Here’s How Harley Made the FXDR a Proper Performance Bike

Breaking the Mold

Though it has enjoyed its fair share of success on the race track, Harley-Davidson is a brand that's known more for building cool cruisers and long-haul touring machines, rather than bikes designed for all-out speed. However, every once in a while, something of that ilk comes along - a list that includes the FXDR 114.

Photos: Harley-Davidson

Proven Combination

Based on the Softail platform, the FXDR 114 took a different kind of approach when it originally came along, combining big power from its Milwaukee Eight 114 engine with a beefy suspension and lighter-weight components. That's a proven recipe for speed, and in this case, the FXDR quickly became a fan favorite thanks to its rather stellar 2.5-second 0-60 time.

Photos: Harley-Davidson

Beefed-Up Motor

Of course, Harley uses the M8 114 in a variety of other models, but in the FXDR, it features some unique upgrades such as a drag bike-inspired forward-facing air intake, a free-flowing cylinder head, and an optimized 2-in-1 exhaust, which helped it generate a cool 100 horsepower.

Photos: Harley-Davidson

Lightweight Parts

There are many other bikes that make more power than that, but the FXDR 114 also weighs far less, thanks to extensive use of aluminum parts such as its swingarm, wheels, and rear disc brake, coupled with composite parts here and there. The result was a bike that weighed 637 pounds dry, with a power-to-weight ratio of 0.157 horsepower per pound. 

Photos: Harley-Davidson

Solid Handler

That lighter weight also helped out in terms of handling, but Harley also gave the FXDR 114 a raked stance, a rear mono shock that's adjustable, and sticky Michelin tires, which helped work together with things like the aforementioned light swingarm to provide a solid cornering experience for a Harley.

Photos: Harley-Davidson

Style and Speed

Unfortunately, those who covet this speedy Harley are now forced to look to the used motorcycle market, as it was discontinued in 2021 after just being introduced in 2018. As a result, there aren't a whole lot of them out there, but if you can find a nice one, the FXDR 114 provides a combination of style and speed that few other Harleys do. 

Photos: Harley-Davidson

>>Join in the conversation about the FXDR right here in Harley-Davidson Forums.

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