HARLEY-DAVIDSON Super Glide (1975-1976) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 1975, the American motorcycle manufacturer launched the Harley-Davidson Super Glide, the first factory custom-made motorcycle in H-D's range. The bike debuted in 1971 and was made by combining parts from the FLH Electra Glide and XLH Sportster.

The frame, rear suspension, drivetrain, and engine components were borrowed from the FLH Electra Glide, and the front telescopic fork, headlights, and brakes from the XLH Sportster.

The bike was not well received due to its radical boat tail design that proved unpopular on the Sportsters, but when Harley-Davidson addressed the issue, sales started to grow. In 1974, the bike featured several design and technical modifications.

The 1974 motorcycle featured a new fuel tank design, a redesigned seat, and a redesigned rear fender that dropped the boat tail design. In addition, the bike also packed a new disc braking system instead of the drum units previously used.

The 1975 Harley-Davidson Super Glide packed the same 1,207cc four-stroke air-cooled V-twin engine as its predecessors, fueled by a 38 mm Keihin carburetor, delivering 65 hp with a peak at 5,500 rpm. The power was handled by a four-speed gearbox and sent to the rear wheel through a final chain drive.

Also, with 65 hp on tap, a four-speed transmission, a final chain drive, and a wet weight of 275 kg (606 lbs), the bike reached a top speed of 174 kph (108 mph).