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Custom Vehicle Discussions => 1999 FXR2/1999 FXR3/2000 FXR4 => Topic started by: FXR2evo99 on July 23, 2008, 11:46:31 AM

Title: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 23, 2008, 11:46:31 AM
FXR HISTORY

HELLO TO EVERYONE.....To ALL WHOM MAY BE VISITING THIS THREAD FROM A LINK OR WHOM ARE SIMPLY VISITORS HERE AT THE WEBSITE, AS WELL AS MEMBERS HERE AT CVOHARLEY.COM WELCOME.


Excellent Reference Reading:

Harley – Davidson  Evolution Motorcycles 
Greg Field
MBI Publishing 2001

Illustrated Buyer’s Guide
Harley Davidson Since 1965
Allan Girdler
MBI Publishing  1998

UPDATED: November 24, 2008

The vastness of such a topic must have a beginning point, so where does one proceed when trying to figure out the birth of what many consider to be the very best chassis Harley Davidson has ever created.  Some might go on to say that the FXR could possibly be one of Harley Davidson's most successfully designed light touring cruisers ever.  It's only quite obvious that Harley Davidson's History began in 1903, and charging all the way back to this beginning point would undoubtedly provide anyone with a proper foundation but to go through so many years to arrive where this story begins would be basically pointless given the scope of my interest.  Most assuredly anyone could argue with my beginning point but suffice it to say our story begins with its roots in the middle 70's. 

In 1976, Vaughn Beals joins Harley-Davidson's managment team as Deputy Group Executive of the Motorcycle Group, and is charged with the task of rebuilding the company to improve quality and productivity. Beals would later that year, convene his upper management to a series of meetings which were held in Pinehurst, North Carolina, "dubbed" the "Pinehurst Meetings" with the aim of mapping out a 10-year product plan for Harley-Davidson motorcycles. There it was decided that due to the proliferation at the time of high-tech motorcycles from other countries, and their wide acceptance by American motorcyclists, a redesign of the current 74 (1,200cc) shovelhead engine would be insufficient to guarantee the company's long-term growth. So planners proposed a two-pronged strategy to ensuring Harley's future:

First, because of the established product line's loyal following, they set into motion an advanced V-twin project with the goal of updating the shovelhead Big Twin and Ironhead Sportster. The eventual result was the Evolution engine.

Second, At the same time, an all-new machine with advanced technology would be developed to appeal to riders who wanted more contemporary performance. Harley's engineers laid out a number of concepts on the Pinehurst table, including a series of motorcycles powered by three basic multicylinder, water-cooled engines in six displacements-the Nova family-all incorporating the latest technology. By the close of the Pinehurst meetings, the planners had mapped out Harley's future as a manufacturer of both traditional and cutting-edge motorcycles.

Out of these meetings, the NOVA Project came to life....to read more:

CLICK HERE (http://big-diesel.blogspot.com/2007/09/nova-harley-davidson-which-was-never.html)

The Nova's demise sparked Harley-Davidson's resurgence. Cutting Nova funds was one of the reasons Beals led the so-called "gang of 13" to propose buying the company back from AMF. AMF agreed, and on February 26th 1981, signed a letter of intent to purchase Harley-Davidson from AMF and by mid-June Harley-Davidson became a privately held company. Highly leveraged with an enormous bank debt, Harley's future options boiled down to just two-either continue development of the Evolution V-twin, or build the Nova. The Nova was the long-range hope, the 10-year promise. But air-cooled twins promised the most immediate cash flow. And so the Nova died.

Moving beyond the "Nova Project", It was during the fall of 1979, that Harley Davidson introduced New for the 1980 model year the FLT Tour Glide. This granddaddy of the full dressers had carved itself a dedicated following among Harley-Davidson touring enthusiasts. Until the launch of the Tour Glide, every Electra Glide since the 1963 inaugural year had worn basically the same clothes; the FLT was considered revolutionary for its side-by-side twin headlights in a redesigned frame-mounted fairing. It was born with a 5-speed transmission, hard bolted to the engine.

Also in 1980 the FLT Tour Glide's drive train sported a new enclosed oil-bath chain keeping the rear end clean while more than doubling the chain life itself helping to make the FLT less maintenance intensive than other Harley's of that time.  Other features included new electronic intruments inside of the fiberglass wind-eliminator all aimed at allowing the long-distance rider to stay in the saddle for hours on end. Primary among these add-ons was a CB radio that allowed riders to keep in contact with long-haul truckers along the way.

The new frame of the FLT was the first to use the “exclusive” Harley-Davidson Tri-mount chassis with the three-point maintenance-free automotive type elastomer engine mounted system – one in the front and two at the frame junctions to the transmission which eliminated most of the big twin’s characteristic vibration, revised steering geometry and a fully enclosed drive train which meant higher reliability and lower maintenance helped in taking a huge step forward in reclaiming some of the touring riders who had been defecting.

The Tour Guide’s unique front end arrangement, combined with its remarkable 35 degree lean-angle and computer designed frame, made it the easiest maneuvering, best handling fully dressed tourer currently available at that time.

Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 23, 2008, 11:47:22 AM
It was later in 1985, that the FLT became the FLHT and received the Evolution engine and a five-speed transmission. The extra gear felt like an overdrive had been installed and upped the FLT's top speed from 98 to 105 MPH. Not as outright plush as current touring rigs, but timeless and capable in its own way.

In part, I am spending these few moments drawing one's attention to the these frames only to highlight as time progresses how the chassis of the FLHT's give rise to our contemporary FLHT models as well as our FLHR models and it's this "parallel" that offers support as to why the FXR chassis is as comfortable to ride as our touring bikes of today. Thus when you hear someone speak about the comfort of their FXR bike, perhaps you will have a better understanding of how Harley Davidson engineered these frames to be congruent to one another.

Once the FLT's production was under way the Motor Company decided they needed to turn their attention to another "segment" of the market place....how could they get even more people riding what was considered a very good touring model....thus a group of HD employees came together, they were:

Mark Tuttle  chief engineer of motorcycles
Steve Pertsch
Bill Brown design engineer
Erik Buell,  NOT AN ORIGINAL DESIGNER BUT WAS ASKED TO CONSULT AND PARTICIPATE IN REDESIGN
READ ABOUT HIS JUNE 2013 HOT BIKE MAGAZINE REMARKS IN REPLY# 11
Rit Booth, engineer
Vaughn Beals

What they all wanted was a “no apologies” Harley, one that would work as well as it “looked”, one that would “handle” like no Harley ever had.  One that didn’t try to shake itself and its rider apart.  One that would offer the rider as much comfort regardless of size.  One that would be lighter and yet nimble enough in maneuvering such distances as from Milwaukee to Los Angeles as it would be from stoplight   to stoplight. One that feared no curve.

F =  Big Twin
X = XL (Sportster Front End) Front End
R=  Rubber Engine Mounts.

Thus the emergence of the FXR “Superglide” in 1981.  

Vaughn Beals states that the attention of the motor company was on the newly designed FLT model, but then he is quoted as saying that the motor company realized “we needed a “vibration-isolated” “Sport’s Bike”, as well to “draw new riders into the Harley camp”.  What Beals meant in his reference of a “Sport’s Bike” was to be taken in context of the Harley Big Twin, which essentially goes back to the FX model of bikes at the time.  What he was attempting to more directly relate to was Harley Davidson's need for a lighter cruiser.   So what they began to go after was a bike that was not necessarily a “peg-scratcher” but a “lighter” rubber mounted touring bike which could “cruise”.   Beals, continues, “We were looking for something with better handling than an FLH and something that wasn’t as large and intimidating as the FLT and something aerodynamically desirable.  So the new team was turned loose to create a new machine.  The “FX” was to be the “sport model” of the “FL”.  So essentially the FXR became the “sport model” of the FLT.

What happened according to Mark Tuttle, is that HD did not have the time nor the resources to design anything better as a result the FXR, “really became a chassis program to utilize the FLT powertrain in an FX-type motorcycle” which means they would decide upon using the FLT’s rigid engine-transmission unit with the swingarm bolted to the back of the tranny and design for it’s new frame.

The need for a “prettier” frame turned into a blessing for those engineers and, ultimately for lovers of performance Harley’s.  Since the members of the design team had to create a new chassis anyway, they decided to create it in basically their own idea of a “performance” image.  Obviously stiffer than before.  What they ended up discovering was that the FXR frame was FIVE TIMES stiffer in torsion, which is where it counts, than the old FX/FL frame had been. Which made for better cornering and ultimately a much better ride than can be offered even within the Dyna family that is produced today.....hmmmm very interesting..... They also went after higher “lean angles” ie: lots of “ground clearance”.

Rit Booth is quoted as saying that they were a group of riders who were really “performance oriented” he at the time was riding a Moto Guzzi 850 Le Mans and even had the “guts” to ride it to work.  So as he stated, “we wanted the new bike to be even “stiffer” and to have even more of that “on-rails” feel than the current FLT.  Basically, as he goes on, “we started with a “clean sheet” of paper and then decided we’d keep the FLT mounts and build into the new frame all that we’d learned about making a bike go through corners”  It’s Chief Engineer of Motorcycles, Mark Tuttle that continues on by stating that “at a personal level, that he particularly didn’t care for Sportsters because of their lack of ground clearance, you simply couldn’t ride them as aggressively as I wanted to ride, with the “FXR” we solved that particular problem.”  
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 23, 2008, 11:48:24 AM
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IF YOU WISH TO SEE ALL OF THE PHOTOGRAPHS WITHIN THIS HISTORY YOU WILL NEED TO BECOME A MEMBER, MEMBERSHIP IS FREE, BUT ONLY MEMBERS CAN SEE PHOTOGRAPHS THAT ARE PLACED WITHIN THIS ENTIRE THREAD. 

 :2vrolijk_21:

The FXR was never meant to be a “crotch rocket”, always maintaining the goal of working within the frame work structure of Harley Davidson.  At each design level the engineering design team pushed the envelope of “modern performance” whenever possible and where practical, to make it “stiffer and give it more precise steering” affirmed Rit Booth.   The frame was designed using the latest in computer-assisted technology.  In the process known as "finite element analysis", the frame configuration, specifications, and dimensions were fed into a computer.  A “drawing” of the frame could then be brought up on a computer display “terminal”.  The computer then assisted the engineering team in changing the frame characteristics until they were able to come up with the optimum design.  Among other things, the computer assisted them in locating stress points and indicated where the frame needed stiffening.  Using this stress analysis and computer modeling, “Team FXR” designed the new frame for maximum stiffness.  Like the FLT frame, the new frame’s backbone was comprised of two-inch boxed tubular steel with massive stampings to add strength creating a large box-section that linked the steering head to a triangulated rear section and used round tubing at all points where the frame showed.  To make the new frame even stiffer than the FLT’s the engineers added more gusseting between the steering head and both the backbone and down tubes.  In the end, it was claimed to be 5 times stiffer than the old FX frame, yet added nothing in weight. Like the FLT, the FXR Super Glide II mates the smooth and quick 5 speed gear box with a vibration-isolating Tri-mount chassis.  With the vibration eliminated and the wider choice of the shorter gearing of the 5 speed, the FXR would cruise effortlessly.  In fact the gearing and lack of vibration tend to make the motorcycle reach engine speeds that were significantly above those to which riders were accustomed on the traditional HD 4 speed.  Even today as one rides the 1999 FXR2, FXR3, or 2000 FXR4 with 2.925 final gearing the cycle is extremely comfortable at 3,600 RPM and still accelerates strongly beyond.

The Tri-mount chassis adapted from the new FLT also utilized the maintenance-free, automotive type elastomer mounts, one in front and two in the rear at the swing arm junctions with the transmission,  This was a departure from the traditional rigid mounting of the engine to the frame in which case the engine was generally a stressed member of the chassis.  The elastomer mounts basically allows the engine to do its thing (shake) without transmitting that vibration through the frame and on to the rider.  Thus the term, “isolated vibration”.  The FXR Super Glide II featured 6.12 inch of ground clearance and a long wheel base of 65.7 inches.  Rake was 30 degrees, while the trail came in at 4.7 inches all of which led the FXR into any corner without fear.  It would be right here where HD would spend their greatest time modifying the FXR riding experience to capture the greatest amount of riders.  While never modifying the chassis/frame, one year marketing side would cut the fork tubes down and make the rear shocks shorter and as quickly as that was decided upon the engineers would step back in the next year with the tension to take it the other direction, in the end it would be viewed as a sea of compromise one year the engineers would be victorious while yet in another the marketing side would see to it that the bike went to a lower stance.  At no time did this "sea of compromise" affect the uniquely wonderful riding experience in terms of the FXR comfort factor, what was constantly being debated however, was just how aggressive HD riders were willing to become as they entered into the curves with a frame/chassis that knew no fear.  Time and substance out distanced fast and furious and so it is that HD continues to allow us to dream while we cruise.

As one can only imagine at the “alter” of  marriage between the “styling” wing and the "engineering" wing what was being debated within the “Styling” part of Harley Davidson, was the engineers’ insistence on using rear-mounted shocks on the FXR, as they had on the FLT, which made the rear suspension work better and allowed for longer shock travel. Lou Netz and Willie G. Davidson had always wanted the FXR shocks laid down and forward mounted, but as Rit Booth explains, “they were told absolutely no by the engineers, myself included”, thus the union was created at least for a little while.

As has been mentioned above, part of making the new chassis as stiff as possible, involved making the new frame “triangulated” and given the odd-shaped covers to hide the battery and the oil tank, it was this “triangulated” side view look which was ultimately the FXR’s least popular feature design. 

To this end, Mark Tuttle exclaims, we all loved the bike, “You could run it into a corner and tip it over to oblivion and it just all worked”. 
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 23, 2008, 11:50:03 AM
The first sales of the NEW FXR's actually occurred during the fall of 1981, however these sales were attributed to the 1982 FXR Model Year, thus:

1982 FXR Super Glide II       Sales Totaled: 3,065
1982 FXRS Super Glide II     Sales Totaled: 3,190

The first year sales for the FXR "model" were quite good, totaling 6,255.  The 1982 FXRS Super Glide II and the 1982 FXR Super Glide II were the Number 1 and Number 2 best-selling "Big Twins" for 1982.  However, as history would point to.....at the end of the day…..sales at best were mixed year in and year out and continued to drop for the FXR, ultimately being defined as too “Japanese” in appearance for the “staunch” traditional “FX” crowd….the conflict of purchasing a cheaper version of the FXR coming from abroad for some combined with the “failed” look of the “triangular” frame resulted in effort by the motor company to go to it’s roots, that of building a bike that could only come from Milwaukee like the “softail”.  As remembered by Mark Tuttle, “we got a lot of “negative” response to the triangular area under the seat, even though we had created what we were indeed after, a very stiff chassis, very neutral handling, and a really good lean angle, which resulted in a fair amount of ground clearance and a higher seat height, and while it was probably the best-handling Harley ever built, Unfortunately, it just wasn’t selling as well as the rigid mounts were”.  

“Best handling” it was and still is, but the original FXR was a whole lot more, first, it was the best motorcycle Harley’s engineers knew how to or were allowed to build.  

Mark Tuttle, states that, “we found that other than a “handful” of riders, nobody was using that “capability” the market would, “rather have had lower seats and more of a low cruiser look than all that “handling capability”.

“IF” the original FXRS bike had started out as an “engineer’s bike”, in 1982, then in 1984 it could have just as easily been stated that the FXR was indeed “recast” into a “marketeer’s bike” with shorter shocks that took away some of that “ground clearance” and “lean angle” that had originally been engineered into it, in favor of a lower seat height that Harley’s marketers thought would revive it’s flagging sales.  

Because the shorter shocks still had to control the same load, fork and shock springs were made stiffer.  The result was a great loss in cornering clearance (now less than that of the Wide Glide or Softail, but noticeable only by the few who actually tried to ride the FXRS the way the original was meant to be ridden and a stiffer ride balanced by a lower, more Harley Davidson like feel.  To emphasize the “charge” in “stature”, the marketeers gave the shorter FXRS a new name, ie: Low Glide.  The “irony” was, once the FXRS was given a “motor” as good as its chassis (evo engine replacing the shovel) the chassis was taken back a half-generation in function. A few noticed and complained, but the majority were pleased their feet were now flat on the ground, and sales went up as well.

Turning from the "chassis" and looking at the power plant of the FXR we see that once the evo engine came into the chassis of the bike, major changes for the evo engine were kept at a minimum until 1992, receiving cases with the oil filter boss out front, and a breather system redesigned to vent through the cylinder heads and then into the carburetor.  The new breather worked well for normal highway or in-town use.  Unfortunately, it became known for dumping oil into the air box under extended high-rpm use.  Carburetors had recalibrated jetting for easier cold-starting.
As a running change in January 1992, the factory switched to an INA-type cam bearing (from the Torrington / Timken B138).  This is an update that stood up well in normal service but NOT so well under “hot-rodding”.  

The evo engine, close to bulletproof from the start, had slowly been refined to the point where it was bombproof.   The major update for 1994 was a revision of the primary ratio from 3.37 final gearing which had begun in 1989 and moved to 3.15 final gearing to put the gearing more in the starter’s favor in turning over the engine.  It could be said this too was another step towards "cruising" and another step away from "aggressive" cornering.  Not only did the gearing move towards the starter's favor, in the end it awakened a even more comfortable vibration free isolated riding experience.  What this all speaks to is the amazing flexiblity of the FXR "chassis/frame" experience as once again not only could one modify gearing to the pleasure of one's own predetermined riding experince, but indeed, the "chassis/frame" of the FXR was proven to be accomodating in which ever direction it's engineers or stylers wanted to explore.  Isn't this the overwhelming evidence that proves and supports when something is as special as the FXR chassis/frame is, that its most wonderful compliments can be expressed through the eyes of so many successfully different riding variations?

Midyear, new cylinder studs and base gaskets were introduced that really helped eliminate base-gasket leaks.  IF you look closely another modification for the 1999 FXR2’s FXR3’s and 2000 FXR4’s were given the same outer primary cover as used on the Twin Cam outer primary for touring models with more “ribs” to stiffen it.  While the Evolution engine was mainly an “update” “from the base gasket up”, the Twin Cam was essentially all new, top to bottom.  (By 1999, though, you could also call the Evo all new from top to bottom, too, because nearly every part of it had been updated between 1984 and 1999.  Though 1999 was the end for the EVO Big Twin engines being only used in the 1999 FXR2’s FXR3’s and the Softail models, the ONLY 2000 model to carry the EVO motor was the 2000 FXR4 produced in the silver powdercoat on the engine cases.
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 23, 2008, 11:51:57 AM
In 1994, Harley Davidson felt it was time to move away from the labor intensive FXR frame knowing too that with the advent of the Twin Cam on the horizon which would result in having to go through a very expensive recertification process with redesigning of the current FXR chassis for the new motor as well as the obvious perceived market resistance to the "triangular" tubing of the chassis it was time to end the run of the "FXR" Harley Davidson.  Thus the last two models of the FXR were produced in 1994, the FXR Super Glide and the FXLR Low Rider Custom.

The emergence of the 1999 FXR2; 1999 FXR3; and finally the 2000 FXR4.

Since we are speaking about the "emergence" of the FXR2's, FXR3's, and FXR4's perhaps here is a good spot to "link" a great thread showing the bikes themselves, so if you would like just click and view, and after viewing you can come right back here and continue with the reading about these bikes.

CLICK HERE AND VIEW (http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php?topic=22663.0;all)

The three most important reasons for the emergence of the FXR after a half a decade of sabbatical were:


a.   Since the end of the FXR in 1994, the FXR had taken on an entirely unique and reestablished life in the after market world of motorcycles.  Many of the best customs were being built on the FXR platform because they were less expensive and more available for “chopping” than any other Harley model.  Ever wonder why you don’t see very many FXRT’s or FXRP police bikes any more?  They were all chopped into the customs.  Same with the FXR Super Glides.  As the supply of these dried up then the aftermarket began offering “stock-type”, as well as lowered and stretched versions of the FXR chassis.  Build an aftermarket motor and the only one loosing is Harley Davidson.

b.   Harley Davidson still had many left over FXR frames available and lying around. EPA was going to make it very difficult to and very expensive process of acquiring EPA “recertification” of the “old chassis” with the “NEW” Twin Cam Engine.  Thus once the evo engine was gone so would the FXR chassis.

c.   In 1998 Harley Davidson realized they would be loosing a military contract to build the single-cylinder ROTAX-powered motorcycle in York, PA in Building # 42, leaving the availability of a “production line” for such an experiment into a “Custom Vehicle Operations” CVO specialized project.   Dan Adams who at the time was the Program Manager for the CVO project, stated that the mission was to provide a “limited-volume, highly accessorized motorcycle to customers who wanted this type of bike. 

The specialized FXR models were assembled by teams of two employees each, who kept the necessary parts and tools for the job on push carts.  They worked their way through six stations on the line until the bike was fully finished.  Adams went on to state that they would have “two people build an entire unit”.  “The same two-person team would move from station to station until the bike would be taken off the line.  They were able to run the assembly line with one to six (2 person teams) teams at a time. Each team was able to make two bikes a day.  According to Jim Hoffman within the Parts and Accessories area of the company addresses the prevailing “rumor” of the day, that Harley Davidson simply had a bunch of unused FXR chassis laying around collecting dust, He goes on to say that the FXR chassis was put back into production along with a number of other FXR components.  Essentially the FXR2’s and FXR3’s are mechanically identical to the 1994 version of the FXR with a few upgrades such as a new wiring harness that used the latest type of connectors, a vacuum operated fuel valve, as well as the new nine-plate clutch fitted to the evo. 
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 23, 2008, 11:53:14 AM


UPDATED 08-09-08:


GENUINE MOTOR STANDARD ACCESSORIES INCLUDED ON EVERY FXR2:

•   Chrome Oval Bar & Shield Billet-Style Mirrors   
•   Chrome Handlebar   
•   Custom Handlebar Clamp   
•   Chrome Handlebar Switch Housings
•   Chrome Master Cylinder Cover
•   Chrome Hand Control Levers
•   Chrome and Rubber Horizontal Handlebar Grips - Large 
•   Billet Foot Pegs, Wide Band, Small Diameter (3 pair)   
•   Billet Shifter Peg, Wide Band Small Diameter
•   Chrome Lower Fork Sliders 
•   Chrome 21" Laced   Front Wheel Assembly     Unsealed Bearings 
•   Chrome 16" Slotted Rear  Wheel Assembly     Unsealed Bearings 
•   Chrome Front Axle Nut Covers   
•   Pyramid Axle Adjusters   
•   Stainless Steel Braided Brake Line, Front & Rear 
•   Chrome Floating Brake Disc, Front & Rear 
•   Harley-Davidson Caliper Insert, 1-3/4" Diameter   
•   Harley-Davidson Caliper Insert, 1-3/8" Diameter   
•   Chrome Belt Sprocket Cover 
•   Chrome Plated Swingarm     
•   Badlander Custom Seat   
•   Chrome Mini Rail Upright, Passenger Backrest Pad   
•   Chrome Mini-Rail Sissy Bar Upright 
•   Chrome Sissy Bar Side Plates   
•   Detachable Seat Hardware   
•   Chrome Instrument Housing 
•   Chrome Fuel Tank Trim Panel
•   Classic Chrome Head Bolt Covers
•   Classic Chrome Spark Plug Covers 
•   Chrome Carburetor Top Cover 
•   Chrome Dome Timer Cover   
•   Chrome Voltage Regulator   
•   Chrome License Plate Bracket   
•   Flat-lens turn signals, front and rear   
•   Profile Low Rear Suspension   



FXR3 Includes FXR2 Standard Accessory List Plus These Additional Accessories:

•   New Custom Front Fender 
•   New Custom Side Covers
•   Two-tone Paint With Flames
•   Chrome 19" ThunderStar Five-Spoke Cast Rront Wheel Assembly     Unsealed Bearings
•   Chrome 16" ThunderStar Five-Spoke Cast Rear Wheel  Assembly     Unsealed Bearings
•   Chrome Thunderstar 5-spoke Rear Belt Sprocket
•   Chrome Floating Brake Disc Front & Rear To Match ThunderStar Wheel Assembly
•   Chrome Rear Brake Pedal
•   Chrome Upper and Lower Triple Tree Clamps
•   New Custom Style Seat (FXR3 Seat)
•   Short Rail Upright Passenger Backrest



FXR4 Includes FXR2 Standard Accessory List Plus These Additional Accessories:  

•   Silver & Chrome Power Train
•   Chrome 19" Laced Front Wheel With Sealed Bearings
•   Chrome 16" Solid   Rear  Wheel With Sealed Bearings
•   Dual Front Disc Brakes With Four-Piston Caliper Brakes  (ie: Twin Cam Style Brakes)
•   Rear Disc Brake With Four-Piston Caliper Brake  (ie: Twin Cam Style Brake)
•   Teardrop Floating Brake Rotors For Front (2) & Rear
•   Chrome Solid Rear Sprocket Cover
•   Chrome Rear Brake Pedal
•   New Custom Style Seat
•   Chrome "Round" Bar & Shield Billet Style Mirrors
•   Chrome Drag Bar On Straight Risers
•   Electronic Speedometer & Odometer
•   New Custom Style Seat (FXR4 seat)
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: Hoist! on July 23, 2008, 12:24:55 PM
Great job! And very thorough! You must remember however that the Super Glide was first introduced in 1971 with a combination of the 4-speed FL frame and the Sporster FX front end. The FXR would replace the 4-speed frames for FX type HD's and was made with fitting new to be introduced Evo in mind. The Evo saved the MoCo and was in the works when HD took back the Co from AMF. Here's some more interesting Super Glide history for youze guys!

"The 1971 Harley-Davidson FX Super Glide motorcycle, Harley's first "factory custom" bike, failed to attract the audience Harley had hoped it would and was a sales disappointment, finding fewer than than 5,000 buyers.

In an effort to compete head-on with the aftermarket suppliers, Harley-Davidson ushered in its first "factory custom" for the 1971 model year. By combining pieces from two popular models, the "Big Twin" FL and the XL Sportster, the company hoped to provide buyers a new breed of Harley.

