HARLEY-DAVIDSON Low Rider (1977-1978) Specs, Performance & Photos

The American motorcycle manufacturer Harley-Davidson was founded in 1903, headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States. Alongside Indian Motorcycles, Harley-Davidson survived the Great Depression and was one of two major motorcycle manufacturers since 1903.

The Harley-Davidson Low Rider was introduced in 1977 and was known for its distinctive and classic styling. The Low Rider was an instant hit and outsold all Harley-Davidson models in its first full year of production.

For appearance, the bike had standard features, such as a round headlight, a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, a single-piece dual seat, a two-into-one chromed exhaust system, side-mounted suspension on the rear, and nine-spoke alloy wheels.

In the performance department, the 1977 Harley-Davidson Low Rider delivered a satisfying blend of power and agility with its 1,207cc four-stroke air-cooled V-twin engine fed by a carburetor, delivering 58 hp with a maximum peak at 5,150 rpm.

The bike's engine was coupled to a four-speed manual transmission, which handled the power and sent it to the rear wheel through a final chain drive. With a wet weight of 280 kg (617 lbs), the Low Rider reached a top speed of 158 kph (86 mph).

In the handling department, the 1977 Harley-Davidson Low Rider packed a telescopic fork on the front and side-mounted shock absorbers on the rear. The stopping power was achieved by two 250 mm discs on the front wheel and a single 250 mm disc on the rear wheel.