MotoLibrary MotoLibrary
← Harley-Davidson
Custom - Cruiser · 1997

Dyna Wide Glide

User Rating: /5 · No user ratings yet ✓ Your rating was saved
MotoLibrary Score
53 /100 Balanced
Power/Weight
0.2 hp/kg
Top Speed
165 km/h
Torque
97 Nm
Engine
1338 ccm

1997 Harley-Davidson Dyna Wide Glide Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Positioned in Harley-Davidson's custom - cruiser motorcycle lineup, the 1997 Harley-Davidson Dyna Wide Glide features a 1338 cc (81.6 cu in) air-cooled v2, four-stroke configuration. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 55 HP (40.1 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 41.1 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 Wide Glide measures 295 kg (650 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.19 HP/kg (5.36 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 680 mm (26.8 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops. The 19-liter (5 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 9 indexed model years from 1996 to 2017, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.

Specific Output
41.1 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.19 HP/kg (5.36 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
2,350–5,000 rpm
Standover Height
680 mm (26.8 in)
Engine
Displacement 1338.0 ccm (81.64 cubic inches)
Engine Type V2, four-stroke
Engine Details V2, four-stroke
Power 55.0 HP (40.1 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
Fuel Control Overhead Valves (OHV)
Ignition Single-fire, non-wasted, map-controlled spark ignition
Lubrication Dry sump
Cooling Air
Transmission
Gearbox 5-speed
Final Drive Belt (final drive)
Clutch Wet 9-plate
Performance
Top Speed 165.0 km/h (102.5 mph)
Chassis
Frame Type Mild steel, tubular. Rectangular section backbone. Stamped, cast and forged junctions.
Front Suspension Telescopic fors
Rear Suspension Coil-over shock
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre 80/90-21
Rear Tyre 130/90-16
Front Brakes Single disc. Four-piston calipers.
Front Brake Ø 292 mm (11.5 inches)
Rear Brakes Single disc. Four-piston calipers.
Rear Brake Ø 292 mm (11.5 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight 271.0 kg (597.5 pounds)
Weight incl. 295.0 kg (650.4 pounds)
Power/Weight 0.2030 HP/kg
Seat Height 680 mm (26.8 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Fuel Capacity 19.00 litres (5.02 US gallons)
Oil Capacity 2.80 litres (2.96 US quarts)
Other
Starter Electric
Color Options Black, red, purple
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
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
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
68 cm / 26.8 in
⚖️
Handling
Heavy bike — requires confident handling
Estimate

Ownership Cost Calculator

⛽ Fuel
per year
🔧 Maintenance
per year
🛡️ Insurance
per year
TOTAL

* Estimates only. Actual costs vary by country, riding habits, insurance provider and maintenance schedule.

MotoLibrary
🏠 Home 🔍 All Bikes 📂 Categories ⚖️ Compare 🎛️ Advanced Filter 🎯 Bike Finder 🎬 Videos 📰 Blog 📖 Glossary ℹ️ About

🍪 We use cookies for analytics & ads. Cookie Policy