The Softail line now includes eight different models, among them the new Softail Custom. Going for the custom chopper look from years past, the new Softail boasts a wide frontend, ape hangers, laced Profile 21-inch wheel, slotted rear disc wheel anchoring a 200mm tire that sits below a Bobtail fender, and updated '60s-style two-up seat complete with a chrome sissy bar. Four of the eight Softails are equipped with 200mm rear tires, while the remainder of the line wears narrower rubber out back.
The '07 model year is especially significant in regards to the Sportster line. This year represents the 50th consecutive year of production of one of Harley's most enduring models. Not only does the XL line represent the oldest continually produced motorcycles anywhere, it's also a stepping-stone for many Harley buyers, allowing them to bridge the gap from first-time riders to owners of Harley's Big-Twin models. To commemorate this special place in Motor Company history, a limited production of 2,000 50th-anniversary Sportster models will be produced. Helping power the 1,200cc model is a brand-new electronic sequential-port fuel-injection system, which also finds its way across the entire Sportster line. The special model boasts a 19-inch laced front wheel, fender striping, 50th-year logos positioned around the bike, traditional Sportster headlight with eyebrow, peanut tank, and a choice of Mirage Orange or Vivid Black paint.
The V-Rod's commercial success is apparent with the introduction of two new water-cooled roadsters. The VRSCX and the VRSCDX (Night Rod Special) join the V-Rod family, increasing the number of models to five. The VRSCX will be produced with a limited production-number target of 1,400. The race-inspired model tips its hat to the two-time championship Screamin' Eagle/Vance & Hines Pro Stock team as it proudly wears the race-inspired silver and orange paint scheme and logo. In keeping with the racing tradition, the VRSCX boasts a larger 72ci motor (3 inches more displacement than the other V-Rods) and a beefy 240mm rear tire. Other features on the bike include a polished-aluminum swingarm, slotted rear disc wheel, forward controls, 5-gallon fuel tank, and a more conveniently located ignition switch.
The new VRSCDX Night Rod Special is one nasty-looking hot rod of the first degree. Wearing an almost completely blacked-out finish, the bike's brushed-aluminum mufflers and orange-striped black wheels just scream performance as they exude serious in-your-face styling.
Check back with us next month as we explore the entire '07 model line in detail.