Photo: Maggi1109 · CC BY-SA 4.0
Harley-Davidson FXR Super Glide
80/100 Overall
75 On the road85 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Harley-Davidson FXR Super Glide vs Triumph Bonneville T120
Harley-Davidson FXR Super Glide scores 80/100 overall against Triumph Bonneville T120 on 82/100. On the road: 75–65. As classics: 85–98. Overall result: Triumph Bonneville T120.
Triumph Bonneville T120
82/100 Overall
65 On the road98 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Harley-Davidson FXR | Triumph Bonneville | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 6 | 5 | Harley-Davidson FXR |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 8 | 6 | Harley-Davidson FXR |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 9 | 8 | Harley-Davidson FXR |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 8 | 6 | Harley-Davidson FXR |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 8 | 10 | Triumph Bonneville |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 8 | 10 | Triumph Bonneville |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 9 | 10 | Triumph Bonneville |
Choose the Harley-Davidson FXR if…
you want one of Harley-Davidson's best-handling traditional big twins, combining useful road ability with strong custom appeal.
Choose the Triumph Bonneville if…
you value lightness, accessible mechanical simplicity and the sound and feel of a classic British twin.
Background
History
Harley-Davidson FXR
The Harley-Davidson FXR Super Glide was produced from 1982–1994 and used a Air-cooled 45-degree V-twin in a rubber-mounted FXR chassis. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, collector appeal and ownership appeal. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
Triumph Bonneville
The Triumph Bonneville T120 was produced from 1959–1973 and used a 649cc air-cooled parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, historic importance, character. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Harley-Davidson FXR
- Its production span in this library runs from 1982 to 1994.
- The recorded engine description is: Air-cooled 45-degree V-twin in a rubber-mounted FXR chassis.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, collector appeal and ownership appeal.
Triumph Bonneville
- Its production span in this library runs from 1959 to 1973.
- The recorded engine description is: 649cc air-cooled parallel twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, historic importance, character.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Harley-Davidson FXR
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Harley-Davidson FXR Super Glide. Its library score for character is 9/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Triumph Bonneville
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Triumph Bonneville T120. Its library score for styling is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Harley-Davidson FXR
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check primary-drive or final-drive condition, charging output, engine mounts and signs of persistent leakage.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Triumph Bonneville
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check vibration-related fasteners, primary drive condition and signs of persistent oil leakage.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Harley-Davidson FXR
Rivals to the Triumph Bonneville
Final result
The verdict
Harley-Davidson FXR Super Glide wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Triumph Bonneville T120 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Triumph Bonneville T120 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.