The FXR was the best frame H-D ever made with the exception of the new Buell's with gas in frame, oil in swingarm. The FXR was tops in weight distrbution, balance, rigidity, handling ease of maintenance, ease of assembly/disassembly You can argue the looks, but you can't argue the engineering. No one makes an exact aftermarket copy of the dyna frame, but there are a dozen or more aftermarket companies still cranking out FXR frames that are so close to the originals you have to check the VINs. There are also a lot of custom FXR frames in the marketplace, the best of which is Chopper Guys. Lately FXR's are making a comeback in the custom world as evidenced by Roland Sands and Russell Mitchell's projects on the Biker Build-off series. I still have a plan to cut the bottom cross member out of one and build a bad ass Twin Cam FXR. someday - - - - -
Big B
Spiderman,
You didn’t include the Buell tube-frame or the VRod frame with the Buell XB exception; possibly an oversight. The perimeter frame design has proven itself over time, and there really is no argument to make between these frames relative to rigidity.
I respectfully disagree with your point on technology. The Big Twin powertrain has evolved over time, yet the double cradle FLT frame, for all practical purposes has remained unchanged. Over the years, an occasional band aid or two has helped the chassis to keep up; although I feel that a more aggressive approach is required for the future. From a priority perspective, IMHO the FLT platform is next in line for an update in frame system technology. I do agree that this frame was ahead of its time when it was introduced.
The FXR does make a killer custom and the point you make regarding ease of maintenance, assembly, etc., is right on. The added room between the frame and powertrain to accommodate movement improves access for maintenance and repair.
Aesthetically, some folks looked at the added room between the frame and powertrain as a negative. These folks preferred a frame package that tightly envelops the powertrain. This issue was aggravated with the FXR because the powertrain is more exposed than it is on a bagger. In contrast, the VRod frame tightly follows the curves of the powertrain, adding overhead to maintenance and repair; but sonofabitch it sure looks good! If this was all about being practical, we would be riding machines like the one pictured below.
djkak