Carroll Shelby and Rucker Performance Conspire to Create the Ultimate American Monster Machine
April 2007 - V-Twin News:
The Shelby is powered by a 150 horsepower S&S X-Wedge V-twin
Shelby Automobiles and Rucker Performance chose the V-Twin Expo to unveil a limited production Shelby motor cycle. The high-performance American motorcycle, which rivals the power-to-weight ration of the famed Shelby Cobra car, was developed in partnership between the two companies and will be built by Rucker Performance under license by Carroll Shelby Licensing, Inc.
Shelby Automobiles Inc. manufactures high-performance Shelby vehicles, including the new 2007 Ford Shelby FT, under the guidance of the legendary Carroll Shelby. Rucker Performance is a leading designer and manufacturer of custom American muscle production motorcycles.
"It's no secret that stuffing a powerful American motor into a lightweight chassis has been my formula for success," noted Carroll Shelby, CEO of Shelby Automobiles. "Working with Bill Rucker and his team, we've taken this same approach on the new Shelby motorcycle. My team at Shelby Automobiles has worked closely with Rucker Performance to create a motorcycle that offers the same thrill as driving my Cobra."
Fellow Texan Bill Rucker is famous for building spectacular two-wheeled motorcycles. Rucker is founder and CEO of Rucker Performance, a manufacturer of high-performance American muscle and chopper motorcycles. "We're going to build the ultimate American high-performance motorcycle," said Rucker. "From the initial design to the innovation of new parts, every aspect of this motorcycle was created with that goal in mind. It'll be a lightweight, fire-breathing ride that's as inspiring as the four wheeled vehicles that wear the Shelby name."
The bike use racing-style front forks and a performance braking system with ceramic brake rotors. Shifting is handled by a Pingel 1-6 electric shifting system, while an air suspension keeps the bike comfortable. The upper body and wheels are made from carbon fiber and the body panels are made from aluminum.
Rucker Performance selected a might powertrain to bring the Shelby to life, with a new S&S X-Wedge 128-inch engine. This x-Wedge uses a closed-loop VFI fuel injection that produces 150 horsepower, according to Rucker Performance, one of only five bike builders to have access to the first batch of new engines.
Each Shelby motorcycle can be custom painted according to the owner's personal tastes and will include a special edition logo. In addition, a complete line of Shelby merchandise including apparel, accessories and limited edition collector's items will be available. Production of the Shelby will begin in 2007 and will include up to 25 motorcycles that will be available for purchase by the third quarter of this year. Production of a second round of bikes will begin in the fall of 2007.
