What is the Fastest Harley-Davidson®? Top Models That Lead the Speed Race

When people think of Harley-Davidson®, they picture classic Americana: that iconic V-twin engine, whitewall tires, leather saddlebags, loud pipes, (and maybe even those nostalgic handlebar tassels) fluttering in the wind. Harleys are typically seen as laid-back cruisers, designed for long, easy rides down scenic highways with minimal effort required from the rider. Kind of like the Cadillac of motorcycles - built for comfort and style rather than speed.

But, contrary to popular belief, Harley-Davidson® has produced some models over the years that break away from the cruiser mold. These bikes are built to be fast, powerful, and surprisingly quick off the line.

Mancuso Central, located just north of downtown Houston, offers a range of new and pre-owned Harley® motorcycles, as well as financing, parts, accessories, maintenance, and repair services. If you’re into speed, we have what you need. So, what is the fastest Harley-Davidson®? Below is a rundown of the top 10.

FXDR 114

The FXDR 114 was designed to give riders the perfect mix of power and agility. Built with the Milwaukee-Eight® 114 engine, it churns out 119 ft-lbs. of torque, so it's a ride with incredible acceleration. The bike's horsepower allows it to reach a speed of around 120-130 mph, making it one of the fastest Harley-Davidson® models ever produced.

Central to the FXDR 114’s performance is its lightweight construction. Harley-Davidson® engineers used aluminum swingarms and rear subframes, reducing the bike’s overall weight without sacrificing structural integrity. 

The bike’s aggressive styling and aerodynamics allow for greater stability at high speeds. A forward riding position gives the FXDR 114 a boost in handling tight corners, making it an ideal choice for riders who want both speed and precision.

Its advanced suspension system - featuring a racing-style inverted fork in the front and a single coil-over shock in the rear - makes sure the FXDR 114 maintains a smooth and controlled ride, even at extremely high speeds. Add in Harley-Davidson®’s advanced braking system, and this bike has all the features you need for a thrilling, yet safe, experience on the open road.

LiveWire

The LiveWire represents Harley-Davidson®’s foray into the electric motorcycle market, and it doesn’t disappoint in the speed department. This all-electric bike is powered by a high-voltage battery that delivers instant torque, allowing the LiveWire to go from 0 to 60 mph in just 3 seconds. 

It’s not only quick off the line; the LiveWire can also reach a speed of 110 mph, making it one of the fastest electric motorcycles available today. With an impressive 105 horsepower and 86 ft-lbs of torque, the LiveWire offers an exhilarating ride, better than even some gas-powered bikes. 

One of the most innovative aspects of the LiveWire is its regenerative braking system, which helps extend the bike’s range by converting kinetic energy back into stored electrical energy when you decelerate. This, combined with the bike’s lightweight frame, advanced traction control, and customizable riding modes, makes the LiveWire a leader in the electric motorcycle space.

The silence of the electric engine provides a different experience compared to traditional Harley-Davidson® bikes, but the performance is undeniably powerful. For riders who want speed while moving more toward green technology, the LiveWire is the perfect option.

V-Rod Muscle

The V-Rod Muscle, part of Harley-Davidson®’s now-retired V-Rod lineup, is still a fan favorite for speed junkies. Powered by a liquid-cooled 1,250cc Revolution® engine, the V-Rod Muscle delivers 122 horsepower and 87 ft-lbs of torque. This bike was designed to perform on the drag strip, reaching a top speed of 120 mph and going from 0 to 60 mph in 3.7-4.0 seconds.

What sets the V-Rod Muscle apart as a fastest Harley Davidson® motorcycle is its muscular design, featuring a wider rear tire, dual exhausts, and a compact body that gives it a powerful stance on the road. The bike’s low center of gravity makes it more stable during high-speed acceleration, while the forward foot controls and drag-style handlebars give a more aggressive riding position.

The Revolution® engine, co-developed with Porsche, uses dual overhead cams and electronic fuel injection, which allow the V-Rod Muscle to deliver smooth, yet rapid, acceleration. This model attracts riders looking for a bike that blends Harley-Davidson®'s heritage with modern engineering.

Street Rod

For urban riders who want speed combined with agility, the Street Rod is an experience nothing short of thrilling. Powered by the High Output Revolution X™ 750 engine, this bike delivers 70 horsepower and 47 ft-lbs of torque. With a top speed of 110 mph, the Street Rod provides enough performance to satisfy most speed enthusiasts while sporting a nimble and compact design suited for cities.

The Street Rod’s advanced suspension setup includes inverted front forks and dual rear shocks with external reservoirs, enforcing smooth handling over bumps and tight corners. Its lightweight frame and mid-mount controls offer superior maneuverability, making it easy to zip through traffic or take on winding roads. The addition of dual front disc brakes and an anti-lock braking system enhances the bike’s safety features even more without lacking in performance.

Innovative Technologies That Push Boundaries

Harley-Davidson® has made many impressive moves in the innovation department, making their fastest models a joy to ride. Aerodynamic designs and aggressive riding positions contribute to the overall speed and precision of these bikes.

Electronic rider aids, the most common being ABS, also play a big role in improving the riding experience. From customizable ride modes on the LiveWire to advanced braking systems on models like the FXDR 114, Harley-Davidson® makes sure that even at high speeds, riders have full control of their bikes. Traction control, ABS, and adjustable suspension are just a few of the technologies integrated into Harley-Davidson®'s top performers.

Choosing Your Harley-Davidson® for Speed

In the world of high-performance motorcycles, Harley-Davidson® has something for every kind of rider. You may be drawn to the raw power of the FXDR 114, the electric precision of the LiveWire, or the aggressive styling of the V-Rod Muscle, but these bikes deliver the thrill of speed and exceptional handling. Each model showcases Harley-Davidson®'s commitment to blending power, technology, and style in a way that keeps riders coming back for more.

If you’re ready to experience the speed and power of a Harley-Davidson®, contact Mancuso Central Harley-Davidson® today. Our team is here to help you find the perfect new or pre-owned Harley® motorcycle to match your riding style and performance needs. Whether you're looking for an aggressive cruiser or an electric powerhouse, there's a Harley® model waiting for you.