Also, in the 1990s, Harley-Davidson saw the need to build a motorcycle to appeal to the younger and international markets who preferred sleeker, faster bikes. Harley-Davidson spent an undisclosed amount of research and development dollars over several years to develop the $17,000 V-Rod motorcycle. The V-Rod, introduced in 2001, had 110 horsepower, nearly double that of the standard Harley Bike. The V-Rod was the quickest and fastest production model the company had ever built, capable of reaching 60 miles an hour in 3.5 seconds and 100 mph in a little over 8 seconds. Its top speed is about 140 mph. All in all, the V-Rod was faster and handled better than the traditional bulky Harley bikes.