2016 Harley-Davidson V-Rod in Costa Mesa, California

Frame No. 1HD1HHH37GC803647

The Harley-Davidson V-Rod was the result of a seemingly unlikely yet deeply technical collaboration with Porsche Engineering, rooted in prior cooperation between the two companies most notably with Project Nova, a line of water-cooled V4 and V6 engines. As Harley-Davidson prepared to introduce its first modern liquid-cooled production engine ahead of its centennial, Porsche's engineers in Weissach assumed responsibility for developing the complete powertrain, drawing on experience from both automotive and motorsport programs.

Based on Harley's VR1000 racing engine, the resulting Revolution V-Twin featured dual overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, liquid cooling, and impressive durability standards uncommon in motorcycle design at the time. Porsche's involvement extended beyond outright performance to include thermal management, lubrication under extreme conditions, and long-term production viability, with engine assembly handled through a joint venture established in 1997. By the time production reached its final years, the V-Rod had evolved into its most aggressive and polished expression in the Night Rod Special (VRSCDX), combining Porsche-engineered refinement with unmistakably bold Harley-Davidson character.

The 2016 V-Rod Night Rod Special is powered by the 1,247-cc Revolution engine, producing 125 horsepower noted by period enthusiast magazine reviews as "delivering strong, linear acceleration all the way to redline." Performance hardware includes inverted front forks, Brembo brakes with ABS, and a slipper clutch, giving the bike composure and control to match its output. Porsche's influence is evident not only in the engine's performance, but in its smoothness, reliability, and ability to withstand sustained high-load operation.

Visually, the Night Rod Special embraces its drag-inspired ethos with a long, low stance, fastback tail section, and an imposing 240-mm rear tire designed to put power down effectively. Finished in a fully blacked-out aesthetic, the engine, wheels, forks, and controls reinforce the model's muscular and aggressive character.

Offered here, this single-owner 2016 Harley-Davidson V-Rod Night Rod Special represents the final and most assertive expression of a model line defined by Porsche-engineered innovation. According to its clean CARFAX Vehicle History Report, the motorcycle was purchased in March 2016 and held by a single owner within a collection noted for its devotion to the best examples of Porsche's most intriguing designs. Reflecting a thoughtful blend of American custom culture and Porsche engineering influence, this VRSCDX features numerus custom modifications that include a subtle ghosted horse from the crest of Baden-W�rttemberg (home of Porsche) airbrushed on the fuel tank, clutch cover with 'Designed & Engineered by Porsche' script, and Vance & Hines exhaust. Sparingly enjoyed on Southern California's backroads, the bike shows just 2,275 miles at catalog and most recently features a May 2023 service at Old Town Temecula Harley-Davidson.

Please note that this lot is subject to the Buyer's Premium of 25%.