| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Liquid-cooled, Revolution® V-Twin (1250cc) |
| Engine Oil | 20W50 SYN3 Synthetic (3.8 L) |
| Front Tire | 120/70 ZR 19 (36 psi / 2.5 bar) |
| Rear Tire | 240/40 R 18 (42 psi / 2.9 bar) |
| Spark Plugs | HD-10R12A (Gap: 0.97-1.09 mm) |
| Battery | 65948-00A |
Engineering Heritage: The 240mm Revolution
The 2006 VRSCSE2 Screamin’ Eagle V-Rod holds a unique place in Harley-Davidson history as the first production model to factory-equip a massive 240mm rear tire. This engineering decision necessitated a complete redesign of the swingarm and rear fender assembly compared to the standard 180mm VRSC models, marking a shift toward the ‘fat-tire’ custom aesthetic that would dominate the cruiser market for the following decade.
Technical Deep Dive: The Liquid-Cooled Powerhouse
At the heart of the VRSCSE2 is the Screamin’ Eagle 1250cc Revolution engine. Originally co-developed with Porsche, this version features high-flow cylinder heads and optimized cam profiles. Unlike traditional air-cooled Big Twins, this short-stroke, DOHC engine thrives at higher RPMs, delivering approximately 123 horsepower. The cooling system is integrated with a high-capacity radiator, requiring strict adherence to coolant levels to prevent thermal fatigue in the dual-overhead-cam architecture.
Maintenance Protocols for the Enthusiast
As the Editor-in-Chief of MotoSpecsLab, I emphasize that the CVO V-Rod is a precision instrument. Maintenance is not merely suggested; it is vital for the longevity of the Revolution engine.
- Lubrication: Use only 20W50 SYN3 Synthetic oil. The 3.8-liter capacity ensures adequate thermal management. Check levels via the dipstick while the bike is upright, not on the side stand.
- Ignition: The HD-10R12A spark plugs require a precise gap of 0.97-1.09 mm. Even a slight deviation can lead to ionization issues within the high-compression cylinders.
- Electrical: The 65948-00A battery is essential for providing the high cold-cranking amps (CCA) needed to turn over the high-compression V-twin.
Chassis and Handling
The VRSCSE2’s handling is defined by its wide rear contact patch. While the 240/40 R 18 tire provides immense straight-line stability and traction, it requires a specific tire pressure of 42 psi (2.9 bar) to maintain its profile during cornering. Dropping below this pressure will result in ‘heavy’ steering and accelerated cupping of the front 120/70 ZR 19 tire.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What makes the VRSCSE2 different from a standard V-Rod?
The VRSCSE2 features the larger 1250cc engine (vs 1130cc), a wider 240mm rear tire, custom CVO paint, and high-performance Screamin’ Eagle components throughout the drivetrain.
How often should I change the spark plugs?
While the service manual suggests longer intervals, for peak performance in the high-revving Revolution engine, we recommend inspecting the HD-10R12A plugs every 10,000 miles (16,000 km).
Is the battery specific to this model?
The 65948-00A is the standard fitment. Given the electronic fuel injection and high-output starter, always ensure the battery is kept on a tender during off-season storage.