Stripped of its electric starter, the FX could be fitted with a smaller battery and battery box. The forks and front wheel were taken from the XL's parts bin, as was a smaller-diameter headlight and trademark headlight cover.

The frame, 74-cubic-inch Shovelhead engine, and rear suspension originated from the FL. The dual tanks were from the FLH.

A fiberglass tail section was styled after a similar piece used on the previous year's Sportster, and all the bodywork could be covered with a special Sparkling America paint scheme.

New and exciting as it was, the market failed to respond to the first Super Glide, and only 4,700 found buyers. By comparison, more than 10,000 Sportsters were sold the same year.

The Super Glide returned for 1972, but some of its pieces did not. The tail section disappeared, replaced by a traditional steel fender assembly. In this form, the Super Glide met with greater success, and factory customs would eventually become Harley-Davidson's stock-in-trade."

Hoist! 8)
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: Hoist! on July 23, 2008, 12:25:37 PM
Some more original Super Glide Pics

Hoist!
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: Hoist! on July 23, 2008, 12:25:58 PM
!
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: Hoist! on July 23, 2008, 12:26:37 PM
!
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: Hoist! on July 23, 2008, 12:27:19 PM
Last one.

Hoist! 8)
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 23, 2008, 12:30:57 PM
I will keep this open incase something needs to be added here...

WELL I FINALLY FOUND SOMETHING TO POST AND UPDATE!!!

JUNE 2013 HOT BIKE MAGAZINE  PAGE 36-40
THE SAGA OF THE FXR


A BUEL'S ERRAND

Most conversations about the FXR tend to treat the Harley's Holy Grail, and when it was launched, that was true.  Like the old King Arthur legend though, the pat to this sacred object was fraught with peril.  As Bob LeRoy once said:

"Instead of heavy castings, the FXR frame had a lot of welded-steel parts.  This was before the era of robotic welding, so it all had to be assembled by hand. It was expensive and difficult to manufacture."

Erik Buell, whose input was instrumental in the FXR's development, let HOT BIKE pick his brain about the development process.

Here was the following Q/A:


WHAT WAS THE OVERAL GOAL IN DESIGNING THE FXR GOING IN?
EB:  The FXR was planned to be the FX derivative of the FLT, just as the FX was the FL.   However the FLT was so odd because of it's frame geometry that a new frame was designed with a similar mount system to the FLT.

HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED WITH THE FXR?
EB:  I was initially involved in testing the chassis and making it work.
When I got there it had very bad handling.
At that time, H-D Engineering and product planning were trying to improve H-D quality, to modernize the product line because it fell so short of the competition in every way and sales were dropping.  So they were listening to the engineering group.


WHAT WOULD YOU HAVE DONE DIFFERENTLY ABOUT THE DESIGN?
EB:  Me?
I just worked there and did my best to make what they wanted to work as well as I could.
Y'all ought to know by now that big cruisers are not what I like.
I think we made it a lot better than any H-D before.
How would I do a performance cruiser?
Well the would likely will never know!
Well maybe Ed Burke from Yamaha and a few others do, but that's a different story.

WHAT WAS THE GREATEST DIFFICULTY DESIGNING IT?
EB:  AGAIN, I DID NOT DESIGN IT;
I was involved in the re-design.  Initially it handled much wrse than even the FX.  
It wobbled almost continuously around the old Bendix proving grounds.  
You would have to have been there to realize how bad.  Within the constraints we had on size, style, appearance, it was really hard to make it work.
There was a lot of cool things done to make it as good as it became, but they were not evident to the eye.  
To figure out how to fix it, first we had to what was wrong.  
We had some theories, but the biggest thing I did was to design a bunch of data collection equipment that allowed us to understand which of the simultaneous equations that were in play were the dominant ones and to quickly evaluate the value of fixes.


WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT THE FXR?
EB:  The handling.
We really did get it quite good for such a big bike.  
In my opinion, it also had clean styling lines that I liked on a cruiser.
If it had weighted 150 pounds less and been 10 inches shorter, I woulda liked it more.


WHAT WAS YOUR PART IN ITS GENESIS?
EB:  More than anything I became the voice and push of the other guys working on it who wanted to make it work.
I brought the intensity and skills of a sport bike / AMA expert rider and a passion to make things right.  
I pushed really hard to fix it, both vocally and then by following up proving the fixes worked by building test equipment
and procedures, measuring competitors to set goals, and then doing 80 percent of the performance development bestriding.
I believed it was important to make the bike into a really good one, rather than what we initially had, which was a motorcycle with reduced engine vibration that wallowed all over the road.
Your would have to have ridden one of the prototypes to know how bad it was.
I wish we had a video.


WHO ELSE HAD THE GREATEST INFLUENCE OVER THE FXR'S DESIGN, INSIDE OR OUTSIDE OF THE COMPANY?
EB:  The look came first, and I know it came out of styling... probably Louie and another young (at that time!) guy there.
But the function, which is the real core of the FXR, came from riders.  
There was a young group of engineers and test guys who actually rode a lot, so we made it a rider's bike.
I remember being approached way back when by some Hells Angels, who thanked me for being part of building the FXR that finally had made a Harley a rider's bike again.
It was definitely a different type of duty cycle than racing, but those guys rode hard and knew that the FXR was built for speed.


WHAT COULD HAVE HARLEY HAVE DONE BETTER ON THE PROJECT?
EB:  I think we did well with it.  
It got by far the best reviews in the magazines that H-D had done for awhile.
At that time the magazines were technically driven, and not lifestyle.
So the improvements in technology really got those journalists' attention.
The original shovelhead engine was awful, but the EVO Motor came soon.
The FXR got H-D through the dark times until the market changed.  
Could we have done more?
H-D was very small and the engineering group more so.
We did everything we possibly could.


Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 23, 2008, 12:44:03 PM
WHAT DID HARLEY DO REALLY WELL WITH IT?
EB:  Two Things.
One, they (Harley-Davidson) delayed the launch and allowed us to fix it.
This was hard because they were hurting for sales.
But if the FXR had launched in its original state, it would have been a disaster.
Two, understanding the market situation.
I truly believe it was one man there more than anyone else:
Vaughn Beals
He understood so much about people, and he got that H-D needed to make a statement that there was technical capability and change inside the organization.  
I think if this bike and some others that never made big sales numbers had not been produced, H-D would have gone under.
There was a lot of hate from inside against any change, but we really needed these new products.


OTHER COMMENTS MADE BY THE WRITER OF THE ARTICLE, NOT NECESSARILY QUOTES FROM BUELL:

The sales were not huge, but they turned around, and the sales started going to different group of people.
Remember, H-D sales had dropped to about a third of their peak of nearly 80,000 in 19777, and at under 30,000 units per year, H-D was less than twice the size Buell was in 2009 when it was shut down.  

When the polished FXR hit the street, it had the lightest weight and stiffest frame of any BIG TWIN of its time.
The computer-designed , all-welded frame had a huge box-section backbone, thicker diameter tubing, and massive gusseting around the steering head. That's what made the FXR chassis the stiffest frame Harley ever produced.

The frame teamed with a new five-speed gearbox with a shorter shift linkage for more aggressive shifting.

THE FXR WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED FOR ITS CHASSIS ABOVE ALL ELSE.
--IT WAS THE FOCAL POINT OF THE ENGINEERS LOVE AND ATTENTION.
IT WAS DESIGNED TO USE THE FLT POWERTRAIN IN AN FX FRAMEWITH THE SWINGARM BOLTED TO TEH REAR OF THE TRANSMISSION TO ADAPT THE GUTS TO THE NEW BONES.

--THE NEW FRAME ALSO LED TO HIGHER SPEEDS.  
BETWEEN THE FXR'S GEARING AND RUBBER MOUNTS TO REDUCE VIBRATION, STREET RIDERS FELT MORE CONFIDENT IN THE BIKE WHEN OPENING UP THE THROTTLE.

MUCH LIKE THE STAR TREK FRANCHISE, THE FXR REFUSED TO DIE AFTER CANCELLATION.  IT CAME BACK IN 1999 WHEN HARLEY LAUNCHED IT'S CVO (CUSTOM VEHICLE OPERATIONS) PROGRAM WITH TWO MODELS:
THE 1999 FXR2, WITH A 21" LACED FRONT WHEEL
THE 1999 FXR3, WITH A 19" CAST FRONT WHEEL.
THE 2000 FXR4, WHICH MARKED THE REAL END OF THE FXR PRODUCTION.


        =====================================

1981 - 1994 FXR HISTORY CHART INCLUSIVE OF 1999 - 2000 CVO

UPDATED 08-21-2008

Just click and view chart that is attached as a microsoft word document below shaded in light blue just below the line NEXT TO THE PAPER CLIP

C:\Documents and Settings\Owner\Desktop\Charted Years For FXR Model.doc
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 23, 2008, 12:49:12 PM
In 1981,
and in time for the 1982 model year, H-D announced what was known at the time as the Superglide II. The letters were FXR, with the
F = the 80-cid engine and 5 speed gear box from the Big Twins:
X = representing the one-piece fuel tank, lighter front suspension, and wheel and small headlight from the Sportster thus the XL front end.
R = for the new frame "AND" a version of the isolation-mounting system PIONEERED by the FLT. Thus the rubber engine mounts.

What H-D discovered was that the FXR frame was FIVE TIMES stiffer in torsion, which is where it counts, than the old FX/FL frame had been. Which made for better cornering and ultimately a much better ride than can be offered even within the Dyna family that is produced today.....hmmmm very interesting.....

Even after introducing the new model as the Superglide II, they dropped the name and went to initials.


Thus in 1982,
The BEGINNING OF THE FXR ERA BEGINGS WITH TWO MODELS:
1) 1982 FXR Super Glide II
2) 1982 FXRS Super Glide II
The FXR Super Glide II came with black paint, restrained trim, laced-up wheels, and tube tires.
The FXRS Super Glide II came with contrasting paint panels on the sides of the tank, spoke cast wheels, tubeless tires, a small sissy bar at the rear of the seat, and highway pegs for resting one's feet while leaning back against the passenger who is leaning back against the bar.

The only engine choice was the low-compression 80 used that year because gas quality had declined. The 80 was fitted with the oil-control package: extra drain lines, better valve guides, and better seals. Of course this was known as the Shovelhead motor.


In 1983,
1) 1983 FXR Super Glide II
2) 1983 FXRS Super Glide II
3) 1983 FXRT Sport Glide

the model line reverted to names, with the FXR and FXRS being the Low Glide. MOST OF US would think the "S" stood for sport....but not to be the case the "S" actually stood for "Low Glide" go figure......Next we find the Moto Company creating a third model, lettered the FXRT which sold 1,458 units. The "T" stood for Touring except there was already the FLT for Touring, so the FXRT was named the Sport Glide and the S was just the extra trim and cast wheels. The FXRT also came with conventional plastic saddlebags meaning boxes outboard and below the passenger seat. It all seems very confusing, let's just say the MOTO company was trying to build bikes but logic wasn't always available....and besides they were trying to keep the FLT and FLHT's as their "TOURING LINE" and didn't want to cross reference the two lines....

H-D thought they would have a winner...something people could tour in without the "bigness" of the FLT....but the "market" (you and I said) the FXRT looked too much like the "imports", especially the fairing and people just didn't find it appealing.

Thus the shovel engine saw it's days last from late in the year of 1981 to 1983 where the emergence of the EVO began.....in 1984 FOR the FXR framed bike.
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 23, 2008, 12:51:01 PM
In 1984,
1984 FXRS Low Glide
1984 FXRT Sport Glide
1984 FXRDG Disc Glide
1984 FXRP Pursuit Glide: Police Version of FXRT
The FXRDG launched originally mid-year for $8,199 with a total of 853 being built.  "DG" which stood for "Disc Glide" which was a "limited edition" with an alloy disc, rather than spoked rear wheel, and a tank emblem that said: "Genuine Harley-Davidson".  The “Disc” Name Came From the aluminum "disc-Type" rear wheel, also came with a “laced” front wheel


........Of course The advent of the EVOLUTION MOTOR "EVO" occurred this year [1984] as well.

In 1985,
the FXR line got the belt final drive. The models were:
1985 FXRS Low Glide
1985 FXRS "Special"
1985 FXRC Low Glide Custom
1985 FXRD Grand Touring Edition
1985 FXRT Sport Glide
1985 FXRP Pursuit Glide:  Police Version of FXRT
FXRT now considered the "Tourer" which got a second front disc brake, a larger passenger seat and a higher backrest.
FXRS, the basic model.
FXRS option, which at that time didn't get it's own letter or name. But it was in fact the "real" sport version, with a raised suspension and the second front disc.
FXRC Low Glide Custom the "C" standing for custom. This model featured chrome plating for things like the rocker boxes, gear case cover, and the top and side gearbox. The front fender was short and sporting, borrowed from the XR-1000 and the paint was a candy orange with root beer trim.
FXRP for a police model


In 1986,
1986 FXR Super Glide
1986 FXRS Low Rider
1986 FXRS Low Rider Sport Edition
1986 FXRS "Liberty Edition"
1986 FXRC Low Glide Custom
1986 FXRT Sport Glide
1986 FXRD Grand Touring Edition
1986 FXRP Pursuit Glide:  Police Version Of FXRT

FXR, now named Super Glide
FXRS called the Low Rider with options was renamed the “Low Rider" because the FX-Based Model of that name had been canceled at the end of 1985 Model Year.
FXRS Sport Edition, with taller suspension and dual front disc brakes
FXRC Low Glide Custom   
HD Continues To Work Towards The Completion of This Previous Offering From 1985 With The Conclusion Of 1250 Units However These Units Featured A Different Paint Scheme ie: Red.  These Units Were Also Identified By Their Numerical Order With A Inscribed Plate At The Location Of The Handlebars.  It should be noted that HD never placed this particular model in any of it's sales/brochure literature.
FXRT plain touring model
FXRD, the "D" stood for "Dresser" according to Rit Booth, with a sound system, top box (fairing) and dual exhausts...another attempt at the "baby" FLH market. These bikes were fitted with such luxuries as footboards, for both rider and passenger, a wider and more plush seat, trunk with backrest for the passenger, chrome rails for the saddlebags, two-into-one exhaust, special paint and graphics, more gauges, and a standard AM/FM/Cassette stereo with CB monitor with controls for the system on the handlebars.  The FXRD was a "great" "sport-touring" bike, with all the handling, braking ability, ground clearance, & long-legged grace of the FXRT, but with MORE COMFORT & ELEGANCE!  Unfortunately it wasn't a great seller.  It was priced at $9,474 which at the time was only $100.00 more than a 1986 FLHT. These FXRD's continued sitting on the show room floors until they were heavily discounted and finally sold, in some cases years later.  The FXRD was canceled at the end of 1986.
LIBERTY EDITION, also this was one more model, which was a limited edition, celebrating the statue.


In 1987,
1987 FXR Super Glide
1987 FXRS Low Rider
1987 FXRS-SP Low Rider Sport Edition
1987 FXRC CUSTOM
1987 FXLR Low Rider Custom
1987 FXRT Sport Glide
1987 FXRP Pursuit Glide:  Police Version Of FXRT


FXRC CUSTOM  And Once Again It Apppears HD Continues To Work Towards The Completion of This Previous Offering From 1985 With The Conclusion Of 750 Units However These Units Featured For The First Time A Painted Frame Matching the Painted Body Work Of The Bike. These Units Were Also Identified By Their Numerical Order With A Inscribed Plate At The Location Of The Handlebars And For The Very First Time The USA FLAG Was Placed On An Actual Bike, "OLD GLORY" Had Arrived And Was Proudly Displayed.  It ONCE AGAIN should be noted that HD never placed this particular model in any of it's sales/brochure literature.

The newest model was called FXLR, the Low Rider Custom, the Front tire was a 21" with a "laced wheel", as first seen on a stock Harley on the 1980 Wide Glide. Also the tank instruments were moved to the handle bars. The rear wheel was solid , as per the earlier Disc Glide.

There were only two models provided with 39mm front forks and they were [All other models remained with 35mm front forks]:
1) 1987 FXRS-SP Low Rider Sport Edition
2) 1987 FXLR Low Rider Custom

The FXRD was dropped from the line up because it wasn't selling.  


Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 23, 2008, 12:53:43 PM
1987 CONTINUED:

The transmission was new for '87 and stayed almost identical in many ways for years.  The exception is the tapered mainshaft.  This is not "bad" but many prefer the later model splined mainshaft.  The tapered mainshaft does make it a little more critical when you're reinstalling a clutch to make sure that the keyway is in correctly.  The 1987 clutch has been known to have one of the four "towers" that holds down the diaphragm spring break.  This does not always happen and is more likely on a high mileage bike.  Some decide upon a  Barnett Scorpion clutch to replace it with.
The engine is a bottom breather which some prefer.


In 1988,

1988 FXR Super Glide
1988 FXRS Low Rider  <~~ 1st Year Of “Wrinkle Black” Trim Panel & Instrument Housing similar to FXR2 & FXR3
1988 FXRS Low Rider 85th Anniversary Edition
1988 FXRS-SP Low Rider Sport Edition
1988 FXLR Low Rider Custom
1988 FXRT Sport Glide
1988 FXRP Pursuit Glide:  Police Version Of FXRT
  The FXRS Sport Edition was finally given it's own letter designation for 1988, now being called the FXRS-SP Low Rider Sport Edition.  It's front suspension was improved by the addition of a simpler version of the air-assisted antidive system first used on the FXRT Sport Glide in 1983.  Instead of a seperate two-chamber reservoir with a rubber bladder between the chambers, the FXRS-SP system used the sealed handlebar as the system's air reservoir, and included a schrader valve on the left side of the handlebar as a means to adjust air pressure.

HD UPGRADES ALL FORKS ON FXR MODELS IN 1988 WITH 39mm THAT WERE PREVIOUSLY USED ON THE 1987 FXRS LOW RIDER SPORT EDITION AND THE 1987 FXLR LOW RIDER IN 1987


In 1989,
1989 FXR Super Glide
1989 FXRS Low Rider
1989 FXRS-SP Low Rider Sport Edition
1989 FXRS-Conv.  Low Rider Convertible
1989 FXLR Low Rider Custom
1989 FXRT Sport Glide
1989 FXRP Pursuit Glide:  Police Version Of FXRT

the FXR launched the beginning of the FXRS-Conv. Low Rider Convertible and came with a Lexan windshield and leather & nylon leather saddlebags. Both of these features were quick detach.


In 1990,
1990 FXR Super Glide
1990 FXRS Low Rider
1990 FXRS-SP Low Rider Sport Edition
1990 FXRS-Conv. Low Rider Convertible
1990 FXLR Low Rider Custom
1990 FXRT Sport Glide
1990 FXRP Pursuit Glide:  Police Version OF FXRT

   
OK NOW FOR SOME CHANGES...  
a new carburetor, new diaphram clutch, normal changes in electrics, and had some changes with the base gaskets...that were causing problems for that time period.
no model changes however.


In 1991,
1991 FXR Super Glide
1991 FXRS Low Rider
1991 FXRS-SP Low Rider Sport Edition
1991 FXRS-Conv. Low Rider Convertible
1991 FXLR Low Rider Custom
1991 FXRT Sport Glide
1991 FXRP Pursuit Glide:  Police Version OF FXRT


the emergence of the FXDB which became known as the "Sturgis" and of course went on to become the Dyna Glides....
Along the way the FXR line, the original new version of the Superglides, were all named Low Riders....known as the plain, the sport, the touring, and the convertible...one of the new features for this year were the emergence of self canceling turn signals and of course new paint options.
(THIS IS ALSO WHERE THE BEGINNING OF THE "DYNA CHASSIS" began, with the emergence of the FXDB on an entirely different platform.)


In 1992,
1992 FXR Super Glide
1992 FXRS Low Rider
1992 FXRS-SP Low Rider Sport Edition
1992 FXRS-Conv. Low Rider Convertible
1992 FXLR Low Rider Custom
1992 FXRT Sport Glide
1992 FXRP Pursuit Glide:  Police Version OF FXRT


The FXR's received recalibrated carburetors, with the rules of EPA changing and getting tighter, thus new carburetors were required along with new oil lines and a new cover for the pump. There were better materials for the brake discs.
The factory was fitting a
retainer to "ensure that the drive sprocket nut stays tight for the life of the vehichle" <~~~~IF THAT Doesn't make you stroll out to your garage and check the NUT on your pre-1992, NOTHING WILL....YIKES!!!  

In 1993,
1993 FXR Super Glide
1993 FXRS-SP Low Rider Sport Edition
1993 FXRS-CONV Low Rider Convertible
1993 FXLR Low Rider Custom
1993 FXRP Pursuit Glide:  Police Version OF FXRT


The 1993 FXRS-CONV Low Rider Convertible in effect replaced the FXRT which was dropped at the beginning of the year.
FXRS-SP, the Low Rider Sport Edition with low bars, raised suspension, and dual front brakes.
FXLR the Low Rider Custom, with the solid rear wheel, a 21" inch front, and a one-piece combo of dog-bone risers and flat bars on which rode the speedo. Which allows for modifying the tank to a COOL looking long tank...if you have ever seen those...they are cool looking.
These models also got revised breather system for the gear case to air box, reprofiled levers, and sight glasses for the brake master cylinders.
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 23, 2008, 01:04:19 PM
In 1994,
The FXR model line was comprised of two models and the specialty of the FXRP:

1994 FXLR Low Rider Custom came out with the 21” laced front wheel (shown in the photo)
1994 FXR  Super Glide (Silver Engine)
1994 FXRP Pursuit Glide:  Police Version OF FXRT


......and thus 1994 marked the end of the FXR era chassis/frame. How ironic that the FXR era began with two models and ended it's run here in 1994 with two models.....


[NOTE: Please remember that putting your curser next to the paper clip icon below the photo will allow you to enlarge the photo plus save it to your computer if you desire OR if you merely wish to see it enlarged simply put your curser on the photo and "LEFT" click and it will enlarge]
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 23, 2008, 01:09:10 PM
In 1995,
THERE were NO MORE FXR's the line was stopped.....

I would say that as you read the above information that there is enough reason to say now that even in trying to keep up with the maze of changes in names or modifications of the FXR model throughout the birth and generation of the FXR from 1982 - 1994 one would perhaps like to know that without excluding the value of any Harley-Davidson model or year...that the birth and reemergence of the FXR as an FXR2, FXR3, and FXR4 during the calendar years of 1999 and 2000 has more validity than to simply be described as opportunity by the MOTOR COMPANY to recapture more dollars based upon only "bling". What you are offered is perhaps the best that the motor company could offer one with this particular FXR framed bike....<~~~Is this opinion....perhaps only you can decide.

To me it will always stand that HD's effort was to provide a FINAL clear cut opportunity to truly own an FXR framed bike featuring at the time of 1999-2000 the latest "technology" (and I use that term with tongue in cheek) or perhaps the latest advancements on a particularly wonderfully spectacular framed bike.

There is always going to be something faster, something different....but the future will show that the historical reasoning for leaving something behind because perhaps this particular frame while initially perhaps rejected by the market as being too import oriented will wonderfully prove to be one of the finest frames to ride that H-D has ever produced.  

To all of you that own an FXR from 1981-1994....(perhaps originally) I salute you.....and I am not attempting to discredit anyone's ride.....all I am attempting to say is that there "perhaps" is enough validity to support the "value" indeed of the latest version of an FXR as seen in the FXR2, FXR3, and FXR4 models and that such a purchase would also "perhaps" be more than just about paying for over priced "bling"......

While in part it's worth mentioning again, that in some form of logic the reason the FXR2, FXR3, and FXR4 were brought back to the market place, besides the desire of H-D to start a "CVO Program" was H-D's observance during this 5 year absence of the FXR, that the frame/chassis was being continually modified and being used to become a "custom ride" by many in the after market.  Thus as was stated previously, while H-D perhaps saw an opportunity to capture this market that obviously was being missed by making their own version of a "custom" look at a more affordable price than could be reproduced in the after market and seeing that this project was successful, perhaps it indeed points to the fact that the FXR team of engineers were correct, that the "market" did require something of value as perceived in the handling, comfort and overall positive riding experience provided within the FXR chassis. Perhaps, indeed that the initial thoughts that the "market" was rejecting the chassis/frame because of an "import" look was simply a more limited view instead of a widely held purchasing view, of course in the end, the FXR frame also has become widely accepted that to produce the frame required too many "hands" to create it verses the more easily created frame of an FXD model when using robotics to make production easier and yes, perhaps even cheaper.  But just maybe as Harley Davidson has learned throughout their course of history, that the HD consumer is slow to accept anything new and even slower to accept changes.....maybe just maybe as one looks back, perhaps history will prove over time that the FXR chassis was indeed Harley Davidson's best.

Some may ask is the frame of a Dyna different from that of an FXR, the answer is, yes.  In 1991, Harley Davidson started the emergence of the "Dyna Chassis". So there is a difference in the Dyna Chassis and the FXR chassis......as the FXR's were phased out, the "DYNA" family grew which actually started in 1991 with the FXDB, which was considered the "second" Sturgis, a limited edition model. When the factory introduced the FXD frame they called it the "internal frame" because what H-D's marketing determined was that people didn't like seeing those "triangular" rear tubes found on the FXR frame.  Imported motorcycles had frame tubes extending from the seat back to the shocks or fenders, THUS "rear frame" tubes didn't look like HARLEY, and because of that people surveyed said they wouldn't buy an FXR, which is one small reason why the FXR frame was given a quiet goodbye.  The FXDL began it's production in 1993.
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: SBB on July 23, 2008, 01:10:14 PM
Quote
In 1986,

FXR, now named Super Glide
FXRS called the Low Rider with options
FXRS Sport Edition, with taller suspension and dual front disc brakes
FXRT plain touring model
FXRD, the "D" stood for Deluxe, with a sound system, top box (fairing) and dual exhausts...another attempt at the "baby" FLH market.
LIBERTY EDITION, also this was one more model, which was a limited edition, celebrating the statue.


