Harley-Davidson, which lays claim to the title of the world's oldest motorcycle company, is about to launch its most radical machine in the company's 98-year history.

The VRSCA V-Rod, the first member of a new family of Harley-Davidson performance cruiser motorcycles, is a 1,130cc, liquid-cooled, V-twin cruiser that aims to set new benchmarks in custom styling -- and combines high performance with that unmistakable Harley sound.

V-Rod project leader Pat Keller said: "This is the Harley-Davidson that a lot of people have been waiting for."

The V-Rod is powered by Harley's first-ever water-cooled engine -- the Revolution.

Developed at the US Milwaukee factory, the Revolution is the street legal, road-going version of the VR-1000 engine used by the company in its American Superbike programme.

The 60-degree 1,130cc V-twin is claimed to be able to rev freely to a 9,000 rpm redline and produce 115 bhp at 8,250 rpm -- the most powerful production Harley ever.

The V-Rod is bristling with new technology. Production firsts for Harley include an all-new five-speed gearbox and electronic fuel injection system.

Long, lean lines give the V-Rod a dragster-inspired look. It features a silver powder-coated perimeter frame and aluminium body parts. There are solid aluminium disc wheels and a 2 into 1 into 2 big-bore exhaust add the finishing touches.

Garry Brumfitt, managing director of Harley-Davidson UK, said:"We are extremely excited about the V-Rod because we believe UK customers are going to love it. The bike draws heavily on Harley-Davidson's performance and uses this to carve a new niche in the custom market."

The VRSCA V-Rod is the first bike in a complete new family of Harley-Davidson performance cruiser motorcycles called VRSC - V-twin Racing Street Custom.

The V-Rod will appear in UK dealerships before the end of the year. Price is yet to be confirmed.