This quantum leap reminded me of similar advancements when we first rode the 2009 Touring models, also a giant leap forward suspension- and handling-wise. A quick call to a friend at the Motor Company, who is in charge of suspensions for all H-D models, confirmed my impression – the 2010 Dyna Wide Glide and the 2010 CVO Street Glide (I am riding one this week, so stand by for a report!) have been extensively redone by these chassis and suspension magicians, and the happy effects are obvious.

This is where I did not recognize this Dyna, as the road holding and comfort level are a significant notch above the older Dyna models I have ridden.

Spring rates and shock valving have been redone front and back, to add a little overall stiffness at the front, and add some compression damping and take out some rebound damping at the back. The result is a more stable front end that no longer dives excessively on large bumps or heavy braking, and better absorption of bumps at the rear, as well as a quicker recovery back to normal ride height, to better absorb the next hit. The older models would stay compressed longer, so that the next bump would make the suspension bottom unnecessarily.

These modifications sound simple enough, but they require hundreds of hours of computer simulation, of building and testing prototypes over varying conditions, with light and heavy riders, before the right compromise is arrived at for production. Add to that working with Dunlop to develop the special front and rear tires for the bike and the new approach to their suspension, and you get the happy results you seek.

Let’s not forget the light and narrow 21-inch front tire, which combines with a generous but reasonable 180/60B17 75V boot at the rear to provide balanced handling and facilitate changes of direction.

All-day ergos
I already confessed my liking for the uncomplicated Dynas, and the Wide Glide certainly will make me continue to appreciate them, except for the feet-forward peg placements on this Wide Glide. Some may like that position – I don’t. Other than that, the seat fits my largish derriere, with evenly distributed pressure across the whole surface. The nicely positioned grips, levers and switches make it easy to ride the bike for novices as well as more experienced old goats like me.

The speedometer analog dial is unobtrusive and easy to read, as is the fuel gauge, integrated into the pastiche left fuel cap. Tiny indicator lights tell you about oil pressure, voltage, fuel reserve, neutral, high beam, turn signals, security system, and the ominous “engine condition” warning.

The low seat makes this an excellent bike for shorter inseams, while the lack of fairing gives the rider a light feel that will not scare away novices or lighter folks.

The speedometer analog dial is unobtrusive and easy to read.