Harley-Davidson’s Latest: Enter The Hydra-Glide Revival

Remember the Harley-Davidson Hydra-Glide? Probably not, since its original production run was 1949-1957. But Harley-Davidson has decided to bring the name back, and for 2024, we now get a revived Hydra-Glide in the company’s Icons series.

The original Hydra-Glide was set apart with its hydraulic fork, instead of the company’s old girder design—it was a technical step forward. The new Hydra-Glide Revival is not a technological update; it’s a modern Softail done up to look like an old-school machine, celebrating the original Hydra-Glide’s 75th anniversary.

As per Harley-Davidson’s PR:

The Hydra-Glide Revival model is finished in custom Redline Red paint with a Birch White panel on fuel tank sides, 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. The serialized “Hydra-Glide Revival” insert on the handlebar riser cap and Icons Motorcycle Collection graphic on the rear fender identify this limited-production model.

Additional styling features include instrument graphics inspired by those on the 1954-55 speedometer. The two-tone 21-inch (53.3 cm) high detachable windshield features a color-matched lower portion in Redline Red. A chrome round air cleaner cover and chrome steel laced wheels add to the nostalgic look. Front and rear fender trim, engine guard, fork covers, powertrain and exhaust are finished in brilliant chrome.

A solo saddle is finished with a fringed and decorated leather valance, white seam piping and red contrast stitching, and a chrome rail for a nostalgic look. 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 centers, 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 so they will hold their shape season after season.

The original Hydra-Glide was Harley-Davidson’s last hardtail model; of course, the new version has a rear monoshock hidden away, but they’ve kept the massive tractor-style seat just the same.

For a powerplant, the Hydra-Glide gets the Milwaukee Eight 114, with a Screamin’ Eagle High-Flow air filter setup. That means it should pump out 119 lb-ft of torque.

Harley-Davidson says they will only make 1,750 of these bikes. The new model is on display at Daytona this week; see it here at Harley-Davidson’s Canadian website with a $30,499 MSRP.