SPORTSTER CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF STREET-INSPIRED STYLE IN 2007
Milwaukee, Wis. (July 14, 2006) - Fads like hula hoops, Frisbees and 3-D movies were big in America when the Harley-Davidson Sportster was introduced in 1957. While fads come and go, the Sportster motorcycle is still going strong in 2007.
Born in the heyday of rock n’ roll and the hot rod, the Harley-Davidson Sportster became one of the most recognized and aptly named motorcycles in history. As a successor to Harley-Davidson’s K-series sportbikes, the Sportster XL-series was the first American muscle bike of the rock n’ roll era and a standard for future generations.
“Since its inception in 1957, the Sportster has been a significant motorcycle for Harley-Davidson and its customers,” said Willie G. Davidson, Harley-Davidson Senior Vice President and Chief Styling Officer. “The Sportster hot rod heritage served as the basis for our XR-750 racer. Sportsters also have unlimited possibilities for customization and continue to serve so many of our riders well in performance, function and style.”
The timing was right when the first XL-series Sportsters hit Harley-Davidson dealers in 1957. Powered by a new 55 cubic-inch, 883cc overhead valve engine with a larger bore and bigger valves, the XL Sportster offered more power than the K-series and better handling due a variety of innovations. The Sportster was equipped with a new transmission, cast iron barrels and heads, cams and flywheels. With two-tone paint options, it was also ready for accessories like a two-up seat, luggage rack, windshield, saddlebags and an assortment of chrome.
The Sportster continued to evolve quickly over the next several years, with innovations like the signature “peanut” fuel tank, staggered dual exhaust, high lift front intake cams, new shock absorbers, reduced weight and improved compression ratios.
Sportster technology advances in 2007 with the addition of Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI), new gauges, reduced clutch lever and front brake lever effort on all models, and increased performance and torque on the XL 883 models. Finally, a truly special 50th Anniversary Sportster model celebrates the Sportster heritage of raw-boned styling with narrow and agile street performance.
Key Sportster model innovations during the last 50 years include the following:
A battery upgrade to 12 volts in 1965 and a new carburetor and cams increasing horsepower in 1966 preceded a major development for the Sportster. In 1967, the XLH Sportster received an electric starter, which completely replaced the kick start by 1968.
Responding to new AMA racing rules, a new Sportster-based motorcycle, the XR-750 racer was introduced in 1970. A more powerful, aluminum alloy XR-750 racer debuted in 1972 and it remains the dominant dirt track racer today. A 1000cc engine was also introduced on Sportster models that year.
The Sportster line experimented with the XLCR Café Racer in 1977, introduced the customized XLS Roadster in 1979, celebrated its 25th anniversary in 1982 and launched a stripped-down, customized XLX-61 model in 1983.
The introduction of the Evolution engine to the Sportster family in 1986 was a major development for Harley-Davidson. The Sportster Evolution Powertrain included new cases, engine mount, aluminum barrels and heads, and a larger bore and stroke. The new engine retained the look of previous Sportster engines, while adding performance and even more durability.
The Hugger model with a lower seat height and upgraded 1200cc Sportster Evolution engine was released in 1988, five-speed transmission and belt drive were added in 1991, and 1200cc Evolution XL Custom and Sport models were introduced in 1996.
2004 was a major milestone year for the Sportster family with the introduction of a rubber-mounted engine to reduce vibration. In addition, a new frame and swingarm provided improved agility, while new cylinders, heads and pistons, wider tires, reduced clutch lever effort and larger fuel tanks on some models improved the Sportster ride. (HD US) 2007 DYNA LINE OFFERS AGGRESSIVE STYLING AND PERFORMANCE New Twin Cam 96 Engine and Revamped Super Glide Custom Power Up Dyna Family Harley-Davidson Dyna family motorcycles, already known for their unique style and raw-boned performance, raise the bar even higher for 2007. The new Twin Cam 96 powertrain and an enhanced Super Glide Custom model add excitement to a family of motorcycles that was completely redesigned last year.
With aggressive styling rooted in the Harley-Davidson factory custom bikes of the 1970s, the 2007 Dyna line-up of motorcycles boast the latest in performance technology. The new Twin Cam 96 engine, combined with 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission, standard Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI), fat 49mm front forks, wide 160mm rear tires, frames designed for optimal handling and rider ergonomics combine to make the Dyna platform an exhilarating ride.
