What Is 1995 Harley Davidson Wide Glide

Overview

The 1995 Harley-Davidson Wide Glide is a standout model in the Softail lineup, designed to evoke the raw, minimalist look of vintage choppers while incorporating modern engineering. It was marketed as a factory custom, offering riders a blend of retro aesthetics and reliable performance straight from the dealership.

With its wide front end, stretched forks, and narrow rear tire, the Wide Glide stood out on the road and in the custom scene. Its design influenced later models and remains a favorite among Harley enthusiasts for modification and restoration.

• 1340 cc Evolution engine: Delivers 66 ft-lbs of torque at 3,000 RPM, providing strong low-end power ideal for cruising and city riding.
• 21-inch front wheel: Paired with a 3.5-inch wide rim and wide fork assembly, it gives the bike a stretched, chopper-like appearance.
• 2.8 gallons fuel capacity: Offers a range of approximately 120–140 miles per tank under mixed riding conditions.
• 6-speed transmission not yet available: The 1995 model uses a 5-speed transmission, a carryover from earlier designs before the shift to 6 speeds in 2007.
• Wet weight of 685 lbs: Makes it one of the heavier Softails of its era, contributing to stable highway handling.

How It Works

The 1995 Wide Glide relies on proven Harley-Davidson engineering to deliver a smooth, vibration-damped ride despite its hard-tail appearance. Its Softail frame hides a rear suspension system beneath the engine, giving the look of a rigid frame while providing real comfort.

• Evolution engine: Introduced in 1984, this 45-degree air-cooled V-twin was refined by 1995 to reduce oil leaks and improve reliability over earlier models.
• Carbureted fuel system: Uses a Keihin CV carburetor to manage air-fuel mixture, typical for Harleys before fuel injection arrived in 2007.
• Five-speed transmission: Paired with a chain final drive, it requires regular lubrication but offers direct power transfer and durability.
• Drum brake (front): Early 1995 models retained a front drum brake, though later in the year some received disc upgrades.
• Springer-style front end: The wide fork mimics vintage springer designs but uses modern internals for improved damping and control.
• Hard-tail appearance: The hidden rear shocks are mounted beneath the transmission, preserving the classic look without sacrificing ride quality.

Comparison at a Glance

Here’s how the 1995 Wide Glide stacks up against key Harley-Davidson models of the era:

The Wide Glide’s combination of large front wheel and muscular stance made it unique among 1995 Harleys. While heavier than the Dyna or Sportster, its visual impact and customization potential set it apart. It shared core components with other models but stood out through styling and presence.

Why It Matters

The 1995 Wide Glide played a pivotal role in shaping Harley’s custom identity and influencing future designs like the Street Bob and Fat Bob. Its factory-built chopper aesthetic made customization more accessible to mainstream riders.

• Customization benchmark: The Wide Glide became a go-to donor bike for chopper builds due to its wide front end and strong frame.
• Revival of classic style: Helped reignite interest in 1960s chopper culture during the 1990s motorcycle renaissance.
• Limited production appeal: With only four model years (1995–1999), it has become a collector’s item among Softail enthusiasts.
• Influenced modern Harleys: Design cues reappeared in the 2006–2009 Wide Glide revival and later Softail models.
• Strong aftermarket support: Thousands of parts are available for exhaust, suspension, and styling upgrades.
• High resale value: Well-maintained 1995 models now sell for $8,000–$12,000, reflecting their cult status.

The 1995 Harley-Davidson Wide Glide remains a symbol of American motorcycle design — a fusion of nostalgia, performance, and individuality that continues to inspire riders and builders decades later.