Harley-Davidson Dyna Super Glide Sport (1999-2005): A Timeless Cruiser with Sporty DNA

Introduction

The Harley-Davidson Dyna Super Glide Sport (FXDX) stands as a fascinating hybrid in the Motor Company’s lineup—a cruiser that dares to flirt with sportier ambitions. Produced from 1999 to 2005, this generation carved its niche by blending Harley’s iconic V-twin rumble with sharper handling and a dash of aggression. Whether you’re navigating city streets or carving backroads, the FXDX offers a ride that feels both raw and refined. Let’s dive into what makes this machine a cult favorite among riders who crave tradition without sacrificing performance.

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Design & Styling: Muscle Meets Minimalism

The Dyna Super Glide Sport leans into Harley’s classic aesthetics but adds subtle sport-oriented tweaks. The 39mm telescopic forks and staggered shorty dual exhausts give it a purposeful stance, while the low-slung seat (ranging from 685–790 mm / 27–31 inches depending on configuration) ensures approachability for riders of varying heights. The teardrop fuel tank (17.8–18.6 liters / 4.7–4.9 gallons) and minimalist instrumentation—later models added a tachometer—keep the cockpit clean.

Color options evolved yearly, from understated Vivid Black to flashy Lava Red Sunglo, but the FXDX always maintained a “factory custom” vibe. The exposed engine and belt drive emphasize mechanical honesty, a hallmark of Harley’s design philosophy. It’s a bike that looks equally at home outside a roadside diner or parked at a track day (if Harleys ever attended track days).

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Engine & Performance: The Heartbeat of Milwaukee

At the core of the FXDX lies the 1,450cc Twin Cam 88 V-twin, air-cooled and carbureted in early models, transitioning to fuel injection (ESPFI) by 2005. With 68 HP at 5,500 RPM and a stump-pulling 106 Nm (78.2 lb-ft) of torque peaking at just 2,900 RPM, this engine prioritizes low-end grunt over top-speed heroics. The powerband is perfectly suited for real-world riding—think effortless highway passes and tire-shredding launches from stoplights.

The 5-speed transmission shifts with Harley’s characteristic clunk, but the belt final drive ensures smooth power delivery. While the claimed 170 km/h (105.6 mph) top speed feels optimistic, the FXDX thrives in the 90–120 km/h (56–75 mph) zone, where the engine’s vibrations settle into a soothing rhythm. Fuel economy hovers around 6.5–6.8 L/100 km (34.6–36.2 mpg), though heavy throttle use will have you hunting for gas stations sooner.

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Handling & Ride Experience: The Sport in Super Glide

For a cruiser, the FXDX is surprisingly agile. The 1595 mm (62.8-inch) wheelbase and 28-degree rake strike a balance between stability and flickability. The adjustable rear shocks and beefier front suspension (compared to base Dyna models) handle bumps with composure, though rough roads can still jostle the rider.

Where this bike shines is in corners. The 100/90-19 front tire and 150/80-16 rear provide enough grip to lean confidently, while the dual 292mm front discs (4-piston calipers) offer strong stopping power. At 290–315 kg (639–694 lbs), it’s no lightweight, but the low center of gravity makes it feel manageable. The riding position—mid-controls and a slight forward lean—encourages active riding without sacrificing comfort on long hauls.

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Competition: How Does the FXDX Stack Up?

1. Honda VTX 1300

Honda’s liquid-cooled VTX packs more horsepower (72 HP) and a smoother engine, but its weight (326 kg / 719 lbs) and lazy steering geometry make it feel ponderous next to the FXDX. Harley wins on character and aftermarket support.

2. Yamaha V-Star 1100 Classic

The V-Star is lighter and cheaper but lacks the FXDX’s torque and suspension sophistication. It’s a better commuter, but Harley’s Twin Cam engine and growling exhaust note deliver a more visceral experience.

3. Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200

The Sportster is lighter and nimbler, but its cramped ergonomics and buzzy engine pale against the Dyna’s touring-friendly design. The FXDX offers a better platform for customization and two-up riding.

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Maintenance: Keeping Your FXDX in Fighting Shape

The Twin Cam 88 is robust but demands attention to detail:
- Oil Changes: Use SAE 20W-50 (2.8 liters with filter). Harley’s air-cooled engines run hot, so skip the synthetic blends unless you enjoy fried gaskets.
- Primary Chain & Belt: Inspect the Zahnriemen (toothed belt) every 16,000 km (10,000 miles). Replace if cracked—$200 at MOTOPARTS.store beats a roadside stranding.
- Valve Adjustments: Hydraulic lifters (HYDROSTÖSSEL) mean no manual adjustments—a rare gift from the motorcycle gods.
- Brakes: DOT 5 silicone fluid resists moisture but requires biannual flushing. Upgrade to sintered pads for sharper bite.

Common upgrades include aftermarket air filters (Arlen Ness Big Sucker), progressive suspension kits, and 2-into-1 exhausts for better midrange punch. Stock up on NGK DCPR7E spark plugs—they’re cheaper by the dozen.

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Conclusion: A Modern Classic Worth Cherishing

The Dyna Super Glide Sport isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a blank canvas. Whether you’re building a boulevard bruiser with ape hangers or a stripped-down cafe racer, the FXDX’s rugged chassis and torquey engine provide a solid foundation. It’s a bike that rewards mechanical sympathy and punishes neglect, but for those willing to invest time (and a few parts from MOTOPARTS.store), it delivers a riding experience that’s hard to replicate. In an era of homogenized motorcycles, the FXDX remains gloriously, unapologetically alive.

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Specifications sheet

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