HARLEY-DAVIDSON NIGHT ROD (2006 - 2018) Review

Version: V rod

Year: 2015

I have recently bought myself a 2007 Nightrod. Not because I wanted to partake in the Harley lifestyle, but simply because when I saw the bike I had to own it. It was not a rational or wise decision; it was decision based on pure lust. It had 106 miles on it the day I picked it up and I did 350 miles on it straight off. It is utterly addictive. The surge of power you get when you wind the throttle open is incredible and just keeps me grinning non stop. I rode her through the wind and rain on sunday night for 3 hours until I couldn't feel my sodden feet or fingers anymore. This is what biking is all about. This machine is pure, unadulterated, raw biking pleasure. Try saying that of a Japanese plastic Fireblade.

Lets start with what I was expecting: a laid back, encourage me to take it slower, licence and life saving bike that will still respond to my needs when the devils horns come out. It has met those expectations. Added bonuses are a fairly sensible bunch of HOG members that are very accepting of the new line. The handling is good now that I have uprated the front springs (easy and cheap) to stop bottoming out in braking and chatter in corners; and the rear suspension changed for WPs. The original seat is plush but the wrong shape for anything but Sunday mornings, the Sundowner has less padding and supports the lower back making it a 500 miler. Overall quality is good but you do have to keep an eye out for the odd area, usually bolt heads, that can rust as you look at them. Minor problems over the last 6000 miles only, fixed with a smile and excellent service that you expect from Harley. On the Value aspect I am still not certain. It compares with the suzuki, honda, bmw (Harley heated grips are the best) and I can now afford a Harley. However, value for money, maybe, by another, yes. Finally, the engine. I see that the 2008s will have the 1250 engine. Not needed. An overdrive or 6th gear to squeeze more mpg in cruising mode would be good. Having said that I get 40mpg, nearly 200 miles to the tank and still use all 9000 rpm occasionally. If the Harley officianados don't like a high revving engine that you have to knock down a gear or 2 for a great overtake, don't get the Rod, get an air cooled tractor (sorry).