Sometimes you get some interesting things via e-mail. Recently, I received a notice from Harley-Davidson’s public relations people about a new 2011 release. In this economy, that’s great news for America’s motorcycle company.
Now, I’m no mechanic, but the features listed in the press release for this new model look pretty innovative to me. These changes make for a smoother and faster ride. The key XR1200X features, according to the press release, are:
Showa Big Piston Front fork (BPF) eliminates many of the internal components used in a cartridge-type fork, resulting in lighter overall fork weight. The large-diameter of the BPF internal piston allows a reduction in damping pressure for outstanding feedback and smooth action. Rebound and compression damping may be fine tuned with adjuster screws located on top of the fork bolts. The spring pre-load is adjusted with a M5 hex screw on the axle holders.
Showa rear shocks feature 36-mm pistons with piggyback nitrogen-charged reservoirs. The compression damping may be adjusted with a knob on top of the reservoir. Rebound is adjusted with a thumb wheel on the lower clevis. Rear spring pre-load is also adjustable.
Nissin dual front brakes feature 292-mm full-floating rotors and four-piston calipers.
Isolation-mounted XL Evolution 1200 cc V-Twin engine with black powder coat finish features downdraft Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection, high-performance camshafts, precision oil-cooled cylinder heads and a large-capacity oil cooler. Compression ratio is 10:1. The engine is rated at 74 ft. lbs. peak torque at 4,000 rpm (per SAE J1349).
Upswept, high-volume 2-1-2 straight-shot exhaust system with satin black finish offers extra cornering clearance.
Chassis features a high-performance designed tubular mild steel frame. The rigid, cast-aluminum swingarm is engineered to enhance handling.
Dunlop Qualifier D209 tires designed specifically for the XR1200X.
Three-spoke lightweight cast-aluminum wheels, 18-inch front and 17-inch rear, are finished in gloss black with an orange pinstripe on the rim.
Wide, black dirt-track handlebar for enhanced steering leverage and comfort.
Rear-set foot pegs for additional cornering clearance.
Compact instrument display with white-faced analog tachometer, digital speedometer, dual trip meter and clock.
3.5-gallon fuel tank with aircraft-style aluminum alloy fuel filler.
29.2-inch seat height with standard passenger pillion and foot pegs.
Optional Harley-Davidson Smart Security System.
According to Francis Gurnari from Vreeland’s Harley Davidson who I spoke to in passing, this new bike is more of a caf� racer-type bike.
What exactly is a caf� racer? The concept is actually kind of cool and retro if you think about it. The original idea was to have a motorcycle that could travel rather quickly between a caf� and a designated spot down the road and back again before a song could play. These riders, or should I say racers, where aiming to have the bikes clock out at 100 mph or so.
According to Bing’s link to Caf� Racers, “These bikes are built for speed and good handling rather than comfort.”
However, looking at the new XR1200X, except for what passes as a passenger seat, the bike doesn’t look all that uncomfortable.
From my perspective, the most interesting feature on this new model would have to be the fully-adjustable Showa front and rear suspension components. These would really help to increase the usability of the bike over various terrains.
I am hoping to see some of these new bikes on the SPCA benefit run sponsored by the Wyoming Valley Motorcycle Club on Sunday June 13. Hope to see you all there; it’s a great event.
w
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