For those looking for a Harley that is just that little bit special, the Americans have come up with something special: Apex Factory Custom Paint – a special color scheme that is inspired by Harley’s racing history. The dynamic new livery made its debut today at the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.
The racing legacy built over more than a century in hill climbs, enduros and flat tracks is continued today by the Harley-Davidson Screamin’ Eagle team, defending the 2021 MotoAmerica King of the Baggers Championship.
“Apex factory custom paint gives riders the ability to convey the thrill of speed and competition on the body of their bag,” said Brad Richards, VP Design and Creative Director – Motorcycles. “This livery communicates speed and forward motion, with lines and colors inspired by Harley-Davidson racing motorcycles.”
The Apex livery features a graphic outline on the fuel tank that curves deeply to the shape of the tank on the legendary Harley-Davidson XR750 flat track racer.
On fairing models, the graphic waves back to align with the tank graphic, at an angle that suggests speed. The lines on the front fender visually match those on the side panels and saddlebags, creating a flowing effect. Viewed in profile, the motorcycle appears to be in motion.
The color scheme starts with a Vivid Black lacquer base. Gauntlet Gray panels add a graphic element, surrounded by an accent stripe of Jet Fire Orange – the original color of the XR750 factory racers.
Each panel is designed with drop shadows inside and a subtle Bar & Shield pattern that fades in and out throughout the scheme. This blur effect is inspired by the checkered fade of Harley-Davidson Factory Team racers.
The last layer is clear coat. The custom Apex paint is applied in-house at Harley-Davidson York Vehicle Assembly and Harley-Davidson Tomahawk Operations.
The Apex factory custom paint will be offered worldwide as a factory option for nine Harley-Davidson Grand American Touring models for the remainder of the model year 2022 order period:
• Road King Special
• Street Glide Special (chrome and black trim versions)
• Ultra Limited (chrome and black finish versions)
• Road Glide Limited (chrome and black trim versions)
• Road Glide Special (chrome and black trim versions)
Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Parts & Accessories offers Tour-Pak racks and custom front fenders painted in the Apex livery. This allows riders to further customize a motorcycle ordered with Apex Factory Custom Paint.
– Thanks for information from Motorfreaks.