Photo: SS Cycle
S&S is getting closer to finishing their Project Dragon 143 bike, a model which will introduce the all-new T143 v-twin engine the company announced for this fall. The T143 is a drop-in replacement for the Harley-Davidson Touring machines manufactured from 2008 on and is intended to provide H-D tuning enthusiasts with a real high performance blast from this racing-worthy upgrade, even though it looks like this engine is not street-legal.
The T143 engine offers a 143 cubic inch (2,343 cc) displacement and S&S says it will produce 162 horsepower at the wheel, meaning that the max power measured at the crankshaft is significantly bigger. At the same time, the peak torque is said to reach the 151.6 lb-ft (205.7 Nm) bar, turning ant Touring H-D into an instant burnout machine.
Even more, upgrading other components of a motorcycle may be a smart move, with better brakes, transmission, tires, suspensions and maybe some frame strengthening. S&S also remind customers that “this product is intended only for closed course competition use and is not legal for sale or use on CA or EPA pollution controlled vehicles.” The S&S T143 engine is available for $9,250, in either Wrinkle Black or Stone Gray, with a dedicated 70mm induction kit and aftermarket exhaust system raising the direct price of the upgrade even more.
Can’t wait to see S&S’ Project Dragon 143 finished and lined up for some quarter mile showdown with the Rocket III. Who do you think would win?
An upgrade which requires more upgrades
The somewhat funny thing is that S&S themselves are warning the future customers about the evil character of their new T143 engine. They expressly mention that the engine, which does double the power figure of a stock motor comes with race-grade longevity (which is the opposite of longevity, actually), engine noise, vibration and throttle sensitivity.Even more, upgrading other components of a motorcycle may be a smart move, with better brakes, transmission, tires, suspensions and maybe some frame strengthening. S&S also remind customers that “this product is intended only for closed course competition use and is not legal for sale or use on CA or EPA pollution controlled vehicles.” The S&S T143 engine is available for $9,250, in either Wrinkle Black or Stone Gray, with a dedicated 70mm induction kit and aftermarket exhaust system raising the direct price of the upgrade even more.
Will it come close to the Triumph Rocket III?
Judging by the numbers, a Harley equipped with the new S&S T143 engine could become a rival for the insanely cool Triumph Rocket III. The British beast packs 2,234cc and produces a peak torque of 221 Nm (162.9 lb-ft) with only 106 horsies, but its acceleration smokes most other motorcycles, and makes it a worthy competitor for liter-class superbikes. At the same time, the Rocket III can be yours for prices under $16,000 (US price), so the financial factor must also be taken into consideration.Can’t wait to see S&S’ Project Dragon 143 finished and lined up for some quarter mile showdown with the Rocket III. Who do you think would win?
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