Of course, here is a full article about the Harley-Davidson FXR series, written in the requested style and format.
The 1982–1994 Harley-Davidson FXR Evolution 1340 (FXR Super Glide II) was a line of motorcycles produced by Harley-Davidson, designed to blend traditional V-twin power with a more performance-oriented chassis. Introduced as the Super Glide II, the FXR platform was developed to offer superior handling and stability compared to the company’s existing models. It represented a significant engineering step for Harley-Davidson, aiming to compete with the rising popularity of technically advanced Japanese motorcycles while retaining its classic American character. The frame was a collaborative effort, with significant input from Erik Buell, who would later become famous for his own line of innovative sport bikes.
Development and Design
The FXR’s development began in the late 1970s, a period when Harley-Davidson sought to modernize its lineup. The primary goal was to create a motorcycle that reduced the significant vibration of the V-twin engine and provided a more rigid, responsive frame for better handling. The solution was a new, stronger frame with a distinctive triangular perimeter design, which was visibly more complex than the traditional frames used on other models.
A key innovation was the “Tri-Mount” system. This design used three rubber engine mounts to isolate the powertrain from the chassis, drastically reducing the vibration felt by the rider. This combination of a stiff frame and a vibration-dampening mounting system gave the FXR its signature ride quality: smooth on the highway but firm and predictable in corners. Early models from 1982 and 1983 were equipped with the Shovelhead engine, but the platform truly came into its own with the introduction of the more reliable and powerful Evolution engine in 1984.
Differences from the FX Shovelhead
The FXR platform was a direct and substantial upgrade from its predecessor, the four-speed FX frame. The differences were fundamental to the bike’s performance and comfort:
Chassis: The most significant difference was the frame. The FX models used a simpler, more traditional frame design that was prone to flex under hard riding. The FXR’s perimeter frame was computer-designed to be significantly stiffer, providing greater stability and more precise handling.
Engine Mounting: The FX models featured a solid-mounted engine, which transferred the V-twin’s raw vibrations directly to the rider. The FXR’s rubber-mounting system created a much smoother and more comfortable riding experience, especially over long distances.
Drivetrain:** The FXR was introduced with a 5-speed transmission, offering an extra gear over the 4-speed found in the FX models. This provided better gearing for both acceleration and highway cruising.
The 1982–1994 Harley-Davidson FXR Evolution 1340 Engine and Performance
The heart of the FXR for most of its production run was the 1340cc (80 cubic inch) Evolution engine, introduced in 1984. The “Evo” was a landmark engine for Harley-Davidson, featuring aluminum cylinders and heads which were lighter and dissipated heat more effectively than the previous cast-iron designs. This resulted in a cooler-running, more durable, and more powerful engine that was less prone to oil leaks.
When paired with the advanced FXR chassis, the Evolution engine allowed the motorcycle to perform unlike any “Big Twin” before it. The bike’s lean angle and cornering clearance were superior to other Harley models, earning it the reputation as the “rider’s Harley.” It was lauded for its ability to handle twisting roads with confidence, yet it remained a comfortable and capable long-distance tourer. Various models were produced under the FXR banner, including the sport-oriented FXRS Sport, the fully-dressed FXRT Sport Glide, and law enforcement models like the FXRP.
Legacy
Despite its superior performance, the FXR was often overshadowed in sales by the visually classic Softail series, which was introduced in 1984. The Softail’s hidden suspension mimicked the look of a vintage “hardtail” frame, which appealed strongly to traditional buyers. The FXR, with its visible rear shocks and more complex frame, had a more functional aesthetic that was not as widely embraced at the time.
Production of the main FXR line ceased in 1994. However, its reputation has only grown over time. Today, the FXR is a highly sought-after cult classic, celebrated by enthusiasts and custom builders for its exceptional handling characteristics. It is widely regarded as the best-handling Big Twin chassis Harley-Davidson ever produced.
Specifications
| General | |
| Brand | Harley-Davidson |
| Model | FXR (Super Glide II) |
| Model Class | FXRS Low Rider (Representative Model) |
| Model Year | 1982–1994 |
| Type | Cruiser / Standard |
| Maximum mass | ~1000 lb. (453 kg) |
| Maximum passengers | 2 |
| Performance | |
| Max. power | ~64 Hp (48 Kw) @ 5200 RPM |
| Max. torque | ~73 ft-lb (99 N•m) @ 3000 RPM |
| Top designed speed | ~110 mph (177 km/h) |
| Size | |
| Length | 93.5 in. (2375 mm) |
| Width | 34.5 in. (876 mm) |
| Height | 46.5 in. (1181 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 64.7 in. (1643 mm) |
| Seat height | 27.5 in. (698 mm) |
| Ground clearance | 5.5 in. (140 mm) |
| Curb weight | ~600 lb. (272 kg) |
| Engine | |
| Type | 45-degree V-twin, Four Stroke, Air Cooled, OHV |
| Displacement | 1340 cc (80 cubic inches) |
| Bore × Stroke | 3.49 in. × 4.25 in. (88.8 mm × 108 mm) |
| Compression ratio | 8.5: 1 |
| Starting system | Electric starter |
| Fuel supplying system | 38mm Keihin Carburetor |
| Ignition control system | Electronic |
| Lubricating system | Dry sump |
| Oil capacity | 3 qt (2.8 L) |
| Engine oil type | SAE 20W-50 |
| Idle speed | 950 RPM ± 50 RPM |
| Transmission | |
| Transmission type | 5-speed, manual gear shift |
| Clutch type | Wet, multi-disc, manual |
| Driving system | Belt drive |
| Primary reduction ratio | 1.540 |
| Final reduction ratio | 2.187 |
| Gear ratio | 1st: 3.230; 2nd: 2.210; 3rd: 1.570; 4th: 1.230; 5th: 1.000 |
| Chassis | |
| Tire size | Front: 100/90-19; Rear: 130/90-16 |
| Rim size | Front: 19 in.; Rear: 16 in. |
| Capacity of fuel tank | 3.8 gal (14.4 L) |
| Fuel consumption | ~42 MPG (5.6 L / 100 km) |
| Electric | |
| Battery | 12V / 19 Ah |
| Headlight | Halogen |
| Suspension | |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic forks, 39mm |
| Front travel | 6.2 in (157 mm) |
| Rear Suspension | Dual coil-over shocks |
| Rear travel | 3.2 in (81 mm) |
| Rear spring preload | 5-position adjustable |
