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BIKES: RLX First Look
Tribute bike to Bobby Rahal and the Rahal Letterman Race Team has begun production
Media Release  |  Posted September 28, 2010   Charlotte, NC
We are at the initial mock-up stage where we have placed the motor in the frame for fitment. (Photo: RLX)
Tribute to: Bobby Rahal and the Rahal Letterman Race Team
Beneficiary: US Navy & Marines through the organization Steel Anchor
Manufacturer: Darwin Motorcycles
Designer: Dar Holdsworth
Model: RLX (First production prototype)

Brief overview: Darwin Motorcycles has teamed with Rahal Letterman Racing to build a premium American Muscle Bike that pays tribute to Bobby Rahal’s racing accomplishments and compliments the Rahal Letterman Race team. The Bike will go on tour around the country to various racing and motorcycle events for public viewing. Tickets will be sold for a chance to win this exclusive bike, with all proceeds directed through Steel Anchor to support the troops.

This American muscle bike, the “RLX” built for Steel Anchor by Darwin Motorcycles in cooperation with Rahal Letterman Racing is the first production prototype of a very limited production run. The RLX is inspired by café racers of the past, married with modern American muscle, and wrapped in a timeless design concept that will invoke emotion and deliver performance.

Dar Holdsworth, designer of the RLX and his team at Darwin Motorcycles will be building the structure of the bike at their facility in Oklahoma City. Plans are for Rahal Letterman Racing team to assist with the design and construction of the carbon fiber bodywork and aluminum swing arm at the race team headquarters in Ohio. Currently the race team is creating custom carbon-fiber valve and blower covers at their shop, trying to fit this project in as the team prepares for the October 2nd Petit Le Mans ALMS sseason finale (which will be shown live on SPEED!).

To date and shown in the photos, we are at the initial mock-up stage where we have placed the motor in the frame for fitment. While we are awaiting other components to come in we have fitted the bike with stand-in Suzuki wheels and front end. We are working on the geometry for an optimal balance of performance and rider comfort.

From Dar Holdsworth, owner and chief designer at Darwin Motorcycles:
“I can’t thank Vic at Steel Anchor enough for entrusting us with this project that will have a positive impact on the lives of so many of our brave men and women who serve our Country”.

“Thanks to Bobby Rahal and his world class team, Rahal Letterman Racing for opening their hearts, talents and resources to this project. In special acknowledgement to Bobby and with his blessings, Darwin Motorcycles is naming this bike the “RLX”, in recognition of team Rahal Letterman and the X-wedge motor that will power this unique bike.

Many sponsors have already jumped on board to be a part of this great project. Here are a few:

S&S Cycle has donated one of their proprietary X-Wedge motors. This is the most technologically advanced American made V-Twin motor available. It is 132 cubic inches, equal to 2,163cc’s. The motor delivers 130 foot-pounds of torque and 125 HP.
S&S has also donated the muscle bike’s frame from which we will start.

Baker Drivetrain is providing their Form Function Primary Drive, a 6-speed transmission and a King Kong clutch. This combination of driveline components is top of the line and made in America. The Baker drivetrain ensures this bike will have smooth and reliable power transfer from the motor to the rear wheel.

Leroy-Thompson is donating the most gorgeous wheels to this project. The wheels on this bike are not only stunning, but they will serve as a marquee. The wheels have inserts that will be adorned with Bobby Rahal’s top 20 racing achievements.

Beringer is a leader in performance and racing brakes. They will be providing top of the line brakes and hand controls to the RLX. Only the best will due for this bike.

Gatorz Performance Eyewear is outfitting the project’s personnel with eye protection for all the days we will be in the sun racing and promoting this project.

Foremost Insurance is the official insurance partner of Darwin Motorcycles and will sponsor this project on several fronts.

We will reveal additional sponsors as the project progresses.
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