Starting next month, Harley-Davidson is introducing bagger racing on a global scale with the launch of the Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup, held alongside the MotoGP championship. This new series will feature six rounds as a supporting class to the premier grand prix events, showcasing riders racing heavily modified Road Glide cruisers equipped with Milwaukee-Eight V-Twin 131R engines generating over 200bhp.
Specifications and Modifications of the Race Bikes
The race-prepared Harley-Davidson baggers differ significantly from their standard Road Glide counterparts. While the production model weighs 380kg, powered by a 1923cc Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-twin engine and priced at £27,745, the racing versions are built with custom chassis, suspension, and electronics. These upgrades enhance ground clearance and adjust geometry to achieve sharper lean angles, enabling quicker turns. Wheel dimensions have also been altered, replacing the stock 19in front and 18in rear rims with 17in wheels, paired with a substantial 200-section rear Dunlop tire for better grip and performance.
Statements from Officials and Industry Context
FIM President Jorge Viegas expressed enthusiasm about the new competition, saying,
“We look forward to watching this iconic brand racing and seeing the fan’s reaction to this fresh initiative during the season.”
This new one-make series complements the existing King of the Baggers championship in the USA, which features both Harley-Davidson and Indian Challenger motorcycles as part of MotoAmerica. Harley-Davidson states that the world series racers can reach speeds over 186mph, weighing approximately 280kg—100kg lighter than the street-legal bikes, yet still 92kg heavier than a typical BMW S1000RR superbike.
Race Schedule and Event Format
The season will launch on March 27 at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, before progressing to significant European circuits, including Mugello in Italy; Assen in the Netherlands; Silverstone in England; Aragon in Spain; and concluding in September at Austria’s Red Bull Ring. Most rounds, except the Italian date, will be three-day events featuring Friday practice sessions, Saturday qualifying and sprint races, and Sunday main events. Broadcast coverage will be available on TNT Sports, with a total of 12 races planned throughout the championship.
Commercial and Competitive Details
Carlos Ezpeleta, Chief Sporting Officer of Dorna Sports, the commercial rights holder for MotoGP, highlighted the series’ potential impact, stating,
“We’re always looking for ways to innovate and expand,”
“It will be a fantastic addition to race weekends for fans onsite at the same time as connecting our sport to one of the most iconic lifestyle and cultural brands in North America – and the world.”
Since the initial team announcements at the EICMA trade show in Milan last November, the grid has expanded to nine bikes with the addition of a fourth team and a third rider slot for the Australian Joe Rascal Racing squad. Alongside competitive glory, the series will feature a prize pool totaling $250,000 (approximately £183,280), including a $25,000 (£18,314) cash reward for the overall champion.
Perspective on the Emerging Sport of Bagger Racing
While bagger racing may not appeal to all, those familiar with the scene recognize its thrilling nature. Muscle cruisers like these are unexpectedly fast and agile, providing a unique spectacle on the global stage. Fans hope that some former MotoGP stars might join the sport, adding further excitement and prestige to the competition.
