When the V-Rod was released 10 years ago, Harley traditionalists scoffed at the idea that the Motor Company had the nerve to break the air-cooled V-twin mold. But after 10 years in production, Harley’s water-cooled V-twin has surpassed the naysayers gripes and the V-Rod 10th Anniversary Edition is testament that the motorcycle is here to stay.

It may have taken a year or two for the V-Rod to catch on, but as the famous quote from Field of Dreams goes, “If you build it, they will come.” Eventually Harley-Davidson released multiple iterations of the V-Rod platform: Street Rod, Night Rod, and currently for 2012 the Night Rod Special, the Muscle, and the one-year-run only V-Rod 10th Anniversary Edition model.

Silver Anniversary
This limited edition V-Rod includes, but is not limited to, multiple features for the anniversary model: chrome powertrain with platinum crankcase and heads, straight-shot exhaust with dual, chrome slash-cut mufflers, silver split five-spoke cast wheels with machined highlights, inverted front forks, and much more.

Getup and Go
The liquid-cooled 60-degree V-twin Revolution engine has withstood the test of decade-long time. Originally available in an 1,130cc package when the VRSC was first released, the bigger, and current, 1,250cc engine boasts 125 hp at 8,250 rpm, and 85 lb-ft of torque at 7,000 rpm. Coupled with the five-speed transmission with race-bred clutch with “slipper” action, downshifting in high rpms is smooth.

Ergonomics
The Anniversary model has also been tweaked in the comfort and ergonomics department. You’ll find a two-up seat with custom stitching, a pullback handlebar, and reduced-reach forward-mounted rider footpegs all working together to provide a more comfortable ride and prevent slouching over in the seat.

Stop on a Dime
Being that the V-Rod is such a quick little number, it’s imperative that it’s outfitted with the right braking components. Up front you’ll find dual four-piston calipers that grab hold of 300mm floating rotors. Another four-piston stopper binds the 300mm floating rotor in the rear for a trifecta of stop-ability. ABS is also available for this motorcycle, but does not come standard.

Harley-Davidson
Contact your local dealer
harley-davidson.com