Based on the VRSCD Night Rod, the new Night Rod Special dispenses with the notion that chrome is cool, as almost all brightwork has been replaced with black components. Start with the liquid-cooled, 1250cc Revolution V-Twin engine, powder-coated jet black except for the thin edges of its shaved aluminum cylinder fins. Exhaust pipes feed brushed aluminum straight-shot mufflers with black end caps and black exhaust shields. This version of the Revolution V-Twin pounds out 125 horsepower and 86 ft. lbs. of peak torque.

Bodywork in a choice of glossy Vivid Black or flat Black Denim stretches from the thin front fender to the tail of the Night Rod Special, highlighted only by twin stripes of contrasting Vivid Black or Black Denim running the length of the airbox cover and the rear fender. A subtle Harley-Davidson logo appears in thin orange script on the sides of the airbox cover. A black speed screen visor is perched on a black drag-style handlebar with black mirrors and hand controls. Black, Slotted Aluminum Disc wheels feature a thin orange pinstripe around the rim. The frame, rear shocks and springs, and fork are also all finished in black. Close inspection of styling details reveals new brushed aluminum mesh screen trim for the upper side covers and the radiator hose cover, which matches the trim on the Brembo front disc brake calipers.

The Night Rod Special hugs the pavement on a lowered rear suspension and a wide, low-profile 240mm rear tire hung on an 18-inch x 5.5-inch rear wheel and a black aluminum swingarm. Seat height is only 25.2 inches, the lowest of any VRSC model. Forward controls and the drag bars put the rider in a stretched-out posture that matches the take-no-prisoners attitude of the Night Rod Special.

Like all 2008 VRSC models, the VRSCDX Night Rod Special has a new five-gallon fuel cell and ignition switch now relocated behind the radiator, high-performance Brembo brakes, a new instrument display with a clock and second trip meter, and an updated side stand with an easy-to-reach foot tab.