FXR2evo99

Not to dispute your information but I bought a brand new 1986 FXRC (red of course) off the showroom floor of Carolina Harley Davidson of Gastonia, NC. I wrote a check for $7,800.00 and rode it home. I have the bill of sale in the safe at home. I put a S&S 3 5/8 X 4 3/4 kit in it to become 98". It kicked ass, I only wish compression releases were available back then. With that stroke it was a bear to crank!

SBB

 :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 23, 2008, 01:14:06 PM
Well Obviously it appears that HD made/had 1250 of the 1986 FXRC Custom's available
Based upon my research, obviously you are sitting there with your bike however...and I would assume you have no motivation to verify it via your vin # with HD about which model and year you have....(lol, I am just sayin)
However, in 1985 there were two FXR LIMITED EDITIONS one was official the other was unoffical both to gain extra sales and to help perfect the production line process for supplying more chrome.  The "OFFICIAL" one was the  FXRC Low Glide Custom , which in some locales was unoffically dubbed the " Candy Glide " in honor of the color scheme of the paint which was  Candy Orange and Root Beer , paint that made the whole motorcyle seem to glow in full sunlight like a "radioactive pumpkin".  The  1985 "Candy Glide" FXRC Low Glide Custom , wasn't for everyone, and in some parts of the country they were a tough sell.  Why?  The price was higher, for one, the biggest reason, though was that bright bold color that was too "pretty" to be seen on.  The new black T-shirt crowd just wasn't fully ready for the Candy Orange and Root Beer bikes with orange-brown seats.  Only 1,084 were built in 1985.  The "UNOFFICAL" FXRS special was a version offered with the chrome covers of the FXRC, but without the candy paint.  299 in 1985 were built.

-----------------------------------------------------

 :oops:     :nixweiss:

UPDATE:
There appears to be some further evidence that indeed HD carried the FXRC Low Glide Custom into 1986,  Hardluk1 sent me a note and has informed me that he owns one, #933 of 1250 on the speedo/tac cluster, black with some gold finishes on the lower tree and console also rear rail covers. All stickon 's. He Was told by a person that the custom stuff was left over from 85 and to be a fugal company, HD kept it up in 86 till the stuff was gone . It is back'd up in the vin#.  

This obviously supports what Silver-Black was trying to clarify above.  I am curious now if HD did not "officially" place the FXRC Low Glide Custom as an "official" model for 1986 via their literature but simply provided models to Dealers until such supply had evaporated.  Also I am curious since 1,084 units were built/sold in 1985 did HD have another "1250" that went into the market place for 1986 and beyond until the supply was no longer or did HD in fact have another "1250" Units built for the market place in 1986 which were still remaining and left over from 1985?  

I appreciate these two members offering some clarification about these models....any further information is greatly appreciated....the goal is to provide accurate information....and part of that discovery is these types of helpful offerings.  

 :2vrolijk_21:

Tim


[NOTE: Please remember that putting your curser next to the paper clip icon below the photo will allow you to enlarge the photo plus save it to your computer if you desire OR if you merely wish to see it enlarged simply put your curser on the photo and "LEFT" click and it will enlarge]
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 23, 2008, 01:15:45 PM
1980 FLT TOUR GUIDE BELOW:

alright I know this is a 1980 FLT Tour Guide....because of where I copied and pasted it, I copied and pasted the one before from a site that said that it was, but wasn't...

ie:  http://www.hotrodsbikeworks.com/features/0705_hrbp_harley_davidson_evolution/photo_15.html

So why am I showing a photo of a 1980 FLT Tour Guide, because it's this motorcycle that the engineers used to create the FXR Super Glide II from.  Simple as that....



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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 23, 2008, 01:16:43 PM
1990 FXR Frame Below:


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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 23, 2008, 01:17:46 PM
1991 FXR Frame Below:



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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 23, 2008, 01:18:54 PM
2003 FLHR Frame Below Side A:




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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 23, 2008, 01:19:58 PM
2003 FLHR Frame Below Side B:




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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: SBB on July 23, 2008, 01:21:30 PM
1980 FLT TOUR GUIDE BELOW:

No offense but


Now your talking about Tour Glides in a FXR thread.

How do we tell when your done?

And that is not a Tour Guide or a Tour Glide you have pictured! ( hint hint, look at front fender)

 :nixweiss: :nixweiss:
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 23, 2008, 01:22:09 PM
With the above photos of both an FXR as well as a 2003 Touring Bike ie: 2003 FLHR frames, you can see just how these frames are so similar.....I just thought it would be interesting to "see" how "similar" they really are!!!! 

Unfortunately I don't have a photo of a 1980 FLT Touring Guide chassis, I looked but haven't found one.....if someone ever sees one or has a good photo of one send it to me via e~mail and I will put it in this slot.....
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 23, 2008, 02:01:14 PM
1993 FXRS-CONV Photo Below:

Showing Convertible Saddle Bag Part Numbers:
90703-89 right saddle bag
90702-89 left saddlebag
90706-89 left "raincoat" <~~~is what HD calls them in parts book
90708-89 right "raincoat" <~~~is what HD calls them in parts book


==============================================================================

alrighty finished......thanks for everyone's patience.....let's see how this all unfolds....please post

It would be great if folks have photos of FXR's in general.....great for people to see a visual reference, also note what year the bike is and model....it always helps!!!

Thank you!!!!

Regards,

FXR2evo99

Tim


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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: RedFXR2 on July 23, 2008, 02:35:15 PM
It would be great if folks have photos of FXR's in general.....great for people to see a visual reference, also note what year the bike is and model...

Not sure if this has been here before:

http://www.hdfxr.dk/Public/FXR/FXRModels.aspx


[edit to add]  Thanks for the hard work, Tim. :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: RedFXR2 on July 23, 2008, 02:51:16 PM
1985 FXRT

Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: RedFXR2 on July 23, 2008, 02:52:14 PM
1985 FXRT fairing

Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: RedFXR2 on July 23, 2008, 02:52:55 PM
1985 FXRT bags

Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: RedFXR2 on July 23, 2008, 02:54:08 PM
1985 FXRT from rear

Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 23, 2008, 03:31:17 PM
1984 or 1985 FXRT:



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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 23, 2008, 03:34:12 PM
1991 FXRT Sport Glide

Given the black and chrome engine version.
Total Sold 272.




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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: WFP on July 23, 2008, 03:37:13 PM
My buddy Dean's 1982 FXRS....

I almost bought it from him a few months ago...

Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 23, 2008, 03:40:24 PM
1982 FXRS Super GLide:


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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 23, 2008, 03:42:36 PM
1982 FXRS Super Glide II:
Engine Right Side



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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 23, 2008, 03:44:12 PM
1982 FXRS Super Glide II:
Engine Left Side



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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 23, 2008, 03:56:07 PM
1988 FXRS-SP  Low Rider Sport Edition:
 W/Kerker HD Sport Exhaust

 Total Sold  818
 Uses sealed handlebar as the system’s air
 reservoir, and included an air valve on the left
 side of the bar as a means to adjust air pressure
 for the front suspension.  




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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 23, 2008, 04:01:02 PM
1993 FXRS-SP Low Rider Sport:

I really like the wheels HD put on in 1993


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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: RedFXR2 on July 23, 2008, 06:04:05 PM
That 1982 shovel is gorgeous. :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: elvislee on July 23, 2008, 07:50:16 PM
That 1982 shovel is gorgeous. :2vrolijk_21:

Isn't it though...and it even has buckhorns ;)
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 23, 2008, 09:48:25 PM
".......Isn't it though...and it even has buckhorns........"

elvislee....

I think RedFXR2 was actually referring to posts #38, #39, and #40......which actually doesn't have "buckhorns" or maybe you are "spoofing" me....lol.....

Regards,

Tim
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: elvislee on July 23, 2008, 10:08:11 PM
".......Isn't it though...and it even has buckhorns........"

elvislee....

I think RedFXR2 was actually referring to posts #38, #39, and #40......which actually doesn't have "buckhorns" or maybe you are "spoofing" me....lol.....

Regards,

Tim

Tim,

Yep...I'm busted  :-[ ...LOL...I was looking at post #37 the blue 82 FXRS which I really like; even with the buckhorns. I'm picturing the blue 82 FXRS with "Mini Apes"  8)...maybe...(yes, supposed to be a spoof, instead a goof)...LOL...The black 82 FXRS Super Glide does look good too...Best to ya  :2vrolijk_21:...BTW...OUTSTANDING job of research, detail, and effort on the "FXR HISTORY" topic!!!!!
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: 110tHunDer on July 23, 2008, 10:34:30 PM
 
This is a pretty cool thread . . . great idea and nice job, FXR2evo99!  It is neat seeing the transformation of the FXR over the years through all the photos.  I have a friend who has a black '88 FXRT, 20-some thousand miles and MINT, MINT, MINT.  I will get some detailed photos of it to post here the next time I ride with him.
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: 110tHunDer on July 23, 2008, 10:54:10 PM
Not sure if this has been here before:

http://www.hdfxr.dk/Public/FXR/FXRModels.aspx


[edit to add]  Thanks for the hard work, Tim. :2vrolijk_21:

Huh.  Never seen that before.  Odd (but cool) that a guy from Denmark would have such an affection for the FXR.

Are there any books that cover the FXR in any detail?
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: 110tHunDer on July 23, 2008, 11:01:55 PM
. . . However, in 1985 there were two FXR LIMITED EDITIONS one was official the other was unoffical both to gain extra sales and to help perfect the production line process for supplying more chrome.  The "OFFICIAL" one was the  FXRC Low Glide Custom , which in some locales was unoffically dubbed the " Candy Glide " in honor of the color scheme of the paint which was  Candy Orange and Root Beer , paint that made the whole motorcyle seem to glow in full sunlight like a "radioactive pumpkin". . .

Anyone got a photo of the "Candy Glide?"  George was telling me about this model when I called him on Saturday.  I don't recall ever seeing one before. :nixweiss:
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: elvislee on July 23, 2008, 11:44:01 PM
Anyone got a photo of the "Candy Glide?"  George was telling me about this model when I called him on Saturday.  I don't recall ever seeing one before. :nixweiss:


Here's one on video            http://www.truveo.com/1985-HarleyDavidson-FXRC-Very-rare/id/2617288277
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: elvislee on July 23, 2008, 11:46:46 PM
Anyone got a photo of the "Candy Glide?"  George was telling me about this model when I called him on Saturday.  I don't recall ever seeing one before. :nixweiss:


Here's a couple of pics I found Pic #1...1985 FXRC "Candy Glide"
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: elvislee on July 23, 2008, 11:47:57 PM
Pic# 2...1985 FXRC "Candy Glide"



Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: elvislee on July 23, 2008, 11:49:22 PM
Last One...Pic# 3...1985 FXRC "Candy Glide"
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: Hoist! on July 23, 2008, 11:51:51 PM
Damn! Fairly recent pic with the TC in the background. That thing still looks basically stock! Beauty! :o

Love them hinged seats too! ;)

Hoist! 8)
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 24, 2008, 12:38:27 AM
Are there any books that cover the FXR in any detail?


103tHunDer.....

At the very beginning of this thread I have pointed out two different publishings that I used primarily for putting this little project together.  Also the use of a 1982 Enthusiast Winter Edition, as well as a 1999 Spring Enthusiast Edition was used for reference material. Along with other assorted information I have filed over the years.

Thank you for your kind words as well as everyone elses....the goal here is to see more photos of the presentations of these bikes....and hopefully if you ever find yourself in a discussion with someone about an FXR you can send them here for a reference tool. 

There just isn't that much written about these bikes which is great....hopefully this can serve to create a informative reflection for all of us.

Hey elvislee, that was a very cool video....hopefully it stays a "video" for years to come....exactly as I envisioned this thread to do....provide us all with pictures and information.....


Regards,

Tim
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: RedFXR2 on July 24, 2008, 07:50:38 AM
Here's one [Candy Glide] on video            http://www.truveo.com/1985-HarleyDavidson-FXRC-Very-rare/id/2617288277

That's a Candy Glide alright.  Right down to the brown stock seat.  Good find, Blaine. :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: RedFXR2 on July 24, 2008, 07:55:05 AM
Are there any books that cover the FXR in any detail?


I've never seen a book completely dedicated to the FXR but I have a couple that devote chapters to the bike.  One is Illustrated Buyers Guide to Harley Davidson since 1965 by Alan Girdler.  Another is Harley Davidson Evolution Motorcycles by Greg Field.
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: 110tHunDer on July 24, 2008, 07:56:38 AM
Here's one on video            http://www.truveo.com/1985-HarleyDavidson-FXRC-Very-rare/id/2617288277

Wow!  That's pretty cool! 8)
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 24, 2008, 03:10:15 PM
1982 FXR/FXRS Super Glide II:

As remembered by Mark Tuttle, “we got a lot of “negative” response to the triangular area under the seat, even though we had created what we were indeed after, a very stiff chassis, very neutral handling, and a really good lean angle, which resulted in a fair amount of ground clearance and a higher seat height, and while it was probably the best-handling Harley ever built, Unfortunately, it just wasn’t selling as well as the rigid mounts were”.  “Best handling” it was and still is, but the original FXR was a whole lot more, first, it was the best motorcycle Harley’s engineers knew how to or were allowed to build.  

Mark Tuttle, states that, “we found that other than a “handful” of riders, nobody was using that “capability” the market would, “rather have had lower seats and more of a low cruiser look than all that “handling capability”.

“IF” the original FXRS bike had started out as an “engineer’s bike”, in 1982, then in 1984 it could have just as easily been stated that the FXR was indeed “recast” into a “marketeer’s bike” with shorter shocks that took away some of that “ground clearance” and “lean angle” that had originally been engineered into it, in favor of a lower seat height that Harley’s marketers thought would revive it’s flagging sales.  

So here we have the "original" as you can see by the seperation of the rear fender and the tire, notice too the length of the shocks.....



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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: SBB on July 24, 2008, 03:17:59 PM

FXR2evo99

Not to dispute your information but I bought a brand new 1986 FXRC (red of course) off the showroom floor of Carolina Harley Davidson of Gastonia, NC. I wrote a check for $7,800.00 and rode it home. I have the bill of sale in the safe at home. I put a S&S 3 5/8 X 4 3/4 kit in it to become 98". It kicked ass, I only wish compression releases were available back then. With that stroke it was a bear to crank!

SBB

 :2vrolijk_21:

So I ask the same question.

I bought new, a 86 FXRC
Why is that not on your list?

 :nixweiss: :nixweiss: :nixweiss:
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 24, 2008, 03:42:09 PM
So I ask the same question.

I bought new, a 86 FXRC
Why is that not on your list?I


 :nixweiss:   :nixweiss:   :nixweiss:

Silver-Black,

 :oops:   :2vrolijk_21:

Did you by chance take a peek at "reply" #21 up above, I actually have acknowledged your position....Currently I am trying to figure out whether HD "officially" made the 86 FXRC Custom Low Glide a part of their literature for 1986 as being an "official" model for that calender year or whether HD simply took a "quieter" approach simply placing them on dealer's floors until the supply evaporated....also it would be great if you posted a photo of your bike I for one would appreciate it very much!!!!   Do you happen to know whether HD had such literature about your model ie: Sale's Literature.  Also if you take a peek back up at "reply" # 21  hardluk1 made mention that his was numbered on the dash was yours as well?  I am just curious.....I promise it GOES ON THE LIST....just trying to figure out how to "notate" it appropriately....Any background information you care to provide would be helpful as well.....

As always....thanks so much for your input....I hope that my comments in "reply" #21  aren't reflective of anything "negative" that's not my motivation....but when you have two of you guys communicating about your bikes it's obvious something is amiss with the "historical" data....as no previous printings make mention of 1986 being inclusive of the continued FXRC Custom Low Glide model....and it's obvious that both of you have one.....so you bet we will get this into "PROPER HISTORY"  seriously!!!

 :2vrolijk_21:

Regards,

Tim
   
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: RedFXR2 on July 24, 2008, 03:49:20 PM

I bought new, a 86 FXRC
Why is that not on your list?

I might have the answer.

From Illustrated Buyer's Guide Harley Davidson since 1965

[Chapter 8.  Talking about changes and models for 1985] ...The second half model for 1985 was the FXRC Low Glide, the C standing for Custom....The factory said the plan was to only make 1075 examples of the Custom while offering the chrome plating package as an option for the FLT and FLHT.  There's something of a puzzle here, because the Custom was reported as a good seller, while years later the package, as in the chrome plating and paint scheme, turned up on some 1986 FXRC Customs.  The model wasn't in the 1986 catalog so we can guess that selling the scheduled number of Customs took longer than expected.

So Chip, it appears that you could have bought new/owned a 1986 FXRC that,to HD, was sort of "off the books", since apparently HD regarded all FXRC's as 1985 models.

Hope this helps.
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: 110tHunDer on July 24, 2008, 04:03:38 PM
I might have the answer.

From Illustrated Buyer's Guide Harley Davidson since 1965

[Chapter 8.  Talking about changes and models for 1985] ...The second half model for 1985 was the FXRC Low Glide, the C standing for Custom....The factory said the plan was to only make 1075 examples of the Custom while offering the chrome plating package as an option for the FLT and FLHT.  There's something of a puzzle here, because the Custom was reported as a good seller, while years later the package, as in the chrome plating and paint scheme, turned up on some 1986 FXRC Customs.  The model wasn't in the 1986 catalog so we can guess that selling the scheduled number of Customs took longer than expected.

So Chip, it appears that you could have bought new/owned a 1986 FXRC that,to HD, was sort of "off the books", since apparently HD regarded all FXRC's as 1985 models.

Hope this helps.

Wow, lots of twists and turns to the history of the FXR. :o
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 24, 2008, 04:40:02 PM
103tHunDer and to all.....

You are correct for sure.....BUTTTTTTT that's what "we" all are personally after is "accurate" information along with personal opinions....
I also hope everyone and anyone will post their personal experiences as well, regarding their FXR's regardless of whether they own or do not own a FXR2 FXR3 or FXR4.

I am personally motivated by knowing about the accurate "HISTORY" of this model as I believe it will only enhance the enjoyment of all of our experiences.....I know how I feel when I get on my FXR2.  It simply feels special....I mean do you guys/gals realize just how comfortable these bikes are to ride.....have you ridden other models to know the difference? 

I am also interested in learning specifics about each of these model years as well and what better place to do so then through the experiences of owners here....

For example, the  model year of the 1999 FXR2, 1999 FXR3, 2000 FXR4 all used 2.925 final gearing.  I know that the 1994 year models had 3.15 gearing and that the 1993 year models had 3.37 gearing....but what about the other years.....1981 - 1992 what did they have?  It needs however to be accurate information....anything I have typed above can be changed if inaccurate....I truly believe we all desire the "facts" when it comes to "parts" and we also enjoy the "opinions" of where those "facts" take us......through our experiences....

Also I am interested in knowing about the axles for the 2000 FXR4 as they are different correct?  I know that the brake calipers were different but I am unsure of the axles....or whether that was an "important" improvement as well?

I also am interested in seeing photos of every model......aren't you guys and gals too?

Regards,


FXR2evo99

Tim

Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: SBB on July 24, 2008, 06:22:30 PM
I might have the answer.

From Illustrated Buyer's Guide Harley Davidson since 1965

[Chapter 8.  Talking about changes and models for 1985] ...The second half model for 1985 was the FXRC Low Glide, the C standing for Custom....The factory said the plan was to only make 1075 examples of the Custom while offering the chrome plating package as an option for the FLT and FLHT.  There's something of a puzzle here, because the Custom was reported as a good seller, while years later the package, as in the chrome plating and paint scheme, turned up on some 1986 FXRC Customs.  The model wasn't in the 1986 catalog so we can guess that selling the scheduled number of Customs took longer than expected.

So Chip, it appears that you could have bought new/owned a 1986 FXRC that,to HD, was sort of "off the books", since apparently HD regarded all FXRC's as 1985 models.

Hope this helps.


Cool!

As that movie said,

"Just the facts mam, just the fact!"

Thanks Red!

You are the source!

 :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: SBB on July 24, 2008, 08:28:48 PM



FXR2evo99

My apologies to you!
I did miss your response in post # 21.

I would have that FXRC today if it had not been so hard to crank.

It was a beautiful bike.

Thanks for posting all this FXR history. It will be a great reference!

 :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: WFP on July 24, 2008, 08:59:58 PM
Now you have me thinking about buying my friend's 1982 again!

/Bill
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: elvislee on July 24, 2008, 11:57:06 PM
103tHunDer and to all.....

For example I know that the model year of the 1999 FXR2 and FXR3 used 2.925 final gearing, I am not 100% sure about the FXR4's so someone here please tell me, I know that the 1994 year models had 3.15 gearing and that the 1993 year models had 3.37 gearing....but what about the other years.....1981 - 1992 what did they have?  It needs however to be accurate information....anything I have typed above can be changed if inaccurate....I truly believe we all desire the "facts" when it comes to "parts" and we also enjoy the "opinions" of where those "facts" take us......through our experiences....

Also I am interested in knowing about the axles for the 2000 FXR4 as they are different correct?  I know that the brake calipers were different but I am unsure of the axles....or whether that was an "important" improvement as well?

I also am interested in seeing photos of every model......aren't you guys and gals too?

Regards,


FXR2evo99

Tim



First...I don't know squat about a "final gearing". If one were to hit me in the nose I more than likely could only tell you it didn't feel good. I did go to my 2000 FXR4 Supplemental Service Manual and found that the FXR2/3 service manual was the point of reference for the "Drive" section of the FXR4 supplemental manual. The "Drive" section of the FXR2/3 Service Manual as many of you know states the final gearing of the FXR2/3 is 2.92; therefore, I guess the only conclusion is the final gear ratio for the 2000 FXR4 is 2.92...Kinda, Sorta, Maybe...

Will see what I can find on the axles later...
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 25, 2008, 03:02:42 PM
1989 FXRS-Conv Photo Below:

Total Sold 292  APRX $9,475.00

Quick Release Windshield; Padded Sissybar; Semirigid leather-and-nylon saddlebags, Taller Handlebars; Highway Pegs;
4.2 Gallon Tank
Seat Height 27.8"

Front Suspension:  
39 mm front forks,
according to reviews one questionable suspension feature is the bike's "air-assisted antidive" front fork, which is nothing more than air assisted springing such as some motocycles have had since the early 70's.  The problem is that if you pump the fork up with enough air to prevent dive, it becomes too stiff overall.  HD uses the air space inside the handlebar to increase the total volume of the fork, a hose connects the fork legs to a tap at the base of the bar.  The is done because the greater the volume of air being compressed, the less progressive the suspension travel, a desireable trait, in theory, if you want to prevent fork dive while retaining a comfortable slow-speed ride.  But in reality, the Convertible's air setting has to be so high that ride quality suffers.  It seems as reported in reviews that the suspension seemed to work best with 4 to 6 lbs of pressure in the fork, although that pressure anti-dive qualities are negligible. That air is fed, through a Schraeder valve in the end of the left handlebar grip.



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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: erniezap on July 25, 2008, 04:54:02 PM
While I'm not an FXR owner, this is a GREAT thread!
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 25, 2008, 05:05:15 PM
1985 FXRS Low Glide

According to reports one could call the 1985 FXRS Low Glide the most elaborate rider survey in HD History, a chance for riders to choose between style and function, the Marketing Department's image of what constitutes a popular motorcycle versus the Engineering Department's knowledge of what works.  Apparently in 1984 the shape of the FXRS Low Glide had been governed by the Marketing Department, and "inseam designing" quite literally had taken place at the expense of performance.  However, for 1985 Harley Davidson's first attempt at "niche" marketing made the FXRS Low Glide with the OPTION of "High Performance" ie: the first FXRS Low Glide with "Sport-bike suspension and serious brakes to match it's new Evolution Engine and belt drive.  Of course we all know that this was attempted earlier in 1982 with mixed reviews within the market place....Sales were poor in 1982 and 1983 seasons, and corporate number crunchers responded.  According to their research, the Super Glide's fatal flaw lay....that's right in the "inseam" it was just too tall!!!  In 1984 the FXRS was reborn as the Low Glide.  It lost a disc up front, and the suspension was shortened at both ends to haul the bike's saddle down to a profitable altitude.  Fork tubes were cut two inches with no loss in front axle movement, and a pair of Showa shocks with shorter bodies were fitted to the swing arm.  Although the new shocks reduced rear-wheel travel by .62 inch, and limited ground clearance, the Low Glide's seat now sat 1.3" closer to the pavement, putting it among the lowest at that time in the Harley Davidson fleet at 26.8".

The "fusion" of this retailored Low Glide along with the added bait of the evolution engine created struck pay dirt and sales soared, the marketing department glowed. Frustrated engineers who still clung to the "original" Super Glide dubbed the "TALL GLIDE" by insiders as the ideal handling motorcycle wondered did the Low Glide owe it's sudden popularity to the lowered seat or the evolution engine.  So without clear evidence, what happens in 1985 is a PAIR of Low Glides much like identical twins; visually alsmost undistinguishable, but with character and dispositions that set them apart from each other.  The "Standard Model" Low Glide benefits from the addition of two welcome technologies for 1985, the NEW oil-bath clutch and belt final drive.  For a mere $150.00 consumers had the option of selecting the factory-installed optional "Performance-Suspension Package" incorporating all the new hardware which added 10 lbs in weight, while transforming the "standard" FXRS Low Glide into a machine with a wholly different outlook on life.  

In 1985 the FXRS Low Glide received a new wet clutch, the starter was also relocated, the transmission moved a 1/2" to the right and the primary case reshaped to accomodate what would become standard issue on all 5 speed models in 1985 --- belt final drive.  The 1985 FXRS Low Glide is also given a pair of 11.5 inch discs up front.  The modified suspension units in front have two-inch-longer fork tubes and considerably softer spring and damping rates.  In back, longer shocks give the rear wheel .62 inch more travel and considerably more control.  The added ground clearance lets you literally feather the edges of the sticky tires before the footpeg begins folding up on the left and the front exhaust pipe touches down on the right.  At the time Harley readied its assembly lines for a production ratio of 4 or 5 "Standard" FXRS Low Glides for every "High Performance" packaged FXRS Low Glide.  

