Harley-Davidson FXR Super Glide II - BEST USED BIKES

YEARS SOLD: 1982–1994

MSRP NEW: $6,999 ('82) to $10,274 ('94)

BLUE BOOK RETAIL VALUE: $5,410 ('82) to $5,250 ('94)

BASIC SPECS: The 80ci Shovelhead engine was utilized in the inaugural years of FXR production with the modernized 1,340cc Evolution V-twin powering the platform from '84 forward. All model years share a five-speed transmission and vibration-isolating rubberized tri-mount system adopted from the FL touring family. Belt drive was introduced in '85. The FXR's most enduring characteristic is its chassis design built on a robust frame said to be far more rigid than anything Harley-Davidson had produced to date. Twin Showa shocks, a Sportster-derived front end, and triple disc brakes all contribute to a cruiser many still believe to be the best-handling Harley of all time.

WHY IT'S DESIRABLE: As one of the first post-AMF-era models, the FXR helped estab­lish The Motor Company's renewed commitment to competing with the Japanese. While the base model maintained a price point and offered better handling and cornering clearance than contemporary Harleys of the time, several variants to the platform such as the Low Glide, Low Rider Custom, and Sport Glide Deluxe were produced. A wealth of aftermarket support has made the FXR a cult classic canvas for customization to this day.

THE COMPETITION: Stemming the tide of V-twin cruisers streaming in from Japan was the FXR's mission statement. Harley engineers did such a thorough job that many of Harley's old-guard audience perceived the bike as being too Japanese. The Honda Shadow 1100, Kawasaki Vulcan 88, Suzuki Intruder 1400, and Yamaha Virago 1100 all vied for a share of the big twin cruiser market.