2012 Harley-Davidson Night Rod Special

Darth Vader, Your Bike Has Arrived
by Jason Giacchino

Until now the air-cooled (Evolution) set and liquid cooled (Revolution) supporters have occupied very different market segments of the H-D demographic, but with 2012 Night Rods arriving to dealers around the world, that line is becoming increasingly blurred!

This special edition American bike features a blacked-out 1250cc V-Twin Revolution engine good for 125 hp, blacked-out cast aluminum wheels, a double-barrel exhaust with brushed-finish dual mufflers, blacked-out end caps and exhaust shields, Brembo brakes, a blacked-out low-rise handlebar, and an ultra-fat 240mm rear tire.  The thing is absolutely rife with drag-strip attitude!

Through a partnership with legendary automaker, Porsche, and their world-renowned team of engineers, Harley-Davidson created a revolutionary engine. The final result is something uniquely Harley-Davidson and offers up the perfect blend of torque and horsepower in a high revving V-Twin.  Deep black cylinders and rocker covers complete the dark look, while the machined cooling fin tips on the cylinder heads give it a stripped down, raw metal finish.

Of course performance and styling rarely come cheap and the Night Rod Special starts at $15,299.  However, in a world where it’s night as often as day, it’s difficult to put a price on any ride that, as Harley says, “takes dark to pitch black”.

So, is the Night Rod Special the best in show for the 2012’s? If it’s not, which bike’s better? Voice your opinion here!