The 1985 FXRS Low Glide also came with 3.37 final gearing. 24T Compensating Sprocket 37T Clutch Shell Basket
35 mm front fork tubes
29.5" Seat Height with optional performance supsension package
7.3"   ground clearance with optional performance suspension package

$8,000 1985 FXRS Low Glide "standard edition"  
$8,149  1985 FXRS Low Glide w/ Optional Performance Suspsension Package

A total of 3,476 FXRS Low Glide Units were sold, I am not sure how many of this number ended up selling with the "Performance Package"



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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 25, 2008, 08:05:06 PM
1987 FXRS Low Rider
Speedometer and tac were mounted on the handlebar, the fuel gauge and single gas cap dead center in the tank.  Functional and altogether too modern. 



Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 25, 2008, 08:12:54 PM
1988 FXRS Low Rider

$9,245
black and chrome power plant
Gearing is 3.37 Final Gearing with a 24T Compensating Sprocket and a 37T Clutch Shell Basket with a 32T Transmission Pulley and a 70T Rear Wheel Sprocket
39mm front fork tubes
single disc front rotor with single piston caliper
Seat height 27.5"
Ground Clearance 5.3"
4.5 gallon Gas Tank
3.0 Oil Capacity
Once again Harley Riders preferred the look of twin-cap tanks harking back two generations. Thus the fuel filler is moved off-center to its proper historical position on the right side.  There of course is a "functional" basis for this, when the FXRS is parked on it's jiffy stand, the right-side cap makes filling easier and the tank itself has grown from 3.5 gallons to 4.5 gallons.  This year's speedometer and tachometer return to the tank as well, reproducing the uncluttered handlebar of the original '77 Low Rider.  The fuel gauge has been displaced  to an imagnative new position and becomes the tank's left "filler cap".  

Engineering changes for all 1988 FXR machines include 39mm forks, up from 35mm tubes offered on some of the previous years bikes, new cams with greater duration as well as lift are introduced as well creating an increase in horsepower for all models except the Calfornia models.  Convex mirrors are another line-wide change, along with a new "eyelet" clutch cable.  The new cable improves on what is already seen as one of the best mechanically actuated  clutches in motorcycling, the clutch cable's lever end features a large "eyelet" which slips around a nylon shaft fit through the lever.  The cable's adjusting mechanism, protected by an accordion-pleated boot, reels up slack from halfway downthe cable, not the "conventional location" at the lever itself.  This "eyelet" set up claimed to have longer cable life and a smoother functioning clutch actuation.

1988 FXRS-Sp  Low Rider Sport Edition:     photo below

Silver and Chrome Power Plant
Gearing is 3.37 Final Gearing with a 24T Compensating Sprocket and a 37T Clutch Shell Basket with a 32T Transmission Pulley and a 70T Rear Wheel Sprocket
39mm front fork tubes
dual Disc front rotors with single piston calipers
Seat height 28.5"

1) Featuring Front Dual-Disc system which stops the bike in 12% less distance.
2) Air-assisted suspension in combination with anti-dive brake valving.
Neither the anti-dive nor the air-assisted fork were new technology.  But the FXRS-Sp Low Rider Sport Edition combined them both in a "novel" way.  HD used a remote reservoir in addition to the fork legs.  The larger volume made adjustment more gradual, and lets the rise in pressure from fork compression, and the corresponding increase in fork stiffness, take place more smoothly.  HD used a electronic solenoid, actuated at the brake lever, to close off the air reservoir, thus reducing air volume to effectively "stiffen" springing while damping rates remain unchanged.  This simplified the fork mechanically, with air attending to two functions at once.  This year HD engineers wanted to simplify the system even further.  When the anti-dive first appeared on the FXRT Sport Glide in 1983, a spherical accumulator mounted behind the bike's fairing became the fork's remote air reservoir.  The FXRS-Sp Low Rider Sport Edition puts its tubular handlebar to work as the reservoir, with a Schrader valve protruding from its left end.  The bike's rear shocks have 0.7" more travel than a standard FXRS and the anti-dive gives the FXRS-Sp Low Rider Sport Edition a further boost in ride height.  Eventually of course the machince drags the same pieces as the standard FXRS Low Rider ie: footpegs, jiffy stand, frame tubes, but only with a much steeper angle of lean.  Compared to the standard FXRS Low Rider the FXRS-Sp Low Rider Sport Edition has 1.4" more wheelbase, is 1" taller at the saddle, and uses more rake and trail.  31 degrees/4.8" (versus 29 degrees/4.2").  The FXRS-Sp Low Rider Sport Edition fuel tank holds less fuel and it lacks the FXRS Low Rider's forward-set highway pegs.  The FXRS-Sp Low Rider Sport Edition also sports the "silver and chrome" power plant as compared to the FXRS Low Rider which features the "black and chrome" power plant.



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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 25, 2008, 08:25:18 PM
1993 FXLR Low Rider Custom

Chrome & Wrinkle Black Power Plant
Length   91.63"
Seat Height  26.5"
Ground Clearance 5.25"
Rake/Trail  29 degrees/4.66"
Wheelbase 63.13"
Dry Weight 575 lbs
Compression  8.5:1
Fuel Capacity 4.2 Gallons
Oil Capacity  3 qts
Primary Drive   Double-Row Chain  Final Gearing 3.37   24T Compensating Sprocket, 37T Clutch Shell Basket, 32T Transmission Pulley, 70T Rear Wheel Sprocket
Brakes  Single Disc
Wheels    Front  Laced
             Rear   Disc
Lean Angles   31 degrees right   32 degrees left
Speedometer With Odometer

Colors:
90th Anniversary  (SHOWN BELOW)
Vivid Black
Victory Red-Sun-Glo
Bright Wineberry Sun-Glo
Bright Aqua Sun-Glo
2-Tone Victory Red Sun-Glo
2-Tone Aqua Sun-Glo/Silver



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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 25, 2008, 08:31:51 PM
1993 FXRS-SP Low Rider Sport Edition

Chrome & Wrinkle Black Power Plant
Length 93.2"
Seat Height 27.5"
Ground Clearance 6.0"
Rake/Trail  31 degrees/4.82"
Wheelbase 64.7"
Compression 8.5:1
Dry Weight 585 lbs
Fuel Capacity 4.2 gallons
Oil Capacity  3 qts
Primary Drive   Double-Row Chain  Final Gearing 3.37   24T Compensating Sprocket, 37T Clutch Shell Basket, 32T Transmission Pulley, 70T Rear Wheel Sprocket
Brakes  11.5" Dual Disc Front   11.5" Single Disc Rear
Wheels    Front & Rear  9 Spoke Cast
Lean Angles   37 degrees right   35 degrees left
Speedometer With Odometer, Tacometer, Fuel Gauge

Colors:
Vivid Black
Victory Red-Sun-Glo
Bright Wineberry Sun-Glo
Bright Aqua Sun-Glo
2-Tone Victory Red Sun-Glo
2-Tone Aqua Sun-Glo/Silver


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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 25, 2008, 08:38:30 PM
1993 FXRS-CONV
Photo below does not display stock oem pipes  


Chrome & Wrinkle Black Power Plant
Length 93.2"
Seat Height 27.5"
Ground Clearance 6.0"
Rake/Trail  31 degrees/4.82"
Wheelbase 64.7"
Compression 8.5:1
Dry Weight 585 lbs
Fuel Capacity 4.2 gallons
Oil Capacity  3 qts
Primary Drive   Double-Row Chain  Final Gearing 3.37   24T Compensating Sprocket, 37T Clutch Shell Basket, 32T Transmission Pulley, 70T Rear Wheel Sprocket
Brakes  11.5" Dual Disc Front   11.5" Single Disc Rear
Wheels    Front & Rear  9 Spoke Cast
Lean Angles   37 degrees right   35 degrees left
Speedometer With Odometer, Tacometer, Fuel Gauge

Colors:
Vivid Black
Victory Red-Sun-Glo
Bright Wineberry Sun-Glo
Bright Aqua Sun-Glo
2-Tone Victory Red Sun-Glo
2-Tone Aqua Sun-Glo/Silver


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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 25, 2008, 08:51:18 PM
1993 FXR Super Glide

Polished Aluminum & Silver Wrinkle Power Plant
Length 91.63"
Seat Height 26.0"
Ground Clearance 5.25"
Rake/Trail  29 degrees/4.22"
Wheelbase 63.13"
Dry Weight 575 lbs
Compression 8.5:1
Fuel Capacity 4.2 gallons
Oil Capacity  3 qts
Primary Drive   Double-Row Chain  Final Gearing 3.37   24T Compensating Sprocket, 37T Clutch Shell Basket, 32T Transmission Pulley, 70T Rear Wheel Sprocket
Brakes  11.5" Single Disc Front   11.5" Single Disc Rear
Wheels    19" Front & 16" Rear 9 Spoke Black Painted Cast
Lean Angles   31 degrees right   32 degrees left
Speedometer With Odometer

Colors:
Vivid Black
Victory Red-Sun-Glo
Scarlet Red
Bright Aqua Sun-Glo
Mandarin Orange



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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 25, 2008, 09:37:31 PM
1994 FXR Super Glide

Polished Aluminum & Silver Wrinkle Power Plant
Length 91.63"
Seat Height 26.0"
Ground Clearance 5.25"
Rake/Trail  29 degrees/4.22"
Wheelbase 63.13"
Dry Weight 575 lbs
Compression 8.5:1
Fuel Capacity 4.2 gallons
Oil Capacity  3 qts
Primary Drive   Double-Row Chain  Final Gearing 3.15   25T Compensating Sprocket, 36T Clutch Shell Basket, 32T Transmission Pulley, 70T Rear Wheel Sprocket
Brakes  11.5" Single Disc Front   11.5" Single Disc Rear
Wheels    Front & Rear  9 Spoke Black Painted Cast
Lean Angles   31 degrees right   32 degrees left
Speedometer With Odometer

Colors:

Vivid Black
Victory Red-Sun-Glo
Aqua Pearl


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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 25, 2008, 09:38:07 PM
1994 FXLR Low Rider Custom

Chrome & Wrinkle Black Power Plant
Length 91.63"
Seat Height 26.5"
Ground Clearance 5.25"
Rake/Trail  29 degrees/4.66"
Wheelbase 63.13"
Dry Weight 575 lbs
Compression 8.5:1
Fuel Capacity 4.2 gallons
Oil Capacity  3 qts
Primary Drive   Double-Row Chain  Final Gearing 3.15   25T Compensating Sprocket, 36T Clutch Shell Basket, 32T Transmission Pulley, 70T Rear Wheel Sprocket
Brakes  11.5" Single Disc Front   11.5" Single Disc Rear
Wheels    21" Front Laced & 16" Rear Textured & Polished Disc
Lean Angles   31 degrees right   32 degrees left
Speedometer With Odometer

Colors:

Vivid Black
Victory Red-Sun-Glo
Aqua Pearl
2-Tone Victory Red Sun-Glo
2-Tone Aqua Pearl/Silver


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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: 110tHunDer on July 25, 2008, 10:51:57 PM
 
All these photos are awesome, Tim! :2vrolijk_21:  Do you actually have all of this documentation yourself? :nixweiss:  Unreal! :o
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 25, 2008, 11:14:50 PM
103tHunDer.....

Thanks...

Actually I do.....I just pulled the 1993 and 1994 FXR information out of the Sales Brochures I have for each of those years.

Regards,


Tim
FXR2evo99
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: 110tHunDer on July 25, 2008, 11:30:04 PM
 
That's incredible!  Thanks again for the thread.  I am amazed at how this model evolved and morphed over such a relatively short lifespan.  While I was already aware of some of the different configurations, you have pointed out many that I have never seen before and putting everything together here really shows just how versatile the FXR chassis was.  Great job!
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: elvislee on July 26, 2008, 12:13:08 AM

That's incredible!  Thanks again for the thread.  I am amazed at how this model evolved and morphed over such a relatively short lifespan.  While I was already aware of some of the different configurations, you have pointed out many that I have never seen before and putting everything together here really shows just how versatile the FXR chassis was.  Great job!


I agree with everything Brian said....You've put together in a short few days what I probably would never have thought about tryin to do...For us FXR guys/gals; the info you have provided IMHO is PRICELESS...DAMN GOOD JOB Tim!!!  8)
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: hardluk1 on July 26, 2008, 01:24:02 PM
FXR2evo99:
Here's one of the 86' FXRC's can't read the serial number, but its 0933/1250 in black paint.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l444/hardluk1/101_0084.jpg)
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: elvislee on July 26, 2008, 02:41:46 PM
Hay hardluk1, is the 86 FXRC yours? If so, could you post a full view pic or two of this bike?...Thanks... :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: RedFXR2 on July 26, 2008, 02:49:15 PM
FXR2evo99:
Here's one of the 86' FXRC's can't read the serial number, but its 0933/1250 in black paint.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l444/hardluk1/101_0084.jpg)


I notice that the plate says "1986 FXR Custom".  That clarifies how HD saw this model in 1986.  Even if it wasn't in the 1986 catalog of bikes, it was labeled by HD as a 1986.  Interesting.
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: hardluk1 on July 26, 2008, 04:19:32 PM
 Here is a picture of it if it stay's with it this . Don't pick on the guy holding the bike. This a  86 fxr c by the vin. I took some of the gold trim pieces off and powder coated the console and some other parts. Mileage was only 5800 when i bought it a couple months ago and  have been changeing and up grading slowly have a 65 t rear pully on now.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l444/hardluk1/101_0083.jpg)
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 28, 2008, 02:10:17 PM
Hardluk1....

Thank you for posting the photo of your 1986 FXRS Custom. 

Regards,

Tim
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 28, 2008, 02:12:52 PM
1982 FXR Super Glide II   (Customized)



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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 28, 2008, 02:14:13 PM
1982 FXR Super Glide II  Shovel Engine


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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 28, 2008, 02:16:40 PM
1984 FXRT Sport Glide


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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 28, 2008, 02:17:42 PM
1984 FXRT Sport Glide (Engine Close Up)


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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 28, 2008, 02:18:18 PM
1984 FXRT Sport Glide (Fairing)


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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 28, 2008, 02:19:26 PM
1984 FXRT Sport Glide (Close Up Inside Fairing)



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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 28, 2008, 02:20:15 PM
1984 FXRT Sport Glide (Front View)


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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 28, 2008, 02:20:58 PM
1984 FXRT Sport Glide (Left Side View)



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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 28, 2008, 02:21:58 PM
1984 FXRT Sport Glide (Left Side Engine View)


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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 28, 2008, 02:22:47 PM
1984 FXRT Sport Glide (Rear View)



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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 28, 2008, 02:57:23 PM
1989 FXRS-SP Low Rider Sport Edition

notice the after market SuperTrapp 2-1 Exhaust



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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 28, 2008, 02:58:48 PM
1989 FXRS-SP Low Rider Sport Edition  (handlebar view)



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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 28, 2008, 03:01:48 PM
1991 FXR Super Glide


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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 28, 2008, 03:02:51 PM
1991 FXR Super Glide
I really like the "tank" graphics for the 1991 FXR Super Glide's



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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 28, 2008, 03:06:51 PM
1992 FXRS-CONV  



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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 28, 2008, 03:07:14 PM
1992 FXRS-CONV (Handlebar View)



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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 28, 2008, 03:07:59 PM
1992 FXRS-CONV (Without Saddlebags)


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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on July 28, 2008, 03:08:50 PM
1992 FXRS-CONV (With Saddlebags)

Showing Convertible Saddle Bag Part Numbers:
90703-89 right saddle bag
90702-89 left saddlebag
90706-89 left "raincoat" <~~~is what HD calls them in parts book
90708-89 right "raincoat" <~~~is what HD calls them in parts book



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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on August 01, 2008, 06:29:29 PM
1992 FXRS Low Rider

One of the cool aspects of these next 4 photos was that these were taken outside of the WI HD plant....
The FXRS Low Rider's last year was 1992.




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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on August 01, 2008, 06:29:58 PM
1992 FXRS Low Rider


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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on August 01, 2008, 06:30:58 PM
1992 FXRS Low Rider



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Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on August 01, 2008, 06:31:53 PM
1992 FXRS Low Rider

It is the 1988 - 1992 FXRS Low Rider Model that has the same tank panel & instrument housing as the 1999 FXR2's & 1999 FXR3's, with the only difference being of course the 1988 - 1992 FXRS Low Rider's tank panel and instrument housing was finished in "wrinkle black". The FXR4's have a similar tank panel however the FXR4's featured an electronic speedometer/odometer thus they did not have a "manual" knob to reset the odometer.




[NOTE: Please remember that putting your curser next to the paper clip icon below the photo will allow you to enlarge the photo plus save it to your computer if you desire OR if you merely wish to see it enlarged simply put your curser on the photo and "LEFT" click and it will enlarge]
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: elvislee on August 03, 2008, 11:18:50 AM
1985 FXRC "Candy Glide" Side Pic - 1

If anyone has the ability to enlarge these pics without all the blurring; please do this if you will and then e-mail them to me so I can re-post...e-mail address is in my profile...Thanks Folks  :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: elvislee on August 03, 2008, 11:19:55 AM
1985 FXRC "Candy Glide" Side Pic - 2
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: elvislee on August 03, 2008, 11:21:55 AM
1985 FXRC "Candy Glide" Front Pic - 3
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: elvislee on August 03, 2008, 11:22:56 AM
1985 FXRC "Candy Glide" Rear Pic - 4
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on August 03, 2008, 02:43:26 PM
Elvislee....

Thanks for posting the photos of the 85' "Candy Glide" I know historically that many didn't seem to like this particular color but I would certainly enjoying seeing it in person before making my final decision....It seems quite appealing from all of the photos presented above and even earlier in this thread.....and there weren't many of them made!

Regards,

Tim
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: Hoist! on August 03, 2008, 03:23:57 PM
Elvislee....

Thanks for posting the photos of the 85' "Candy Glide" I know historically that many didn't seem to like this particular color but I would certainly enjoying seeing it in person before making my final decision....It seems quite appealing from all of the photos presented above and even earlier in this thread.....and there weren't many of them made!

Regards,

Tim

Vern has a customer with one that he's serviced since new. Guy still has it. It's one of thos models that either you really love the color scheme or hate it. Ya'll probably know where I stand on that! ::) ;D ;)

Hoist! 8)
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: 110tHunDer on August 03, 2008, 04:12:57 PM
Vern has a customer with one that he's serviced since new. Guy still has it. It's one of thos models that either you really love the color scheme or hate it. Ya'll probably know where I stand on that! ::) ;D ;)

Hoist! 8)

LOL, yeah, we know how you feel about anything that's not black! ;) ;D
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: Hoist! on August 03, 2008, 04:20:17 PM
LOL, yeah, we know how you feel about anything that's not black! ;) ;D


Hey man, gimme a break! I'm looking for a Blue 3, and I'm gonna keep it Blue too! How do ya like them apples! :P ;D ;)

But don't expect me to leave it stock. As you know, I'm one to make these things riders, not collectibles. I know it needs Traxxion/bitubos, PM DB calipers, Flanders street bars with 6" risers, ME tires, hmm, what else?














A little help with the motor!!! :huepfenjump3: :huepfenjump3: :huepfenjump3:

Hoist! 8)
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: 110tHunDer on August 03, 2008, 04:24:41 PM
 
Hey man, gimme a break! I'm looking for a Blue 3, and I'm gonna keep it Blue too! How do ya like them apples! :P ;D ;)

But don't expect me to leave it stock. As you know, I'm one to make these things riders, not collectibles. I know it needs Traxxion/bitubos, PM DB calipers, Flanders street bars with 6" risers, ME tires, hmm, what else?














A little help with the motor!!! :huepfenjump3: :huepfenjump3: :huepfenjump3:

Hoist! 8)

You won't know just HOW BAD it needs the Traxxion/Bitubo treatment until you ride one. :shocked2:  The amount of dive in the front forks is incredible.  It'll be the first one of my bikes that I do . . . hopefully, sometime next spring.
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: Hoist! on August 03, 2008, 04:41:31 PM

You won't know just HOW BAD it needs the Traxxion/Bitubo treatment until you ride one. :shocked2:  The amount of dive in the front forks is incredible.  It'll be the first one of my bikes that I do . . . hopefully, sometime next spring.


Hey Brian, all HD forks need em, especially narrow glides! ;)

BTW, the FXR3 have a standard ht. or lowered suspension? I was hoping it uses the 13's (13.5? :confused5:) in the rear. Ya know how it comes stock? Pics look like Profile shocks in the rear. Thanks! :2vrolijk_21:

Hoist! 8)
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: 110tHunDer on August 03, 2008, 09:28:47 PM
 
Good eye, buddy!  Profile low shocks in the rear, stock FXR up front! :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: Hoist! on August 03, 2008, 10:02:05 PM

Good eye, buddy!  Profile low shocks in the rear, stock FXR up front! :2vrolijk_21:


Thanks, Good excuse to use the taller bitubos with the AK-20! :2vrolijk_21: ;)

Hoist! 8)
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: Reddog74usa on August 06, 2008, 10:37:11 PM
Talk about versitile. Heres mine, 87 FXRS notice anything different
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: 110tHunDer on August 06, 2008, 11:00:51 PM
Talk about versitile. Heres mine, 87 FXRS notice anything different

Holy crap!  Sqeezed a TC in there, eh?!? :o
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: Hoist! on August 06, 2008, 11:04:04 PM
Talk about versitile. Heres mine, 87 FXRS notice anything different

Wow! What a first post!!! Very cool job! :2vrolijk_21: :2vrolijk_21: :2vrolijk_21:

Welcome aboard from another FXR owner!!! ::) ;D ;D ;)

Hoist! 8)
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: 110tHunDer on August 06, 2008, 11:06:22 PM
Wow! What a first post!!! Very cool job! :2vrolijk_21: :2vrolijk_21: :2vrolijk_21:

Welcome aboard from another FXR owner!!! ::) ;D ;D ;)

Hoist! 8)

Howie, time to update the list of bikes under the avatar! ;)
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: Hoist! on August 06, 2008, 11:07:32 PM
Howie, time to update the list of bikes under the avatar! ;)


Oh yeah Brian!!! :2vrolijk_21:

I was too busy registering my new bike in the Blue 3 FXR Registry!!! ;)

Hoist! 8)
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: spydglide on August 06, 2008, 11:49:15 PM
Talk about versitile. Heres mine, 87 FXRS notice anything different
Very nice... :2vrolijk_21:...we've got to know more.... 8)...details, details.  har!  spyder
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on August 07, 2008, 02:53:13 AM
Reddog74usa,

Welcome, and thanks coming over to the site and for posting a photo of your bike, you have an audience waiting to hear what you have done ie: Twin Cam engine being placed into your FXR.....we all look forward to hearing about it....

Regards,


Tim
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: strat94 on August 09, 2008, 03:05:18 PM
just got her 1990 fxrs with 6700 miles
Title: Re: HISTORY OF THE FXR
Post by: FXR2evo99 on August 09, 2008, 04:09:47 PM
Strat94.....

CONGRATULATIONS!!!! .....thanks for posting and welcome to this wonderful site.....hey...when the dust settles....ok...actually "soon" lol when time allows please come back and post about the specifics of your bike....since you have a 1990 FXRS, I would like to know if it's a 1990 FXRS Low Rider or a 1990 FXRS-SP Low Rider Sport Edition. You have the vin# of course and you can always contact Harley Davidson's Customer Service number and provide the vin# and they can tell you the exact model you have, if you don't actually know...just giving you some options if you have no idea....So if you were provided any literature about the bike....sharing with us the following information will definitely add to the History of the FXR:

Uh huh you thought this was going to be easy.....but the only way to make this "HISTORY" more valuable to us all is telling us what you know....lol [I am sort of teasing here, just to be clear]....but do tell us about the bike, I sure want to know more about it...and whom better to learn from, than from an actual owner.....even if you have no clue you can always come in and EDIT your post above and keep filling in information......

Type of engine whether wrinkle black and chrome or polished or whether it is Polished Aluminum & Silver Wrinkle Power Plant
Length
Seat Height
Ground Clearance
Rake/Trail   degrees/
Wheelbase
Dry Weight
Fuel Capacity
Oil Capacity 
Primary Drive   What gearing do you have  ie: what tooth size Compensating Sprocket, tooth size Clutch Shell Basket, tooth size Transmission Pulley, tooth size Rear Wheel Sprocket

Brakes  11.5" Single Disc Front   11.5" Single Disc Rear
Wheels    ?" Front & 16" Rear what finish
Lean Angles    degrees right   degrees left
what instrumentation do you have.....

Of course what you know about the bike being stock.....

So tell us about the bike...it's always fun to hear how you found it, why you chose it, how you found this website of course we are all glad you are here....there are some nice people here for sure.....

Since you have a 1990 model you could help someone else when it's time for them to decide what to purchase.....for example did you choose the year and model for specific reasons....or perhaps you just purchased a bike and now you know you have an FXR....

Thanks for anything you want to add....

Regards,

Tim
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: strat94 on August 09, 2008, 11:58:53 PM
Thank tim.
She's a 1990 fxrs lowrider convertible 80 ci. 1340 stock engine. I put on screaming eagle slip-on pipes she runs and sounds awesome. In the other picture I took off the windsheld and sadlebags. I'm really gald I found this site.
Got to go for now but I will be back soon!
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on August 10, 2008, 02:08:42 AM
Strat94,

Awesome! I just love it when we get the full name of someone's bike that owns it.....AHHHHHH YES....the CONVERTIBLE....for some reason HD originally labeled this bike in 1990 as a:

1990 FXRS-Conv. Low Rider Convertible   (and yes originally it had a "period" later in 1993 the last year for the bike it became the FXRS-CONV Low Rider Convertible

Anyway as you will notice if you care to click below on the following link, I too invested into some "Convertible" Saddlebags for my FXR2, it was quite the project but well worth it.....a BIT OF THE OLD SCHOOL.... <smiles>  :jalapeno:

CLICK HERE:   ADDITION OF LEATHER FXRSC-CONV SADDLEBAGS (http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php?topic=29535.0;all)

How long have you owned your bike, I ask because if you just purchased it you might not be aware of this, don't ask me how I know...lol.....but at the location of attachment for the 3 knobs of the saddlebags...turn the knobs absolutely as tight as you can....it's a rubber grommet that fits into the cylinder that when you "crank" it, it causes the "rubber" to expand into the hole which causes the rubber to secure itself against the inside wall round cylinder recepticles.....you can't over tighten and you won't strip them out....they will crank to the the maximum tightness but you won't strip out anything....BUT make sure they are absolutely tight.....just so you know those bags are valuable....they aren't making them anymore.....they are OBSOLETE!!! so take care of them and make sure when you are using them that you perodically check to make sure they are absolutely tight....again don't ask me how I know.....

