2018 Harley-Davidson Street Rod

Introduced for 2017, the Street Rod is the latest derivative of the Street 750 and Street 500 duo profiled above. Please note, this midsize Street Rod should not be mistaken for the discontinued VRSCR Street Rod, a powerful liquid-cooled street slugger that was built from 2006–’07. Somewhat in contrast, the purpose of the latest Street Rod is more genial, namely to add a performance edge to the standard Street 750.

Doing so begins with sharper engine tuning for quicker response and faster acceleration. Further, a racing-derived, inverted fork and piggyback reservoirs on the shocks improve road-holding during faster, harder riding. And here, it’s worth noting the included 17-inch wheels can accept a variety of sportbike tires, either sticky for maximum grip or long-lasting for commuters and freeway fliers.

Altering appearances, the Street Rod also adds a flat handlebar, often referred to as a “drag bar.” A fairly simple change, the flat bar actually alters the ergonomics significantly, lowering the rider on the bike, moving his or her weight forward to better tuck out of the wind.

Likes: Adds a useful performance flair to H-D's "new-generation" 60-degree Street 750, while also repurposing the cool Street Rod name.

Dislikes: Lowering the handlebar and raising the performance bets for a taller seat and more rearward-mounted footpegs and controls.

Verdict: A clear step in the right direction for the Street 750, which was a good platform that felt unfinished in its original form.