1992 Harley-Davidson VR1000 Race Bike

SOLD FOR: $103,790

Seller accepted post-auction offer.

Sold on May 17, 2024

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Description

Additional photos of this VR1000 are available here for your perusal.

Back in 1988, Harley decided to try their hand at knocking off Ducati from their perch atop AMA Superbike. Unfortunately, what would have been top notch technology when the bike was supposed to have been released (in 1991) was well behind the curve when it actually started racing (in 1994). Homologation requirements resulted in the Harley-Davidson VR1000, of which only 55 were sold after a year of production.

The VR1000 did not take anything from the Harley parts bin – everything was built specifically for the racer. HD outsourced plenty of the components but kept it all within the good ol’ USA. Roush developed the engine, Penske took care of the suspension, and Wilwood handled the brakes.

For $49,000, riders could buy themselves a 135 horsepower, 400 pound racebike with lights that had a lovely split-personality paint job: one stripe of white split halves of black and orange. Only a portion of the 55 were built with the components required to be street-legal, such as the lights, turn signals, and mirrors.

For a comprehensive look at why the VR is so interesting, check out this story here on OddBike.

Because this VR1000 was built as a race bike, it does not have a stamped VIN. The seller acquired the bike five years ago from a dealer as a dismantled package. He notes that it was “originally part of the Don Tilly and THE Gemini racing project.”

During his ownership, the seller has covered approximately 20 miles. There is no odometer; true mileage is unknown.

Maintenance:
The seller reports that this VR1000 is the product of a full rebuilt/restoration.

Modifications:
Motec ignition.

Inside of the tank:

It is riding on Dunlop Radial slicks with date codes of 0513 and 1214.

Per the seller, the sale “comes with loads of spares, including pistons, conrods, valves, cam gears, cams, swingarms, engine cases, and bodywork.”


Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:


Currently located in Pinkenba, Queensland, Australia, this Harley is offered on a clean Australian title. Have any VR1000 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!

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