 :oops:

Oh and if you can post "larger" photos.....so we get a good view of your bike....show it off....lol....the file that you are down loading can be up to 1500 kb.....so if you are resizing your photos that's all you need to bring them down to.....and what's great about this website/forum you don't run out of photo space.....well at least not yet...lol I suppose that could always change in the future....

Regards,

Tim
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: 86LibertyFXR on August 11, 2008, 02:55:06 PM
This is a great topic, and quite informative.  I found and bought a 1986 FXR Liberty Edition about three months ago.  I've owned older and newer Harleys, this is my first on the FXR platform, and now I realize I missed out by not owning one sooner.

In my effort to keep this bike as original as possible (I'm the second owner, but learning my bike had been changed around some) I've found photos of other Liberty FXR's and there is a photo of one inside the AMEX in Chicago when Harley went public in late '85.  It would appear the Liberty had spoke wheels (mine has cast) and being an RS should have dual discs.  Mine is single disc and one other bike I found is single disc, yet another has a dual disc front end.  Yes, I've already replaced the Sporty air box.  The P.O. had equipped it with a CV carb and manifold set up. 

Does anyone know if all 744 units would have been equipped the same?

   
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: 86LibertyFXR on August 11, 2008, 02:58:21 PM
Here's the '86 Liberty w/ dual discs
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: 86LibertyFXR on August 11, 2008, 03:00:03 PM
And one with single front discs.

None of the three appear to be "factory original" which is pretty much par for the course for most Evos.  ;)
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Hoist! on August 11, 2008, 03:32:03 PM
This is a great topic, and quite informative.  I found and bought a 1986 FXR Liberty Edition about three months ago.  I've owned older and newer Harleys, this is my first on the FXR platform, and now I realize I missed out by not owning one sooner.

In my effort to keep this bike as original as possible (I'm the second owner, but learning my bike had been changed around some) I've found photos of other Liberty FXR's and there is a photo of one inside the AMEX in Chicago when Harley went public in late '85.  It would appear the Liberty had spoke wheels (mine has cast) and being an RS should have dual discs.  Mine is single disc and one other bike I found is single disc, yet another has a dual disc front end.  Yes, I've already replaced the Sporty air box.  The P.O. had equipped it with a CV carb and manifold set up. 

Does anyone know if all 744 units would have been equipped the same?

   

First off, welcome to this great site from another FXR owner! ;D :2vrolijk_21:

Hard to see from the pic, but I don't see the caliper mounting boss on the right fork leg for a second caliper. A dual disc arrangement requires a master with a bore for dual discs, a single brakline from it to a tee splitting off to both calipers, bosses on both fork legs, and a wheel with dual hubs to mount both rotors. I doubt he modified all that. It's not unusual for HD to change design mid-model year. I'm not an expert on what came with what, but it doesn't appear that bike was setup for dual front brakes. The PO went thru a lot of trouble to remove any semblance of dual front brakes if he changed it out. Chances are it never had them. ;)

Enjoy your new ride and this great site!!! :huepfenjump3:

Hoist! 8)

Added:

Yours seem to have a taller front suspension. I'll let the FXR history buffs try this. There were might have been some different FXR '86 Liberty Edition Models that had different setups, is one guess.

The second one appears to have had the front end apart and modified. Note the reflector bosses taken out of them. They're smooth. While they were apart, he could've added the second brake setup then. And a big ole rear suspension. That bike's been modifed some. So no standard dual disc is my other guess! ;)
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: 86LibertyFXR on August 11, 2008, 08:52:49 PM
First off, welcome to this great site from another FXR owner! ;D :2vrolijk_21:

Hard to see from the pic, but I don't see the caliper mounting boss on the right fork leg for a second caliper. A dual disc arrangement requires a master with a bore for dual discs, a single brakline from it to a tee splitting off to both calipers, bosses on both fork legs, and a wheel with dual hubs to mount both rotors. I doubt he modified all that. It's not unusual for HD to change design mid-model year. I'm not an expert on what came with what, but it doesn't appear that bike was setup for dual front brakes. The PO went thru a lot of trouble to remove any semblance of dual front brakes if he changed it out. Chances are it never had them. ;)

Enjoy your new ride and this great site!!! :huepfenjump3:

Hoist! 8)

Added:

Yours seem to have a taller front suspension. I'll let the FXR history buffs try this. There were might have been some different FXR '86 Liberty Edition Models that had different setups, is one guess.

The second one appears to have had the front end apart and modified. Note the reflector bosses taken out of them. They're smooth. While they were apart, he could've added the second brake setup then. And a big ole rear suspension. That bike's been modifed some. So no standard dual disc is my other guess! ;)

Great catch on the aftermarket lower legs on the first comparison bike I posted.  On page 287 of "The Big Book Of Harley-Davidson" by Tom Bolfort, Rich Teerlink is seated on a Liberty FXR with Vaughn Beals over his shoulder reading the ticker tape in the American Stock Exchange.  On this bike, it has laced wheels and is a single disc front end.  Also, reading the orginal author's information posted in this thread, it sounds as if the Liberty was based on the lower trim level FXRS.  I think it may have also had the higher suspension, I need to re-read the original post to figure that out.

The history of my bike is pretty simple.  It was part of C & C Harley-Davidson's (Tulsa, Ok. now Rte. 66 H-D) 1986 allotment.  The story as I have is it was stolen from C & C by a fellow who came in to test ride it.  Somehow, it was located in Arkansas a year later.  Once it was recovered, one of the mechanics bought the bike and kept it till last year.  Apparently, he fell on hard times, used the bike to collateralize a loan with his credit union and it got repo'd.  I "knewish" the guy about 7-8 years ago, but have no idea where he is today.  I've also known the previous owner of C & C and am going to try and get ahold of him to see if he might still have any of the original documentation from when the bike was ordered or any of the series documents (i.e. bike # of 744 built).

I also trolled the internet this afternoon and found more for sale ads for comparison photos.  A random sampling shows an "all original" with a Fat Boy front end and fender, another with the cast wheels, and one which was painted in a Pink Floyd theme.

To better understand why I'm a little nutty about "originality" on this bike is there were only 744 made.   Doesn't necessarily make it worth vastly more than other FXR's of the day right now, but then again, who ever thought a 1971 Superglide would be worth more with the boat tail, or the '77 XLCR cafe racer or '83 XR-1000 would ever be highly sought-after collectibles?  ;)  Other obvious items on this I've figured out is it should be an "all-blonde" engine.  The jugs and rocker boxes have been painted black and it's got the Ness-Tech plastic side covers. 

In addition to a Heritage Softail, I've owned a (in no particular order) 1965 Electra-Glide, 1957 FLH, 1945 UL police bike, 1945 EL Knucklehead, several 1942 WLA's, three 1942 XA shaft drives, 1965 Servicar, 1957 XLA military issue Sportster, and a number of Hummer and Aeromacci varients, and many different bikes that I flipped too quick to remember.  I've got a 1948 125cc Hummer and a 1962 XLCH Sportster project.  So, I do get wrapped up in the originality aspect or "period custom" aspect of older Harleys. 

I have a lot of respect for Alan Girdler and Greg Field and their research, but their work is not infallible, nor the final word.  Especially when some Harley model years were rolling prototypes.

I'm going to keep an eye out for a very good deal on an FXR 2, 3, or 4.  I'm hooked on this chassis now.  Here's another with cast wheels:

Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: SEFXR4 on August 11, 2008, 10:04:47 PM
Thank's the FXR history you provided is awesome.
Gregg
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on August 12, 2008, 12:54:35 AM
86LibertyFXR~~~ I have a lot of respect for Alan Girdler and Greg Field and their research, but their work is not infallible, nor the final word.  Especially when some Harley model years were rolling prototypes.

Welcome to the site and thanks for adding to the "theme" of this thread, ie: FXR HISTORY.  I/We appreciate your reflections and your passion.  Congratulations on your purchase at the beginning of summer. 

As for keeping your eye out for an FXR2, FXR3, or FXR4 don't say that too "loudly" in here....people will find you one....lol we have had two great guys purchase two FXR3's and "Blue" ones at that within the past 14 days!  There is a great thread that's been going for awhile to prove my point: "Value Of A 1999 FXR2" that thread has taken on a life of it's own....lol..you mention you want an FXR2, FXR3, or FXR4 over there and lol watch out....lol

I am interested in your comment ".....Especially when some Harley model years were rolling prototypes......"  I am a bit lost what you are trying to communicate.....perhaps you can offer some further insight into this....great to read what you are thinking....

There really isn't any "HISTORY" on the FXR, basically any that's been offered has merely been paragraphs leading to some times a chapter and in some cases perhaps a couple of chapters within the bigger story of Harley Davidson.  Time will tell whether the interest in these bikes will become more focused and passionate or whether it will simply be just another model along the long lines of other models of motorcycles that have been offered for sale.  At the end of the day there have been 73 different models offered through the 15 years of production.  Given that the first year and the final years of 1999 and 2000 most likely produced 8,820 FXR's sandwiched between 13 more years of production, one might take a gander and say that there were another 75,000 bikes made inclusive of the FXRP Police "Pursuit Glides" for a total of aproximately what, say.....84,000 FXR's bikes created.  It's these bike owners that will determine what History says about this bike....and it's these bike owners that are creating memories and journies every day.....that's why each person's input and understanding of these bikes and what they are about are in my opinion important to creating those "lasting" memories....

It's amazing when you think about it....so thanks for offering your insights and your thoughts and I hope you will continue to do so just as so many are doing now.......and let other's know if they have something to offer to jump in.....

Personally I believe the FXR will have a resurgance....especially when Harley Davidson begins the journey into the water cooled engine......there will always be room for a wonderful bike that handles and cruises our highways.....let me see....hmmmm ok, I think I will take 2 of those 900 lbs ultras please....vs a 560 lb FXR....As our population ages....they will need LIGHTER BIKES....lol....guys are giving up their ULTRA's all the time for lighter bikes....so they can keep riding.....I mean what is HD thinking of allowing a bike to go out the door at 900 lbs....with an aging population....and just wait, see what they weigh with another 60 lbs worth of water pumps, hoses, antifreeze, and so forth and so on....oh wait a minute....60 more lbs would equal 960 lbs....with NO passenger or luggage.....lol....were talking SMALL VW...lol but that's the wrong symbol.

LET THE HISTORY CONTINUE!!!!!!!

Regards,

Tim
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Hoist! on August 12, 2008, 12:57:37 AM
Great catch on the aftermarket lower legs on the first comparison bike I posted.  On page 287 of "The Big Book Of Harley-Davidson" by Tom Bolfort, Rich Teerlink is seated on a Liberty FXR with Vaughn Beals over his shoulder reading the ticker tape in the American Stock Exchange.  On this bike, it has laced wheels and is a single disc front end.  Also, reading the orginal author's information posted in this thread, it sounds as if the Liberty was based on the lower trim level FXRS.  I think it may have also had the higher suspension, I need to re-read the original post to figure that out.

The history of my bike is pretty simple.  It was part of C & C Harley-Davidson's (Tulsa, Ok. now Rte. 66 H-D) 1986 allotment.  The story as I have is it was stolen from C & C by a fellow who came in to test ride it.  Somehow, it was located in Arkansas a year later.  Once it was recovered, one of the mechanics bought the bike and kept it till last year.  Apparently, he fell on hard times, used the bike to collateralize a loan with his credit union and it got repo'd.  I "knewish" the guy about 7-8 years ago, but have no idea where he is today.  I've also known the previous owner of C & C and am going to try and get ahold of him to see if he might still have any of the original documentation from when the bike was ordered or any of the series documents (i.e. bike # of 744 built).

I also trolled the internet this afternoon and found more for sale ads for comparison photos.  A random sampling shows an "all original" with a Fat Boy front end and fender, another with the cast wheels, and one which was painted in a Pink Floyd theme.

To better understand why I'm a little nutty about "originality" on this bike is there were only 744 made.   Doesn't necessarily make it worth vastly more than other FXR's of the day right now, but then again, who ever thought a 1971 Superglide would be worth more with the boat tail, or the '77 XLCR cafe racer or '83 XR-1000 would ever be highly sought-after collectibles?  ;)  Other obvious items on this I've figured out is it should be an "all-blonde" engine.  The jugs and rocker boxes have been painted black and it's got the Ness-Tech plastic side covers. 

In addition to a Heritage Softail, I've owned a (in no particular order) 1965 Electra-Glide, 1957 FLH, 1945 UL police bike, 1945 EL Knucklehead, several 1942 WLA's, three 1942 XA shaft drives, 1965 Servicar, 1957 XLA military issue Sportster, and a number of Hummer and Aeromacci varients, and many different bikes that I flipped too quick to remember.  I've got a 1948 125cc Hummer and a 1962 XLCH Sportster project.  So, I do get wrapped up in the originality aspect or "period custom" aspect of older Harleys. 

I have a lot of respect for Alan Girdler and Greg Field and their research, but their work is not infallible, nor the final word.  Especially when some Harley model years were rolling prototypes.

I'm going to keep an eye out for a very good deal on an FXR 2, 3, or 4.  I'm hooked on this chassis now.  Here's another with cast wheels:



Nice to have another enthusiast on board here 86! :2vrolijk_21:

I hear ya on restoring it. But if you're gonna use it as a rider, it doen't matter too much as long as you don't destroy the original look. If you want to upgrade to dual discs, that would be the time to do it with a 39mm Front End too. Find one on EBay. You can always save your original 35mm Front End. Any dual disc 39mm will work, even from Dynas! ;)

Hoist! 8)
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on August 12, 2008, 01:05:36 AM
greg4648,

HEY CONGRATS on your new FXR4, it appears to be the tangerine....we all will look forward to seeing photos of it....and we look forward to you jumping in with us all here as well.....

I for one am interested in hearing how you found this site, how you found your FXR4, and why you chose an FXR to begin with....and then deciding upon an FXR4. 

Regards,

Tim
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Hoist! on August 12, 2008, 01:06:16 AM

inclusive of the FXRP Police "Pursuit Glides"

LET THE HISTORY CONTINUE!!!!!!!

Regards,

Tim

Funny you mention that Tim. Have you seen the newest CVOHarley Member today?

He's"F-X-R-P"  ;D ;)

http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php?action=profile;u=6383

Welcome F-X-R-P! Hope you find us here! :huepfenjump3:

Hoist! 8)
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Hoist! on August 12, 2008, 04:42:38 PM
Tim, check out this link if you haven't already. Might find some more interesting stuff on FXR History! :2vrolijk_21:

http://www.hdfxr.dk/public/FXR/FXRHistory.aspx

Hoist! 8)
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on August 12, 2008, 07:28:15 PM
Howie,

Thanks....for posting that Howie,

I have seen that website before....I kept finding myself wanting more information whenever I went to the website a few years ago.....he has done a great job with what he did and probably lost a little interest in adding to it since he sold his FXR a few years back.....His FXDX looks very cool.....

It goes to show you that the FXR captured the "worlds' imagination.....

I think I am finally beginning to capture the "mindset" of Corporate HD for the emergence of the FXR as I am rather amazed how the motor company tried to take the company in one direction but the "American Consumer" kept "drawing" HD back to the "drawing board".  It's been said that HD moves quite "slowly" with their changes, knowing that their "consumer" is resistant to change....well of course that statement could be said of any "consumer". But can you imagine HD having nearly 30 years ago finding themselves at the cross roads of a water cooled engine, and at the last minute when 13 excutives had their chips on the table, when a choice was clearly in need they sided with what they knew to be the heart of their product.

I have added more information at the very beginning of this discussion dealing with the "NOVA" project, while I was aware of this "project" and saw it as seperate from the emergence of the FXR, the bottom line of course is, it's but a tangled web we weave, it's true, if the motor company had been convinced that HD's more direct profit could have been arrived from the "NOVA" project the look and feel of HD today would/might be very different today and into the clear and unknown future.  Given that the NOVA was a "water cooled" direct drive power plant, whose to say whether we would have benefited or not, but what we do know is that as we do take a look back, the FXR indeed emerged and 26 years later here we are embracing that history with our present and future memories.....realizing that in the end HD's best chassis/frame to date has come and gone from production, while heavier bikes and different frames perhaps now prepare for tomorrow's highways with the sweet flavor of antifreeze.....

But really isn't this what the harley experience is all about.....give us a dependable and functioning bike....without all the technology we face today in our daily lives and allow our minds to wander into the pleasures our eyes bring to us as we manage to see this country from 26" to 30" off the ground as compared to 38,000 feet....where life takes on the journey along the back roads of this fabulous country.  Wouldn't you agree, it's this bikes generation that has made this possible, wasn't it considered the evolution engine that created the dependability we longed for to allow our adventures to move from the the landscapes of a magazine to the sunsets behind our backs as we pull into the motel of our choice......

And it's quite alright if you want to get there a half hour to an hour before me.....the key is we get there.....and fortunately for us....with the FXR we will arrive comfortable and energized for the very next adventure....always excited and enthusiastic about tomorrows smiles and grins.....

Just call me a "traditionalist" on the cutting edge of what is practical and long lasting.

Regards,

Tim

Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Hoist! on August 12, 2008, 07:37:45 PM
Howie,

Thanks....for posting that Howie,

I have seen that website before....I kept finding myself wanting more information whenever I went to the website a few years ago.....he has done a great job with what he did and probably lost a little interest in adding to it since he sold his FXR a few years back.....His FXDX looks very cool.....

It goes to show you that the FXR captured the "worlds' imagination.....I think we finally have captured the "mindset" of Corporate HD for the emergence of the FXR. 

I am rather amazed how the motor company tried to take the company in one direction but the "American Consumer" kept "drawing" HD back to the "drawing board".  I have added more information at the very beginning of this discussion dealing with the "NOVA" project, while I was aware of this and saw it as seperate from the emergence of the FXR, the bottom line of course is that it's true that if the motor company had been convinced that HD's more direct profit could have been arrived from the "NOVA" project the look and feel of HD today would/might be very different today and into the clear and unknown future.  Given that the NOVA was a "water cooled" direct drive power plant, whose to say whether we would have benefited or not, but what we do know is that as we do take a look back, the FXR indeed emerged and 26 years here we are embracing that history with our present and future memories.....realizing that in the end HD's best frame to date has come and gone, while heavier bikes and different frames perhaps now prepare for tomorrow's highways with the sweet flavor of antifreeze.....
Regards,

Tim

I remember djkak talking about that and posted pics somewhere here too. Too bad he's not here. He's unreal with the HD little unknown pieces of the puzzle. That man was a walking HD encyclopeadia! :2vrolijk_21:

Man I miss that guy. Where'd he go? :nixweiss:

Hoist! 8)
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: triumphleroy on August 13, 2008, 08:33:07 PM
Brand new to this board and probably starting out in wrong spot but I rode  the FXR for a mighty long time. Been riding since 1948,started on a Doodle-Bug scooter then (still have it).Rode ridgid frame preunit Triumph most of my youth (still have those). But there is in my opinion no finer riding bike than an FXR. Put 65,000 miles on my 1991 FXRP the first year and half after an early retirement. My motel was a sleeping bag and a picnic table in a rest area for the most part, normal day was 650 to 700 miles hated to waste any daylight might miss an awsome sight. Rode to Harleys 90th Birthday and rode straight back 1000+ miles and never left the saddle gassed up with credit card in the pump while I sat in that big comfy police saddle. Made Bonnieville Salt Flat Speed trials twice and slept in the mountains above there. Bike was stolen later and I bought an 86 basket case with a ton of extra parts including several of the touring fairings and police bags and touring bags. Hope to get it put together but not sure what configuration it will take on. I will look around for pictures but leaning toward Faired Touring version. Thanks for the sight.
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on August 13, 2008, 11:10:15 PM
triumphleroy~~~

Now that's a great story, thanks for sharing.....and welcome to the forum....

 :2vrolijk_21:

Regards,


Tim
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: triumphleroy on August 13, 2008, 11:24:00 PM
     The Harley Davidson Co. planned to sell 1995 FXRs. One day while visiting the old dealer in late 94 I noticed a pad of the tear-off ads laying in the floor of the mechanics area near the trash can with a foot print in the middle of it. Asked the shop foreman and owner about it and he said that they had cancelled the 95 FXRs. I picked the pad up and kept it, have it filed away somewhere amongst my shtufff. They were to be available in Birch White only if my old mans memory serves me right.
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Hoist! on August 13, 2008, 11:31:26 PM
Woo Hoo, another FXR afficionado!!! We're getting em in droves these days!!! :huepfenjump3: :huepfenjump3: :huepfenjump3:

Welcome aboard TL!!! You definitely found the right board to hit first! We all know we're fortunate having the best of the best bikes they made!!! Enjoy this great site man!!! :2vrolijk_21:

Hoist! 8)
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on August 13, 2008, 11:58:02 PM
tr....

that would be great to see that add....find it, scan it, and post it.....

 :pepper:

Regards,

Tim
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: amigo Jorge on August 16, 2008, 08:03:24 AM
Question: I have understood theat the FXR '99 was the first Screamin Eagle built according to the history in this thread......why the "SE" letter were no added to FXR? but until 2000 with the RG..........

Thanks

Jorge
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Hoist! on August 16, 2008, 08:19:25 AM
Question: I have understood theat the FXR '99 was the first Screamin Eagle built according to the history in this thread......why the "SE" letter were no added to FXR? but until 2000 with the RG..........

Thanks

Jorge

Jorge, the FXR2 was the first CVO, but they weren't SE bikes. They had HD's "Collection" bolton pretty parts, but no pefrormance upgrades to the standard Evo bikes. The SERG was the first SE CVO with the 95" kit factory installed. ;)

Hoist! 8)
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on August 16, 2008, 08:26:08 AM
Question: I have understood theat the FXR '99 was the first Screamin Eagle built according to the history in this thread......why the "SE" letter were no added to FXR? but until 2000 with the RG..........

I would say because and this is only "speculation" that at the time the CVO program began, HD wasn't sure that it would do as expected.  For these reasons, Initially the CVO program was to:

1) Bring the FXR customer back to the dealerships
2) Respond to the customer requests for the FXR vehicle.
3) to TEST the Motor Company's ability to produce "Low Volume", highly customized vehicles for "niche" markets.
4) To generate "incremental" vehicle sales and profits.

They were looking at perspective customers as being:

1) FXR loyalists who once owned an FXR and would want another one.
2) FXR tradionalists who wanted the style of a custom FXR but wouldn't want to look for a used FXR to customize.
3) HD collectors who would be attracted to the "exclusivity" of the "low-volume" production campaign.

HD felt this was also a way to "showcase" the "depth" of the P&A product line while demonstrating the customization options available to the existing FXR Owner.


All of this of course led to a very limited idea to begin with.....what would the market do, would it respond as they hoped....or not....and as we all know, "Screamin Eagle" is associated with "Accessories" both "motor" and "chrome" and while few will admit it, the CVO line today is much to do about "bling" as it is to do about anything else, it's synonymous with "Accessories" thus they "advanced" their "marketing cause by labeling the CVO program as the:

Screamin Eagle CVO Program


Regards,

Tim
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: amigo Jorge on August 16, 2008, 10:24:13 AM
Thanks mis amigos Howie and Tim....understood  :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: RedFXR2 on August 16, 2008, 11:23:27 AM
Question: ......why the "SE" letter were no added to FXR?

Some of us have done it for ourselves. ;)
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on August 16, 2008, 11:31:50 AM
Mike,

 YES INDEED YOU HAVE!!!!!!!!!

Ok so now specifically what did you do to it.....I would like the run down please.

Regards,

Tim


[NOTE: Please remember that putting your curser next to the paper clip icon below the photo will allow you to enlarge the photo plus save it to your computer if you desire OR if you merely wish to see it enlarged simply put your curser on the photo and "LEFT" click and it will enlarge]
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: 110tHunDer on August 16, 2008, 11:58:25 AM
Question: I have understood theat the FXR '99 was the first Screamin Eagle built according to the history in this thread......why the "SE" letter were no added to FXR? but until 2000 with the RG..........

Thanks

Jorge

Who knows for sure, but I think if the 2000/2001 Screamin' Eagle Road Glides hadn't bee such a success, maybe none of the bikes today would be knowns as SEs.  Recall the 2001/2002 CVO Wide Glides were also absent the "Screamin' Eagle" moniker.  It wasn't until 2003 that all (both) models in the linup began to utilize the SE name.

As a caveat, my understanding from talking to a few dealership personnel after the show in Vegas this year, is that Harley is now trying to back off of the Screamin' Eagle name and make the Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO) name more prominent.  If you read some of the recent magazine article coverage, it seems that is the case as you actually see more use of "CVO Fat Bob," "CVO Electra Glide," etc. in their write-ups than "Screamin' Eagle _______ _______."
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on August 16, 2008, 12:28:47 PM
Brian....

LOL it wouldn't surprise me that HD thinks they need to go to back to "CVO", I mean after all they ended up with 73 different models of FXR's over 15 years.....and name changes all over the place....lol their idea is if it's not selling it's got to be the "height" of the bike or the "name" of the bike....the best thing that happened to our FXR "CVO" bikes is the simplicity of the models...ie:  FXR2   FXR3   FXR4.  I called in to HD yesterday gave them my VIN# and she called my bike a FXR Super Glide....I said ummm actually how about an FXR2 and she says, "yeah" a FXR Super Glide....laughing....I mean on any given day.....but that goes hand in hand when anyone attempts to figure out the symbols as well....there is no reason to it at all.....but I digress......lol

:bananarock:

Regards,

Tim
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on August 17, 2008, 01:01:04 AM
1988 FXRS Low Rider Photo:

Featuring 1998 Dyna 13 Spoke Take Offs

New 4.2 gallon tank with a filler cap on each side of a new console designed to mimic the one that that had been used on the 1977 Low Rider, with a small, tandem speedo and tach on the wrinkle black housing.  The Use Of Black-and-chrome  engine.  

