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The 1978 Harley-Davidson FXE Super Glide and 1985 Harley-Davidson FXWG Wide Glide represent two chapters in Harley-Davidson's storied history.
The 1978 Harley-Davidson FXE Super Glide from United States was powered by a 1207cc OHV V-twin Shovelhead producing 62hp at 5200rpm. Weighing 258.0kg (569 lbs) and with a seat height of 700mm, it was aimed at cruiser riders.
The 1985 Harley-Davidson FXWG Wide Glide by contrast offered 1338cc of OHV V-twin Evolution power, delivering 55hp at 4800rpm. Tipping the scales at 272.0kg (600 lbs) with a top speed of 150km/h (93 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
The 1978 Harley-Davidson FXE Super Glide from United States was powered by a 1207cc OHV V-twin Shovelhead producing 62hp at 5200rpm. Weighing 258.0kg (569 lbs) and with a seat height of 700mm, it was aimed at cruiser riders.
The 1985 Harley-Davidson FXWG Wide Glide by contrast offered 1338cc of OHV V-twin Evolution power, delivering 55hp at 4800rpm. Tipping the scales at 272.0kg (600 lbs) with a top speed of 150km/h (93 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
Specifications Comparison
| 1978 Harley-Davidson FXE Super Glide | 1985 Harley-Davidson FXWG Wide Glide | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1207 cc | 1338 cc |
| Power | 62 hp | 55 hp |
| Torque | 92.0 Nm | 100.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 160 km/h | 150 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 258.0 kg | 272.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 278.0 kg | 295.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 700 mm | 680 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1530 mm | 1560 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 15.0 L | 18.0 L |
| Gears | 4 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Harley-Davidson machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1978 Harley-Davidson FXE Super Glide laid the groundwork with 62hp, while the later 1985 Harley-Davidson FXWG Wide Glide pushed output to 55hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1985 Harley-Davidson FXWG Wide Glide holds the edge with a 6/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Harley-Davidson collection.
About the 1978 Harley-Davidson FXE Super Glide
Harley-Davidson released the 1978 Harley-Davidson FXE Super Glide in 1978 with a 1207cc OHV V-twin Shovelhead powerplant making 62hp — a definitive cruiser.
Full 1978 Harley-Davidson FXE Super Glide Profile →About the 1985 Harley-Davidson FXWG Wide Glide
A cruiser from 1985, the 1985 Harley-Davidson FXWG Wide Glide delivers 55hp from its 1338cc OHV V-twin Evolution engine.
Full 1985 Harley-Davidson FXWG Wide Glide Profile →