Add powerful twin discs in front and a second generation H-D ABS system, and you have a well behaved machine on all types of surfaces, especially in slippery condition where the slipper clutch comes into play and preserves rear traction.

The stylish instrument panel serves as the base for the handlebar, with the dummy fuel tank contributing to the flowing look of the machine. (Photo: Philippe Champoux/Moto123.com)

A comfortable cruiser
For some, yes! My light and elongated frame was as one with the bike, with controls within easy reach when sitting up, and my feet forward, at the vertical plane as my hands – not in the mid position, but still comfortable enough for me. The low saddle has a curve to it that almost traps you into one position only, without the freedom to move your buns fore and aft to relax on longer rides. With your base unlikely to move around, you no longer need to hang on to the bars, as your body can take cornering and acceleration forces, leaving your arms and hands relaxed and more in control. The high passenger footpegs and smallish jump seat will not make for a comfortable ride for a friend or better half.

The stylish instrument panel serves as the base for the handlebar, with the dummy fuel tank (The real one is under the seat where it help mass centralisation) contributing to the flowing look of the machine. That cover houses the modern airbox, air filter and throttle bodies.

All is not right with the sitting position however, as you must open your legs up to avoid excessive heat from the exhaust system, a bit tiresome in the city.

We are rolling!
You can feel the almost turbine-like push from the engine, rather than the thump-thump of the air cooled bikes, with useful torque from 1,700rpm, building up to satisfying power in the 8,000 range. Keep in mind that “Satifying” for a converting sportbike rider translates into a near death experience for a confirmed cruiser fan. Need I remind you that the first group mentioned is the target audience for this bike, not my just-retired accountant uncle Rufus.

The bike’s numbers tell a tale: a long 1.7m wheelbase, 301 heavy kilos ready to roll, an extended 34 degrees of rake and a long 142mm of trail, decent mass centralisation, and a low center of gravity. These metrics all mean that the V-Rod is stable in a straight line and does not really like to change direction despite the help of the concentrated weight, and that the bike is easy to get off the side stand and roll around for the less muscular.

Add powerful twin discs in front and a second generation H-D ABS system, and you have a well behaved machine on all types of surfaces. (Photo: Philippe Champoux/Moto123.com)