Well as we can begin to see more clearly, the FXR2's, FXR3's, and FXR4's are most reflective of this PARTICULAR model, ie: the matching Tank size ie: 4.2 gallon, the tank trim panel with the instrument housing, stock they began in "wrinkle black"   notice that this one has the chrome tank pannel trim and the instrument housing. Of all the choices HD had to replicate they chose the 5 year run of the FXRS Low Rider from 1988-1992


[NOTE: Please remember that putting your curser next to the paper clip icon below the photo will allow you to enlarge the photo plus save it to your computer if you desire OR if you merely wish to see it enlarged simply put your curser on the photo and "LEFT" click and it will enlarge]
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on August 17, 2008, 01:02:36 AM
1988 FXRS Low Rider Photo:

[NOTE: Please remember that putting your curser next to the paper clip icon below the photo will allow you to enlarge the photo plus save it to your computer if you desire OR if you merely wish to see it enlarged simply put your curser on the photo and "LEFT" click and it will enlarge]
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Hoist! on August 17, 2008, 01:04:11 AM
1988 FXRS Low Rider Photo:

Featuring 1998 Dyna 13 Spoke Take Offs

New 4.2 gallon tank with a filler cap on each side of a new console designed to mimic the one that that had been used on the 1977 Low Rider, with a small, tandem speedo and tach on the wrinkle black housing.  The Use Of Black-and-chrome  engine.   

Well as we can begin to see more clearly, the FXR2's, FXR3's, and FXR4's are most reflective of this PARTICULAR model, ie: the matching Tank size ie: 4.2 gallon, the tank trim panel with the instrument housing, stock they began in "wrinkle black"   notice that this one has the chrome tank pannel trim and the instrument housing. Of all the choices HD had to replicate they chose the 5 year run of the FXRS Low Rider from 1988-1992

Where are the indicator lights? Are they in the console? If so, can I use that console on the FXR3? :confused5:

Hoist! 8)
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on August 17, 2008, 01:15:06 AM
1992 FXRS Low Rider Photo:

Howie, if you look at the above photos and you look at this photo, I believe you will see that the "instrument gauges" are on the "canopy" that cover's the head light, just like what is done on the 2002-2005 Dyna Low Rider....[could even be more years but I know these years apply for sure]

NOTICE THE LOCATION OF THE RED ARROW


[NOTE: Please remember that putting your curser next to the paper clip icon below the photo will allow you to enlarge the photo plus save it to your computer if you desire OR if you merely wish to see it enlarged simply put your curser on the photo and "LEFT" click and it will enlarge]
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Hoist! on August 17, 2008, 01:19:21 AM
Howie, if you look at the above photos and you look at this photo, I believe you will see that the "instrument gauges" are on the "canopy" that cover's the head light, just like what is done on the 2002-2005 Dyna Low Rider....[could even be more years but I know these years apply for sure]

Regards,

Tim

Oh yeah, that's what they did! Thanks Tim! :2vrolijk_21:

We have that cool headlight though. Oh well, back to doing it custom. I'm liking the idea of flush mounting them in the console. Maybe LED's! ;)

Hoist! 8)
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on August 19, 2008, 02:01:35 AM
1983 FXRT PHOTO BELOW:
36,000 miles

CLEAN CLEAN CLEAN   Isn't this a beauty?

Regards,

Tim



[NOTE: Please remember that putting your curser next to the paper clip icon below the photo will allow you to enlarge the photo plus save it to your computer if you desire OR if you merely wish to see it enlarged simply put your curser on the photo and "LEFT" click and it will enlarge]
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: 93 FXR on August 19, 2008, 08:33:11 PM
Woo Hoo, another FXR afficionado!!! We're getting em in droves these days!!! :huepfenjump3: :huepfenjump3: :huepfenjump3:

Welcome aboard TL!!! You definitely found the right board to hit first! We all know we're fortunate having the best of the best bikes they made!!! Enjoy this great site man!!! :2vrolijk_21:

Hoist! 8)

Thought I'd jump in....

Here's my '93 with less than 10 grand on the clock...

Was bone stock when I found it....brought it home with

5123 miles......about this time last year.

(http://img242.imageshack.us/img242/9600/pipes007of5.th.jpg) (http://img242.imageshack.us/my.php?image=pipes007of5.jpg)

(http://img242.imageshack.us/img242/5396/pipes008ir0.th.jpg) (http://img242.imageshack.us/my.php?image=pipes008ir0.jpg)

Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on August 19, 2008, 11:11:32 PM
93FXR~~~~

it's awesome that you have found the site.....you have a beautiful bike.....thanks for sharing your photos and THANKS for participating with some "historical" perspective of your bike....

So I am thinking because of the "silver" engine that you have the 1993 FXR Super Glide?

Looks like you have some "wide glide" front forks, risers and t~bars as well........So your 1993 last year was 14 years old and had less than 5.500 miles on it.....and within the last year you have doubled it.....that's awesome.....
So why did you pick it? What do you like most about it?  Have you done anything to the engine? How do you like the gearing of the bike....[Finally get to talk to an owner that has 3.37 final gearing] at highway speed?  Does it seem to have a lot of power down low, I would think that it does.....

Hope you stick around.

Regards,

Tim
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: 93 FXR on August 19, 2008, 11:32:17 PM
93FXR~~~~

it's awesome that you have found the site.....you have a beautiful bike.....thanks for sharing your photos and THANKS for participating with some "historical" perspective of your bike....

So I am thinking because of the "silver" engine that you have the 1993 FXR Super Glide?

Looks like you have some "wide glide" front forks, risers and t~bars as well........So your 1993 last year was 14 years old and had less than 5.500 miles on it.....and within the last year you have doubled it.....that's awesome.....
So why did you pick it? What do you like most about it?  Have you done anything to the engine? How do you like the gearing of the bike....[Finally get to talk to an owner that has 3.37 final gearing] at highway speed?  Does it seem to have a lot of power down low, I would think that it does.....

Hope you stick around.

Regards,

Tim

Tim,

Yes, it's a FXR Super Glide. I have been looking for one in decent shape for a year and a half....and along came this one, just a few miles from my house. The guy who I bought it from was the original owner, in his early 60's. It was in fantastic shape, just needed the dust (lots of it) blown off it., It just sat in his garage.
I picked the FXR because my older brother had an 80's model, and I loved it..(how could you not??) I mostly like the cornering ability of the bike...it's really quite nimble. Engine mods are really quite simple, (listed in sig line) EV3 cam, torrington bearing, (get rid of the INA before it's a problem), big sucker, coil, pipes, and I did switch out the front end to a wide glide, (billet trees, stock length tubes, Y Bars, headlight, etc.) Lots of power on the lower end, especially with the EV3,...but it does OK on the hiway as well...all in all, a spectacular bike in excellent shape.
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Hoist! on August 19, 2008, 11:49:24 PM
Tim,

Yes, it's a FXR Super Glide. I have been looking for one in decent shape for a year and a half....and along came this one, just a few miles from my house. The guy who I bought it from was the original owner, in his early 60's. It was in fantastic shape, just needed the dust (lots of it) blown off it., It just sat in his garage.
I picked the FXR because my older brother had an 80's model, and I loved it..(how could you not??) I mostly like the cornering ability of the bike...it's really quite nimble. Engine mods are really quite simple, (listed in sig line) EV3 cam, torrington bearing, (get rid of the INA before it's a problem), big sucker, coil, pipes, and I did switch out the front end to a wide glide, (billet trees, stock length tubes, Y Bars, headlight, etc.) Lots of power on the lower end, especially with the EV3,...but it does OK on the hiway as well...all in all, a spectacular bike in excellent shape.

Cool ride man! Interesting that you like handling, yet converted to a WG front end. But I rock and roll on my solid mount 4-speed FXWG, so I can't talk. But that was always a WG, I just push it a little. But it ain't no FXR in the handling department! An FXR WG! Hmmm, the factory never did that! Nor forward controls that I know of either! ;)

Also, I wasn't aware that the Super Glide came with a tach and console like that. Did you change anything there? Could be getting my years mixed up though.

Hoist! 8)
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: 93 FXR on August 20, 2008, 12:46:23 AM
Cool ride man! Interesting that you like handling, yet converted to a WG front end. But I rock and roll on my solid mount 4-speed FXWG, so I can't talk. But that was always a WG, I just push it a little. But it ain't no FXR in the handling department! An FXR WG! Hmmm, the factory never did that! Nor forward controls that I know of either! ;)

Also, I wasn't aware that the Super Glide came with a tach and console like that. Did you change anything there? Could be getting my years mixed up though.

Hoist! 8)

Thanks....
I find the handling better...at least it seems to me a bit more "sure footed"....if you know what I mean...
The console is stock, to my  knowledge....It's a Speedo and gas fill...no tach..(yet) I'll mount a small tach/oil gauge on the rocker box over the winter.
I'll include a pic of the console. Check it out...


(http://img525.imageshack.us/img525/3539/pipes010hn5.th.jpg) (http://img525.imageshack.us/my.php?image=pipes010hn5.jpg)

Thanks for the comments on the sled.
I appreciate your thoughts.



Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Hoist! on August 20, 2008, 12:59:59 AM
Thanks....
I find the handling better...at least it seems to me a bit more "sure footed"....if you know what I mean...
The console is stock, to my  knowedge....It's a Speedo and gas fill...no tach..(yet) I'll mount a small tach/oil gauge on the rocker box over the winter.
I'll include a pic of the console. Check it out...


(http://img525.imageshack.us/img525/3539/pipes010hn5.th.jpg) (http://img525.imageshack.us/my.php?image=pipes010hn5.jpg)

Thanks for the comments on the sled.
I appreciate your thoughts.





Got ya. That's what I thought, but it looked like a Low Rider (speedo & tach) console from the angle I looked at.

Have fun with the mods and enjoy the bike! Reach out if ya need help! :2vrolijk_21:

Hoist! 8)
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: 93 FXR on August 20, 2008, 01:08:39 AM
Thanks man.
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on August 21, 2008, 09:54:32 AM
UPDATE:

Well everytime new information is found it's great as the "HISTORY" becomes MORE ACCURATE!!!

I just discovered that there was actually a 1987 FXRC CUSTOM BIKE AS WELL, if you recall:

in 1985 there were two FXR LIMITED EDITIONS one was official the other was unoffical both to gain extra sales and to help perfect the production line process for supplying more chrome.  The "OFFICIAL" one was the [/color] FXRC Low Glide Custom , which in some locales was unoffically dubbed the " Candy Glide " in honor of the color scheme of the paint which was  Candy Orange and Root Beer , paint that made the whole motorcyle seem to glow in full sunlight like a "radioactive pumpkin".  The  1985 "Candy Glide" FXRC Low Glide Custom , wasn't for everyone, and in some parts of the country they were a tough sell.  Why?  The price was higher, for one, the biggest reason, though was that bright bold color that was too "pretty" to be seen on.  The new black T-shirt crowd just wasn't fully ready for the Candy Orange and Root Beer bikes with orange-brown seats.  Only 1,084 were built in 1985.  The "UNOFFICAL" FXRS special was a version offered with the chrome covers of the FXRC, but without the candy paint.  

There appears to be some further evidence
that indeed HD carried the FXRC Low Glide Custom into 1986,  Hardluk1 sent me a note and has informed me that he owns one, #933 of 1250 on the speedo/tac cluster, black with some gold finishes on the lower tree and console also rear rail covers. All stickon 's. He Was told by a person that the custom stuff was left over from 85 and to be a fugal company, HD kept it up in 86 till the stuff was gone . It is back'd up in the vin#.  

REDFXR2 then added this statement:
From Illustrated Buyer's Guide Harley Davidson since 1965

[Chapter 8.  Talking about changes and models for 1985] ...The second half model for 1985 was the FXRC Low Glide, the C standing for Custom....The factory said the plan was to only make 1075 examples of the Custom while offering the chrome plating package as an option for the FLT and FLHT.  There's something of a puzzle here, because the Custom was reported as a good seller, while years later the package, as in the chrome plating and paint scheme, turned up on some 1986 FXRC Customs.  The model wasn't in the 1986 catalog so we can guess that selling the scheduled number of Customs took longer than expected.

REDFXR2 further added, "......So, it appears that you could have bought new/owned a 1986 FXRC that, to HD, was sort of "off the books", since apparently HD regarded all FXRC's as 1985 models......"

Next, in 1987 here are a few photos of a 1987 FXRC CUSTOM which happens to be #679 out of 750 that were built.  Once Again It Apppears HD Continues To Work Towards The Completion of This Previous Offering From 1985 With The Conclusion Of 750 Units However These Units Featured For The First Time A Painted Frame Matching the Painted Body Work Of The Bike. These Units Were Also Identified By Their Numerical Order With A Inscribed Plate At The Location Of The Handlebars And For The Very First Time The USA FLAG Was Placed On An Actual Bike, "OLD GLORY" Had Arrived And Was Proudly Displayed.  It ONCE AGAIN Should Be Noted That HD Never Placed This Particular Model In Any Of It's Sales/Brochure Literature For 1987.


So while it could be said that HD was not satisfied with the amount of "CUSTOM" units that were selling they even went ONE STEP further by "painting" the frame the same color....seems to me they weren't simply "rushing" to get these out the door 2 years later....perhaps they were marketing these in specific areas checking out how the market would react to different items on the FXR.....

1985 FXRC Low Glide Custom 1,084 in 1985 were built.
1986 FXRC CUSTOM  1,250 in 1986 were built.
1987 FXRC CUSTOM  750 in 1987 were built.



PHOTO:  1987 FXRSC CUSTOM PHOTO BELOW:



[NOTE: Please remember that putting your curser next to the paper clip icon below the photo will allow you to enlarge the photo plus save it to your computer if you desire OR if you merely wish to see it enlarged simply put your curser on the photo and "LEFT" click and it will enlarge]
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on August 21, 2008, 09:55:03 AM
1987 FXRC CUSTOM PHOTO BELOW:

[NOTE: Please remember that putting your curser next to the paper clip icon below the photo will allow you to enlarge the photo plus save it to your computer if you desire OR if you merely wish to see it enlarged simply put your curser on the photo and "LEFT" click and it will enlarge]
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on August 21, 2008, 09:55:56 AM
1987 FXRC CUSTOM PHOTO BELOW:

[NOTE: Please remember that putting your curser next to the paper clip icon below the photo will allow you to enlarge the photo plus save it to your computer if you desire OR if you merely wish to see it enlarged simply put your curser on the photo and "LEFT" click and it will enlarge]
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: RedFXR2 on August 21, 2008, 10:37:23 AM
1987 FXRC CUSTOM PHOTO BELOW:

Tim:  Recognize the script on the tank?  That's the same text style as used on our "hologram" tanks.  Kinda cool that something in our bikes is rooted in a 1987 "custom" FXR.

(http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=25417.0;attach=77433;image)

Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on August 21, 2008, 10:44:27 AM
 :bananarock:

Mike I hadn't even noticed that.....GREAT EYE!!!!!!!  :2vrolijk_21:

That's awesome....and ALSO while I am not sure....whether this came this way or not....IT DOES HAVE A 21" spoked wheel as well......have to check into that....

.....and did you notice the side panels....while not exactly what you did....it appears you have excellent tast as well back in 1987 they were putting decals on the side panel too.....
Regards,

Tim

Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Scaley on October 02, 2008, 08:16:00 PM
Stumbled upon this board while looking for a tachometer for my 1986 FXRS Liberty Edition. Happy to say that I am the original owner. I've added some non-stock items (I have all the original parts), and chromed some engine parts way back when the bike was new. I've ridden the bike to the Sturgis Rally from Wisconsin twice, once in '86 and again for the 50th Anniversary. It has 22,000 on the clock and has been in storage for the last *gulp* 10 years...I got the itch to get back in the saddle, and in August took the bike to Doc's Harley Davidson in Shawano for tires and a well deserved going over. Put on about 1,400 miles since. The bike is running great and still rides fantastic, the only concern I have is that my leather jacket seems to have shrunk... I would appreciate any help/suggestions in locating a NOS or used tachometer. Mine sort of functions, but the needle response is very, very sluggish. Sorry about the poor photo, all I have is a crappy cellphone camera and it was pouring-down with rain so it had to be an inside shot. I apologize if I am posting in the wrong spot. Thanks in advance for any info in finding a tach.
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Fired00d on October 02, 2008, 08:39:09 PM
Stumbled upon this board while looking for a tachometer for my 1986 FXRS Liberty Edition. Happy to say that I am the original owner. I've added some non-stock items (I have all the original parts), and chromed some engine parts way back when the bike was new. I've ridden the bike to the Sturgis Rally from Wisconsin twice, once in '86 and again for the 50th Anniversary. It has 22,000 on the clock and has been in storage for the last *gulp* 10 years...I got the itch to get back in the saddle, and in August took the bike to Doc's Harley Davidson in Shawano for tires and a well deserved going over. Put on about 1,400 miles since. The bike is running great and still rides fantastic, the only concern I have is that my leather jacket seems to have shrunk... I would appreciate any help/suggestions in locating a NOS or used tachometer. Mine sort of functions, but the needle response is very, very sluggish. Sorry about the poor photo, all I have is a crappy cellphone camera and it was pouring-down with rain so it had to be an inside shot. I apologize if I am posting in the wrong spot. Thanks in advance for any info in finding a tach.
Scaley,
Welcome to the site when you get a chance you should go to this board - New Member Introduction (http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php/board,30.0.html) and start a thread to introduce yourself. Be advised when you do start a thread there members will want to see more pictures of your bike. ;D

 :pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
 :fireman:
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on October 26, 2008, 02:35:26 AM
Just moving this back to Page 1 for others quickly find......

Regards,

Tim
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Scaley on October 26, 2008, 12:33:28 PM
On my 1986 FXR Liberty Edition is there a way of telling what number out of the 744 that were built that my bike is? Thanks.
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: naitram on October 26, 2008, 01:02:47 PM
Just moving this back to Page 1 for others quickly find......

Regards,

Tim

Tim i added this thread to the sticky list
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on October 27, 2008, 02:28:35 PM
Tim i added this thread to the sticky list

naitram.....

that's awesome   :2vrolijk_21:

I just like seeing it on the very first page when people come to the site to "visit" that it's a THREAD they might be interested in viewing if they see it before their eyes....

Everyone has been tremendous in their "contributions" to this "HISTORY"......I hope more input will continue to be brought to us from even more FXR Owners or others simply knowledgable about the FXR History.

Regards,

Tim
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: elvislee on October 28, 2008, 06:59:21 AM
bump da bump da bump
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Hoist! on October 28, 2008, 05:38:24 PM
bump da bump da bump

HeHe!!! Ya don't have to bump it Blaine, it's a sticky now, and there'll always be a link in the very first thread here, "Sticky Threads - Find Sticky Threads Here..."! ;D ;)

Hoist! 8)
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: elvislee on October 28, 2008, 05:59:46 PM
HeHe!!! Ya don't have to bump it Blaine, it's a sticky now, and there'll always be a link in the very first thread here, "Sticky Threads - Find Sticky Threads Here..."! ;D ;)

Hoist! 8)
:dunce2:  ??? OK...Got it   ;D
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on November 20, 2008, 06:13:38 PM
A short THREAD sharing where the "inspiration" for the FXR3 Paint Theme was arrived from:

Simply place your curser over the "http:// address/link" below, then click and view:

CLICK HERE:  INSPIRATION OF THE FXR3 PAINT THEME (http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php?topic=26192.0)


Regards,

Tim
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: elvislee on November 21, 2008, 07:04:37 AM
Hey Tim...Great info; I never knew this...Those older tanks look good don't they  :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: RedFXR2 on November 21, 2008, 07:13:04 AM
I guess it's a good thiing I don't have a "3".  Seeing this pic:

(http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=26192.0;attach=76148;image)

...makes me think about having a paint ship add that seperate flame "wisp" in matching colors to my FXR3 tank.  Probably nobody but me would ever notice .... but I would. ;)
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Hoist! on November 21, 2008, 10:25:56 AM
Here's your original '80 FXWG shovel. ;)

Hoist! 8)
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Hoist! on November 21, 2008, 10:26:53 AM
Here's your '86 Evo version. Now you'll see where the FXR3 paint really comes from. ;)

Hoist! 8)
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: spydglide on November 21, 2008, 10:35:21 AM
Here's your original '80 FXWG shovel. ;)

Hoist! 8)
That 'shoebox' air cleaner has got to be the ugliest thing ever to come stock on a HD.   :-[ aaaargh.  :P spyder
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: RedFXR2 on November 21, 2008, 10:40:33 AM
Here's your '86 Evo version. Now you'll see where the FXR3 paint really comes from. ;)

Hoist! 8)

(http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=25417.0;attach=92309;image)

Good find, Howie.  Look at that pretty red paint.  Heck, they should have made three colors of the "3".
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: naitram on November 21, 2008, 10:42:45 AM
That 'shoebox' air cleaner has got to be the ugliest thing ever to come stock on a HD.   :-[ aaaargh.  :P spyder

not sure which is worse that or the seat
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Hoist! on November 21, 2008, 10:43:01 AM
That 'shoebox' air cleaner has got to be the ugliest thing ever to come stock on a HD.   :-[ aaaargh.  :P spyder

"Canned Ham" spyd! ;D ;)

Hoist! 8)
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: naitram on November 21, 2008, 10:43:34 AM
"Canned Ham" spyd! ;D ;)

Hoist! 8)

thats funny chit
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: spydglide on November 21, 2008, 06:07:38 PM
"Canned Ham" spyd! ;D ;)

Hoist! 8)
You're right... :2vrolijk_21:....my mind is almost completely gone.  :-[ har!  spyder
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Hoist! on November 28, 2008, 05:09:13 PM
You're right... :2vrolijk_21:....my mind is almost completely gone.  :-[ har!  spyder

Didn't just make that up. We've been calling them that, AND removing them, from day one!!! ;D ;) :2vrolijk_21:

Hoist! 8)
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: MrFeexit on December 03, 2008, 06:27:49 PM
Hi guys. Here is a pic of my 87 FXRC. I bought it in the fall...Sept. I am doing a ton of work on it this winter and hope to ride it down to Texas in May
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: MrFeexit on December 03, 2008, 06:30:02 PM
Different angle. I would like to thank you for putting together all this info on the FXR line. Really interesting stuff.
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Hoist! on December 03, 2008, 06:56:21 PM
Welcome aboard to this Great Site MrF!!! Nice to have another FXR guy with us! There finding us in droves now!!! :huepfenjump3: :huepfenjump3: :huepfenjump3:

Nice bike. Thing's been completely apart with that painted frame and swingarm. Nice setup on the wheels. Used the same setup on my '85 FXWG. Whatch'a have planned for it this winter? Maybe you can come and meet us in AR on your way down to Texas in May! Check out the link! :2vrolijk_21:

http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php?topic=29353.msg477208#msg477208

Hoist! 8)
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Hoist! on December 03, 2008, 06:58:51 PM
(http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=25417.0;attach=92309;image)

Good find, Howie.  Look at that pretty red paint.  Heck, they should have made three colors of the "3".

I forgot to mention Mike that these are Fat Bob gas tanks, not the 1-piece tanks of the FXR's. ;)

Hoist! 8)
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: MrFeexit on December 03, 2008, 08:06:51 PM
Plan on new S&S Carb and forward air cleaner. New Black Fat Spoked wheels.Not balloon fat, more like old school bobber fat.  Fat front fork. Taller beefier tires, forward controls. New lights. New hand welded stainless down turned pipes to be partially cloth wrapped. Going for a less shiny more beefy bike. Im like 230 and I want the bike to feel a bit bigger...oh and a new seat more designed to go miles and miles...maybe the Cowboy and lady seat. Lots to do and I may change my mind a bit here and there. Hmmmm I may swing by that rally. See what time permits.
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Hoist! on December 03, 2008, 08:09:46 PM
Plan on new S&S Carb and forward air cleaner. New Black Fat Spoked wheels.Not balloon fat, more like old school bobber fat.  Fat front fork. Taller beefier tires, forward controls. New lights. New hand welded stainless down turned pipes to be partially cloth wrapped. Going for a less shiny more beefy bike. Im like 230 and I want the bike to feel a bit bigger...oh and a new seat more designed to go miles and miles...maybe the Cowboy and lady seat. Lots to do and I may change my mind a bit here and there. Hmmmm I may swing by that rally. See what time permits.

Cool man! Be interested in keeping up with the progress of that FXR Bobber! Keep us posted! :2vrolijk_21:

Hoist! 8)
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: sadunbar on December 03, 2008, 08:23:28 PM
Hi guys. Here is a pic of my 87 FXRC. I bought it in the fall...Sept. I am doing a ton of work on it this winter and hope to ride it down to Texas in May

Welcome to the site, MRfeexit!   :2vrolijk_21:   Glad you have joined us!  Very nice ride!
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on December 04, 2008, 01:49:09 AM
MrFeexit~~

That's really a great looking "blue" very nice.  I also very much like the fact that the frame is painted to match.....did you do that or did you purchase it that way?  Someone took some time to strip the bike completely.....quite nice!!

Becareful putting too wide of tire on the front of that bike, everything you have read here about the "handling" of the FXR will certainly change and go out with the bath water with such an extreme modification......but then again you already know this.....and most likely have taken such into account.

As Howie said above, we would all enjoy seeing/watching the transformation.....typically HOWIE is our R&D guy.....if something's been tried.....he has most likely done it 3 times....and can lead you to the right path.....I am thinkin about callin him RDJOY2 for a new name.....cause he's got that STAR WARS mentality....high tech and high budget.....lol.

