At the heart of the 1930 Harley-Davidson VL custom - cruiser motorcycle, Harley-Davidson pairs a 1212.72 cc (74 cu in) 45 degree v-twin architecture with road-focused gearing. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 30 HP (21.9 kW) at 4,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through chain final drive. With a specific output of 24.7 HP per liter, the engine character is prioritizing low-RPM tractability, mechanical longevity and relaxed throttle response over peak redline numbers.
Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 28 mm (1.1 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1 mm (0 in) wheelbase engineered for quick, flickable steering geometry. The 15.14-liter (4 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 5.88 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 257 km (160 miles) between fill-ups, while factory top speed is listed at 137 km/h (85 mph).
Specific Output
24.7 HP/L
Theoretical Range
~257 km (160 mi)
Engine
Displacement1212.72 ccm (74.00 cubic inches)
Engine Type45 degree V-twin
Engine DetailsV2, four-stroke
Power30.00 HP (21.9 kW)) @ 4000 RPM
Compression4.5:1
Fuel ControlSidevalves
LubricationDry multiplate
Transmission
Final DriveChain
ClutchDry multiplate
Performance
Top Speed136.8 km/h (85.0 mph)
Fuel Consumption5.88 litres/100 km (17.0 km/l or 40.00 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases136.4 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Chassis
Front SuspensionLeading link -coil springs
Rear SuspensionRigid-
Wheelbase1,524 mm (60.0 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front BrakesExpanding brake (drum brake)
Rear BrakesExpanding brake (drum brake)
Dimensions & Weight
Seat Height28 mm (1.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
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.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
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.
