During that first intriguing glimpse of the all-new VRSCR Street Rod, it might appear this burly Roadster is guilty of taking steroids. But the newest member of the VRSC family of Harley-Davidson motorcycles earns its reputation honestly by combining an upright riding position, 40-degree lean angle and tuned suspension to deliver a unique motorcycle that skilfully marries custom looks with agile performance.

"Harley-Davidson's racing genes are inside the new Street Rod," said Bill Davidson, Harley-Davidson director of marketing and motorcycle product development. "The same DNA that spawned the VR1000 and championship-winning Screamin' Eagle Pro Stock Drag bike are combined again to deliver this premium, hot rod Roadster."

In the true tradition of the VRSC family, the Street Rod wields the explosive power of the liquid-cooled, 1130cc Revolution V-Twin engine. In addition, this engine is cradled in a hydroformed, tubular perimeter frame topped with aluminium bodywork. A clipped rear fender and the 180mm-wide rear tyre carry the VRSC family look as well. However, the fuel-injected, 60-degree V-Twin engine has been massaged with a pair of chrome straight-shot exhaust pipes that help boost power output to 120hp (89Kw) at 8250rpm.

The Street Rod's distinct styling and upright riding position are the result of a new suspension combination, highlighted by the massive 43mm Showa forks. Horizontal profile, aluminium triple clamps are equally as robust and deliver a steeper rake/fork angle (30/32 degrees) compared with the original V-Rod (34/38 degrees). The change in rake and fork angle shortens the bike's wheelbase to 1700mm which, when matched with performance suspension calibration on the rear shocks, delivers a sporty, performance-oriented ride.

Fuel capacity has been increased to 18.9 litres. Complementing the suspension changes is a generous 40-degree lean angle (compared to the V-Rod's 32 degrees) and powerful new Brembo four-piston brakes with larger 300mm dual discs. The Street Rod's handlebars and risers are shorter and less swept back. This combined with mid-mounted foot controls and a higher 762mm seat height, places the rider further forward, into a more aggressive position for attacking corners.

Adding to the Street Rod's muscular image are 10-spoke staggered cast aluminium wheels and radial, ZR-rated Dunlop tyres that deliver the performance message to the tarmac with authority. The VRSCR Street Rod is available in five stunning colour options: Vivid Black, Black Cherry, Rich Sunglo Blue, Mirage Orange and Yellow Pearl. Highlighting each paint option is the silver and black engine with polished covers, plus selected, blacked-out components. For an exclusive first look at Harley-Davidson's great new Roadster please visit HYPERLINK "http://www.harley-davidson.com" www.harley-davidson.com.