution delivers 115hp at 8,250 rpm.

"The V-Rod is the first member of a new family of Harley-Davidson motorcycles," said Vice President of Engineering, Earl Werner. "This all-American custom was inspired by Harley-Davidson’s drag racing heritage and the VR 1000 Superbike race engine. It’s really a stunning styling and engineering accomplishment."

Dual overhead cams driven by hydraulically tensioned chains deliver accurate valve train performance and drive the high flow four-valve heads. From the electronic sequential port fuel injection, the fuel charge and air travel through a new downdraft air intake system, and high-energy plug top ignition coils initiate combustion.

The Revolution engine is Harley’s first widely acceptable street use of liquid-cooling. The system delivers temperature control without sacrificing styling, as is evident by a form-friendly, functional polymer shroud and unique water pump placement. The system is assisted by twin cooling fans.

A combination of rubber mounting and an internal counter balancer isolates the Revolution from the frame and delivers power to an all-new transmission. The five-speed transmission utilizes a combination of spur and helical gears to deliver smooth, short-throw shifting, minimal noise and durability. A wet sump oil pump means there is no external tank and a new, rare earth magnetic charging system delivers more power in a compact size. A 2-1-2 exhaust system features large volume capacity for optimized performance, while still meeting noise requirements, and delivering its own distinct sound.

Harley-Davidson’s first perimeter frame design delivers a new level of chassis rigidity and styling. The bends of the silver-dipped frame are achieved through a hydroform process and are accentuated by bolt-on lower frame rails. Tucked inside the new frame, an under-seat fuel tank allows the V-Rod a more custom look, and keeps mass centralized for improved handling. The new frame supports a stretched 67.5 inch wheelbase and has 34° rake and 38° fork angle. This off-set angle helps achieve a long and low custom look, while delivering a balance of high- and low-speed stability.

The V-Rod's unique anodized aluminum body panels weigh 50% less than steel. The side panels, front and rear fenders, chain guard and upper cowling are colored in a silver hue, complimenting the powder coat platinum finish found elsewhere.

Even the new dual bulb reflector optic headlamp is aerodynamically styled. The new-styled integrated instrumentation clamshell features speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge and warning lights. The instrumentation system also incorporates a start-up self-diagnostic check, multiple trip meters and a fuel range indicator.

The 49mm front forks are paired with a new one-piece, polished cast aluminum swingarm. Braided brake lines are coupled to unique floating dual front rotors and single rotor rear, with four piston calipers applied to each.

Other V-Rod firsts include a new hydraulic actuated clutch and an Automatic Compression Release (ACR) that makes cold starts easier.