Sharp-Looking Scarlet Red 2001CVO FXDWG2 Switchblade
Styled by Willie G. Davidson, the Switchblade received the full factory-custom treatment.
Hot Stock
Harley-Davidson's brazen ad for the 2001 FXDWG2 stated, “Cars have to be upside down and on fire to get this much attention.” The November 2000 cover of American Iron Magazine described the Screamin' Eagle Wide Glide as “Red Hot & Stock!” Officially dubbed the Switchblade, the FXDWG2 was indeed one sharp-looking bike.
Photos courtesy of Mecum Auctions.
Gold Treatment
As American Iron stated, the Switchblade is a stock, factory-built, bike. Styled by Willie G. Davidson, the FXDWG2 is an early 'CVO' model — known as Screamin' Eagle until the program's name change in 2009. In a no holds barred approach, the Wide Glide got a full custom treatment from its Scarlet Red paint to its 23 karat gold leaf flames.
Photos courtesy of Mecum Auctions.
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Reliable Power
The Switchblade is one of only a handful of factory customs to have a matching frame paint. Far from just hot looks, it was fitted with the 88 cubic-inch Twin Cam motor. Introduced two years earlier, the Twin Cam replaced the proven, but outdated Evolution engine. In development since 1992, and code-named P-22, the Twin Cam was a quest to deliver more power and reliability.
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Popular Flames
Under the Switchblade's impressive cosmetic touches is an FXDWG 'Wide Glide' base model. First introduced to the Dyna platform in 1993, the FXDWG was a reworking of the popular FXWG. Produced from 1980 until 1986, the FXWG was a stunning factory custom in its own right, with a flamed Fat Bob fuel tank, a wide front end, and 21-inch spoked front wheel.
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Precious Metal
The Wide Glide was only issued as a CVO/Screamin' Eagle model on two occasions and in very limited numbers. Harley-Davidson must have realized that the Switchblade was a hot item, as it was quickly followed by the 2002 Screamin' Eagle FXDWG3. Offered in a more sedate Navy Blue Pearl and Vivid Black, the FXDWG3 retained the characteristic flames, but not in precious metal.
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Attention Getter
The ostrich leather seat is a distinctive feature of the Switchblade. While the unique design made a reappearance on the FXDWG3 in both gray and black, the tan version is a real stand-out. Liberal application of chrome gave the Switchblade added visual clout, and went far to support Harley-Davidson's claim of 'attention-getter.' While numbers vary, there were only around 1700 Switchblades built-in Scarlet Red and Gold Flames.
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Exulted Platform
The Switchblade was a flashy move by Harley-Davidson towards exclusive, upmarket machines. An approach that echoes some of the Motor Company's current change in corporate leadership and new production direction. The Switchblade also marked the end of the once-maligned, now exulted FXR platform, which had been re-released for the first two years of the Screamin' Eagle/CVO program.
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Premium Brand
From its slammed suspension to its Lighting Star wheels the road-hugging Switchblade is a dramatic machine. An instant hit with the media, it was called the best-looking machine around. Its Twin Cam engine was considered the best performing V-Twin cruiser motor on the market. The Switchblade was an unmistakable trailblazer, one that served to define a premium brand as we know it today.
Photos courtesy of Mecum Auctions.
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For maintenance and repair guides for your Harley, browse our technical How-to articles right here on HDForums.