Regards,

Tim
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: MrFeexit on December 04, 2008, 08:59:28 AM
How "fat" can I go with out changing the handling dynamics too much? As far as me "knowing" Awwwww hell no! I'm learning as I go. Tons of researching and reading and valuable input from those that have gone before. I also have a good bike shop near by in Rosholt WI that has been more than helpful in pointing me in the right direction. Basically I am building my list of wants and then the owner will go through it with me to tell me what I can or can't do. He also is adamant that I do the work myself (which I was anyway) and then he will help with the areas that become to technical like carb stuff etc. SOOOOO any input from you guys is more than appreciated and herby requested. As far as the paint job the previous owner had it torn down and painted in 06. I have struggled with if I want to repaint or not....I think the paint stays. Not my fav color but it looks nice in the sun.
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on January 25, 2009, 12:23:39 AM
Many thanks to Jeff (Black Diamond) for providing a visual reference via a 1984 Sales Brochure For HD.

 :bananarock:

The next post will provide photos of two of the four models which were offered in 1984 for FXR's, ie:

1) 1984 FXRS LOW GLIDE
2) 1984 FXRT SPORT GLIDE

The two that are not provided for visual review would be:
1) 1984 FXRDG "Disc Glide"  It was launched mid year thus why it probably didn't make it into the "sales brochure" since they are produced in the summer of 1983.
2) 1984 FXRP  Prusuit Glide, Police Version Of FXRT (of course none of the FXRP's throughout the years made any presence in the Sales Brochures.


Regards,

Tim


[NOTE: Please remember that putting your cursor next to the paper clip icon below the photo will allow you to enlarge the photo plus save it to your computer if you desire OR if you merely wish to see it enlarged simply put your cursor on the photo and "LEFT" click and it will enlarge]
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on January 25, 2009, 12:24:11 AM
Here is the brochure presentation for the two FXRs.

Many thanks to Jeff (Black Diamond)!!!

Regards,

Tim

[NOTE: Please remember that putting your cursor next to the paper clip icon below the photo will allow you to enlarge the photo plus save it to your computer if you desire OR if you merely wish to see it enlarged simply put your cursor on the photo and "LEFT" click and it will enlarge]
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Black Diamond on January 25, 2009, 12:57:10 PM
Tim, this a great work in progress you have here. Thanks for all the effort.

JW
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Black Diamond on January 26, 2009, 08:24:39 PM
In reviewing the FXR History I found where the MoCo lowered the FXRS for 1984 and introduced them as the "Low Glide".

The brochure I posted above list the seat height for the FXRS as 26.80 inches. However, the 1984 Owner's Manual and the 1984 Service Manual both list the seat height @ 28.10.

Just to stay consistent on being inconsistent, the brochure list the FXRT Sport Glide seat height @ 27.5. However, the 1984 Owner's Manual and Service Manual list seat height @ 28.0 I know the Sport Glide sat higher than the Low Glice as I sat on both back in the day. Couldn't buy a fairing scooter then either. LOL.

I've ordered a Part Manual to assist in fix in her up. Hope I don't get anymore specs!

FWIW!

JW
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on February 15, 2009, 05:23:54 AM
Thanks to Kevin below for his added input he could tell by it's appearance that what we appear to have here is a 1986 FXRD Seems to be in pretty good shape.......We do talk about this particular model much earlier in the THREAD..... :2vrolijk_21:

Regards,

Tim


[NOTE: Please remember that putting your cursor next to the paper clip icon below the photo will allow you to enlarge the photo plus save it to your computer if you desire OR if you merely wish to see it enlarged simply put your cursor on the photo and "LEFT" click and it will enlarge]
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: revinkevin on February 15, 2009, 06:29:11 AM
woooot ... that is a 1986 FXR(D)  :2vrolijk_21:

What distinguishes an FXRD from an FXRT is the dual exhaust, floorboards, heel/toe shifter,gauge cluster on the handlebars, wider touring seat and the tour pak was standard equipment. I believe it was the first year for the Factory Premium Sound system too with the radio controls on the handle bars. This model was produced in 1986 only and less than 1,000 made. Not sure how many have survived.

too bad he's missing the original mufflers, paint and decals.

Thanx for that pic Tim

FXRD GRAND TOURING EDITION

Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: TLMitchell on June 13, 2009, 02:11:45 AM
Wow! What a great thread! Once I started I couldn't stop until the last post.

My indoctrination into FXRs began with the aquisition of a 1986 FXRS Lowrider Sport Edition 6 years ago. It's a real "bike in a barn" story.

Purchased near Atlanta, GA, the original owner put 2025 miles on it in the 2 years he owned it as evidenced by the GA title I received at purchase. (wish I would have made a copy of it before transfer to Ohio) The 2nd owner put an additional 4000 miles or less on it, the bike had 6003 miles on the clock when I first laid eyes on it in August 2003.

Here's where things get interesting, the 2nd owner had the bike prepared for storage as he was moving to the Caribbean for what was supposed to be a year. This was circa 1991 or so. The guy that assisted in storage prep was a tech and later Service Manager at the original selling dealer. They pickled the engine, tranny and primary, sprayed the bike down with cosmoline and put it up on jackstands before covering it up.

Fast forward 11 or 12 years.... this now former Service Manager is running an independent shop near Atlanta. He gets contacted by the FXR owner still living in the Caribbean who wants him to pull the bike out of storage, make it road-ready and sell it. The owner obviously wasn't in touch with 2003 used H-D prices because he names a fairly low price he'd like to realize and tells the now-indy dealer that he can keep anything over that amount. So the bike gets pulled out of storage, cleaned up, new battery, replaced dry-rotted original front tire , fresh fluids, cleaned and rebuilt the original Keihin butterfly, fires it up and goes for a ride. The darn bike still felt tight, like new.

I first heard of the bike when the indy dealer posted to an Internet list I'm on. Said the bike was going in Cycle Trader for $7200 unless someone he knew was interested. In that case it could be bought for $6500. I requested pictures and after seeing them was on the phone pronto. I asked question after question and after becoming nearly exasperated this guy sez, "geeez, it's almost like a new bike! Just buy it!" I FedEx'd a deposit that day and 2 days later was on a flight from Cleveland to Atlanta. Road it home over 2 days, US23 from the guy's shop all the way to central Ohio. One near calamity enroute.... the rear axles didn't get the hole for the cotter pin until 1989. After a particularly spirited ride through the NC/TN/VA hills and twisties I was stopped at a red light in Wise, VA. Letting out the clutch I felt the rear end drop and the bike wouldn't budge. Looking under the right saddlebag I see no castle nut... Hell!.. I didn't even see an axle end!!! Looking under the left bag I see the axle sticking out about 4 inches from the swingarm. I must have been living right because if that axle would've slid out of the swingarm in the preceding hour or so I would've been smeared somewhere along US 23.

I got hauled to an H-D dealer in Pikeville, KY and the next morning a new axle WITH cotter pin hole was installed, wheel bearings and everything related inspected and away I went.

Over the years I've vacillated over what I wanted to do to the bike. Originally, I wanted an FXR to make it my own.... bobbed rear fender, mid glide front end, chrome, paint... lots of stuff. But knowing I had an (then) almost 18 year old bike that was pretty darn close to the way it had rolled out of the showroom I figured it'd be nothing short of criminal to bastardize it now.

I road the bike for 2 - 3 thousand miles before the 18 year old gaskets started doing what I knew they were going to do. When the inner primary started dripping I upgraded to a 32 amp stator and new voltage regulator 'while I'm in there'. Also replaced the reportedly problematic transmission pulley which had been upgraded with a stouter hub.

When the right side gaskets started to leak the base gaskets were just beginning to weep. "While I'm in there" the heads got a bit of a cleanup, new lifters, base and rocker gaskets etc. We also pulled the cam to take a look at the inner bearing. All probably woulda been fine if we wouldn't have pulled the cam. The journal end was scored so the cam and inner bearing both got replaced. The wrench that assisted me had a new EV3 laying around so we stuck that in. As much as I wanted to now keep the bike OEM putting the EV3 in was a real good decision   :)

In the interim I've cleaned grounds and electrical connections, replaced the starter relay and turn signal flasher with upgraded items, put fresh rubber on the rear, stuck a sealed beam headlight on (with replaceable 55w 100 H4 bulb.... the original was an anemic 35w 55) and cleaned and polished everything that can be cleaned or polished. Front and rear cast wheels shine like new as do the aluminum rocker covers. There's some blemishes on the coating on the primary cover and some rubs on the coating on the ignition cone. Other than that it's clean as a whistle.

(continued)
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: TLMitchell on June 13, 2009, 02:12:58 AM
(meanwhile, back at the FXR...)

Closer inspection while we've been bonding over the years revealed that the tank and front fender have been resprayed. When I inquired I was told some racks and stuff hanging on the garage wall had fallen on it when they were pulling it out of storage. The paint was done locally and a pretty good match.... most wouldn't notice it. But when you're cleaning and polishing and really looking close you can see a slight bit of fisheye here and there and some dust in the finish. Plus is been clearcoated which gives it an artificial shine, if you're familiar enough with 80s H-D paint to know it shouldn't be cleared you might notice. Most people never do unless it's pointed out.

Now here's the crying shame.... I've only put an additional 7000 miles on it in the past 5 1/2 years. My daily ride is a dresser. Once you have enough room to carry anything you'll need on the bike it's sometimes inconvenient to ride a bit more spartan like "the good old days". Thinking back to leather bungeed on top of the headlight, newspapers stuffed down the front of your jacket to try and keep warm and sitting on the side of the road with a tool roll open..... the "good old days" might not have been as good as we thought they were then. So the FXR usually stays within 100 miles of home and gets put through it's paces on those days I don't need to carry a lot of leather or raingear and I don't need the room to stuff whatever I might pick up here or there.

Every time I look at that bike sitting in the garage I think I ought to sell it. I don't ride it enough and someone *ought* to. It was made to be ridden. But every time I fire it up, especially when I find the curves it was made for, I decide there's NO WAY I'll part with it !

I've learned a lot about this particular model over the years but there's a couple of blanks still there. The Parts Manual indicates the Sport Edition parts in the rear of the book as "High Performance". It appears the Sport Edition was a dealer-ordered option for '86. The longer front legs, higher kickstand and rear shocks, longer speedo cable amd additional right side front disc are listed, among other things. I've been unable to determine how many went out the door that way that year. I'm also a little sketchy on the designation. FXRS Lowrider Sport Edition is pretty clear. As far as letters I find references to FXRSE in the original Owner's Manual and Service Manual but I find no mention of that designation anywhere else. In '87 it lost the buckhorns and the EGL VIN became the -Sp. But other than those tidbits I'm in the dark as to whether FXRSE was ever the official designation.

Anyway, since....

 :worthless:

Here it is:

(http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww304/tlmitchell99/FXR/IMG_0244.jpg)


(http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww304/tlmitchell99/FXR/IMG_0247.jpg)


(http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww304/tlmitchell99/FXR/IMG_0248.jpg)


(http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww304/tlmitchell99/FXR/IMG_0249.jpg)


I've been keeping my eye out for that fugly OEM exhaust with no luck. The Cycle Shacks pictured ran good but sounded like spam cans. A friend recently gave me some Python IIIs that look better and make it sound like a Harley should. A little loud for my tastes when you get on it but 100% better than the POS drags that were kludged on it when I got it.

TL



Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Black Diamond on June 13, 2009, 07:37:59 AM
TLMitchell

Welcome to the site TLM. Great story. Nice scooter! I still have my OEM header pipes around here somewhere if your interested.

JW
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: fxr4mikey on June 25, 2009, 03:21:27 PM
Nice story ...... very interesting too

Welcome !

Thanks for the pics too, your skooter looks REAL GOOD !!
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: spydglide on June 25, 2009, 06:35:53 PM
Glad you took the time to write up the 'bike from a barn' story for us.  I feel your dilema concerning selling or watching it sit....I too went thru that with my knuckle and ended up selling it 'cause I was into sailing and not riding it....big mistake, but like you said.....maybe the good ole days really weren't that good.  ??? har!  spyder
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Fred Average on November 07, 2009, 01:32:58 AM
   
  Nice  FXR  History    posting .  The FXRD (commonly called THE R OAD D AWG at THE Motor Co.) was a 1 year only model=1986
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: fartnokker on November 16, 2009, 08:43:57 AM
I know I'm late to the party, but I've really enjoyed reading this thread end to end.  Thanks to all for such a great & comprehensive look at FXR history.

Mine is a work in progress, like most... Lusted after FXR's for years, and finally got the opportunity to get one for a good price.  It is a 1988 FXRP that was completely gone over back in about 1990 and converted to something resembling an FXLR.  Had the FXLR tank, lowered front & back, forward controls, bobbed rear fender, and some motor work done.  Worst of all, it had a horrific custom paint job (black, metallic green, and gold leaf "spirit horse" graphics!), and most every chrome piece was gold-plated or had "Live To Ride" crap on it.

I've been working hard at de-crapifying it ever since I got it last year, and have been wrestling with electrical problems galore.  I've replaced the tires, battery, ignition, starter, lights, turn sigs, exhaust, solenoid, relays, voltage regulator, clutch, seat, handlebars, air cleaner, forward controls, gas tank, gauges, mirrors, added spotlight bar, changed out rear brake master cylinder, etc., etc... painted it myself, and replaced damned near every fastener on the bike with chrome instead of gold!  The list keeps getting longer, and there's still work to be done, but it is a labor of love.  It'll never be anything near stock, but that's okay by me - I love "Black Betty", as I've dubbed her, and my wife & I rode her to the courthouse & back when we got married, so the sentimental value is off the charts.  I've been making changes to my taste, and the response has been pretty positive overall.  Let's just say that it now looks nothing whatsoever like the bike I bought!!!

It is great to see all the enthusiastic support for the FXR - in my opinion, the cult classic of Harley-Davidson.  Whenever I go into a dealership or indy shop, people want to comment on how cool FXR's are, except the RUB-types who can't figure out if it is a Sportster or a Dyna!  :)
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: skreminegul07 on November 17, 2009, 05:29:32 PM
I know I'm late to the party, but I've really enjoyed reading this thread end to end.  Thanks to all for such a great & comprehensive look at FXR history.

Mine is a work in progress, like most... Lusted after FXR's for years, and finally got the opportunity to get one for a good price.  It is a 1988 FXRP that was completely gone over back in about 1990 and converted to something resembling an FXLR.  Had the FXLR tank, lowered front & back, forward controls, bobbed rear fender, and some motor work done.  Worst of all, it had a horrific custom paint job (black, metallic green, and gold leaf "spirit horse" graphics!), and most every chrome piece was gold-plated or had "Live To Ride" crap on it.

I've been working hard at de-crapifying it ever since I got it last year, and have been wrestling with electrical problems galore.  I've replaced the tires, battery, ignition, starter, lights, turn sigs, exhaust, solenoid, relays, voltage regulator, clutch, seat, handlebars, air cleaner, forward controls, gas tank, gauges, mirrors, added spotlight bar, changed out rear brake master cylinder, etc., etc... painted it myself, and replaced damned near every fastener on the bike with chrome instead of gold!  The list keeps getting longer, and there's still work to be done, but it is a labor of love.  It'll never be anything near stock, but that's okay by me - I love "Black Betty", as I've dubbed her, and my wife & I rode her to the courthouse & back when we got married, so the sentimental value is off the charts.  I've been making changes to my taste, and the response has been pretty positive overall.  Let's just say that it now looks nothing whatsoever like the bike I bought!!!

It is great to see all the enthusiastic support for the FXR - in my opinion, the cult classic of Harley-Davidson.  Whenever I go into a dealership or indy shop, people want to comment on how cool FXR's are, except the RUB-types who can't figure out if it is a Sportster or a Dyna!  :)

Welcome, great looking ride.  You comment is so true, most people don't know what an FXR is.
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Hoist! on November 18, 2009, 09:08:30 AM
Welcome aboard fartnokker! Funny name you chose! Great having an FXR "afficionado" on board, who understands how special the FXR's are, and appreciates them even more now that they haven't been made in 10 years. Really 15 besides the CVO 2/3/4 run! I like what you've done! It'd be nice to see it at our FXR GTG next June, 2010 in The Smokies! All the info is in the thread I have linked in my signature. Hope to see both of you there!!! :2vrolijk_21: :2vrolijk_21: :2vrolijk_21:

Hoist! :coolblue:
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: 91FXR on December 22, 2009, 11:35:22 AM
I read on page 6 that the rake/trail for the SP and the CONV. are different from the other models. 31 degs. / 4.82"  compared to 29 degs. / 4.66" respectively.  Is that difference in the neck of the frame or are the upper and lower trees offset 2 degs? I am wanting an SP but I've been told I could make my own with any FXR frame. I'm ok with that but the specs tell a different story. Any FXR owners have any insight on this?

Thanks, Dennis 
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: fxr4mikey on December 27, 2009, 03:37:54 PM
I read on page 6 that the rake/trail for the SP and the CONV. are different from the other models. 31 degs. / 4.82"  compared to 29 degs. / 4.66" respectively.  Is that difference in the neck of the frame or are the upper and lower trees offset 2 degs? I am wanting an SP but I've been told I could make my own with any FXR frame. I'm ok with that but the specs tell a different story. Any FXR owners have any insight on this?

Thanks, Dennis 

Sorry Dennis, I can't help, that stuff is beyond my knowledge....
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: vaquerorngr on April 07, 2010, 12:08:54 AM
Here's a question I just bought a 1985 FXRS. It has 28,000 original miles. The normal upgrades, exhaust (v&h short shots, which I will probably replace with supertrapp 2:1), s&s carb and intake, custom paint with flames (not a big fan of flames but looks pretty good), other then that, it is pretty much stock. My question is I have read that the FXRS-SP was introduced in 1986, and is denoted by a EG in the vin on the 5th and 6th digits. Here is my vin 1HD1EGL19FY119435 . You can see the EG which is an FXRS-SP and an F as the tenth digit which is definetly and 85 model. Could it be they did make some in 1985, it's obvious from my bike they did. It has the longer fork and the dual front discs. My other question is what are the other differences in the fxrs and the fxrs-sp.

Thanks for any reply, Michael
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: faceracer on April 07, 2010, 09:16:31 AM
Here's a question I just bought a 1985 FXRS. It has 28,000 original miles. The normal upgrades, exhaust (v&h short shots, which I will probably replace with supertrapp 2:1), s&s carb and intake, custom paint with flames (not a big fan of flames but looks pretty good), other then that, it is pretty much stock. My question is I have read that the FXRS-SP was introduced in 1986, and is denoted by a EG in the vin on the 5th and 6th digits. Here is my vin 1HD1EGL19FY119435 . You can see the EG which is an FXRS-SP and an F as the tenth digit which is definetly and 85 model. Could it be they did make some in 1985, it's obvious from my bike they did. It has the longer fork and the dual front discs. My other question is what are the other differences in the fxrs and the fxrs-sp.

Thanks for any reply, Michael

I owned a 1985 FXRS bought it new. Had a choice of the FXRS or FXRS-SP. My dealer had one of each sitting there same color. I took the regular FXRS because of the lower stance. The SP had a longer fork and shocks and dual disc front brakes. That was all the difference to my knowledge. 85 transmission had the clutch lever on the outside top of side cover. 1986 the new style with cable going into cover came out. Easy way to tell.  :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: vaquerorngr on April 08, 2010, 01:15:31 AM
Ok here's something I got off of one of these pages, so I have my answer and I guess I have one of these 299 unoffically built bikes.

However, in 1985 there were two FXR LIMITED EDITIONS one was official the other was unofficial both to gain extra sales and to help perfect the production line process for supplying more chrome.  The "OFFICIAL" one was the  FXRC Low Glide Custom , which in some locales was unofficially dubbed the " Candy Glide " in honor of the color scheme of the paint which was  Candy Orange and Root Beer , paint that made the whole motorcycle seem to glow in full sunlight like a "radioactive pumpkin".  The  1985 "Candy Glide" FXRC Low Glide Custom , wasn't for everyone, and in some parts of the country they were a tough sell.  Why?  The price was higher, for one, the biggest reason, though was that bright bold color that was too "pretty" to be seen on.  The new black T-shirt crowd just wasn't fully ready for the Candy Orange and Root Beer bikes with orange-brown seats.  Only 1,084 were built in 1985.  The "UNOFFICAL" FXRS special was a version offered with the chrome covers of the FXRC, but without the candy paint.  299 in 1985 were built.
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on April 13, 2010, 11:49:15 AM
OVER 22,000 PEOPLE HAVE VIEWED THIS THREAD......

 :jalapeno:

Regards,

Tim
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: fxr4mikey on April 14, 2010, 10:49:33 AM
OVER 22,000 PEOPLE HAVE VIEWED THIS THREAD......

 :jalapeno:

Regards,

Tim

and some of more than once   :o



 :D ;D
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on April 15, 2010, 03:46:56 AM
Just wanted to insert another good photo of a FXR FRAME, always find them interesting to briefly look at with nothing on them.

Regards,

Tim


[NOTE: Please remember that putting your curser next to the paper clip icon below the photo will allow you to enlarge the photo plus save it to your computer if you desire OR if you merely wish to see it enlarged simply put your curser on the photo and "LEFT" click and it will enlarge]
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on December 01, 2010, 09:21:04 PM
WOW!!!!!!!!!!!
Nearly 31,000 views of this "THREAD" that's both "AWESOME" and reflective of the "OVERALL" interest in FXR'S

I do hope those viewing have found this "THREAD" informative as well as entertaining, I am also hopeful that folks will continue to add to this "THREAD" either by offering photos or by reflections which will only embellish the "lore" of these wonderful machines!

Regards,

Tim
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: lucille on December 01, 2010, 11:30:27 PM
Good job Tim....much appreciated!
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: 110tHunDer on December 02, 2010, 08:09:58 AM
 
The thread with the most views on this board ...... by a longshot!
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: 85FXRC#27 on February 09, 2011, 06:21:58 PM
Just happened onto this site. Wife bought this bike in 1988. We down sized to one bike a few years ago so we have an Early 1985 FXRC Low Glide # 27. It has a shovel bottom and EVO top. Head bolts are different than L85 and are not interchangeable. This per a HD mechanic. According to HD 1088 were built with 1075 were numbered and released to the public. Rest were test bikes. Original cost was about $8800. Wife picked it up for $6600. The Candy Tangerine paint was sub contracted. Have about 100 k on bike still running strong. Just had it regasketed and learned/cost a lot from the experience. Except for a few creature comforts the bike is stock. I have copied a Clymer Repair Book M426 1340 EVO 84-86 HD if any one interested in a copy let me know. I am in the process of copying the HD Parts Catalog for FXR models 84-86. Have the Service manual as well but not yet copied. We live in a motorhome so weight & space are limited hence copying to computer.
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: spydglide on February 09, 2011, 06:59:01 PM
Just happened onto this site. Wife bought this bike in 1988. We down sized to one bike a few years ago so we have an Early 1985 FXRC Low Glide # 27. It has a shovel bottom and EVO top. Head bolts are different than L85 and are not interchangeable. This per a HD mechanic. According to HD 1088 were built with 1075 were numbered and released to the public. Rest were test bikes. Original cost was about $8800. Wife picked it up for $6600. The Candy Tangerine paint was sub contracted. Have about 100 k on bike still running strong. Just had it regasketed and learned/cost a lot from the experience. Except for a few creature comforts the bike is stock. I have copied a Clymer Repair Book M426 1340 EVO 84-86 HD if any one interested in a copy let me know. I am in the process of copying the HD Parts Catalog for FXR models 84-86. Have the Service manual as well but not yet copied. We live in a motorhome so weight & space are limited hence copying to computer.
She's a beauty.  I love the tangerine. ;)  spyder
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: faceracer on February 14, 2011, 03:26:18 PM
did it still have the stock brown seat on it?
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: lucille on February 16, 2011, 11:50:17 PM
Tim......in the '91 Harley-Davidson sales brochure, there are listed the six FXR models offered that year. Five of them are specified with a 4.2 U.S. gallon tank, the sixth, the FXRS Lowrider, with a 4.5 U.S. gallon tank. I have this '91 sales brochure in hand now........
Question; Does anyone have the '92 sales brochure to see if the FXRS Lowrider, in it's last year of production did indeed have the 4.5 U.S. gallon tank?

You have done a 'bang-up' job with the FXR threads and info Tim, much appreciated!........Greg
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Spiderman on February 17, 2011, 12:37:54 PM
woooot ... that is a 1986 FXR(D)  :2vrolijk_21:
What distinguishes an FXRD from an FXRT is the dual exhaust, floorboards, heel/toe shifter,gauge cluster on the handlebars, wider touring seat and the tour pak was standard equipment. I believe it was the first year for the Factory Premium Sound system too with the radio controls on the handle bars. This model was produced in 1986 only and less than 1,000 made.
FXRD GRAND TOURING EDITION

File this under "what was I thinking. I aquired an FXRD in 1990 in trade. I rode it for a year stock and then stripped it and sold off all the stuff that made it an FXRD. I then made a custom wide glide out of what was left. Of all the many dumbass things I've done over the years, this stands up there with the dumbest. While odd looking, this was (until the new frame TC's came out a couple years ago) arguably the best handling touring bike H-D ever made. By the way, it had black handlebars and a different cam than a regular FXR. The dual exhaust worked well and the sound was unique to this model only. My friends could always tell when I was coming because it sounded so different than any other H-D.

B B
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on February 20, 2011, 06:01:12 PM
Tim......in the '91 Harley-Davidson sales brochure, there are listed the six FXR models offered that year. Five of them are specified with a 4.2 U.S. gallon tank, the sixth, the FXRS Lowrider, with a 4.5 U.S. gallon tank. I have this '91 sales brochure in hand now........
Question; Does anyone have the '92 sales brochure to see if the FXRS Lowrider, in it's last year of production did indeed have the 4.5 U.S. gallon tank?

Greg~

Hey thanks for your kindness!

Here is an idea, perhaps calling a dealer and cross referencing those particular part numbers "may" provide the most accurate light on this paricular subject.

Regards,

Tim


You have done a 'bang-up' job with the FXR threads and info Tim, much appreciated!........Greg
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: mp on April 05, 2011, 10:41:39 PM
Question; Does anyone have the '92 sales brochure to see if the FXRS Lowrider, in it's last year of production did indeed have the 4.5 U.S. gallon tank?

