Harley-Davidson NightRod ‘Phoenix’ by Rod Squad

The Harley-Davidson Night Rod “Phoenix” by Rod Squad is a striking example of how the V-Rod platform can be completely reborn through custom craftsmanship.

This build takes the muscular Night Rod Special and transforms it into an aggressive, low-slung custom motorcycle with a radical stance, premium components, and meticulous attention to detail. The name “Phoenix” reflects the concept behind the project: a machine reborn from the ashes, more powerful and more dramatic than before, combining performance tuning with artistic design and flawless engineering.

This custom Harley-Davidson Night Rod stands out immediately thanks to its chassis and wheel conversions. The motorcycle is converted to 2014 Night Rod Special wheels, with a rear wheel widened to 9.5 x 18 inches and wrapped in a massive 280 Metzeler tire, giving the bike its unmistakable drag-bike posture.

The front fork is lowered by two inches and completely faired using caps and sleeves from Speed Demon, creating a streamlined and aggressive front profile. An Arnott Airride system allows adjustable ride height, giving the rider the option of a slammed show stance or a more practical riding position, while maintaining the muscular look of the V-Rod platform.

Rod Squad also focused strongly on the electrics and cockpit area, ensuring a clean, minimalist design. The MT06 headlamp is modified and paired with M-Blaze Pin micro indicators. ’89 drag bars are mounted on modified risers and all lines, including clutch line, brake line, throttle cable, and electrical wiring, are routed internally through the handlebars.

A Müller internal throttle system is used, and the grips from Speed Demon are modified to match the overall style. The motorcycle features a completely rebuilt wiring harness, with the engine control unit moved to the front, and all main functions are controlled through four discreet buttons. A hidden starter button and a speedometer converted to red illumination enhance the sleek custom appearance.

The engine and performance upgrades complement the visual changes. The engine is painted matte black to contrast the matte red frame and body components. An Akrapovič exhaust system is installed with a specially manufactured CNC bracket designed specifically for mounting the Akrapovič silencer on this bike.

Power Vision mapping is used to optimize the engine’s performance characteristics. Braking is upgraded with complete steel braided brake lines and Galfer Wave brake discs at the front and rear combined with Galfer sintered pads, delivering enhanced stopping power to match the motorcycle’s aggressive performance potential.

A large part of the Phoenix’s appeal comes from its custom-painted bodywork and handcrafted details. The frame and attachments are painted matte red, while the front fender is made of real carbon and finished with elaborate airbrush work. The airbox cover and rear fender are also modified and decorated with highly detailed airbrush graphics and hand-painted lines, turning the motorcycle into a rolling piece of art.

The bike is finished with a custom-made Alcantara seat, engraved engine covers and swingarm cover, a Speed Demon license plate holder with hidden cable routing, and Kellermann rear brake, tail, and indicator combination for a clean rear-end look. Machined components such as the milled rear pulley, pulley cover, and 26-tooth drive wheel complete the drivetrain transformation.

Overall, the Harley-Davidson Night Rod “Phoenix” by Rod Squad is a complete reinterpretation of the Night Rod Special. It combines radical visual presence with technical precision, from its 280 rear tire conversion and lowered fork to its Akrapovič exhaust, Arnott Airride, carbon components, and complex airbrush artwork. This custom Night Rod is not just a modified Harley—it is a statement machine, built for riders who want exclusivity, craftsmanship, and the unmistakable power of a fully customized V-Rod.