2017 Harley-Davidson Night Rod Special Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown
Built around Harley-Davidson's naked motorcycle platform, the 2017 Harley-Davidson Night Rod Special features a 1247 cc (76.1 cu in) liquid-cooled v2, four-stroke configuration. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 120.7 HP (88.1 kW) at 8,000 rpm while maximum torque reaches 111 Nm (81.9 lb-ft) at 7,250 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and belt final drive. With a specific output of 96.8 HP per liter and a 750 rpm working window between peak torque (7,250 rpm) and peak power (8,000 rpm), the engine character is reflecting a performance-oriented street tune that balances strong mid-range pull with an energetic top-end rush.
On the scales, the Night Rod Special measures 302 kg (666 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.4 HP/kg (2.5 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 675 mm (26.6 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,705 mm (67.1 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 18.93-liter (5 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 6.36 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 298 km (185 miles) between fill-ups.
Within MotoLibrary's Harley-Davidson archive, this model family spans 2 indexed model years from 2016 to 2017, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
96.8 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.4 HP/kg (2.5 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
7,250–8,000 rpm
Theoretical Range
~298 km (185 mi)
Engine
Displacement1247.0 ccm (76.09 cubic inches)
Engine TypeV2, four-stroke
Engine DetailsRevolution®, 60° V-Twin
Power120.7 HP (88.1 kW)) @ 8000 RPM
Torque111.0 Nm (11.3 kgf-m or 81.9 ft.lbs) @ 7250 RPM
Compression11.5:1
Bore x Stroke105.0 x 72.0 mm (4.1 x 2.8 inches)
Fuel SystemInjection. Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox6-speed
Final DriveBelt (final drive)
ClutchMulti-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath
DrivelineGear, 117/64 ratio primary drive
Performance
Fuel Consumption6.36 litres/100 km (15.7 km/l or 36.98 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases147.6 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
ExhaustStraight-shot exhaust with brushed finish dual mufflers; black end caps and exhaust shield
Chassis
Rake34.0°
Trail142 mm (5.6 inches)
Front SuspensionInverted fork
Wheelbase1705 mm (67.1 inches)
Ground Clearance115 mm (4.5 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre120/70-ZR19
Rear Tyre240/40-R18
Front BrakesDouble disc. ABS. 4-piston
Rear BrakesSingle disc. ABS. 4-piston
WheelsBlack, Split 5-Spoke Cast Aluminum w/machined pinstripe Standard on Select Colors
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight289.0 kg (637.1 pounds)
Weight incl.302.0 kg (665.8 pounds)
Power/Weight0.4176 HP/kg
Seat Height675 mm (26.6 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall Length2440 mm (96.1 inches)
Fuel Capacity18.93 litres (5.00 US gallons)
Oil Capacity4.70 litres (4.97 US quarts)
Other
StarterElectric
Color OptionsCorona Yellow Pearl, Velocity Red Sunglo, Crushed Ice Pearl, Black Denim, Crushed Ice Denim
InstrumentsElectronic speedometer with odometer, time-of-day clock on odometer, dual tripmeter, fuel gauge with low fuel warning light and countdown feature, low oil pressure indicator light, engine diagnostics readout, LED indicator lights, tachometer
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
