In 1969, an AMA rule-change would force Harley-Davidson’s then racing manager Dick O’Brian and his team to build the XR750 racer. It used a smaller version of its predecessor’s (the KR) 900cc engine. The first years of the XR had a lack of power as well as overheating issues so in 1972 parts of the engine were changed (aluminum head and cylinder package and a bigger bore with a shorter stroke) to address these problems. 200 of these machines were built to comply with AMA (homologation) regulations and were available upon request at H-D dealerships for a price of what translates to just shy of $20,000 today.
I spoke to the owner who told me the bike is in decent running condition and that he had cleaned and tinkered with the carbs, gotten the magneto working, done “the stuff you do when a bike hadn’t run in a while,” and rode it around the block a few times. The bike has passed through the hands of several noteworthy owners who were involved in the American flat track scene like Cory Gereau and Tex Peel before ending up with its current owner.
If you’re looking to own a early version of the XR750, a race machine that’s been modified but is still used by HD in races today, then the 1972 is a great year to own. It’s the earliest version where the first generation XR’s problems were fixed. If you have even a tenuous knowledge on flat track racing than you almost certainly know about the XR750, if you don’t let’s just say; it’s won a lot of races. Though this example isn’t pristine, it’s not too far gone and could be restored to near-mint condition with some work (and cash).
You may notice the exhaust on this 72′ XR isn’t on the side where you’d expect to find a traditional “Tracker Style exhaust”. The pipe is instead routed underneath and out of the back of the seat like the Japanese flat trackers who had thrown their hat in the ring after (or rather because of) the 1969 rule change. The tail section is also different as a result. With flat track experiencing somewhat of a revival right now there’s a very good chance this bike’s value will only appreciate over time. This example is currently for sale on Staten Island, NY at SuperCycles Inc for $25,000 here on Craigslist.