Harley-Davidson has announced the end of production of its Sportster Evolution motorcycles in the fall of 2022.
This is not unexpected, as the introduction of the new "Sportster S" line, equipped with a more modern, water-cooled engine capable of meeting new regulations in global markets, signaled the end of the legendary model.
But it seems that not everything is finished for the Sportster: the SWM brand has created a "clone" of this bike, presenting a prototype at the Milan EICMA show very similar to what will be the commercial model, which could reach dealerships in September 2023.
The new SWM V1200 custom is equipped with a 45º V-twin engine cooled by air with 1,202 cc, 5-speed gearbox and a power of 81.6 HP, declared 200 km/h maximum and 250 kg empty. Does that sound familiar?
Founded by Piero Sironi and Fausto Vergani, SWM (Sironi Vergani Vimercate Milano) was one of the benchmark off-road brands in its time between 1971 and 1987. This is what they will tell you, "Made in Italy."
The truth is that, in 2014, the Chinese giant Brilliance Shineray Chongqing Automobile has completely acquired the SWM brand . This is the reality: "Made in China."
But this doesn't have to be a negative, at least not initially. It's important to keep in mind that "clones" of Evolution engines have been manufactured in the United States since the 1980s, and some major American brands have long produced these engines in China, Taiwan, or India.
Everything will therefore depend on quality control. For now, we'll wait to see a Euro 5-approved model of the well-known "Sportster" engine, a real challenge for any manufacturer.
Frank Burguera
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