Harley-Davidson Dyna Super Glide Custom 2012 — Specifications

Looking for an entry point into the world of American V-twins without breaking the bank? Forget overpriced Softails and look to the Dyna range, and specifically this Harley-Davidson Dyna Super Glide Custom. With a retail price of under €15,000 when new, it positioned itself as one of the most accessible large Harleys. But accessible doesn't mean boring.

At the heart of the beast is the famous Twin Cam 96 with a displacement of 1584 cm3. The numbers speak for themselves: 76 horsepower, which is modest. But what matters is this monstrous torque of 124.8 Nm, which arrives from 3000 rpm, a wave of pure traction that slams you into the seat without warning. The engine is mounted smoothly in its steel cradle, a configuration that filters vibrations without eliminating them. You feel each explosion of the V-twin, that's where the character lies. Whether you're on a 2011 Harley-Davidson Dyna Super Glide Custom or a 2009 used version, this raw sensation remains the main argument.

On the saddle, the philosophy is clear: it's a relaxation machine, not a sportbike. The seat at 66.8 cm in height ensures a confident stance on the ground, ideal for beginners or touring riders who prioritize comfort. The wheelbase of 1631 mm and the 308 kg when fully fueled dictate a leisurely pace. It handles well in the city and devours straight roads, but requires anticipation in curves. The braking, with its single disc at the front, lacks bite, and the ground clearance of 117 mm quickly reminds you of its limits if you get too enthusiastic. It’s a motorcycle that dictates its own tempo.

Facing the competition, such as a Honda VTX 1300 or a Yamaha V-Star 1300, the FXDC, its factory code, doesn't play the card of versatility or impeccable reliability. It sells an emotion, a style, a status. Its look, with its chrome accents, its Fat Bob tank, and its 17-inch rear wheel shod with a wide tire, fully embraces its custom heritage. It’s an icon of American motorcycle culture, a perfect platform for customization. For a test, the Harley-Davidson Dyna Super Glide Custom seduces those seeking the authenticity of a large V-twin far more than pure performance. A reasoned purchase, often used, for an audience that wants to taste the legend without pretending to be a racer.