Dyna Glide ModelsSuper Glide, Super Glide Sport, Super Glide Custom, Dyna Glide Convertible, Super Glide T-Sport, Dyna Glide Police, Dyna Switchback, Low Rider, Street Bob, Fat Bob and Wide Glide.
Ok, I realize I’m likely starting a religious war with this question, but here goes. Looking to pick up a wide glide as a second bike and I’m all over the place trying to narrow my choices. My main ride is a 2017 Road Glide and a second bike would be mostly for local and day trips. Prior to the Glide I had a 2007 RK Custom, so I’ve got some experience riding an M8 and the 96 twin cam. I was looking mainky at Evo bikes. But the 103 Twin Cam bikes are also in play. I like the more traditional styling (the bobbed fender, mainly) of the older WG’s and Im not an aggressive driver, so I don’t need a the highest performing engine. But the 103 could be fun. I don’t think I want to deal with the hassle of the cam tensioners on the TC88s. And I don’t recall my TC96 as having much “character”. But maybe it would on a Dyna? Anyway, this is why I’m here. Wide open question: I’d love to hear the pros and cons of each WG era from your personal experience. Despite the title of the thread, I’m not asking for the “best”. I know that’s subjective. But I’d love to hear about these bikes - strengths and idiosyncrasies - before I choose.
Personally, I like the '07-08 models, at least as far as Twin Cam bikes go. 96" and six speed, more traditional styling than the '10+ models, although that's certainly personal preference. The difference from 96" to 103" isn't really that significant.
I have aa 2010 FXDWG wideglide and it's representaive of the breed: 6 speed, 96" engine and 49mm forks. Also, it's got the best-looking rear fender I've seen on a Harley-Davidson in recent years. 2007 and later have the better cam bearings and IIRC, hydraulic tensioners.
All of this is opinion-based, but I like them all.
Personally, I like the '07-08 models, at least as far as Twin Cam bikes go. 96" and six speed, more traditional styling than the '10+ models, although that's certainly personal preference. The difference from 96" to 103" isn't really that significant.
Not gonna lie - I've been drawn to the pre-10 models for the styling - the higher bars, the rear fender. I'd never keep the drag bars on a newer model - not without putting an 8" riser on them at least! And I don't want a 130mm front tire. That's what I have on my Road Glide! But The 2010+ models DO look pretty tough...
The TC88 models do concern me with the cam chain tensioner issue... always heard 30k was the time you wanted to replace them by... or else!
I have a 2012 FLHX StreetGlide and looking into the future, I decided I needed another lighter bike for when my StreetGlide gets too heavy to handle (wanting to ride as long as possible). So I bought a WideGlide. My 2000 carbureted FXDWG is fun to ride and handles like a dirt bike compared to my FLHX.
The WideGlide was designed as an H-D factory chopper.
I have not listed the model year variations but, for some it definitely would narrow down their choice depending on their specific riding or collecting needs.
The Dyna was introduced in 1991. The FXR went away in the mid-90's. I believe the Evo WideGlides shared the same approximate size, and weight frame as the newer TwinCams up until 2005.
In 2002 the cam position sensor went away.
I don't know when the EFI became an option, but for 2006 they all went to EFI.
Avoid any Magneti-Marelli EFI.
2006 the six-speed was added, hydraulic chain tensioners and I think also an increase in frame size and weight.
The last year of the "real Dynas" (2017?) had dual rear shocks and was much taller than my 2000 model but, I don't know if the Dyna frame increased in size and weight again other than 2006.
Don't try to make a "club style" "Dyna bro" "Stunt bike" using a WideGlide.
I'll add a Pic of my WideGlide.
FWIW, MM fuel inj was only used on Touring bikes, Delphi on all others (including touring). 2004 was the first year for the EFI option on a Dyna then STD 2006-later
09-22-2024, 10:09 PM
Which Wide Glide Era is Best?
