Monday, March 31, 2008

Harley Davidson 2008 VRSC Range

1250cc Revolution® V-Twin with Slipper Clutch on All Models, ABS Now an Option
The Harley-Davidson family of VRSC™ premium power cruisers will pack more muscle in 2008. Both VRSC models are powered by the 1250cc (previously 1130cc) Revolution® liquid-cooled V-Twin engine, a powertrain originally developed for the Screamin’ Eagle V-Rod and now tuned to crank out up to 123 horsepower and 85 ft.-lbs. of torque 91.7kW / 115Nm. To help harness this new-found power, a new slipper clutch is now featured which helps prevent rear wheel lock-up during rapid downshifts. And, for the first time, all VRSC models will be available with optional Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS), subject to availability.

As the only Harley-Davidson platform powered by a liquid-cooled V-Twin engine, the VRSC family offers sleek, drag-bike styling and the performance of high-revving horsepower. A low seat height, stretched-out profile with 36-degree fork angle, wide rear tyre and 49mm forks, are characteristics of each VRSC model.



The advanced ABS system available as a factory-installed option on all VRSC models is designed to work in conjunction with the high-performance Brembo® disc brakes, providing light lever feedback during ABS events to alert the rider to unstable braking conditions. Unlike many motorcycle anti-lock systems, Harley-Davidson ABS is not a linked system, meaning the rider maintains full, independent control of both front and rear brakes. Great care has been taken in styling the new system so that it is barely visible. ABS-equipped bikes will be subject to availability as customer demand for this technology is gauged.

The VRSC family are power cruisers that share the performance and technology legacy of the Screamin’ Eagle® / Vance & Hines drag racing team, three-time NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle World Champions.

NEW ON VRSC™ FOR 2008

1250cc Revolution® V-Twin: Originally designed for the CVO Screamin’ Eagle® V-Rod®, bore is increased to 105mm from 100mm, boosting displacement from 1130cc to 1250cc. This engine is tuned to produce up to 123 hp at 8250 rpm and up to 85 ft-lbs. of torque at 7000 91.7kW / 115Nm. The 60-degree Revolution V-Twin is liquid-cooled and features Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI), twin overhead cams, four-valve heads, and a five-speed transmission. The engine is isolation-mounted in a hydroformed steel perimeter frame. A steel shell covers the large-volume airbox, which houses two huge velocity stacks for high performance. A 5-gallon/18.9 litre fuel tank is located below the seat on all VRSC models.

Slipper Clutch: Both 2008 VRSC models have a new clutch with race-bred “slipper” action that helps mitigate drivetrain strain and rear-wheel lock-up during downshifting. Integral with the new clutch design is an assist feature that reduces clutch-lever effort by more than 20 percent.

Optional ABS: For the first time, VRSC models are available with optional, factory-installed Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS). Designed to work in conjunction with the high-performance Brembo® brakes, this is the most advanced braking system offered on any power cruiser. ABS is designed to help the rider maintain control during braking events, especially those that happen in less-than-optimal conditions. The components of the Harley-Davidson ABS have been designed and packaged to be virtually invisible, preserving the uncluttered styling of the area around the wheels. Unlike many motorcycle ABS, Harley-Davidson ABS is not a linked system, meaning the rider maintains full, independent control of both front and rear brakes.