1977 Harley-Davidson XLCR Cafe Racer

1977 Harley-Davidson XLCR Cafe Racer

cafe-racer70sUnited States

A cafe racer from 1977, the 1977 Harley-Davidson XLCR Cafe Racer delivers 61hp from its 998cc OHV V-twin Ironhead engine.

Specifications

Engine

Type
OHV V-twin Ironhead
Displacement
998 cc
Cylinders
2
Power
61 hp @ 6200 rpm
Torque
70.0 Nm
Compression
Bore × Stroke
81.0 × 96.8 mm
Cooling
Air-cooled
Fuel System
Keihin carburetor

Chassis & Transmission

Frame
Steel double cradle
Front Suspension
Telescopic fork
Rear Suspension
Twin shock
Front Brake
Dual disc
Rear Brake
Single disc
Front Tyre
Rear Tyre
Transmission
4-speed
Final Drive
Chain

Performance

Top Speed
180 km/h (112 mph)
¼ Mile

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
225 kg (496 lbs)
Wet Weight
245 kg (540 lbs)
Seat Height
760 mm
Wheelbase
1480 mm
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
13.0 L

History & Story

Harley-Davidson's 1977 Harley-Davidson XLCR Cafe Racer arrived in 1977 as a cafe racer designed for the discerning rider. Produced in United States, it quickly earned recognition as a capable cafe racer from the 1970s.

At the heart of the 1977 Harley-Davidson XLCR Cafe Racer sits a 998cc OHV V-twin Ironhead engine producing 61 horsepower at 6200 rpm. The twin-cylinder powerplant features a twin-cylinder layout with air-cooled cooling, fed by Keihin carburetor. Power reaches the rear wheel through a 4-speed transmission and chain final drive.

Built around a steel double cradle frame, the 1977 Harley-Davidson XLCR Cafe Racer suspends its 225 kg (496 lbs) on telescopic fork forks and twin shock rear units. Braking relies on dual disc at the front and single disc at the rear, with a 1480 mm wheelbase providing stability.

Performance-wise, the 1977 Harley-Davidson XLCR Cafe Racer achieves a claimed top speed of 180 km/h (112 mph). With a fuel capacity of 13.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for cafe racer duties. The seat height of 760 mm makes it accessible for most riders.

Today, the 1977 Harley-Davidson XLCR Cafe Racer is considered a desirable collector motorcycle that has appreciated significantly in value over the decades. Parts availability is rated as moderate, 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

  • The 1977 Harley-Davidson XLCR Cafe Racer is considered one of the most collectible motorcycles from Harley-Davidson
  • The 1977 Harley-Davidson XLCR Cafe Racer is widely regarded as a milestone in motorcycle history

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Moderate
Collector Rating
8/10

Resources & Parts