“We are accelerating the Dyna momentum in 2007 by adding a new Twin Cam 96 engine to this great handling and highly stylized family of motorcycles,” said Dave Burgarino, Harley-Davidson Marketing Platform Manager. “Several upgrades to the Super Glide Custom make it a landmark factory custom. The Dyna models are the essence of pure rider’s bikes with deep Harley-Davidson custom roots and exceptional performance.”
The Twin Cam 96 Powertrain continues the Dyna tradition of styling and performance with its 1584cc engine for improved power-to-weight ratio. While this delivers more aggressive acceleration, other design changes provide smooth operation at higher speed, easier shifting, lower clutch effort and a rich sound. A bolt-on performance upgrade can easily equip any Dyna model with a Screamin’ Eagle 103cid Big Bore Kit from Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Accessories for additional output.
Dyna riders can choose from five models, including the enhanced Super Glide Custom, all displaying custom heritage with an edge. It’s a versatile line-up featuring varied selections for handlebars, fenders, seating, engine treatment and chrome. The new Harley-Davidson Smart Security System, featuring a new hands-free fob and auto arming/disarming, is available as an option.
The Dyna motorcycles continue to combine bold custom-styling with exciting execution and precise handling. While last year’s revamped Dyna platform improved each model in every aspect of performance, the new Twin Cam 96 engine arms the Dyna arsenal even further. Features like 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission, precise frame design, wide rear tires, and lowered clutch lever effort combine with styling details such as an exposed battery box, twin exposed rear shocks, raked fork and the classic Fat Bob fuel tank continue the Dyna legacy for 2007.
FXDC Dyna Super Glide Custom
Displaying plenty of chrome, the revitalized 2007 FXDC Dyna Super Glide Custom is a bold and beautiful motorcycle. In addition to its chrome features, the Super Glide Custom has a long and low profile, including a low-slung, two-up ribbed seat. A mini-pullback handlebar sits above a Fat Bob fuel tank with FXDWG-style tank-mounted speedometer and ignition console. Powered by the new 1584cc Twin Cam 96 engine, the Super Glide Custom delivers smooth power through a nimble chassis. A Chrome, Steel Laced front wheel is featured with a single floating brake rotor. A Smart Security System and Chrome, Profile Laced Aluminum wheels are optional. The Super Glide Custom is offered in seven solid colors.
FXDC Super Glide Custom features:
New vibration-isolated Twin Cam 96 engine with ESPFI
Silver powder-coated engine with chrome treatment
Chrome, staggered shorty dual exhaust
6-speed Cruise Drive transmission
Enhanced clutch lever interlock operations
Redesigned gauges with clock, 6-speed indictor light and LED
49mm forks
29-degree fork angle/29-degree steering head angle
Sport wrap-around rear fender
160mm rear tire
Chrome, Laced Steel wheels
Single floating front brake rotor
Fat Bob fuel tank with leather panel
Chrome, FXDWG-style fuel tank console
Two-up ribbed seat
Mini-pullback handlebar
FXDB Dyna Street Bob
The 2007 FXDB Dyna Street Bob again proves less can be more taking minimalist styling cues from the post-World War II “bobber” movement and the custom choppers of the 1970s to a modern motorcycle. The Street Bob shuns components like a passenger seat and pegs. A solo seat at 25.8 inches high clearly states that this is a motorcycle for the individualist. Features like a mini ape-hanger handlebar, the classic Fat Bob fuel tank, a wrap-around rear fender and Chrome, Laced Steel wheels combine with the Twin Cam 96 engine for a stylish and powerful ride. A wrinkle-black finish applied to the battery box, console and belt guard completes the street-ready look. The Street Bob is available in six solid colors and a new Olive Pearl/Vivid Black two-tone.
