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Custom - Cruiser · 1998

Dyna Glide Convertible

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MotoLibrary Score
53 /100 Balanced
Power/Weight
0.2 hp/kg
Top Speed
165 km/h
Torque
97 Nm
Engine
1338 ccm

1998 Harley-Davidson Dyna Glide Convertible Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

At the heart of the 1998 Harley-Davidson Dyna Glide Convertible custom - cruiser motorcycle, Harley-Davidson pairs a 1338 cc (81.6 cu in) air-cooled v2, four-stroke architecture with road-focused gearing. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 56 HP (40.9 kW) at 5,000 rpm while maximum torque reaches 97 Nm (71.5 lb-ft) at 2,350 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and belt final drive. With a specific output of 41.9 HP per liter and a 2,650 rpm working window between peak torque (2,350 rpm) and peak power (5,000 rpm), the engine character is prioritizing low-RPM tractability, mechanical longevity and relaxed throttle response over peak redline numbers.

On the scales, the Dyna Glide Convertible measures 289 kg (637 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.19 HP/kg (5.16 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 704 mm (27.7 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops. The 18.5-liter (4.9 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 165 km/h (103 mph).

Within MotoLibrary's Harley-Davidson archive, this model family spans 2 indexed model years from 1997 to 1998, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.

Specific Output
41.9 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.19 HP/kg (5.16 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
2,350–5,000 rpm
Standover Height
704 mm (27.7 in)
Engine
Displacement 1338.0 ccm (81.64 cubic inches)
Engine Type V2, four-stroke
Engine Details V2, four-stroke
Power 56.0 HP (40.9 kW)) @ 5000 RPM
Torque 97.0 Nm (9.9 kgf-m or 71.5 ft.lbs) @ 2350 RPM
Compression 8.5:1
Bore x Stroke 88.8 x 108.0 mm (3.5 x 4.3 inches)
Valves/Cylinder 2
Fuel System Carburettor. 40mm Keihin CV
Fuel Control Overhead Valves (OHV)
Ignition Single-fire, non-wasted, map-controlled spark ignition
Cooling Air
Transmission
Gearbox 5-speed
Final Drive Belt (final drive)
Performance
Top Speed 165.0 km/h (102.5 mph)
Chassis
Front Suspension 39mm stanchions
Front Travel 175 mm (6.9 inches)
Rear Suspension Dual dampers, adjustable for preload
Rear Travel 120 mm (4.7 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre 100/90-19
Rear Tyre 130/90-HB16
Front Brakes Double disc
Front Brake Ø 292 mm (11.5 inches)
Rear Brakes Single disc
Rear Brake Ø 292 mm (11.5 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight 282.0 kg (621.7 pounds)
Weight incl. 289.0 kg (637.1 pounds)
Power/Weight 0.1986 HP/kg
Seat Height 704 mm (27.7 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Fuel Capacity 18.50 litres (4.89 US gallons)
Oil Capacity 2.80 litres (2.96 US quarts)
Other
Starter Electric
Electrical 12v, 20 AH battery.
More from Harley-Davidson
Buying Checklist

Before You Compare This Bike

Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.

Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
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Weight
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Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
Rider Profile

Who Is This Bike For?

🟡
Intermediate
Requires some riding experience.
✌️
Best For
Cruising & Touring
📏
Seat Height
70.4 cm / 27.7 in
⚖️
Handling
Heavy bike — requires confident handling
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