Of course. Here is a full article about the 1993–1998 Harley-Davidson Dyna Evolution 1340 (FXDWG Wide Glide), written in the requested style.
Harley-Davidson Dyna Wide Glide (1993–1998)
The 1993–1998 Harley-Davidson Dyna Evolution 1340 (FXDWG Wide Glide) is a cruiser motorcycle that became an icon of the factory custom movement. Introduced in 1993, the FXDWG combined the new Dyna chassis with classic chopper styling cues, offering riders a rebellious, custom look straight from the showroom floor. It was powered by the venerable 1340cc (80 cubic inch) Evolution V-twin engine and quickly became one of the most recognizable and popular models in Harley-Davidson’s lineup during the 1990s.
History and Development
The Dyna chassis was first introduced in 1991 on the limited-edition FXDB Sturgis. It was designed to replace the FXR frame, which, despite its excellent handling characteristics derived from a triangulated “super-glide” frame, was more complex and costly to manufacture. The new Dyna frame was simpler in design, featuring two external coil-over rear shock absorbers, a configuration reminiscent of older Harley models. The key innovation of the Dyna platform was its two-point rubber engine mounting system, which was highly effective at isolating the rider from the V-twin’s signature vibrations, making it a significantly more comfortable ride on long distances compared to the rigidly mounted Softail.
The FXDWG Wide Glide was launched in 1993 as a cornerstone of the expanding Dyna family. It was created to fill the void left by the original FXR-based Wide Glide and to capture the spirit of the custom choppers of the 1960s and 70s. Its name was derived from the wide-set, raked-out front forks that gave the bike its distinctive, long-and-low stance. This model successfully blended modern engineering, like the reliable Evolution engine and vibration-isolating frame, with timeless H-D style.
Design and Styling
The aesthetic of the FXDWG Wide Glide was its primary selling point. It was intentionally designed to look like a bike that had been stripped down and customized in a home garage. Key styling features included:
Front End: A 21-inch spoked front wheel set between wide, raked-out forks gave the bike its “Wide Glide” name and chopper profile.
Handlebars: The factory-installed handlebars were often either low-rise drag bars or taller “ape hanger” style bars, positioning the rider in an aggressive or laid-back posture.
Controls: Forward-mounted foot controls stretched the rider’s legs out, enhancing the cruiser ergonomics.
Rear End: A “bobbed” rear fender, cut short and mounted close to the rear tire, exposed more of the wheel and added to the stripped-down look.
Paint: The Wide Glide became famous for its factory flame paint jobs, which were an optional but highly popular choice that cemented its custom identity.
* Seating:** A low, often solo-style seat further accentuated the bike’s sleek, low-slung profile.
The Engine and Drivetrain of the 1993–1998 Harley-Davidson Dyna Evolution 1340
The heart of the 1993–1998 FXDWG was the air-cooled, 45-degree 1340cc Evolution V-twin engine, also known as the “Evo” or “Blockhead.” Introduced in 1984, the Evolution engine was a major leap forward for Harley-Davidson in terms of reliability and performance over its Shovelhead predecessor. It featured aluminum heads and cylinders which improved cooling and allowed for tighter manufacturing tolerances. This resulted in an engine that was less prone to oil leaks and required significantly less maintenance.
In the Wide Glide, the Evolution engine provided ample low-end torque, delivering the classic Harley-Davidson feel and sound. It was paired with a 5-speed transmission that delivered power to the rear wheel via a clean and low-maintenance belt drive system, a standard feature across most of the company’s Big Twin models by this era. While not designed for high-speed racing, the powertrain provided strong, reliable performance for cruising city streets and highways.
Legacy
The 1993–1998 Dyna Wide Glide was a commercial success and a cultural touchstone. It perfectly captured the desires of riders who wanted the chopper aesthetic without the reliability issues or high cost of a true custom build. Its combination of a reliable powertrain, a more comfortable ride than a Softail, and uncompromising style made it a defining model of the 1990s. The Evo-powered Wide Glide remains a sought-after model today on the used market, celebrated for its raw mechanical feel and classic lines that set the standard for factory customs for decades to come.
Specifications
| General | |
| Brand | Harley-Davidson |
| Model | Dyna Wide Glide |
| Model Code | FXDWG |
| Model Years | 1993–1998 |
| Type | Cruiser / Factory Custom |
| Performance | |
| Max. power (approx.) | 58 Hp / 4500 RPM |
| Max. torque (approx.) | 71 ft-lb (96 N•m) / 2350 RPM |
| Top speed (approx.) | 105 mph (169 km/h) |
| Size | |
| Length | 94.9 in. (2410 mm) |
| Width | 36.2 in. (919 mm) |
| Height | 46.9 in. (1191 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 66.1 in. (1679 mm) |
| Seat height | 26.7 in. (678 mm) |
| Ground clearance | 5.6 in. (142 mm) |
| Dry weight | 598 lb. (271 kg) |
| Engine | |
| Type | Evolution, 45° V-Twin, Air-Cooled, Four Stroke |
| Displacement | 1338 cc (81.6 cu in) |
| Bore × Stroke | 3.49 in. × 4.25 in. (88.8 mm × 108 mm) |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel system | Carburetor, 40mm Keihin constant velocity |
| Ignition system | Electronic |
| Engine oil type | SAE 20W-50 |
| Transmission | |
| Transmission type | 5-speed, manual |
| Clutch type | Wet, multi-disc |
| Driving system | Belt Drive |
| Chassis | |
| Frame | Mild steel, tubular frame |
| Front suspension | Telescopic fork |
| Rear suspension | Dual coil-over shocks, preload adjustable |
| Tire size | Front: MH90-21; Rear: 130/90B16 |
| Brakes | Front: Single disc; Rear: Single disc |
| Capacity of fuel tank | 5.2 gal (19.7 L) |
| Fuel consumption (approx.) | 42 MPG (5.6 L / 100 km) |
| Electric | |
| Battery | 12V |
