Harley Davidson unveils the company’s future

It was a beautiful evening in Milwaukee. In the Menomonee River Valley, Harley riders rumbled in for the weekly Bike Night meet-up. Under a black blanket, the first live sighting of Harley’s new direction awaited. Museum Vice-President Bill Davidson jumped on the impromptu raised truck ramp and introduced special guest Factory Racers like Kenny Coolbeth and 9-time AMA Flat Track champion Scott Parker.

Without further ado, the 2011 XR1200X Harley-Davidson Sportster was revealed as a white-denim model did a burnout in the parking lot. This model is currently only available to European customers, but will soon appear in dealerships in the U.S..

After closer scrutiny, one gruff looking observer said to another, “kinda looks like a Buell.”

It was an astute comment perhaps, as the Motor Company looks towards younger audiences and more streamlined motorcycles (it will be offered at $11,700). The Showa Big Piston front fork makes it lighter, the exhaust allows extra cornering clearance, the Dunlop tires are made specifically for the bike and there’s a lot of tech in the working mechanics without being flashy about it.