Roehr Motorcycles has just allowed reservations for the new 1250sc model which will be available this summer. Claimed being the most powerful and implicit the fastest running production bike that America has to offer, it already starts to impress and you couldn’t expect less.

2008 Roehr 1250sc

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2008 Roehr 1250sc
  • Engine/Motor: Supercharged, liquid cooled DOHC, 8v 60deg V-twin
  • Horsepower: 180hp @ 9500 RPM
  • Torque: 115lb/ft @ 8500 RPM
  • Transmission: 6 gears
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

 

Introduction


Walter Roehrich is the master mind behind what will probably become the most beloved super sport motorcycle in the United States. Founder of the company and motorcycling passionate, Walter knew that its recipe of building the ultimate must offer that extra performance which can only be obtained through a combination of the best of the best features that such a bike can implement.

These consist in power and style inspired from the two main continents so you will have a proper American V-Twin powering the European-like bike in the way you’ve never even dreamed about. At least this is what we can deduce at a first glance, but be sure that the numbers confirm our sayings.

Powered by a specially designed supercharged 1250cc Harley-Davidson Revolution engine, the Roehr produces an amazing 180 HP and proves knowing how to use them. The powerband is broad and the acceleration linear so the maker proves being able to harness the stud perfectly.

In order to best value that much horsepower you need a stable and agile motorcycle and these features are present due to the modular BiMetal composite beam frame. It helps keeping the bike rigid when needed and thanks to its light weight it allows for quick handling response.

So we should be in for some real track action once this limited edition model will be facing the streets, or better of the track, but until then we can only see against who it is up to.

Competition


Being a combination between two different styles, the 1250sc competes with unique bikes, mostly Italian and American.

First, there is the Buell 1125R, a motorcycle which had successfully tried to identify on such a crowded and rough market, but it seems that compared to the new born American muscle motorcycle the 142 horsepower developed by the liquid-cooled 1125 Helicon V-Twin seem a bit anemic, but this is only when putting it up against a bike such the one reviewed today. Normally, the sporty Buell is a sharp handling and versatile motorcycle suitable for aggressive riding pilots from both continents.

This case also applies when it comes to stylish models such as the Bimota DB7, equipped with the Ducati 1098 Testastretta Evolution engine. The unit delivers great power (160 HP) all through the rpm range, only a twist of the throttle being needed in order to make a point against any other bike that may or may not try to make it shine less.

Also suitable for this comparison, the Benelli Tornado 1130 has a racing frame backed up by great power and torque, perfect for riders who never seem to get enough of their super sport machinery. In this case we’re talking about a liquid-cooled 1131cc inline-triple developing an impressive 160 HP, more than you have ever expected from the Green and Grey painted bike.

Pricing for the new Roehr hasn’t been announced yet so this can be the decisive factor. I don’t know how you will make the orders without knowing the price, but maybe that’s just me.

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Exterior


Even though it is packed with all the mechanical muscle you would expect from a bike of its origin, the Roehr 1250 could have been a bit more aggressive. It simply looks too clean considering the suppose sharpness in what concerns handling so, personally, I would have loved to see some aerodynamic cuts into the fairing, not the simple design with only a pair of air vents.

Due to its front end it will be immediate recognizable as it features the Ducati like nose (does that make it distinctive, what am I saying?) with the two headlights and air scoops while the signal lights are being incorporated into the permissive mirrors. Also, we would like to see how that windscreen works because when it comes to design it is very nice. Front fender creates the carbon fiber illusion and the alloy wheels would give you the impression that the American builder had stolen the designer from Triumph for the process. What I very much appreciate is the tank’s design which allows room for the rider’s knees and has that flat appearance of a veritable race bike. Further more, designers made sure that the seat won’t position the rider on its hands although the handlebars are fairly low and there is no passenger seat. I believe that they thought at the bike’s sportive character and simply didn’t want to torture people’s backs with a disturbing passenger riding position.

Oh, let’s not be bad with the nice looking thing. Yes, you may like it or not, but the combination of styles and the basic idea itself is a sure recipe for attracting customers who don’t think that much like we do and prefer this kind of simple, clean design.

Conclusion


Some may have wanted it to look a little more like for the 21st century, but as many will surely go for it just like this proving that performance comes first when it comes to the birth of a new motorcycle legend. A great expected success, the new machine has started with the right foot.

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SPECIFICATIONS



Engine: Supercharged, liquid cooled DOHC, 8v 60deg V-twin

Displacement: 1250cc

Bore x Stoke: 105mm x 72mm

Horsepower: 180hp @ 9500 RPM

Torque: 115lb/ft @ 8500 RPM

Chassis: CrMo steel/aluminum beam frame

Wheelbase: 56 inches

Rake/trail: 23.5deg / 98mm

Tires: 120/70/17 frt.  190/50/17 rear

Wheels: Marchesini 10 spoke forged aluminum

Front suspension: Ohlins 43mm USD, radial mount calipers  

Rear suspension: Ohlins single shock with progressive linkage

Brakes front: Brembo 2 x 320mm radial mount 4 piston calipers

Brakes rear: Brembo 1 x 230mm, 2 piston caliper    

Seat Height: 31.5 inches

 Dry Weight: 425lbs