The Harley–Davidson XLCR 1000 Cafe Racer was conceived in 1977 by Willie G.
Davidson, but it did not turn out to be that popular with the public: H-D enthusiast thought it was too sporty, while those into sportsbikes thought it was too… ‘Harley’.
The model was equipped with a Ironhead 100o engine made of cast-iron mated to a 4-speed gearbox and delivering 62 hp, which surely wasn’t much in the comparison with the 4-cylinder Japanese bikes of that time.
As it often happens, the bike that once was considered a ugly duckling has now become a much sought-after collectable, and since it was produced for just two years in about 3,000 units, there aren’t many around: a used one might cost more than 15,000 €, while one in mint condition – and all the original bits – could even reach the 30,000€ mark.
The unmistakable lines of the original Harley–Davidson XLCR 1000 Cafe Racer struck a chord with many H-D enthusiasts around the world, and this is the reason why French company Jewel Racer has released a kit that can turn a modern XR1200 into a quite loyal rendition (at least aesthetically) of its historic ancestor.
Actually, looking closely, it is not difficult to spot quite a few differences between the two bikes, but the feeling and the vintage vibe of the old model are definitely there.
All the parts that make this kit can be bought singularly or as a whole package, at 1,345 €: front fairing and fuel tank cover are priced at 334€ each, saddle plus rear subframe and fairing at 714€ and handlebars at 55€, all of which are finished in black.
Not included in the kit are the anodized black Sebring exhaust and the EMC suspension, which would be used for the conversion of the first XR1200, which had a chromed muffler, whereas the XR1200X already comes with a blackened end-can and the more performing Showa shocks.
Almost needless to say, the kit is reversible and requires no piercing or modification of any part of the standard motorcycle.
View the full Harley–Davidson XLCR 1000 Cafe Racer by Jewel Racer photo gallery
