Recent achievements in the King of the Baggers racing series have rekindled enthusiasm for high-performance Harley-Davidson motorcycles. The surprising popularity of bagger racing has prompted both Indian and Harley-Davidson to introduce some stunning “sport” touring bikes. While it’s exciting to witness these motorcycles perform outside their intended design, this isn’t the only type of racing where Harleys excel.
The XR750, for instance, continues to set multiple records in flat-track racing and has experienced a revival in recent years. However, drag racing presents the most accessible entry point into motorsports for Harley enthusiasts. Realistically, nearly any bike can be brought to a local drag strip, but if you aim to compete, these specific models will provide the best value for those on a budget. Just a note: any form of racing can escalate in cost rapidly, regardless of the initial price of the bike.
To ensure the information presented in this article is current and accurate, data has been gathered from various manufacturer websites and other credible sources, including official brand sites. Purchasing a used motorcycle always carries a certain level of risk, so do your homework and proceed with care. The motorcycles on this list are assessed based on power, using our established rating methodologies.
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10
2015 Iron 883
Power: 50 Horsepower
This essentially includes any fuel-injected Sportster. We believe the 883 is a fantastic starting point as you will need to replace the heads eventually. Aftermarket heads serve as an economical launch point for a Sportster build, and with a vast aftermarket, you can increase its horsepower significantly based on your budget.
Specifications
Price Range | $4,000 – $6,000 |
Engine Type | V-Twin, air-cooled |
Displacement | 883cc |
Max Torque | 54 LB-FT |
Transmission | 5-speed |
Weight | 564 lbs |
9
1995 Sportster 1200
Power: 57 Horsepower
This 90s classic effectively symbolizes any older carbureted Sportster. You might opt for an even older and less expensive model, but we wouldn’t advise going too far back, especially with AMF-era bikes. Notably, this model is much lighter than the newer 883 mentioned earlier and offered significantly more torque from the factory.
Specifications
Price Range | $2,000 – $4,000 |
Engine Type | V-Twin, air-cooled |
Displacement | 1200cc |
Max Torque | 71 LB-FT |
Transmission | 5-speed |
Weight | 494 lbs (dry) |
8
2000 FXST Softail Standard
Power: 67 Horsepower
2000 marked the end of the Evo era for Harley as they transitioned to the more advanced Twin Cam 88. This new engine significantly raised performance capabilities compared to the Evo, although the bike’s considerable weight will necessitate further investment to enhance drag strip performance beyond the more economical Sportster options. If you’re prepared to invest more, companies like S&S can help boost performance.
Specifications
Price Range | $4,000 – $6,000 |
Engine Type | V-Twin, air-cooled |
Displacement | 1450cc |
Max Torque | 86 LB-FT |
Transmission | 5-speed |
Weight | 629 lbs (dry) |
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7
1995 Dyna Wide Glide
Power: 67 Horsepower
It’s an understatement to say that the Dyna was a beloved motorcycle. Even if it may seem an odd choice for performance, the nostalgic appeal for Evo fans makes it a strong contender. It’s vital to mention that this generation faced the notorious “Dyna death wobble,” so initial upgrades should focus on the suspension and frame. Consider using polyurethane frame mounts and replacing the steering head bearings as a good starting point.
Specifications
Price Range | $6,000 – $8,000 |
Engine Type | V-Twin, air-cooled |
Displacement | 1337cc |
Max Torque | 72 LB-FT |
Transmission | 5-speed |
Weight | 648 lbs |
6
2012 XR1200X
Power: 89 Horsepower
This motorcycle could very well be the ideal choice for budget-conscious buyers. It combines good performance and has, unlike most Harleys, retained little of its original value. Thanks to its naked bike ergonomics and suspension, prepping it for racing will require significantly less effort. Though some work is still needed on the stock 1200 V-twin engine, the extensive aftermarket support makes achieving performance upgrades fairly straightforward.
Specifications
Price Range | $5,000 – $7,000 |
Engine Type | V-Twin, air-cooled |
Displacement | 1202cc |
Max Torque | 74 LB-FT |
Transmission | 5-speed |
Weight | 590 lbs |
5
2012 Street Glide
Power: 103 Horsepower*
We listed the power figure with the Street Performance kit since it’s something that could be fitted through authorized dealers, making it possible to find a used bike already equipped with it within the price listed below. While it’s undeniably hefty, for those seeking a speedy and adept tourer capable of occasional drag outings, this model is a solid option. The additional weight also assists in maintaining stability when accelerating hard from a standstill.
Specifications
Price Range | $10,000 – $12,000 |
Engine Type | V-Twin, air-cooled |
Displacement | 1690cc |
Max Torque | 110 LB-FT |
Transmission | 6-speed |
Weight | 822 lbs |
4
2013 Breakout
Power: 103 Horsepower*
In contrast to the Street Glide, you can equip the same performance kit on a significantly lighter bike. Since it’s designed to resemble a drag bike, the Breakout is an excellent platform, provided the budget allows. However, foot controls must be modified; mid-controls or drag pegs attached to the swingarm are necessary, unless you’re comfortable attempting to navigate the drag strip like a flying squirrel.
Specifications
Price Range | $9,000 – $11,000 |
Engine Type | V-Twin, air-cooled |
Displacement | 1690cc |
Max Torque | 110 LB-FT |
Transmission | 6-speed |
Weight | 675 lbs |
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3
2002 VRSCA V-Rod
Power: 115 Horsepower
In terms of value, the V-Rod stands out as the most compelling option. While it features forward controls, opting for swingarm-mounted pegs might be preferable. The liquid-cooled V-twin engine may have sparked some controversy among traditional Harley enthusiasts, but it undoubtedly offers the greatest efficiency for increased power. Though modifying this engine may present challenges, the potential performance enhancements certainly justify the effort for those aiming for competitiveness.
Specifications
Price Range | $5,000 – $7,000 |
Engine Type | V-Twin, liquid-cooled |
Displacement | 1131cc |
Max Torque | 84 LB-FT |
Transmission | 5-speed |
Weight | 619 lbs |
2
2007 VRSCR Street Rod
Power: 120 Horsepower
While newer models aren’t always superior, the Street Rod boasts 5 additional horsepower. Its limited popularity typically results in lower prices compared to the first generation V-Rod. However, it is slightly heavier, but this minimal difference shouldn’t affect its potential power with the proper modifications.
Specifications
Price Range | $4,000 – $6,000 |
Engine Type | V-Twin, liquid-cooled |
Displacement | 1131cc |
Max Torque | 80 LB-FT |
Transmission | 5-speed |
Weight | 655 lbs |
1
Bonus: 2006 V-Rod Destroyer
Power: 170 Horsepower
While this isn’t a “cheap” Harley by any means, it serves as a relevant benchmark for aspiring racers. Produced for just a single model year, the V-Rod Destroyer had an extremely limited run of only 646 bikes, with 625 available to the public. Pro-level riders could achieve low 9-second runs on these machines with relative ease.
Considering all aspects, paying around $20k for one of these is practically a steal, especially when it would likely cost more to bring an older V-Rod up to similar specifications. While all models on this list represent “budget” options, they’ll each require some level of investment to prepare for racing. Thus, this journey is as much about the process as it is about the end goal.
Specifications
Price Range | $15,000 – $20,000 |
Engine Type | V-Twin, liquid-cooled |
Displacement | 1300cc |
Max Torque | 97 LB-FT |
Transmission | 5-speed electronic air shifter |
Weight | 550 lbs (approx) |