Being a fan of naked bikes in the classic vein (showing my age, I know) I spotted another version in the long line (and tradition since 1957) of Sportster Harleys. This one uses the familiar (and rather capacity-challenged) peanut tank holding just 8 litres of juice to provide mojo for the 1 200 cc Evolotion Vee-twin. This one follows the “Dark Custom Theme” on engine, fenders, cooling fins, crankcase and wheels, although the tank doesn’t have to be black. You can choose to break away from the dark look and go for an orange or silver tank. Wheels are 16 inch and tyres are fat balloon offerings with a 150 section at rear. The minimalist look is enhanced by the solo seat and stop lamp incorporated into the rear indicators. Price and availability in SA obtainable from the Harley-Davidson dealerships.
Also on the dark side of the Earth and for those who like their bikes seriously huge is a new “big daddy” CVO Ultra Classic Electra Glide. Once again, the main theme is black, even the windscreen is smoked. Subtle flame-theme artwork has been added by the Custom Vehicle Operations branch. The engine is a twin-cam 110 cu in or 1 803 cc and the gearbox is six-speed. The alloy wheels are finished in black and bright aluminium. Official name for the wheels is a “Contrast Chrome Roulette” due to the spokes’ resemblance to a roulette wheel– the name is nearly as ostentatious as that of the motorcycle’s. Sizes are 17-inch up front and 16-inch at the rear. Garmin navigation, Harmon Kardon sound system, heated leather seating and much more, all go without saying.