I have both the '92 brochure and a '92 FXRS Low Rider and yes, the brochure says it has a 4.5 gal tank, and yes, it does indeed have one in reality, as I have never run out of gas, but I have filled mine with as much as 4.4 gallons of gas.
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: sadunbar on April 06, 2011, 12:44:19 PM
I have both the '92 brochure and a '92 FXRS Low Rider and yes, the brochure says it has a 4.5 gal tank, and yes, it does indeed have one in reality, as I have never run out of gas, but I have filled mine with as much as 4.4 gallons of gas.

Welcome to the site, mp!   :2vrolijk_21:   Glad you have joined us...

Great first post!!
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: lucille on April 07, 2011, 05:54:11 PM
I have both the '92 brochure and a '92 FXRS Low Rider and yes, the brochure says it has a 4.5 gal tank, and yes, it does indeed have one in reality, as I have never run out of gas, but I have filled mine with as much as 4.4 gallons of gas.

Thank you mp.......have had many discussions over the 4.5 - 4.2 gallon question in the 19 yrs. I've ridden my '92 FXRS Lowrider.
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: ltank on April 07, 2011, 11:26:06 PM
I see one of your bikes is a 113 inch. How do you like it? stupid question Huh? Got a photo?
LTank
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: lucille on April 08, 2011, 03:02:31 PM
I see one of your bikes is a 113 inch. How do you like it? stupid question Huh? Got a photo?...LTank

Did a front fork changeover on the 113" bike......it came with a dual disc wide-glide, and is now a dual disc narrow-glide (Showa)...
Has been cold here and haven't put a plate on it yet.....will post pics when it's warm enough to ride.....
Your question......it's a hoot to ride, and should handle like a FXR should with the narrow-glide......good fork guts, and a fork brace....happy trails!
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY and the gas cap
Post by: hhenderson on May 10, 2011, 09:19:55 AM
Fabulous history lesson! I am the owner of a 1991 and 1994 FXLRC's and have a question regarding the gas cap. Neither of them have a gauge on the cap, they are just plain chrome. The question is what did the bike come with? Was it just the plain chrome or did it come with some type of gauge originally and possibly these are not original? The bikes prior to some modifications were mostly stock so I assumed the caps were also..but maybe not.

Thank you again for a such a wonderful history lesson!
Heidi and her harleys~
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: lucille on May 10, 2011, 09:31:14 AM
Hello Heidi, and welcome......believe your fuel caps were plain, but chromed.....
Agree with you on the amount of FXR history and trivia here.....entertaining and informative too......enjoy!
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: smokedyvr on May 24, 2011, 07:42:55 PM
Just wondering if anyone knows why Harley put a chain drive (final) on my 86 FXR Superglide?  :wall: 
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: mp on July 30, 2011, 09:51:14 PM
Well, the FXR took over the stripped-down Super Glide title that year from the FXE, the last of the four-speed Super Glides, and I guess the open chain, as opposed to the enclosed chain or the belt drive, was part of the stripped styling.  And probably cheaper.
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: black9 on August 09, 2011, 12:29:23 PM
FXR3, were there only 64 of the blue flame models built?
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: 86LibertyFXR on September 20, 2011, 10:15:58 AM
Just FYI, my '86 FXRS Liberty I had discussed and posted photos of on pages 9 & 10 of this thread is for sale if anyone is interested.  Just send me a PM through this web site and I'll get you the details and a way to contact me where spammers can't get my phone number or email  ;)
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: LouRider on January 09, 2012, 10:27:33 AM
Your fxr history was exactly what I needed to restore my FXRS-CON. The best about FXR I ever read. And here is the result:

(http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f170/Streetbob8/fxrs-con/DSCI0061-Kopie2-Kopie-1.jpg)

(http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f170/Streetbob8/fxrs-con/DSCI0068-Kopie.jpg)

(http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f170/Streetbob8/fxrs-con/DSCI0083.jpg)

Many thanks and regards from the river Rhine

Lou
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: halucin8 on February 24, 2012, 02:09:02 AM
Hi,

This is my first post here.  A lot of great info in this thread.  Thanks.

I recently bought an '87 FXLR 10th Anniversary Edition.  

I called HD to try and find out what color it was supposed to be since all the pictures I had seen
were two-tone while mine was a solid candy orange-ish, red-ish color.  After giving John at HD my
VIN, he asked where I got it.  At first I though, crap, it's stolen or something.  But he informed me
that it was an "Inc." bike.  So I replied, "What the hell is that?"  Evidently, it was originally titled and
licensed to HD as an exec. bike.  My first question.  Who rode it?  He wouldn't/couldn't tell.

All he could tell me about the bike was that the color was candy bronze and there were 420 ( 8)) 10th Anniv.
bikes built in '87.  He could not figure out why the bike was not the standard two-tone.  

Anybody have any more information on this bike?  I would love to hear it.  

BTW, restoring the bike as original as I possibly can.

Thanks.
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXRP-F on April 02, 2012, 07:57:20 PM
Congrats on having perhaps the most definitive FXR history available on the web.  I recently came across a 1994 FXRP-F and found out the first time I rode it what all the fuss was about.  Amazing machine.  In your history, you have the police models stopping production before 94.  My VIN and the factory service manual police supplement beg to differ.  ;D

Just a minor heads up......  This is a great resource!

Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: spydglide on April 02, 2012, 08:01:30 PM
Welcome aboard FXRP-F.  Did a siren come with that baby?  :2vrolijk_21: spyder
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXRP-F on April 02, 2012, 09:43:49 PM
Welcome aboard FXRP-F.  Did a siren come with that baby?  :2vrolijk_21: spyder

Nope..... but I got a button for one.  :P

Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: spydglide on April 03, 2012, 12:49:01 AM
Nope..... but I got a button for one.  :P


Most places it's not illegal to have one mounted on the bike, it's just illegal to operate it.  Just sayin' is all.  ::) har.  spyder
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on April 29, 2012, 02:09:15 PM
FXRP-F

Welcome aboard.....and congratulations on your purchase.....how do you like them floorboards?

I read what you said about owning your 1994 FXRP, back in 2008 when I started this thread, (can you believe how time flies) I was posting any and all information that I had access to, just last week I purchased a 1993-1994 FXR FLHT Service Manual, and since doing research on floorboards this spring have come to realize that FXRP's were coming from the factory in both 1993 and 1994. I didn't know this in 2008.  

The FXRP's have had a resurgence with FXR owners recently (I would say in the last couple of years)....the nostalgia of the 13 items that are distinct on that bike such as, i.e.:

1) The Horn
2) The Fairing
3) The Siren
4) The Air Cleaner Description HARLEY DAVIDSON POLICE
5) The Hard Saddle Bags
6) The Lights
7) The Seat
8 ) The FXRP IGNITION MODULE  (Which By The Way Increases RPMS to 5,800 AND Has a Different Map)  I have one on my bike now.
9) Floorboards
10) Ignition Location
11) Center Gas Tank Console
12) The Apehanger Handlebars
13) Engine Crash Bar

CLICK HERE FOR A GREAT YOUTUBE VIDEO ON A RUNNING FXRP ALL DECKED OUT (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xBjz3fdekWk)

Regards,

TIm
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on April 29, 2012, 02:27:12 PM
.
.
.
APRIL 13th, 2010:
OVER 22,000 VIEWS ON THIS THREAD!

 :jalapeno:


APRIL 29th 2012
OVER 56,319  VIEWS ON THIS THREAD!

 :bananarock:

MAY 9th, 2013
OVER 78,710  VIEWS ON THIS THREAD!

 :pepper:

Which tells us all that there is interest in these bikes....

I appreciate anyone offering more accurate information on anything posted, no matter how small as it will make this more valuable to us all!

Regards,

Tim


Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXRP-F on April 29, 2012, 05:48:12 PM
The FXRP's have had a resurgence with FXR owners recently (I would say in the last couple of years)....the nostalgia of the 13 items that are distinct on that bike such as, i.e.:

1) The Horn
2) The Fairing
3) The Siren
4) The Air Cleaner Description HARLEY DAVIDSON POLICE
5) The Hard Saddle Bags
6) The Lights
7) The Seat
8 ) The FXRP IGNITION MODULE  (Which By The Way Increases RPMS to 5,800 AND Has a Different Map)  I have one on my bike now.
9) Floorboards
10) Ignition Location
11) Center Gas Tank Console
12) The Apehanger Handlebars
13) Engine Crash Bar


Well, I don't have 1,3,4,6,or 8.  My ignition module is set to 5800, but it's a Daytona V-Tech with a single fire coil.  The advance curve is set to a conservative 2 out of 10, probably due to high compression pistons.  (I'm discovering what I have little by little)  I believe my bars are stock, but I'd call them more of a buckhorn than apes.  My light pods are fitted with white sealed beams instead of the red and blues.  They are not adjustable, and as a result, do a dandy job of lighting up trees and ticking off approaching drivers when used as passing lamps.

Also, not all of the FXRPs were built with fairings.  They were also available with windshields only.

Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on April 29, 2012, 06:04:46 PM
"....Also, not all of the FXRPs were built with fairings.  They were also available with windshields only...."

That is true, and that is why I didn't mention windshields....lol they aren't SOOOOOOO SPECIAL.....lol.....I have a "windshield"....

Regards,

Tim
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: grayghost731 on April 29, 2012, 07:35:06 PM
What you did is pretty COOL for all of the owners of this model  :2vrolijk_21:  Good job
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on April 29, 2012, 11:57:00 PM

Thank you, that's very kind of you.

It's exciting that there is so much interest in these bikes....at the end of the day all of us benefit from having an opportunity to learn more about these bikes if we are so inclined.

Regards,

Tim
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: jimfrance on November 26, 2012, 02:11:52 PM
I bought a 1992 FXRP in March, it had been converted to more of the sport glide. I recently purchased the original faring, instruments, and (most of) the brackets. I'm trying to find pictures from the riders view of an FXRP fairing to help me put it back together. Any help out there?
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXRP-F on November 26, 2012, 08:57:31 PM
I bought a 1992 FXRP in March, it had been converted to more of the sport glide. I recently purchased the original faring, instruments, and (most of) the brackets. I'm trying to find pictures from the riders view of an FXRP fairing to help me put it back together. Any help out there?

I'll do what I can.  What did you need to see exactly?  Be sure not to ride without all the brackets installed.  The fairing won't hold up.

Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: jimfrance on December 30, 2012, 12:11:49 PM
I just installed my FXRP fairing and had to lose my drag bars in the process. My reaserch says the stock handlebars are buckhorns so I mounted them and I've got no idea how cops rode with these. Aside of hating the hand position, the master cylinder bumps the stock windshield at full lock. As a long legged rider, my knees get in the way of these handlebars too. I'm thinking of getting an 11 inch windshield from Clearview to solve part of my problem. Any advice on some better bars to use with the stock risers?
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXRP-F on December 30, 2012, 09:23:58 PM
I just installed my FXRP fairing and had to lose my drag bars in the process. My reaserch says the stock handlebars are buckhorns so I mounted them and I've got no idea how cops rode with these. Aside of hating the hand position, the master cylinder bumps the stock windshield at full lock. As a long legged rider, my knees get in the way of these handlebars too. I'm thinking of getting an 11 inch windshield from Clearview to solve part of my problem. Any advice on some better bars to use with the stock risers?

My stock bars seem fine.  I have them tilted back just far enough to clear the windshield notch at full lock.  It's possible that your non-police seat is pushing you forward and making it uncomfortable.  I still don't see how your knees could get in the way of the bars though.  Maybe the buckhorns you have aren't the same as stock.  Something ain't right.

 
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: lucille on December 30, 2012, 10:52:34 PM
Jim ..... looking at your photo, those buckhorn bars don't look like the stock buckhorns p/n 56081-82 that were standard on the EB bikes.  I'm probably not as tall as you are, but on 'ironbutt' type rides, the stock seat, and the stock buckhorns work well for me.  Did the original buckhorn FXRP bars have air?
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: lucille on December 30, 2012, 11:02:21 PM
Tim .... in your list of the 13 differences in regular production and police models, # 8, combined with the then 'hot FXR cam (EV 3)' was the dirty little secret that light weight FXR riders kept to themselves .....  8)

Have you tried the FXRP seat?  I haven't, but they look like they might be comfortable
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: JamesButler on March 09, 2013, 12:55:22 PM
FXRP-F

Welcome aboard.....and congratulations on your purchase.....how do you like them floorboards?

I read what you said about owning your 1994 FXRP, back in 2008 when I started this thread, (can you believe how time flies) I was posting any and all information that I had access to, just last week I purchased a 1993-1994 FXR FLHT Service Manual, and since doing research on floorboards this spring have come to realize that FXRP's were coming from the factory in both 1993 and 1994. I didn't know this in 2008.  

The FXRP's have had a resurgence with FXR owners recently (I would say in the last couple of years)....the nostalgia of the 13 items that are distinct on that bike such as, i.e.:

1) The Horn
2) The Fairing
3) The Siren
4) The Air Cleaner Description HARLEY DAVIDSON POLICE
5) The Hard Saddle Bags
6) The Lights
7) The Seat
8 ) The FXRP IGNITION MODULE  (Which By The Way Increases RPMS to 5,800 AND Has a Different Map)  I have one on my bike now.
9) Floorboards
10) Ignition Location
11) Center Gas Tank Console
12) The Apehanger Handlebars
13) Engine Crash Bar

CLICK HERE FOR A GREAT YOUTUBE VIDEO ON A RUNNING FXRP ALL DECKED OUT (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xBjz3fdekWk)

Regards,

TIm


Don't forget:
14) Speedo face reads, "CERTIFIED POLICE".
15) Longer 13.5" shocks, jiffy stand and dual-disc brakes -- all same as -SP, RT and -CONV.
16) Heel/Toe Shifter
17) Radio Box  
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on March 20, 2013, 12:43:19 PM
"...Tim .... in your list of the 13 differences in regular production and police models, # 8, combined with the then 'hot FXR cam (EV 3)' was the dirty little secret that light weight FXR riders kept to themselves .....  

Have you tried the FXRP seat?  I haven't, but they look like they might be comfortable..."

Lucille~

Actually no I have not tried an FXRP seat.  Personally....I like my FXR3 seat on my FXR2 perfectly.  I haven't even ridden the bike with the original FXR2 "Badlander" seat in years, however I still have it.

The FXR3 seat is absolutely perfect and one of the best options they ever produced for the FXRs.

Over 74,400 viewings MARCH 20th, 2013, should probably hit 100,000 next year....that's amazing for this little THREAD!  I hope all have enjoyed it.....  :bananarock:



Regards,

Tim
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: CMS on May 07, 2013, 03:21:09 PM
 Nothing short of great work here.  I ride a 1995 Bad Boy FXSTSB.  While this is a good "me" bike I started looking for a good "we" bike and am thinking of an FXR.  What I cant discern is if there is any difference between the first gen or the second gen (99-2000) in the ride or handling?  Will either bike work well as a two up?  My FXSTSB rides too hard for my wife.
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: TLS105 on May 08, 2013, 01:13:54 PM
Nothing short of great work here.  I ride a 1995 Bad Boy FXSTSB.  While this is a good "me" bike I started looking for a good "we" bike and am thinking of an FXR.  What I cant discern is if there is any difference between the first gen or the second gen (99-2000) in the ride or handling?  Will either bike work well as a two up?  My FXSTSB rides too hard for my wife.

The frame is the same between all years of FXR. That is what makes them so great. Shocks, front end lengths, engine and transmission internals, electronics, and other minor things are different. The older years that have the shock mount more vertical will give you more ground clearance and a better amount of travel. A FXR can be a two up bike, but it's really not that big in itself. A good suspension makes all the difference, no matter the bike.
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Thermodyne on May 08, 2013, 04:39:25 PM
The frame is the same between all years of FXR. That is what makes them so great. Shocks, front end lengths, engine and transmission internals, electronics, and other minor things are different. The older years that have the shock mount more vertical will give you more ground clearance and a better amount of travel. A FXR can be a two up bike, but it's really not that big in itself. A good suspension makes all the difference, no matter the bike.

There is actually an early style frame and a late style frame.  Differences are slight, rear master cylinder bracket, muffler hanger bracket and triple tree stop/lock bracket are the most notable.
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: TLS105 on May 09, 2013, 01:03:55 AM
There is actually an early style frame and a late style frame.  Differences are slight, rear master cylinder bracket, muffler hanger bracket and triple tree stop/lock bracket are the most notable.

You learn something new everyday. Thanks, Thermodyne. Did not know of those slight variations. How are you liking your FXR4?
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: CMS on May 09, 2013, 08:17:41 AM
Thanks for the response!  So I take it looking at an early 80's model where the travel is greater may be a more confortable bike for two up?  I can see online the photos of the height of the rear fender over the back tire.   There are plenty of pretty much all models available in varying conditions on line.  search tempest dot com searches all craigslsit and eee bay should any other members be looking.  Does anyone have experience riding both the 80's models and the 99-00s?  Can you describe any differences or does anyone here ride two up on their FXR? I know I am asking a question that will deliver a subjective answer but I can afford to do this once and am trying to get it right. Again, thanks for the help!!!
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Thermodyne on May 09, 2013, 09:47:58 AM
You learn something new everyday. Thanks, Thermodyne. Did not know of those slight variations. How are you liking your FXR4?

It's OK.  Weather isn't quite warm enough yet for riding a scooter with no windshield.  My 84 FXRS has one as does my bagger.  Just got done doing a stage two to the bagger, so it's getting all the attention at the moment.
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on August 02, 2013, 12:21:36 AM
.
.
.

                 
     *******UPDATE*******



Erik Buell,  NOT AN ORIGINAL DESIGNER BUT WAS ASK TO BE A CONSULTANT AND PARTICIPATE IN REDESIGN READ ABOUT HIS JUNE 2013 HOT BIKE MAGAZINE REMARKS IN REPLY# 11



JUNE 2013 HOT BIKE MAGAZINE  PAGE 36-40
THE SAGA OF THE FXR


What is amazing here is that here we are 14 years later
and the FXR IS STILL BEING DISCUSSED!!!!!!!!

.
.
.
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: ltank on October 06, 2013, 02:38:37 PM
At local Bike shop has a 1997 FXRT with less than 11,000 miles. CHERRY!
Got us FXR GUYS drooling!
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: SBB on October 06, 2013, 04:50:27 PM
At local Bike shop has a 1997 FXRT with less than 11,000 miles. CHERRY!
Got us FXR GUYS drooling!

Beautiful bike.
Don't see many of those!

 :2vrolijk_21:


SBB
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: TLS105 on October 07, 2013, 11:33:44 PM
At local Bike shop has a 1997 FXRT with less than 11,000 miles. CHERRY!
Got us FXR GUYS drooling!

Wow, that is a nice bike. I think you meant 1987 LOL. Love the lowers/fairing combination.
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on April 02, 2014, 12:06:27 PM
.
.
.
APRIL 13th, 2010:
OVER 22,000 VIEWS ON THIS THREAD!
:jalapeno:


APRIL 29th 2012
OVER 56,319  VIEWS ON THIS THREAD!
:bananarock:


MAY 9th, 2013
OVER 78,710  VIEWS ON THIS THREAD!
:pepper:


APRIL 2nd, 2014
Over 106,945 VIEWS ON THIS THREAD
:cucumber:


so that makes over 28,000 views in the last year

Which tells us all that there is interest in these bikes....

I appreciate anyone offering more accurate information on anything posted, no matter how small as it will make this more valuable to us all!

Regards,

Tim

Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: 24d on April 11, 2014, 02:24:59 PM
Does anyone know what color options were available on the 1986 FXRD?  I have a blue and gray one, I'v seen red and gray.

ALSO
I called HD, they said "D" stood for "DELUXE". Does anyone have proof it meant "DRESSER"?
Dresser sounds much cooler.
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: 24d on June 17, 2014, 07:19:38 AM
Save, share, spread the word!
This is the first ever FXR only ride on the
East Coast!
Every FXR needs to be there ripping the
Great Smoky Mountains!!
V V- Sign up -V V
https://www.facebook.com/events/1426032387683278/
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on June 23, 2014, 03:51:36 AM
Save, share, spread the word!
This is the first ever FXR only ride on the
East Coast!
Every FXR needs to be there ripping the
Great Smoky Mountains!!
V V- Sign up -V V
https://www.facebook.com/events/1426032387683278/

Who or what is the FXR CARTEL?
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: cvo junkie on June 30, 2014, 03:56:28 AM
i am looking at a 1993 fxrs convertable and it has a front spoke but rear mag.
was that facotry? i own 1 of these already and it has both mags
did harley only do front spoke if you went the spokes option?

thanks for your guys time
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: mp on July 30, 2014, 12:46:59 PM
All the FXRT's came with mag wheels.  There were no options.  The wire wheel did come standard on the FXLR (the FXR "custom") which had a solid disc wheel on the back.  That bike only had one brake disc on each wheel.
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: 24d on December 05, 2014, 09:48:29 AM
ATTENTION!
EAST COAST FXR ONLY RIDE!
Check out last years ride in the next issue of
Cycle Source magazine, great ride!
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: skypilot_one on April 06, 2015, 06:03:26 PM
This has been a very informative thread. Question, Does the FXR4 frame have both the forward shock mount boss and rearward boss?
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: spydglide on April 06, 2015, 06:38:31 PM
I know your avatar does.  :-*  har.  spyder
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on April 09, 2015, 01:06:20 AM
This has been a very informative thread. Question, Does the FXR4 frame have both the forward shock mount boss and rearward boss?

Actually yes it does. 
But it is underneath the OEM CHROME STRUT….you would have to get the POLICE BIKE STRUT COVERS or DRILL YOUR CURRENT CHROME STRUT COVERS or purchase some other ones and drill those out to get to that strut….

Hopefully that makes sense…..but why would you want to do this, other than of course raising your suspension right?  Just make sure if you raise the back suspension (if you go through with this) THAT You ALSO have to raise the FRONT FORKS….or ELSE all of your rake and trail is going to be OUT OF KILTER….and guess what….NOW you are getting into some COMPLICATED geometry.  You would also most have to do a part for part replacement i.e.: pick the YEAR FXR that runs the shocks forward like you are thinking of doing and then matching the front fork part numbers to make sure the front is set up the same…..

Regards,

"Classic"
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: FXR2evo99 on April 09, 2015, 01:07:51 AM
HAVE PROVIDED YOU WITH 2 PHOTOS TO SEE ROUGHLY WHAT I AM TALKING AOBUT.
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: 94-FXRP-F on September 25, 2015, 11:14:51 PM
FXR2evo99,

I have to thank you personally for all of the information on the FXR! I did a simple search and found this forum and am very glad I did.
You see, my dad owned a lightly used 1994 FXRP-F with low miles - 14,373 when I acquired it yesterday, Thursday - 09/24/2015.
I have put a few hundred miles on it since and oh my! It is simply the best riding bike I have ever had the privilege to put my back side on!
It was an original Texas State Highway Patrol bike - a backup.. sold with only 2,940 miles when they upgraded the fleet. I am the 4th owner.
Oh what a find!
This is my project - to restore it from ground up this winter to the best of my abilities..

This picture was taken with my cell minutes after being uncovered after a 3 1/2 year storage.

Yup, all of my friends agree it should be called "Tweety Bird" even though it's Datsun yellow..


Again, thank you for your very informative work!
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: 2mistral3 on August 31, 2016, 03:57:46 PM
Is this thread still alive?
Maybe I can help the thread-starter out with some missing pics...  8)

Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: cyco1450 on September 02, 2016, 08:09:12 AM
I'm on it....I just bought a FXR3...
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: spydglide on September 02, 2016, 06:16:10 PM
Very nice. :2vrolijk_21:  Does it ride as good as it looks?
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: 2mistral3 on September 03, 2016, 08:36:29 AM
Love it with the green flames!
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: cyco1450 on September 03, 2016, 11:00:34 PM
So far so good. I'm a little tall for the mid's so may have to convert to forward controls...
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: 2mistral3 on September 04, 2016, 04:45:54 AM
Have the same problem (6'2"), but I've also chosen FXR cause I sometimes want to ride hard... And with the mids you can do corners way better.
So I orderer one inch longer highway pegs what makes it more comfortable at longer rides an when I'm off the highway using the mids.
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: 91FXR on September 06, 2016, 10:07:51 AM
That's a nice one Cyco1450, I am building one from parts and would be interested in the mids if you change them for forwards,

"So far so good. I'm a little tall for the mid's so may have to convert to forward controls..."




-Dennis
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: Tokyo_Superman on November 19, 2016, 02:40:22 PM
About to buy my first bike and chose to get an 1987 FXLR.  It's been sitting in a garage for the past 5 years so this will keep me busy during winter since my engineering class load is finally starting to decrees.  Can't wait to get this old EVO apart and rebuilt, can't be anymore complicated than a motor change on an old C-130 or KC-135.  I'll keep you guys updated.
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: PanamaRedd on April 19, 2017, 02:04:12 AM
My '91 FXR Lowrider
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: 2kcvo on May 09, 2017, 02:33:24 PM
boards on a 4
using crap parts till i dial it all in have nos wide band board inserts to keep that oem look
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: jtmurph00 on October 04, 2017, 11:38:04 PM
Wow. What an amazing thread, thanks to OP for compiling such a wealth of information. After a six year search I finally acquired a non salvage 1982 frame last year and am beginning the build on it. Will be checking back here regularly for info.

Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: JamesButler on December 02, 2017, 10:21:38 AM
Wow. What an amazing thread, thanks to OP for compiling such a wealth of information. After a six year search I finally acquired a non salvage 1982 frame last year and am beginning the build on it. Will be checking back here regularly for info.

You should probably check on other sites such as v-twinforums and harleytechtalk for current and popular upgrade choices.
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: joes95bobber on September 01, 2018, 07:46:20 AM
I’m picking up a 1993 FXRS CONV today. I’ll post pics when I can find a way to reduce the size.  Great thread I hope to learn more about her here...
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: joes95bobber on September 01, 2018, 04:04:02 PM
Cleaned her up..meet Lady Blue...
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: joes95bobber on September 01, 2018, 04:09:59 PM
I found her in a box in the woods....
Title: Re: FXR HISTORY
Post by: nairbg on June 08, 2019, 12:31:03 AM
Here is another picture of the '87 "Blue Frame" FXRC.  This one came to me unmolested.