FXDB Street Bob features:
New vibration-isolated Twin Cam 96 engine with ESPFI
Black powder-coated engine with polished covers
Chrome, staggered shorty dual exhaust
6-speed Cruise Drive transmission
Enhanced clutch lever interlock operations
Redesigned gauges with clock, 6-speed indictor light and LED
49mm forks
29-degree fork angle/29-degree steering head angle
Mini ape-hanger handlebar
Fat Bob fuel tank
Street Bob air cleaner trim ring
Special tank emblems
Wrinkle-black console with turn signal indicators
Wrinkle-black battery cover with polished trim
Wrinkle-black belt guard
Tank-mounted speedometer
Solo seat
Mid-mount foot controls
Wrap-around rear fender
160mm rear tire
Chrome, Laced Steel wheels
FXD Dyna Super Glide
The sporty performance of the FXD Dyna Super Glide gains ground for 2007 with the power boost of the new Twin Cam 96 powertrain added to the 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission and agile Dyna chassis design. As the most affordable Harley-Davidson Big Twin model, the Super Glide is ideal for creative customization. Key features include a wide 160mm rear tire, solo seat and Silver, 10-spoke Cast Aluminum wheels. The Super Glide is offered in four solid colors.
FXD Dyna Super Glide features:
New vibration-isolated Twin Cam 96 engine with ESPFI
Silver powder-coated engine and polished covers
Chrome, staggered shorty dual exhaust
6-speed Cruise Drive transmission
Enhanced clutch lever interlock operations
Redesigned gauges with clock, 6-speed indictor light and LED
49mm forks
29-degree fork angle/29-degree steering head angle
Wrap-around rear fender
160mm rear tire
Top-mounted speedometer
Low-rise handlebar
Silver, 10-spoke Cast Aluminum wheels
Solo seat
Fuel tank decal
FXDL Dyna Low Rider
The word “low” describes much more than rider position when it comes to the FXDL Dyna Low Rider. While the 25.8-inch seat height is among the lowest in the Harley-Davidson line, features like mid-mount foot controls, highway pegs and a pullback handlebar also gives the Low Rider its slammed looks and precise handling. The bike’s ergonomics are well-suited to those looking for a comfortable ride, while the new Twin Cam 96 powertrain actually brings the Low Rider to a higher level of performance for 2007. Black, 10-spoke Cast Aluminum wheels enhance the Low Rider’s slammed look, while the handlebar-mounted indicator cluster adds a classic styling touch. A single floating brake rotor displays more of the front wheel and Chrome, Profile Laced Aluminum wheels are optional. The Low Rider is offered in seven solid and three two-tone color combinations, plus three two-tone custom color options.
FXDL Dyna Low Rider features:
New vibration-isolated Twin Cam 96 engine with ESPFI
Black powder-coated engine with chrome covers
Chrome, staggered shorty dual exhaust
6-speed Cruise Drive transmission
Enhanced clutch lever interlock operations
Redesigned gauges with clock, 6-speed indictor light and LED
49mm forks
30.5-degree fork angle/29-degree steering head angle
Wrap-around rear fender
160mm rear tire
Black, 10-spoke Cast Aluminum wheels
Stylized low-profile suspension
Low-slung custom seat
Easy-reach pullback handlebar
Handlebar-mounted indicator cluster
Single floating front brake rotor
Mid-mount foot controls
FXDWG Dyna Wide Glide
Inspiration straight from the street takes the FXDWG Dyna Wide Glide to the edge of the factory custom category. The new Twin Cam 96 engine powers this truly stretched-out motorcycle for 2007. The Wide Glide is as long and wide as its name suggests, with a 49mm fork raked out to 36 degrees and a 21-inch Chrome, Laced Steel front wheel. The Bobtail rear fender shows off the 160mm tire. Its 1.25-inch ape-hanger handlebar with internal wiring rise just above a stepped chopper-style seat and large, tank-mounted speedometer. The shocks have forged tops and Chrome, Profile Laced Aluminum wheels are an option. The Wide Glide is offered in eight solid and three two-tone color combinations, plus three two-tone custom color options.
FXDWG Dyna Wide Glide features:
New vibration-isolated Twin Cam 96 engine with ESPFI
Black powder-coated engine with chrome covers
Chrome, staggered shorty dual exhaust
6-speed Cruise Drive transmission
Enhanced clutch lever interlock operations
Redesigned gauges with clock, 6-speed indictor light and LED
49mm forks
36-degree fork angle/34-degree steering head angle
160mm rear tire
Chrome, Laced Steel 21-inch front wheel
1.25-inch ape-hanger handlebar with internal wiring
Bobtail rear fender
Stylized battery cover
Forward foot controls
Large, tank-mounted speedometer
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