Market Position:
The FXD Dyna Glide was positioned as a versatile cruiser in Harley-Davidson's lineup, offering a blend of classic styling and a more modern chassis than its predecessors, appealing to riders seeking a balance of comfort and performance for touring and everyday riding.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against other American V-twins and Japanese cruisers of similar displacement and price point, distinguishing itself with the Harley-Davidson brand cachet, distinctive V-twin rumble, and a chassis designed for improved handling and vibration isolation compared to earlier Harley models.
Key Features:
Evolution V-twin engine, 5-speed transmission, distinctive Dyna frame with isolated engine mount, often featured dual front disc brakes on some variants, wide handlebars, and a classic Harley-Davidson aesthetic.
Engine Overhaul:
Complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of the Evolution V-Twin engine (including top end, bottom end, ignition, and fuel systems).
Transmission Service:
Repair and overhaul of the 5-speed constant mesh transmission, including clutch, primary drive, and gearbox components.
Drivetrain Maintenance:
Belt drive system maintenance, inspection, and adjustment.
Suspension And Steering:
Front fork (e.g., Showa or similar) and rear shock absorber service, fork seal replacement, swingarm pivot, and steering head bearing maintenance.
Braking System:
Front and rear brake caliper, master cylinder, brake lines, and rotor service, bleeding procedures, and component replacement.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), starting system (starter motor, solenoid), lighting, ignition system diagnostics.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (e.g., Keihin CV) overhaul, jetting, tuning, fuel tank and petcock maintenance.
Bodywork And Fittings:
Fender removal/installation, seat mounting, fuel tank mounting, handlebar adjustments, instrument cluster service.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug service, chain/belt adjustment, tire pressure checks, lubrication points.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic procedures for common performance issues, starting problems, electrical faults, and braking system concerns.
Disassembly And Reassembly:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation with torque specifications.
Component Replacement:
Detailed guides for replacing wear items and faulty components such as brake pads, wheel bearings, fork seals, and starter motors.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all major systems, aiding in fault diagnosis.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostics and specifications.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Evolution V-twin
Displacement:
80 cubic inches (1337 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.50 in. x 4.25 in. (88.9 mm x 108 mm)
Valvetrain:
OHV, 2 valves per cylinder
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition with single fire capability (depending on model year and specific configuration).
Horsepower:
Approx. 55-60 HP (Estimate based on factory specifications and tuning)
Torque:
Approx. 67-70 ft-lbs @ 3200 RPM (Estimate based on factory specifications and tuning)
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Keihin CV, 40mm typically)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane
Fuel Capacity:
3.5 gallons (13.2 liters) typical for FXD models
Length:
Approx. 90.9 inches (2309 mm)
Width:
Approx. 35.0 inches (889 mm) at handlebars
Height:
Approx. 47.2 inches (1199 mm) at windshield (if equipped)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 62.2 inches (1580 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 599 lbs (271.7 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 950 lbs (431 kg)
Seat Height:
Approx. 26.0 inches (660 mm) unladen
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Safety Ratings:
Motorcycles are not typically subjected to standardized crash test ratings like automobiles. Safety is primarily dependent on rider skill, adherence to maintenance, and active/passive features.
Active Features:
Disc brakes (dual front on some variants), responsive handling, rider control inputs.
Passive Features:
Sturdy frame construction, vibration isolation for rider comfort and control, often equipped with rider footboards.
Initial Service:
First service typically at 1,000 miles (1600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Includes oil change, primary chain adjustment, and inspection of critical components.
Routine Service:
Subsequent services recommended every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months. Key tasks include engine oil and filter change, transmission and primary oil checks/changes, spark plug replacement (at intervals), belt inspection/tensioning, brake fluid flush, and lubrication.
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson V-Twin Motorcycle Oil (20W50), or equivalent SAE 20W50 motorcycle-specific oil meeting Harley-Davidson specifications. Capacity: Approx. 4 quarts (3.8 liters) with filter.
Primary Chaincase Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission & Primary Chaincase Lubricant, or equivalent API GL-4 specification (e.g., Red Line Heavy ShockProof Gear Oil).
Transmission Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission & Primary Chaincase Lubricant, or equivalent API GL-4 specification.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 brake fluid (for models equipped with ABS, though unlikely on early FXDs).
Known Issues:
Cam chain tensioner wear (especially on earlier Twin Cam conversions or if maintenance is neglected), primary compensator issues, starter drive gear wear, potential for oil leaks from base gaskets or pushrod tubes. Carburetor (CV) tuning can be sensitive to altitude and modifications.
Belt Drive Maintenance:
Regular inspection for cracks or damage, proper tensioning is critical to prevent premature wear. Belt replacement is a significant undertaking.
Spark Plugs:
Typically Harley-Davidson H-D 10R5, or equivalent like NGK DCPR5E.
Tire Pressure:
Front: 30-36 PSI, Rear: 36-40 PSI (refer to specific owner's manual or frame decal for exact recommendations).
Oil Filter Part Number:
Harley-Davidson 63796-77B (or equivalent aftermarket such as Willie's HD-8830).
Brand Heritage:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, boasts a rich history in American motorcycling, synonymous with V-twin engines, iconic styling, and a lifestyle brand. The Dyna line was introduced in 1991 as a significant evolution.
Model Evolution:
The FXD Dyna Glide marked the debut of Harley-Davidson's Dyna platform, featuring a stiffer frame and a rubber-isolated engine mounting system to reduce vibration compared to the Shovelhead and early Evolution Softails. This chassis design improved handling and rider comfort significantly.
Production Years:
1991-2017 (Dyna platform), with FXD specific models evolving through these years.
