Harley Davidson FXD/I Dyna Super Glide 35th Anniversary Edition

Harley-Davidson had introduced their unusually styled FX in 1971, and to mark the 35th birthday of the model, reinvented the wheel with the release of the 2006 Super Glide. Decked out in a similar white scheme with red and blue trim, the new Super Glide carried a traditional rear fender in place of the controversial boat tail used on the 1971. Cosmetic details like the red, white, and blue number 1 on the fuel tank were joined by 35th anniversary badges on the chrome oil tank. For the first time, a six-speed gearbox has been added to the Super Glide with Harley's new "Cruise Drive."

Retro motorcycles are hardly a new idea, but we seem to have had a rash of models in recent months, with entries from Triumph (Bonneville Scrambler Ducati (the 1000GT etc) and now Harley-Davidson with its 35th anniversary Super Glide, which in styling terms at least is a true 1970s throwback.

The company's blurb sums up the model by saying: "When Willie G Davidson's Super Glide rolled off the line in 1971, you could see it was different. Fat rear tire beneath a boat-tail fender. Narrow front-end. Big Twin engine in the center, gleaming red, white and blue paint on a one-of-a-kind shape. Thirty-five years later, The Motor Company announces the Anniversary Edition of the Super Glide. Wide handlebars. Fat Bob fuel tank with dual caps. Loads of chrome parts. The famed #1 logo emblazoned on the tank, just as it was on the first model. Even the paint scheme does the original machine proud. Each of these limited-production bikes is individually numbered. Don't wait another 35 years to get yours."

 Fortunately the company's mechanical fortunes have moved on from what was, circa 1971, a period which may be better forgotten.

If you've yet to throw a leg over Harley's 2006 range, it might pay you to have a go, as there's a big difference between what the company sells now, and its first production of the twin-cam 88 series several years ago (around 1999).

While the first incarnations of the 1450 powerplant were a significant improvement over the 1340 series, and were good things in their own right, the current toys have shown raised the level of the game through a series of refinements which can make them a thoroughly enjoyable ride.

For example, engine vibration is down, the willingness to rev even with the stock mufflers on board has improved, while the gearbox and clutch combo has become light, accurate and pleasant to use.

In injected form, the engine starts instantly, runs without fuss from cold and delivers typically light fuel consumption - generally in the very high teens per litre.

 Braking is not spectacular but adequate with good feel -- certainly among the best the company has so far produced. The single disc up front has a big task, but seems to manage.

Suspension is fairly basic, with preload on the rear being the only adjustment, but performs well enough solo - a large pillion can threaten its composure over choppy roads. It's built for comfort and controls the bike quite acceptably in most situations.

Steering is typical slow cruiser, while tip-in is predictable and confidence inspiring. The right side runs out of clearance a little earlier, as the mufflers drag on the tar, while it's the footpeg that touches first on the left. You wouldn't go racing with it, but can have a little fun in the corners -- though I'd be looking for an exhaust alternative that lifted the game on the right.

The Glide runs Harley-branded Dunlops, which seem to grip better than their predecessors of a couple of years ago. Rear size is up, with a 160 profile on the rear.

Overall finish is good and the rounded chrome alloy rims look an absolute treat.

 The ride position will suit short to medium-height riders best. At close to 190cm tall I found my knees sitting uncomfortably high in relation to the seat and handlebars.

Overall the Super Glide is a thoroughly enjoyable ride and this 35th anniversary edition is pretty special in the looks department. However the price of $27,405 (plus ORC) is a big ask for what is in essence a fairly standard cruiser and is around $6000 more than the stock Super Glide.