I caught a cable TV show on the making of a V-twin - apparently it was the engine from the VRSC model. Interesting. I believe the show was called "Factory Made".

How do these bikes handle?

 

Better than you'd think, given the long wheelbase and front rake. Most V-Rods have a 32 degree lean angle, except the VRSCR which I believe is 40. They handle well enough that it's a bit of a surprise when parts start dragging, something I do frequently.

There is a documentary called "Birth of the V-Rod" that's well worth watching.

 

I saw the show you are talking about not sure if the name was factory made, but something similar.

 

I have a new 11 DX which is the lowest riding model. I did have to adjust the rear shocks up two notches and helped the handling alot on my bike. I can take 25 mph curve about 45 mph now after the shock adjustment. The bike was way to soft before. I have the michelin scorcher tires on my bike. I think they are a great tire in the wet and dry. My bike also has the 240 rear tire.

 

Put a set of Intiminators from Ricor in the front forks if you really want to improve handling. The stock setup is too mushy.
I've been told Progressive 440's are a huge help on the rear, but I haven't had an extra 5 bills laying around to try them out.

Check the fallaway after the first 2500 miles, I didn't even know mine was out of spec until I adjusted it. The handling improvement was nothing short of astounding.

 

Caught that show before...really interesting look at the V-Rod build process. Also shows the inner workings at the KC plant which is cool!

 

I really like the feel my bike has now with just the rear shock adjustment. I don't have the extra dough for other stuff right now. I just had my first service done at the dealership and they took all my extra cash LOL. $220 for the first service on a 11 DX so much for any extra parts. I have been told that the progressive 440 shocks are well worth the money.

 

Off topic, but...another nice point of the V is the lower cost of maintenance/service...

 

I don't know about that. Don't you air cooled fellows have hydraulic lifters? V-Rods need the valves adjusted every 15k. Haven't done mine yet, but I hear it's a pain in the ***.

 

I'm lucky enough to have a Street Glide and V.

I think 15k miles is the MoCo "recommendation", but in reality the need to do any work well beyond that seems to be the exception versus the rule. I've heard that service is around $300 (unless you do it yourself or and indy). The VROD is the lowest maintenance/cost horse in the barn (usually $100-$125 cheaper for each recommended service interval). Oh, yeah and fastest bone stock MoCo bike too. It really pisses some people off...lol.