Cruisers

2008Harley-Davidson VRSCAW V-Rod

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The 2008 Harley-Davidson VRSCAW V-Rod is a muscular naked bike designed for riders seeking aggressive styling and powerful performance. Its 1250cc V-twin engine delivers impressive torque for thrilling acceleration, while the lightweight frame and responsive handling make it ideal for spirited riding. Best known for combining cruiser attitude with sportbike capability, it appeals to experienced riders wanting modern technology with classic Harley character.

Capacity: 1250.4 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 288.9 kg
Seat height: 688 mm
Power: 107.5 HP (79.1 kW)

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What’s new for the 2008 Harley-Davidson VRSCAW V-Rod

vs the 2007

Spec	2007	2008
Engine capacity	1130.8 ccm (69.01 cubic inches)	1250.4 ccm (76.30 cubic inches)
Power	—	107.5 HP (79.1 kW)
Torque	100.3 Nm (10.2 kgf-m or 74.0 ft.lbs)	113.9 Nm (11.6 kgf-m or 84.0 ft.lbs)
Front suspension	—	Wide, 49mm custom fork
Rear suspension	—	Preload adjustable
Front brakes	Single disc	Single disc. 4-piston calipers
Rear brakes	Single disc	Single disc. 2-piston torque-free calipers

Other years 2007 2008 2009 2010

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering40%

City riding45%

Daily riding55%

Touring40%

Two-up45%

Track25%

Best for: Built for boulevard cruising and straight-line power showmanship rather than long-distance touring or technical cornering.
Built for: A muscular, liquid-cooled power cruiser that blends drag-bike attitude with Harley custom styling, favoring aggressive acceleration over nimble handling.
Not ideal for: Not a good fit for riders seeking a lightweight, flickable bike for tight twisties or genuine off-road capability.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 688mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2008 Harley-Davidson VRSCAW V-Rod, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 degrees and an upright riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 750 mm or under — Short Kings →

Find bikes that fit your height →

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 1250.4 ccm
Power: 107.5 HP (79.1 kW)
Torque: 113.9 Nm (11.6 kgf-m)
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.3721 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 104.9 x 71.9 mm
Compression: 11.5:1
Cooling system: Liquid
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Valves per cylinder: 4

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Belt
Clutch: 9-plate, wet, Assist and Slip

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1707 mm
Overall length: 2398 mm
Seat height: 688 mm
Dry weight: 288.9 kg
Wet weight: 303.9 kg
Fuel capacity: 18.90 litres
Ground clearance: 127 mm
Oil capacity: 4.40 litres

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Steel perimeter upper frame with hydroformed main rails;
Front suspension: Wide, 49mm custom fork
Rear suspension: Preload adjustable
Front wheel travel: 102 mm
Rear wheel travel: 102 mm
Rake (fork angle): 34.0°
Trail: 114 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc. 4-piston calipers
Front brakes diameter: 300 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. 2-piston torque-free calipers
Rear brakes diameter: 300 mm
Front tyre: 120/70-ZR19
Rear tyre: 240/40-R18

Other

Color options: Vivid Black, Black Pearl, Pewter Pearl, Dark Blue Pearl (New), Candy Red Sunglo (New), Two-Tone Pacific Blue Pearl/Vivid Black (New), 105th Anniversary Copper Pearl/Vivid Black, Purple Haze (Custom), Copperhead Pearl and Red Hot (Custom), Golden Glow and

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.