Motorcycle Segment:
Cruiser / Performance Cruiser
Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson owners and independent repair shops specializing in V-twin motorcycles.
Key Competitors Era:
Indian Chief, various custom choppers, some Japanese cruisers with V-twin engines.
Drivetrain Layout:
Belt drive to rear wheel, chain drive from engine to transmission.
Engine Configuration:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin.
Suspension Type:
Telescopic front forks, dual rear shock absorbers.
Braking System Type:
Disc brakes front and rear (typically dual front discs on higher trims).
Engine System Coverage:
Complete engine overhaul, tuning, troubleshooting, internal component replacement (pistons, rings, valves, camshafts, crankshaft), oil pump, primary drive, clutch.
Transmission System Coverage:
Gearbox disassembly, assembly, maintenance, lubrication, troubleshooting, clutch and primary drive integration.
Electrical System Coverage:
Wiring diagrams, ignition system, charging system (stator, regulator, battery), lighting, starting system, diagnostics, component testing, common electrical faults.
Chassis And Suspension Coverage:
Front fork (telescopic, cartridge), rear shock absorbers, swingarm, bearings, steering head, frame inspection and repair.
Braking System Coverage:
Front and rear brake systems (calipers, master cylinders, rotors, pads), hydraulic system bleeding, troubleshooting.
Fuel System Coverage:
Carburetor (Mikuni HSR or Keihin CV) tuning, disassembly, cleaning, jetting, fuel pump (if applicable), fuel lines, tank maintenance.
Exhaust System Coverage:
Exhaust component inspection, maintenance, and replacement.
Wheel And Tire Coverage:
Wheel bearing replacement, tire inspection and replacement, balancing.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Systematic troubleshooting guides for common mechanical and electrical issues, fault code interpretation (if applicable to the era).
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, chain adjustment (if applicable), lubrication points, brake fluid flush.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, adjustment, and overhaul of all major vehicle systems.
Tune Up Procedures:
Carburetor synchronization, ignition timing (if adjustable), valve adjustments, peak performance tuning.
Electrical Troubleshooting Procedures:
Testing circuits, components, and diagnosing electrical faults using wiring diagrams.
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostics for engine performance, electrical systems, and mechanical component failures.
Rebuild Capability:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures, including torque specifications and clearances.
Specifications Detail Level:
Detailed torque specifications, fluid capacities, clearances, wear limits, and service limits for all components.
Engine Displacement:
Evolution Engine (1450cc / 88 cubic inches)
Engine Type:
Air-cooled V-twin, OHV, 2 valves per cylinder
Bore X Stroke:
3.496 in x 3.813 in (88.8 mm x 96.8 mm)
Compression Ratio:
8.8:1 (typical for this engine)
Horsepower Est:
Approx. 60-65 HP (at crankshaft)
Torque Est:
Approx. 70-75 ft-lbs (at crankshaft)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (e.g., Keihin CV 40mm or Mikuni HSR 42mm)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline, 91 Octane (96 RON) or higher recommended
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 (Synthetic) or equivalent V-Twin specific motorcycle oil SAE 20W-50
Oil Capacity With Filter:
3.5 US quarts (3.3 Liters)
Crash Test Ratings:
Not applicable to motorcycles in the same way as cars; focus is on handling and stability.
Braking System:
Dual front disc brakes, single rear disc brake (calipers often dual-piston).
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Steel cradle frame for rigidity and stability.
Tire Specifications:
Tubeless tires. Common sizes: Front 100/90-19, Rear 150/80B16.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first.
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Check level at every 5,000 mile service, change as needed or per manual recommendation.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or annually.
Transmission Oil Change:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or annually.
Belt Drive Inspection:
Inspect tension and condition at every 5,000 mile service.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years or as specified by inspection.
Engine Oil Specification:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 (Synthetic) 20W-50 or SAE 20W-50 API CG-4 or higher.
Primary Chain Case Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Primary Chain Case Lubricant or SAE 80W-90 API GL-5 gear oil.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Fork Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific weight and type (e.g., Harley-Davidson Type E or H).
Carburetor Tuning Challenges:
CV carburetor can be sensitive to altitude and modifications, requiring periodic adjustments or re-jetting.
Primary Drive Clutch Adjustment:
Clutch adjustment and primary chain tension require regular checks.
Cam Chain Tensioners:
Early models (pre-2000) had tensioners that could wear out, leading to noise or potential damage. Later models featured improved hydraulic tensioners.
Rear Shock ABSorber Leaks:
Common wear item, may require replacement or service.
Wiring Harness Issues:
As with many motorcycles of this era, occasional issues with brittle insulation or loose connections can occur.
Harley Davidson Legacy:
Founded in 1903, Harley-Davidson is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer renowned for its V-twin engines and cruiser lifestyle.
Dyna Platform Introduction:
The Dyna platform was introduced in 1991, offering a blend of classic styling with modern engineering. The Super Glide (FXD) was a core model within this line.
1999-2005 Enhancements:
This period saw the introduction of the 1450cc (88ci) Evolution engine across the Dyna line, replacing earlier displacements. Updates focused on refinement, reliability, and handling.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (Milwaukee, Wisconsin and Kansas City, Missouri plants)
Key Models Within Era:
FXD Dyna Super Glide, FXDWG Dyna Wide Glide, FXDX Dyna Sport, FXDC Dyna Super Glide Custom.
Model Legacy Recognition:
The Harley-Davidson Dyna platform, including the Super Glide, is widely recognized for its classic styling, comfortable riding position, and customizable nature, solidifying its place in motorcycle history.
Owner Satisfaction:
Generally high owner satisfaction for its intended purpose as a cruiser, with a strong aftermarket support community.
Emissions Standards:
Meets US EPA emissions standards for the respective model years.
