Harley’s Evel past revived by new flat-tracker replica

HARLEY Davidson are hoping to draw on memories of Evel Knievel and flat track racing with its new limited edition XL 883R.

Modelled on the legendary XR750 twin which made the Harley name famous in racing circles during the1970s, and used on occasion by Knievel as his stunt bike, the new 883R will only be made for a year. And if you want one you’d better be quick – just 200 will be coming to the UK.

Based on a Sporster 883 the new bike features mainly cosmetic changes, so don’t expect much more performance over the stock bike’s 55bhp for your money. But what you do get is a distinctive bike with unique styling.

The engine, oil tank, air filter and ignition cover have all been painted matt black to give it the racer look and wide dirt track handle bars should help muscling the 223kg (490lb) bike into corners. Stopping power is boosted with the addition of a second front disc however pillions will not appreciate the specially designed fastback styled seat unit.

Painted in the traditional Harley race colours of orange with while and black decals the most striking part of the bike is the flat track style exhausts. The chrome two-into-one system snakes around the right-hand side of the bike to meet in an upswept silencer.

” There has been a huge swell of interest in the XR750 and dirt track recently with unofficial replicas popping up everywhere, so we decided to create this bike, ” said Harley marketing manager Steve Ernshaw.

The bike is set to appear in dealers at the end of the month with a price tag of just over £5000.