1970 Harley-Davidson XR750

1970 Harley-Davidson XR750

racing70sUnited States

Born in 1970, the 1970 Harley-Davidson XR750 is a 748cc twin-cylinder racing machine producing 90hp from Harley-Davidson.

Specifications

Engine

Type
OHV V-twin
Displacement
748 cc
Cylinders
2
Power
90 hp @ 8000 rpm
Torque
72.0 Nm
Compression
Bore × Stroke
79.4 × 75.4 mm
Cooling
Air-cooled
Fuel System
2x Mikuni carburetors

Chassis & Transmission

Frame
Steel chromoly tube
Front Suspension
Telescopic fork
Rear Suspension
Twin shock
Front Brake
None (track)
Rear Brake
None (track)
Front Tyre
Rear Tyre
Transmission
4-speed
Final Drive
Chain

Performance

Top Speed
210 km/h (130 mph)
¼ Mile

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
145 kg (320 lbs)
Wet Weight
158 kg (348 lbs)
Seat Height
700 mm
Wheelbase
1380 mm
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
10.0 L

History & Story

The 1970 1970 Harley-Davidson XR750 was introduced by Harley-Davidson as a racing machine aimed at riders seeking racing machine performance and style. Manufactured in United States, it represented Harley-Davidson's vision for the twin-cylinder racing machine market during the 1970s.

At the heart of the 1970 Harley-Davidson XR750 sits a 748cc OHV V-twin engine producing 90 horsepower at 8000 rpm. The twin-cylinder powerplant features a twin-cylinder layout with air-cooled cooling, fed by 2x Mikuni carburetors. Power reaches the rear wheel through a 4-speed transmission and chain final drive.

The chassis employs a steel chromoly tube frame with telescopic fork up front and twin shock at the rear. Stopping power comes from none (track) front and none (track) rear brakes. Tipping the scales at 145 kg (320 lbs) dry, the 1970 Harley-Davidson XR750 offers a manageable riding experience with a 1380 mm wheelbase.

Performance-wise, the 1970 Harley-Davidson XR750 achieves a claimed top speed of 210 km/h (130 mph). With a fuel capacity of 10.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for racing machine duties. The seat height of 700 mm makes it accessible for most riders.

Today, the 1970 Harley-Davidson XR750 is considered a highly sought-after classic that commands strong prices among collectors worldwide. Parts availability is rated as very difficult, making ownership a dedicated pursuit. It remains an icon of Harley-Davidson motorcycling from 1970s.

Known Issues

  • Oil leaks considered normal on vintage models
  • Primary chain tensioner adjustment

Fun Facts

  • Pristine examples of the 1970 Harley-Davidson XR750 can command six-figure prices at auction
  • The 1970 Harley-Davidson XR750 is considered one of the most collectible motorcycles from Harley-Davidson
  • The 1970 Harley-Davidson XR750 is widely regarded as a milestone in motorcycle history
  • With a power-to-weight ratio of 620.7 hp per tonne, the 1970 Harley-Davidson XR750 offered thrilling performance

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Very difficult
Collector Rating
9/10

Resources & Parts