By Poh Yu Seung

Harley-Davidson bikes have long been great for cruising the long, straight highways crisscrossing the United States. But they seldom fare as well in corners.

For years, the marque has been trying to change that. With the XR1200, it may have succeeded. The model is based on the XR750, arguably the most garlanded motorbike on the dirt ovals of America's domestic racing scene over the past three decades. The late stunt-biker Evel Knievel used it for his hair-raising jumps.

The XR1200, available in Mirage Orange Pearl, Vivid Black and Pewter Silver, has arrived here and Life! is among the first to ride it.

Upon cold starting in the morning, the engine exudes the classic offbeat Harley idling pulse.

Despite the classic sound, the engine performance is pretty up to par with modern machines. For a push-rod V-Twin producing 90hp, the power delivery is wonderfully eager from 2,000rpm.

Added to the aural thrill is the ultra prominent airbox induction roar as the 1,200cc engine powers through the rev range.

Deliberately working up the gearbox and riding the wave of torque from 2,000 to 4,000rpm, the XR1200 delivers a mighty strong pull on its wide bars, reminiscent of a workout in the gym.

And you should have gone to the gym as this bike cuts an immensely slim but muscular profile with its two cylinders tucked behind each other.

The traditional Harley air box is incorporated into the base of the fuel tank, so as to better show off the engine. Only a large oil cooler on the left juts out into the airstream, giving a hint of this bike's power.

The ride quality is distinctively sporty, with firm damping control in the front and rear. And given the thin foam of the racing-style seat, this motorbike will give you a sensory overload from the feedback through its handlebars, seat, footpegs as well as engine vibrations.

Instead of long tours, the XR1200 is best enjoyed for short bursts of unrestrained urban assault or brisk weekend jaunts in the countryside, on roads unimpeded by traffic lights or slow-moving MPVs.

The placement of the tachometer adds to the feeling that you are riding something special: It is smack in the middle of the handlebar, while the speedometer is to the side, looking like an accessory strapped on just to meet regulations.

The bike looks muscular and sounds convincing. But how does it ride compared with contemporary machines?

The Moto Guzzi Griso 1100 feels longer, placing the rider into a forward lean. It has wider handlebars, while its sports- oriented suspension provides a road feel that is firmer than the XR.

Ducati's Monster is lighter in weight and feels smaller than the XR. But its excellent power-to-weight ratio means it accelerates faster than the XR.

The MV Augusta Brutale 910 has the ultra smooth power of an inline-4 engine with a huge usable rev range. Together with a short wheelbase, wide handlebars and sharp styling, it makes an even more aggressive street fighter.

Nonetheless the XR1200 holds a unique place in the market, with its blend of quickness, cool macho stance and the distinctive throb that only The Motor Company can deliver. It captures the racing spirit of the XR750 dirt-track racer, while carrying the design cues of the current Sportster family. And it runs like a Sportster should.

This article was first published in The Straits Times on Nov 15, 2008.

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