9 Harley Davidson Frame Types Rumbling Down the Highway

The rigid frame was the earliest motorcycle frame used in Harley Davidson models. These traditional motorcycles lacked rear suspension, making them lightweight but rough on uneven roads.

Although Harley Davidson discontinued rigid frames in favor of more advanced suspension systems, they remain a favorite among custom builders for their clean, classic design.

The Harley Davidson Softail frame is designed to combine classic aesthetics with modern comfort. It features a concealed rear wheel suspension that gives the appearance of a rigid frame while providing a smoother ride.

Softail models, including the FXST Softail and other Harley Davidson motorcycles, are a staple of Harley Davidson’s cruiser lineup. Harley began implementing this more comfortable suspension design as early as the 1940s, although the Softail name wouldn't be officially trademarked until the mid-80s.

The Dyna frame (short for Dyna-Glide) was introduced in Harley Davidson’s lineup to offer a balance between performance and comfort. Featuring rubber mounted engines and drag-style handlebars, Dyna motorcycles like the Street Bob and Low Rider became known for their aggressive stance.

Although Harley Davidson discontinued the Dyna lineup in 2018, it remains a cult favorite for riders who appreciate its raw, responsive feel.

Touring frame models feature a larger, liquid-cooled engine and a wider frame designed for long-distance comfort. These frames prioritize stability and smooth handling, making them ideal for highway cruising.

Harley Davidson’s touring motorcycles, such as the Road King and Street Glide, are equipped with large fuel tanks and soft suspension to handle extended rides.

The Harley Davidson Sportster frame is built for nimble handling and versatility. Designed for the Sportster line, these motorcycles feature a more modest engine, making them popular among new riders and those looking for a lightweight, maneuverable bike.

Some Sportster models, like the retro styled Forty-Eight, pay homage to vintage designs while incorporating modern technology. Today, Sportster and Touring models represent the most popular of Harley's offerings and the majority of new sales.

Harley Davidson launched the V-Rod with a revolutionary engine design, featuring dual overhead camshafts and liquid cooling. This motorcycle frame was built for performance, with a lower stance and a larger rear tire for improved traction.

The V-Rod was Harley Davidson’s response to British motorcycles and other high-performance street models, offering a sportier alternative within its lineup.

Harley Davidson’s trike models feature two rear wheels for added stability and comfort. These motorcycles cater to riders who prefer a more relaxed touring experience without sacrificing the power of a big twin engine.

Typically based on modified versions of touring frames, trikes have become increasingly popular in Harley Davidson’s lineup, offering a unique blend of traditional motorcycles and modern engineering.

The FL model frame is a hallmark of Harley Davidson’s larger touring bikes with roots going all the way back to 1941. It features a strong, enduring motorcycle frame capable of supporting larger fuel tanks and a 103-cubic-inch (1,688-cubic-centimeter) big twin engine.

This frame is commonly found in heavy-duty touring models, built for riders who prioritize comfort on long journeys. The FL models share a lot of similarities with the Touring frame line, with the biggest difference between them being an air-cooled twin engine instead of a more modern water-cooled design.

As Harley Davidson expands into electric motorcycles with the Livewire line, new frame designs are emerging to accommodate lighter, high-torque engines.

Unlike traditional V-twin designs, these electric models have a lower center of gravity for enhanced control. Harley Davidson’s electric motorcycles are paving the way for the future of riding with cutting-edge technology and frame innovations.

Beyond the standard factory frames, Harley Davidson enthusiasts often modify their bikes with custom-built frames.

Whether it’s a stretched-out chopper frame or a bicycle-like frame inspired by early motorcycle designs, custom frames allow for endless personalization. These builds showcase the creativity of the Harley Davidson community and keep the spirit of motorcycle design innovation alive.

The reported origin of custom motorcycle design often begins with G.I.s returning home from World War II. Initially, bikers began modifying their vehicles for racing, utilizing weight reduction and improved aerodynamics.

It didn't take long for more creative riders to customize their street bikes for looks and maximum appeal instead of just performance.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.