Harley-Davidson VRSCD Night Rod Reviews from United States of America

Split upper radiator hose (reported to be a common problem).

Defective clutch reservoir gasket (see above: common problem).

Rear brake disc bluing.

Oil pan bolt stripped from factory.

Throttle grip badly worn @ 8500-miles.

The GOOD:

Superb light-to-light performance. Bullet-resistant engine. Trend setter styling. Overall reliability is good for domestic iron. Fantastic brakes. Semi-adjustable handlebars. Very forgiving street handling for a large bike. Mid-controls + Highway pegs = multiple riding positions. 9,000 RPM redline. Limited “H-D” street cred. Liquid cooled.

The BAD:

The exhaust system causes a bit of a port-side list, and is HEAVY and nearly SILENT. Very limited aftermarket exhaust options. “Oxy-coat” fasteners need constant cleaning or replacement with chrome or stainless units. Lots of “fit and finish” irregularities for a $15,000 cycle. You’ll have arms like Popeye keeping those aluminum rims clean. Engine requires premium unleaded fuel. Fuel economy is VERY poor (I get 30-33 mpg).

The UGLY:

VRSC sounds like a rice-burner, albeit one on steroids if you have a modified exhaust. Dealership support for the VRSC lineup borders on the surly. Parts are scarce. Get used to hearing “That ain’t a REAL Harley!” The bike SCREAMS for a sixth gear!! Harleys should not turn 4000 RPM on the highway!! Handling is “good” in the city, but abysmal in the sticks ---- V-rods turn like a toad. The battery is very weak, and requires bi-annual replacement or a dedicated battery tender (NOT to be confused with a trickle-charger!!) Ignition placement for the 2006 year is horrible! Fuel tank only holds 3 gallons of usable fuel - which yields a 100-120 mile range!!

Mysterious oil leak at 6 miles. Dealer attempted to repair on 15 different occasions and had the bike for up to 3 weeks at a time.

Stater seal leak at 500 miles.

Large amount of oil in air box at 1000 miles.

Oil consumption issue started at 1000 miles.

Electric system shut down at 9,000 miles.

Electric fan died at 10,000 miles.

This motorcycle is fast for a cruiser and has good brakes.

The bike was supposed to be bullet proof, but was in the shop way more than my previous 8 Harleys.

The handling isn't as good as a race bike, but it handles better than any Harley I have owned.

The dealers do not have mechanics that really know this bike well.

The ride is good, but you do scrape your boots on the ground in sharp turns with the mid controls, which can scare you the first time it happens.

Clutch cylinder and brake cylinder leak. Dealer has fixed twice. Leaking brake fluid caused cosmetic damage to handlebars and grips. Dealer will not fix.

Bike is stored inside garage in South Florida and forks are pitted from corrosion. Black painted brake lines rusted. Aluminum wheels a hassle to keep polished.

The bike is good looking and fun to ride short distances.

The quality of metal and materials is sub par for a bike in this price range. I have a 20 year old bike with less rust.

The bike is fast for its weight.

The gas gauge is inaccurate.

None as of yet.

This bike is a blast to ride. It has some serious power and torque and has decent comfort.

Only complaint is the small gas tank, but v-mod has a replacement tank with 5 gallons.

Bike handles great, hard to believe that this a Harley.

I really like this bike; it's a lot fun and puts excitement back on the black top.

This is my fifth bike.