Classic and Classy Motorcycles Ltd

Vintage and Classic Motorcycle Importers

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1970s Harley-Davidson XLCR 1000 Café Racer Valuation Report

Date: August 2025

Historical Overview

The Harley-Davidson XLCR (produced 1977–1979) is a rare café-racer variant of the Ironhead Sportster. Designed by Willie G. and a small team, it featured unique styling including a bikini fairing, low bars, and distinctive twin-exhaust layout. With fewer than 3,200 made, UK collectors now prize its rarity and design legacy.

UK Valuation Summary (by condition; splitting general vs special editions)

Condition	Standard XLCR	Rare Special XLS-based/D-series	Example External Source
Project / Restoration Non-running or incomplete; few recent public sale prices.	£6,000 – £7,500	£7,500 – £9,000	Limited recent UK auction data.
Roadworthy / Presentable Running, authentic; rider-style condition.	£12,000 – £15,000	£15,000 – £18,000	Car & Classic listing: 1977 UK-registered XLCR offered at £14,995.
Restored / Excellent Show-quality restorations with records.	£15,000 – £20,000	£20,000 – £24,000+	Bring-a-Trailer US sale: 1977 XLCR sold for USD $15,500 (~£12,500); Hagerty valuation supports £18,000+ for concours quality.

Notes: Standard XLCR values reflect most UK-presented results. Rare XLS-based (remaining models or rare finishes) push prices higher. Verified UK auction data is scarce; listings and international benchmarks calibrate the restored range.

Value Influencing Factors

• Originality & matching numbers: Correct engine/frame numbers, factory fairing, original paint and exhaust.
• Condition: Show-level bikes with comprehensive documentation outperform.
• Rarity & collector appeal: XLS-based or display bikes command top-tier values.
• Market timing: UK cleanup shows and spring-summer markets tend to yield stronger results.

Conclusion

In 2025, UK market benchmarks for a standard XLCR are approximately £12k–£15k for usable rider-condition examples, and £15k–£20k for restored-grade machines. Rare variations can surpass £20k. Project bikes fall in the £6k–£7.5k region.

Sources (non-link references):
Car & Classic – listing for 1977 UK-registered XLCR at £14,995;
Bring-a-Trailer – 1977 XLCR sold USD $15,500 (~£12,500);
Hagerty valuation tool – supports concours value of £18,000+;
Wikipedia – production years and units produced; context only.

All Valuations