Harley Davidson XLCR 1000 Caf Racer (1977 – 79)

Harley Davidson XLCR 1000 Caf Racer (1977 - 79)

The Harley-Davidson XLCR 1000 Caf Racer is an anomaly in the iconic Milwaukee brand’s lineup. Born from a collaboration between Bob Modero, Jim Haubert, and Willie G. Davidson, this bike was designed to be a radical departure from the laid-back tourers that defined the era.

With its aggressive styling cues, including a “bikini” fairing and unique exhaust system, the XLCR is unmistakably a Caf Racer. But beneath its bold exterior lies a familiar heartbeat: the same V-twin engine found in Harley’s touring bikes, boasting 68 bhp at 6200 rpm.

The XLCR’s engine character is uncomplicated yet unyielding, with a simple pushrod-operated valve train and a single Keihin carburetor. Its performance may be unsophisticated, but it’s no less formidable – capable of pulling down a house with its sheer brute force.

Despite being largely ignored by consumers when launched in the 1970s, the Harley-Davidson XLCR 1000 has since become a highly sought-after collector’s item, prized for its unique blend of style and raw power.

Key Specifications

Engine TypeFour stroke, 45 V-Twin, OHV, 2 valves per cylinder.
Engine Capacity60.8 cubic inches / 997 cc
Max Power68hp / 50.7 kW @6200 rpm
Max Torque60 lb ft / 81 Nm @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Tank Capacity2.3 US gallons / 9.0 L
Weight (Wet/Kerb)485 lbs / 220 kg
Harley Davidson XLCR 1000 Caf Racer (1977 - 79)

All Specifications

Make & Model

ModelHarley Davidson XLCR 1000 Caf Racer
Year1977 – 79

Engine

Engine TypeFour stroke, 45 V-Twin, OHV, 2 valves per cylinder.
Displacement60.8 cubic inches / 997 cc
Bore x Stroke81 x 96.8 mm
Compression Ratio9.0:1
Max Horsepower68hp / 50.7 kW @6200 rpm
Max Torque60 lb ft / 81 Nm @ 3500 rpm
Engine Management System38mm Keihin carburetor
Lubrication SystemDry sump
Cooling SystemAir cooled

Performance

Top Speed115 mph

Transmission

ClutchWet, multiple discs, cable operated
Gearbox4 Speed
Final DriveChain

Electrical & Electronics System

StarterElectric

Chassis & Suspension

Front SuspensionTelescopic forks
Rear SuspensionDual shocks swinging fork.

Wheels & Brakes

Front Tire Size3.75-19
Rear Tire Size4.25-18
Front Brakes2x 254mm disc
Rear BrakesSingle 254mm disc

Dimension & Weights

Fuel Tank Capacity2.3 US gallons / 9.0 L
Wet (kerb/curb) Weight485 lbs / 220 kg

Features

  • V-twin engine
  • 997.5cc displacement
  • 45-degree unit
  • 9:1 compression ratio
  • Pushrod operated valves
  • Single 38mm Keihin carburetor
  • Electric start
  • Four gears
  • Wet-multi-plate clutch
  • Kelsey Hayes disc brakes all around
  • Alloy wheels by Morris
  • Showa springing
  • Duplex frame
  • Rear end similar to long-track Harley racers
  • Bikini fairing
  • Slim front fender

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