Unveiled overnight, the limited-edition Harley-Davidson Hydra-Glide Revival model is set to premiere at the upcoming Daytona Bike Week.
The 2024 Hydra-Glide Revival model is the fourth in Harley-Davidson’s Icons Motorcycle Collection, and it celebrates the 75th anniversary of the 1949 introduction of the Hydra-Glide, which was the brand’s flagship model when launched, featuring the then-new Panhead engine that replaced the earlier Knucklehead and debuted hydraulic valve adjusters. The Hydra-Glide’s name came from its adoption of hydraulic telescopic forks instead of the girder forks Harley had previously used, as well as the Panhead’s hydraulic valves.
Harley’s Icons Motorcycle Collection is an annual program for the limited release of a new model that offers a fresh interpretation of an iconic Harley-Davidson motorcycle. The Icons collection began in 2021 with the Electra Glide Revival, followed by the Low Rider El Diablo in 2022 and the Electra Glide Highway King in 2023. Each time, the bikes have been made in small numbers, 1500 for the first two Icons models and 1750 for the Highway King. In the case of the 2024 Hydra-Glide Revival, 1750 individually numbered examples will be produced for global consumption.
The Hydra-Glide Revival model is finished in custom Redline Red paint with a Birch White panel on the sides of the fuel tank, taking inspiration from the same design featured on 1956 models. Details include chrome ‘Harley- Davidson V’ tank badges inspired by 1955-56 tank badges and ‘Hydra-Glide’ script badges located on the front fender skirt. There’s also a serialised ‘Hydra-Glide Revival’ insert on the handlebar riser cap and an Icons Motorcycle Collection graphic on the rear fender.
Additional styling features include instrument graphics inspired by the 1954-55 model’s speedo. A two-tone 21-inch (53.3cm) high detachable windshield features a colour-matched lower portion in Redline Red. A chrome air cleaner cover and chrome steel laced wheels add to the nostalgic look, while front and rear fender trim, engine guard, fork covers, powertrain and exhaust are also finished in chrome.
The bike’s solo saddle is finished with a fringed and decorated leather valance, white seam piping and red contrast stitching, and there’s a chrome rail. A matching black leather tank strap is embellished with studs and a concho. Leather and vinyl saddlebags are detailed with chrome conchos with acrylic red centres, chrome studs and leather fringe, white seam piping and red contrast stitching. The saddlebags are water-resistant, have keyed locks for security, and have a rigid liner.
The bike features a counter-balanced Milwaukee-Eight 114 V-Twin engine tuned with a Screamin’ Eagle High-Flow air cleaner, and it is compatible with all applicable Harley-Davidson Screamin’ Eagle Stage Upgrade kits.
The Softail chassis has a hidden adjustable monoshock rear suspension. Features include ABS brakes, electronic cruise control, and LED headlight and auxiliary lights.
At the time of publishing, AMCN was still waiting to hear how many examples of the Hydra-Glide would be made available in Australia, and we’re also chasing the RRP. We’ll up date this story as information comes to hand.
