If you have a Harley Softail or Roadking and still crave for that early look you shouldn’t think at buying and restoring a 1950’s cruiser, but consider transforming the model you already own into what it is called the Rucker Nostalgia.
It is actually a package that comes on the previously mentioned models and does a radical transformation.
2009 Rucker Nostalgia
- Make: Array
- Model: 2009 Rucker Nostalgia
2008 Rucker Nostalgia
- Make: Array
- Model: 2008 Rucker Nostalgia
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Introduction
The transformation only concerns 2007 or later Harley Softail and Roadking models and it involves reshaped fuel tank and fenders in order to resemble bikes from that lost but not forgotten era. It is all about the attention to details which brings to the scene the hybrid tin primary cover, faux fuel shut off knob and split tank effects.
Last but not least, there is the 50’s accessories range which brings the enthusiastic rider even closer the image they’ve been searching ever since they’ve seen grandpa’s pictures on its then new Harley-Davidson motorcycle.
History
The force was supplied with such Harley-Davidson motorcycles for as long as everybody can remember. Real tractors on two wheels, the patrol models fitted perfectly in crowded cities such as L.A. and N.Y. while the highway was their middle name. It is hard to believe, but the easy handling was the primary feature, something that made it versatile and a real symbol for Police Departments exploiting them.
There have been policeman on two wheels ever since these were invented, but together with the mass production of the Harley a carefully defined and maintained trajectory was created for motorcycles from their very first day at work and until retirement. After serving the force for 15-20 years (reliability is also a big thing when it comes to such models) replaced motorcycles head to the training facilities around the country where future officers “make their hand” on and – this is the part you’ll love – afterwards they are offered for sale as filled-with-history metal horses. Nice! So there is a small chance that you’ll find an original 50’s model if you set your mind on it
Competition
In this case, the competitors will come from 50-60 years back and compete with fully accessorized 2007-2008 motorcycles produced by the same maker. It is kind of strange because the old comes back to take over the new and ends up competing with himself. What? This leaves no chance for early models to win the fight at least you are so nuts about it that you are craving for the original. In this case, restoration is the only way my friend!
Exterior
Concerning design matters, the Nostalgia only speaks about practicability and comfort because, we must keep in mind, it is made to be ridden even though it looks like it can be easily put in a shopwindow and admired for hours and hours.
At the base of it there is a Harley motor and frame, but what easily individualizes it are the completely redesigned fuel tank and fenders. These last valanced units radically contribute at its early, classic looks and together with the high bars and suspended seat, we can easily say that it has also an old school tendency.
Of course, the windshield couldn’t have missed the party so we’re dealing with an impressive unit which will certainly offer great wind protection. Front end is also dominated by a number of three headlights, replacing the sirens of a police patrol two-wheeled machine.
Wheels and tires are massive, just like the entire bike and there are also sidebags which complete the harmonious blending in of elements. Individualizing the bike is definitely the Black and White color scheme and the maker goes as far as painting the tire’s laterals white.
Remember how back in the days V-Twins weren’t covered in chrome and looked a little rough and had a big air intake cover? This is also the case with this 2008 model so you can imagine the amount of work needed. Also characteristic for that era and present on the Rucker Nostalgia is the two-sides chromed exhausts featuring stylish lines.
Conclusion
By introducing the Nostalgia model, Rucker Performance breathes life into the old, but used modern motorcycles on which magic is being played.
The fact that it can easily be confused with a 50’s era Panhead is the biggest proof that time can stay still when setting you mind to it.
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SPECIFICATIONS
Engine and Transmission
Engine, Year/Model: 2007/Harley TC 96
Builder: Rucker Performance
Displacement: 96 "
Fuel System: VFI Fuel Injected
Exhaust Pipes: Fistail, Cigar or choice
Transmission, Year/Model: 6-speed
Primary Drive: Enclosed Chain
Final Drive: Belt
Frame
Frame, Year/Model: Soft-tail
Shocks: Stock
Front Fork: Hydra Glide
Front Wheel: Rucker Performance 16" x 3.5"
Rear Wheel: Rucker Performance 16" x 3.5"
Front Brake: Single Disc with rotor cover
Rear Brake: Stock
Front Tire: Choice of Whitewall
Rear Tire: Choice of Whitewall
Rear Fender: Smooth, modified for Bubble Bags and accessories
Accessories
Headlight: 7"
Fuel Tank: Rucker Performance Custom Fabricated, Split Tank Details
Handlebars: Buckhorn with Riser
Seat: Solo or Buddy seat
Speedo/Tach: Stock
Hand Controls: Chrome
Foot Controls: Modified