The 1977 Harley-Davidson XLCR Cafe Racer from United States was powered by a 998cc OHV V-twin Ironhead producing 61hp at 6200rpm. Weighing 225.0kg (496 lbs) and with a seat height of 760mm, it was aimed at cafe racer riders.
The 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail by contrast offered 1338cc of OHV V-twin Evolution power, delivering 55hp at 4800rpm. Tipping the scales at 271.0kg (597 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
Specifications Comparison
| 1977 Harley-Davidson XLCR Cafe Racer | 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 998 cc | 1338 cc |
| Power | 61 hp | 55 hp |
| Torque | 70.0 Nm | 100.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 155 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 225.0 kg | 271.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 245.0 kg | 294.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 760 mm | 680 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1480 mm | 1530 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 13.0 L | 18.0 L |
| Gears | 4 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Harley-Davidson machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1977 Harley-Davidson XLCR Cafe Racer laid the groundwork with 61hp, while the later 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail pushed output to 55hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1977 Harley-Davidson XLCR Cafe Racer holds the edge with a 8/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Harley-Davidson collection. Parts availability is moderate for the 1977 Harley-Davidson XLCR Cafe Racer and good for the 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1977 Harley-Davidson XLCR Cafe Racer
A cafe racer from 1977, the 1977 Harley-Davidson XLCR Cafe Racer delivers 61hp from its 998cc OHV V-twin Ironhead engine.
Full 1977 Harley-Davidson XLCR Cafe Racer Profile →About the 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail
Harley-Davidson released the 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail in 1984 with a 1338cc OHV V-twin Evolution powerplant making 55hp — a definitive cruiser.
Full 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail Profile →