2006–2006 Harley-Davidson Dyna Twin Cam 88 (FXD Super Glide 6-Speed)

The FXD Super Glide has long been regarded as the quintessential Harley-Davidson “Big Twin,” offering a pure, unadorned riding experience. The 2006 model continued this tradition with its clean lines, solo seat, mid-mount foot controls, and classic buckhorn-style handlebars. It served as the entry point to the Dyna family, eschewing the heavy chrome and accessories of its stablemates for a more minimalist and performance-oriented aesthetic. The bike’s character was defined by its direct connection between rider, machine, and road, a quality that appealed to traditionalists and custom builders alike.

Powertrain: The Twin Cam 88 and 6-Speed Cruise Drive

At the heart of the 2006 Super Glide was the rubber-mounted Twin Cam 88 engine. Displacing 88 cubic inches (1450 cc), the air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin was known for its substantial low-end torque and the signature Harley-Davidson sound and feel. The rubber-mounting system, a hallmark of the Dyna frame, isolated engine vibrations from the rider, providing a smoother experience than the rigidly mounted Softail models, especially over long distances.

The most significant powertrain update was the replacement of the previous 5-speed transmission with the all-new 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission. This addition transformed the bike’s character on the open road. The sixth gear acted as a true overdrive, noticeably lowering engine RPMs at highway speeds. This resulted in a more relaxed ride, reduced vibration felt through the handlebars and pegs, and improved fuel economy during long-distance cruising. The new gearbox was designed with helical-cut gears for quieter operation and smoother shifting.

A New Foundation: Redesigned Frame and Suspension

Beyond the transmission, the entire Dyna platform was overhauled for 2006. The frame was redesigned to be significantly stiffer, featuring a robust, large-diameter backbone. This new chassis provided a more stable and responsive platform, improving handling dynamics in corners and providing greater stability at speed.

Complementing the new frame was a substantially upgraded front end. The 2006 models were equipped with stout 49mm front forks, a major increase from the 39mm forks used on previous model years. These larger forks offered greater rigidity, reducing flex under hard braking and contributing to more precise steering input. At the rear, the bike featured a wider 160mm tire, which not only added to its aggressive stance but also provided a larger contact patch for improved traction.

Differences from the 2005 Model

The 2006 FXD Super Glide was more than just a minor yearly update; it was a comprehensive re-engineering of the platform. The key differences from the preceding 2005 model include: