In the late 80s, Harley-Davidson decided that they wanted to take a crack at AMA Superbike, where they’d be allowed to compete against 750cc fours with 1,000cc twins (just like Ducati). Homologation rules required the production of 50 bikes around the world, so Harley ended up getting the bikes certified and legalized in Germany (though the common rumor is that the VR was made street legal only in Poland). Here’s an interesting example that’s said to come with over $20k in extra tools and parts.
There were few changes to the production bike from the racer – both got the distinctive orange/black paint scheme and the street bike was equipped with Ohlins forks, Marchesini wheels, Wilwood brakes and a Penske shock. For more on the VR and its interesting story, check out this excellent article from Jason Cormier at OddBike. As is typical of Jason’s work, it’s by far the best account I’ve encountered so far on Harley and their unexpected racer.
This example (VIN: VR016K4) has just 231 miles and the seller says it’s been in a museum since 1994. The sale also includes the original sales invoice, showing that the first buyer spent $49,626 on it.
Find this VR1000 in Cottage Grove, Wisconsin with a BIN of $89,999 or best offer here on eBay.