Return of the Fxr
RETURN OF THE FXR
ROUNDUP
IN WHAT MAY BE THE YEAR'S biggest cruiser surprise. Harley-Davidson is resur-recting the popular FXR chassis. The limited-production FXR2 and FXR3 will be built in York, Pennsylvania, on an assembly line previously reserved for Rotax-engined military hikes. Both factory customs will wear scores of chrome add-ons pinched from Harley's parts-and-accessory catalog.
The bigger, less-publicized news is this: Harley is evaluating its ability to profitably produce low-volume, customized motorcycles-without jeopardizing mainstream production. Read between the lines and it’s apparent that The Motor Company is targeting the myriad of clone manufacturers.
Long the choice of custombike builders and H-D traditionalists, the 1982-94 FXR chassis w'as knowrn for its stiff, double-cradle structure and ex cellent vibration-isolation system. “It was a real departure," says a Harley spokesman of the original, Shovelheadengined FXR. “Besides the rubber-mounted engine, it had longer suspension and added ground clearance.”
Ram-rodded through durability and EPA tests, the FXR2 and FXR3 will be Evo-powered. with updated components throughout. The wiring harness and nine-plate clutch, for example, are current spec. The latest five-hole derby cover and vacuum-actuated fuel valve are also employed. Only 900 of each model will be manufactured during an eight-month period. The FXR2 will retail for $16,995, while the more heavily accessorized FXR3 should sticker for $17,995.
Demand is guaranteed to be strong. In fact, if you haven’t already placed an order, it’s probably too late. And no, the new Twin Cam 88 motor doesn’t slip right into the FXR frame. But anything is possible now that America’s biggest motorcycle manufacturer is in the boutique bike biz.
-Matthew Miles
