Introduction
Since building its first bike in 1903, Harley-Davidson has grown to become a top, iconic US motorcycle brand.
The Milwaukee-born company is notable for producing bulky, aggressive-looking bikes, suitable for cruising at a steady speed. To learn more about the company’s remarkable journey, check out our detailed post on the history of Harley-Davidson.
Although Harleys don’t have a reputation for blazing speed, there are still some lightning-fast machines in the HD universe.
Below, let’s look at some of the fastest Harley-Davidson motorcycles ever made.
10 Fastest Harley Davidson Bikes
The Harley-Davidson brand wasn’t initially well known for making high-performance cruisers with fast speed.
However, they began using a new V-twin engine, which allowed the newer models accelerate to 60 mph in a few seconds.
With that change, the Harley-Davidson line has further exploded in popularity as the company manufactured different models of fast bikes with improved motorcycle technology.
Here are 10 of the fastest, high-performance Harley-Davidson motorcycles.
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Harley-Davidson FXDR 114
Harley Davidson Engine Capacity 1868 cc Engine Type Milwaukee Eight 114 V-Twin Engine Top Speed 160 mph Max Torque 119 ft-lb @ 3,500 rpm Fuel Capacity 4.4 gal Horsepower 90 hp Weight 637 lbs The FXDR 114 is widely regarded as the fastest motorcycle in the Harley-Davidson lineup.
Powered by a V-twin engine and 90 horsepower, the bike hits a top speed of 160 mph (miles per hour) and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 2.5 seconds.
The cruiser is a member of the speedy Softail series and was built with modern, lightweight components to provide tons of power and acceleration. Most experienced riders will enjoy riding this bike.
But if you’re a beginner cruising the FXDR 114 through Milwaukee, it’s a good idea to have a reliable Milwaukee towing service like Speedy Peedy Towing on standby in case of unexpected breakdowns.
Aside from its high performance, the FXDR 114 also performs well in the design department. Its stretched fuel tank and wide rear tire contribute to an aggressive look. The bike is the ultimate answer if you need a Harley with a mix of power and speed.
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Harley-Davidson VRSCA V-Rod
Source: Flickr Engine Capacity 1130cc Engine Type Liquid-Cooled V-Twin Engine Top Speed 135 mph Max Torque 74 ft-lb @ 7300 rpm Fuel Capacity 4.0 gal Horsepower 115 hp Weight 595 lbs First produced in 2001, the VRSC (V-twin racing street custom) was designed to redefine the power-cruiser category and compete against Japanese and American muscle bikes. The model offers a marriage of excellent styling and liquid-cooled V-twin performance.
With its 1,130-cc engine and 115 horsepower, the bike guarantees a top speed of 135 mph. It also has enough power for a 11.7-second quarter-mile.
The V-Rod’s looks are as impressive as its speed. It features an innovative but sporty chassis design while retaining the classic style that Harleys are usually known for.
This bike also attracts attention for its black hand controls and deep silver aluminum frame finish, which ensures smooth handling.
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Harley-Davidson LiveWire One
Source: Pexels Engine Capacity Engine Type Revelation permanent-magnet electric motor Top Speed 110 mph Max Torque 84 ft-lb Battery 15.5 kWh high-voltage Horsepower 100 hp Weight 562 lb Unveiled to the public in 2014, the LiveWire One is Harley-Davidson’s first attempt at producing state-of-the-art electric motorcycles with 21st-century technology. It eventually became one of the best electric bikes on the market and one of the fastest Harleys ever sold.
LiveWire One gets good praise for delivering a fast ride with an electric motor engine that produces 100 horsepower and 84 ft-lb of torque.
The bike accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in about three seconds and guarantees a top speed of 110mph. Its lightweight design, low center of gravity, and cast-aluminum frame give it a sporty feel and agility to match its speed.
On its electric side, the LiveWire One’s 15.4 kWh battery can charge fast in an hour to deliver 146 city miles or 70 highway miles.
Other bike features include voice controls, a 4.3-inch touchscreen, and the ability to connect with your iOS or Android smartphone. You can ride this bike across the highway, for short-distance rides in the neighborhood, or even to any exciting motorcycle event to make memories for yourself.
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Harley-Davidson Road Glide ST
Source: Harley-Davidson Engine Capacity 1923 cc Engine Type Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-Twin Top Speed 130mph Max Torque 127 ft-lb @ 3,750 rpm Fuel Capacity 6.0gal Horsepower 106hp Weight 842 lbs Thanks to its V-Twin engine, which delivers 127 ft-lb of torque, the Road Glide ST can reach a top speed of 130 mph.
The bike goes from 0 to 60 mph in under five seconds, making it one of the fastest Harley-Davidson motorcycles.
Apart from its powered internal features, the Road Glide ST is loved for its exterior, which features a slick design and is available in multiple colors.
The latest versions come with modern technology, such as a 6.5-inch full-color screen and two speakers for entertainment.
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Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S
Source: Good Fon Engine Capacity 1802 cc Engine Type Screamin Eagle Air-cooled, Twin Cam Top Speed 125 mph Max Torque 107 ft-lb @ 3000 rpm Fuel Capacity 5 gal Horsepower 92 hp Weight 682 lbs The Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S motorcycle is powered by a four-stroke V2 engine that produces 107 ft-lb of torque and delivers a top speed of 125 mph.
It impressively goes from 0 to 60 in 3.9 seconds. The classic motorcycle features a stripped-down design and ensures an agile ride, thanks to its hidden, well-engineered suspension and rear shocks.
