Arch Motorcycle’s 2020 KRGT-1 Is Here

LA-based Arch Motorcycle has unveiled its latest iteration of the 2020 KRGT-1 performance cruiser, with tweaked looks, upgraded suspension, and better brakes. For those who are into big power complemented by unique styling, premium components, and race-inspired handling, it looks like pretty big news.

But how is it different from the first KRGT-1 that came out of chopper whiz Gard Hollinger and thespian Keanu Reeve's partnership back in 2014? Evolution, dude. The new Arch KRGT-1 gets redesigned bodywork, beefier suspension, tweaks to the riding position, and an improved braking system. And that's just the big stuff. Its first, $78,000 chopper-inspired naked bike also rolled with a giant S&S V-twin stuck in a body chiseled from billet aluminum, but the design back then was more of a mash-up. The new model seems to be the natural progression of trial and error with the benefit of time and experience, and the 2020 KRGT-1 looks (and we assume, rides) all the better for it.

Obviously the powerplant grabs your eyeballs—and the signature EPA/CARB-certified 124ci S&S/Arch engine still utilizes Arch’s unique in-house-designed downdraft induction system along with a proprietary K&N Engineering air filter for better flow. Exhaust gases get pushed out by an Arch-designed 2-into-1 stainless steel header system, with a Yoshimura carbon fiber muffler out back. Arch says the low-end torque “is impressive,” and if it’s anywhere near the claimed 121-pound-feet rating, we’d have to agree.

Next in the cosmetic-enhancement department is the fuel tank. The new KRGT-1’s billet redesigned fuel tank has been redesigned (but it’s still split in half to accommodate the downdraft fuel system) with different contours for better rider comfort, but it still keeps its 5-gallon capacity. The stubby tailsection also gets new lines so it can accommodate the new composite base seat, another change made in the name of rider comfort. And up front, the screen/cowling has been reshaped, resized, and then relocated to fit the new dash panel and act as a better frame for the J.W. Speaker Adaptive 2 headlamp. Those carbon fiber fenders have also been reshaped to flow with the motorcycle’s lines.

Suspension and handling elements, meanwhile, got the lion’s share of attention on the new KRGT-1, with a new race-inspired billet aluminum swingarm out back designed and machined in-house to increase rigidity and lessen unsprung weight. Tucked in above the swingarm is a fully adjustable, Arch-spec’d Öhlins rear shock absorber. To reinforce the new goods, redesigned in-house-machined billet aluminum side plates bracket the new swingarm pivot.

Front suspension also got a major boost with the addition of bigger (and fully adjustable) 48mm Öhlins fork supported by Arch’s redesigned new billet triple trees. Unique Arch/Öhlins fork bottoms accommodate the 130mm radial brake caliper mounts and complete the front suspension updates.

Speaking of brakes, the KRGT-1's binders also received big improvements to components as well as overall functionality. Arch co-developed an antilock braking system with Bosch, and the new KRGT-1 comes standard with the new two-channel ABS so the bike will stop faster and more safely. Adding even more stopping power are the new dual ISR six-piston front brake calipers that get larger piston diameter for a better feel with less effort at the lever.

Arch says each KRGT-1 is tailored to the ergonomic needs and cosmetic wants of the owner, making every motorcycle unique. The company currently produces makes and delivers the Arch KRGT-1, the sportier Arch 1s, and the über-exclusive Arch Method 143 models.

“The KRGT-1 was originally designed to…push the boundaries of what an American V-twin motorcycle could offer,” Arch Motorcycle co-founder Gard Hollinger says. “Our new KRGT-1 stays true to the original objective while further developing and refining the motorcycle’s design and performance elements to enhance the overall riding experience.”

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We’ll see for ourselves when we ride the thing in the next couple of weeks, so stay tuned.