| Specification | Data Point |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Twin Cam 96™ V-Twin (Air-cooled) |
| Oil Requirement | SAE 20W50 (2.8 L) |
| Front Tire | MH90-21 54H |
| Rear Tire | 180/60B17 75V |
| Battery Model | 65989-97C |
| Spark Plug (Gap) | 6R12 (0.97–1.09 mm) |
Engineering Highlight: The Return of the Factory Chopper
The 2010 FXDWG marked a significant milestone in the Dyna lineage, representing the return of the Wide Glide nameplate after a one-year hiatus. Engineering-wise, it introduced the ‘Tommy Gun’ 2-1-2 exhaust and a distinct 36-degree rake on the front forks. Unlike its predecessors, the 2010 model lowered the seat height to a mere 25.5 inches, achieved through a shorter rear suspension setup, effectively bridging the gap between factory production and custom ‘chopper’ geometry.
Technical Performance & Powertrain
At the heart of the 2010 Wide Glide is the fuel-injected Twin Cam 96™ engine, delivering approximately 92 ft-lbs of torque at 3000 RPM. The 6-Speed Cruise Drive® transmission provides smooth shifting, though the long-rake front end requires a deliberate hand during low-speed maneuvers. From a maintenance perspective, the powertrain is robust, provided the primary and engine oils are managed within the strict tolerances of the Twin Cam architecture.
Maintenance Essentials
Lubrication System
For optimal thermal management in the air-cooled V-Twin, SAE 20W50 is the mandatory viscosity. The total oil capacity is 2.8 Liters. MotoSpecsLab recommends synthetic fluids for high-ambient temperature environments to prevent viscosity breakdown.
Tires and Contact Patch
The Wide Glide utilizes a unique staggered wheel setup that defines its aesthetic.
- Front: MH90-21 54H – Required pressure: 2.07 bar (30 psi).
- Rear: 180/60B17 75V – Required pressure: 2.48 bar (36 psi) for solo riding, increasing to 2.76 bar (40 psi) for two-up travel.
Checking these pressures is critical as the narrow front tire is susceptible to tracking road grooves if under-inflated.
Electrical & Ignition
The 2010 model relies on the 65989-97C battery. Ensure terminals are torqued to spec to avoid the common ‘Dyna vibration’ loosening the leads. For ignition, use 6R12 plugs with a precise gap setting of 0.97–1.09 mm to ensure consistent combustion and prevent EFI error codes.
MotoSpecsLab Verdict
The 2010 FXDWG is a masterpiece of Harley-Davidson’s ‘Dark Custom’ era. While the 36-degree rake sacrifices some agility in tight corners, its stability on the open highway and the reliability of the Twin Cam 96 platform make it a top-tier choice for enthusiasts who value the traditional chopper silhouette without the reliability headaches of a custom build.