If you need a bike that combines the comfort and power of a modern motorcycle with the vintage look Harleys have been long known for, the Softail Slim S is the one for you.
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Harley-Davidson Fat Boy
Source: Wikimedia Commons Engine Capacity 1868 cc Engine Type Milwaukee-Eight™ 114 Top Speed 110mph Max Torque 89 ft-lb @ 3000 rpm Fuel Capacity 5 gal Horsepower 65 hp Weight 699 lb The Fat Boy is the ultimate symbol of Harley Davidson’s iconic, daring style and aggressive DNA.
Powering the bulky Softail cruiser is an efficient V-twin engine that produces 89 ft-lb of torque, enough to deliver a top speed of 110 mph.
Since the bike has been around since 1990, it still retains the classic style of older Harley designs and a wide, soft seat for a comfortable ride. Its 6-speed transmission ensures smooth gear shifts too high for steady accelerations.
The Fat Boy is the hardest Harley ever made and earned a place in American pop future after appearing in several scenes in the Terminator blockbuster.
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Harley-Davidson Street Bob 114
Source: Harley-Davidson Engine Capacity 1,868 cc Engine Type Milwaukee-Eight 114 V-Twin engine Top Speed 115 mph Max Torque 119 ft-lb @ 3250 rpm Fuel Capacity 3.5 gal Horsepower 94 hp Weight 631 lb This Street Bob cruiser is equipped with a Milwaukee-Eight 114 V-Twin engine that provides 119 ft-lb peak torque and delivers a top speed of 115mph. The powerhouse also guarantees enduring acceleration faster than many bikes in the lineup.
On the style end, the bike features bobbed styling while giving off a minimalist, old-school vibe. Its Chrome laces and blackout rims add to its custom look.
The Street Bob 114 ultimately gives you freedom in speed and performance, no matter your experience level.
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Harley-Davidson Fat Bob 114
Source: Cycle News Engine Capacity 1,868 cc Engine Type Milwaukee-Eight 114 V-Twin Top Speed 110 mph Max Torque 118 ft-lb @ 3500 rpm Fuel Capacity 3.5 gal Horsepower 93 hp Weight 653 lb With a top speed of 110mph, Fat Bob 114 has loads of torque to deliver enough on-demand power for comfortable long-distance rides.
Thanks to its solid-mount V-twin engine, the Fat Bob 114 is faster, more aggressive, and delivers more brutish performance than similar models. The muscular cruiser gets its name from its broad tank and modern bobber design, which gives it an appealing look.
The bike does 0 – 60 mph in 3.8 seconds. Its high-performance dual disc brakes guarantee steady handling and ensure you keep that raw power in check.
The Fat Bob is a perfect choice if you want a sporty motorcycle that delivers remarkable speed and performance within the cruiser category.
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Harley-Davidson Sportster S
Source: Harley-Davidson Engine Capacity 1251 cc Engine Type Liquid-cooled Revolution Max 1250T Top Speed 130mph Max Torque 93.7 ft-lb @ 6000 rpm Fuel Capacity 3.1 gal Horsepower 121 hp Weight 487 lb At the core of the revamped Harley-Davidson Sportster S is a powerful liquid-cooled Revolution Max 1250T engine, which provides a top speed of over 130mph.
The high-powered bike has loads of torque, horsepower, and technology for fast riding performance. Its internals deliver impressive acceleration and can go from 0 to 60mph in about 3.4 seconds.
Although the Sportster S is lightweight and handles pretty well, it’s not a good Harley bike for beginner riders with little experience.
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Harley-Davidson Breakout 117
Source: GoodFon Engine Capacity 1,923cc Engine Type Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-Twin Top Speed 120mph Max Torque 123 ft-lb @ 3500rpm Fuel Capacity 5gal Horsepower 101hp Weight 653 lb With a top speed of 120mph, the Breakout 117 is one of the fastest bikes ever produced by Harley-Davidson. It’s a classic-looking drag bike with all the comfort of modern technology.
The monster cruiser features a V-Twin air-oil-cooled engine and impressive torque for riding performance. It also has forward foot controls that make it easier for riders to maneuver, especially through traffic or tight spaces.
On the design end, the high-powered Harley has a flashy look, low-profile style, excellent powertrain, and huge rear tire for improved confidence while riding.
If you need a comfortable bike to navigate city streets and race in urban terrains, the Breakout 117 is a perfect fit.
What is the fastest Harley Davidson model?
With a top speed of 160 miles per hour, the FXDR 114 sits on the throne as the fastest bike ever produced by Harley-Davidson.
Despite not having the most modern design, many riders love this model because of its impressive acceleration capabilities.
Powered by a Milwaukee-Eight 114 V-Twin engine and lightweight components, the cruiser delivers all-out riding performance and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 2.5 seconds.
The FXDR 114 is a speed demon on the road, perfect for riders who want to sometimes push limits while riding. If you eventually get one, don’t forget to maintain the high-speed bike regularly so it lasts long and stays in top condition.
What Is The Most Popular Harley-Davidson Model?
The Sportster is the most popular and best-selling Harley that appeals to new and experienced riders.
Since its entry in 1957, the versatile motorcycle has become a favorite for most riders looking for power and agility. Its core features include an impressive V-twin engine, a lightweight frame, and a simple design.
Over the years, the Harley brand has done a remarkable job evolving the Sportster bike model. Some changes include engine upgrades and customization style changes to stay relevant with the times.
If you’re interested in finding the perfect bike for your needs, check out our guide on choosing the right motorcycle.