From open highways to garage workshops, the 1997 Harley-Davidson lineup still matters to riders, restorers, and collectors who want a clear snapshot of that year’s offerings and tweaks.
There are 18 1997 Harley-Davidson Models, ranging from Dyna Super Glide to Wide Glide. For each entry you’ll find below a concise table organized with Body style, Engine (cc), Notable 1997 changes to make comparisons and parts checks straightforward — you’ll find those details below.
How can I use the table to compare models from 1997?
Look at Body style to group similar frames, Engine (cc) to compare performance, and Notable 1997 changes to spot year-specific updates like suspension, carburetion, or factory options; together those columns help with parts compatibility, restoration planning, and quick value estimates.
Were there major mechanical changes across Harley’s 1997 models?
Most changes in 1997 were incremental—tuning, trim, and option revisions—so the Notable 1997 changes column highlights what mattered per model; for deeper mechanical differences check engine families, VIN ranges, and factory service bulletins.
1997 Harley-Davidson Models
| Model | Body style | Engine (cc) | Notable 1997 changes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electra Glide | Touring | 1,340 | Carryover model; minor trim and color updates |
| Electra Glide Classic | Touring | 1,340 | Carryover; Classic trim packages continued |
| Ultra Classic | Touring | 1,340 | Carryover; factory tour pack and audio options |
| Road King | Touring | 1,340 | Carryover; refreshed trim options available |
| Electra Glide Police | Touring | 1,340 | Police spec packages continued for 1997 |
| Road King Police | Touring | 1,340 | Available with official police packages in 1997 |
| Heritage Softail Classic | Softail | 1,340 | Carryover; leather and studded trim options |
| Fat Boy | Softail | 1,340 | Carryover; popular factory finishes available |
| Springer Softail | Softail | 1,340 | Carryover; Springer front-end remained a key feature |
| Softail Standard | Softail | 1,340 | Carryover; basic trim for customization |
| Dyna Super Glide | Dyna | 1,340 | Carryover; Dyna frame and carbureted engine |
| Wide Glide | Dyna | 1,340 | Carryover; rake and styling consistent with prior years |
| Low Rider | Dyna | 1,340 | Carryover; performance and trim similar to previous years |
| Dyna Super Glide Sport | Dyna | 1,340 | Carryover; sportier suspension and gearing |
| Sportster 883 | Sportster | 883 | Continued model; new paint options typical |
| Hugger (883 Hugger) | Sportster | 883 | Hugger styling continued in 1997 |
| Sportster 1200 Custom | Sportster | 1,200 | Carryover; custom trim packages available |
| Sportster 1200 Sport | Sportster | 1,200 | Sport-tuned 1200 variant continued |
Images and Descriptions
Electra Glide
A full-dress touring Harley with large fairing and saddlebags. Typical variants include Standard and Classic; positioned for long-distance riders. 1997 models were largely carryovers—good for collectors seeking classic late‑90s touring ergonomics and reliable Evo-era power.
Electra Glide Classic
Classic full-dress Electra Glide with chromed trim and touring amenities. Offered as a higher‑trim touring bike popular with long-distance riders and collectors; 1997 examples are sought for original paint and accessory packages.
Ultra Classic
Top-tier touring model with batwing fairing, tour pack, and factory audio. Positioned as the flagship for long-haul comfort; collectors value original electronics, luggage and well-documented service history on 1997 models.
Road King
A stripped-down touring/cruiser hybrid with removable windshield and hard saddlebags. Popular for riders wanting touring capability without full fairing; 1997 Road Kings are solid collector candidates due to timeless styling.
Electra Glide Police
Factory police-equipped Electra Glide used by law enforcement agencies. Features patrol-ready accessories and durable trim; 1997 police bikes appeal to collectors of service bikes and buyers seeking rugged, low-mile platforms.
Road King Police
Road King configured for police use with sirens and radio mounts. Favored by departments and collectors; 1997 police Road Kings are notable for their utility and heavy-duty components.
Heritage Softail Classic
Retro-styled Softail with leather saddlebags, spoked wheels, and classic fenders. Positioned as a cruiser with nostalgic styling; 1997 Heritage models are popular restorations and safe buys for collectors.
Fat Boy
Bulky, muscular Softail with solid wheels and minimalist styling. A flagship cruiser in 1997, prized by collectors for iconic looks and presence; well-maintained examples hold value.
Springer Softail
Softail with a sprung-rig front end and classic lines. Appeals to traditionalists and collectors; 1997 Springer Softails are valued for distinctive suspension and vintage appeal.
Softail Standard
Entry-level Softail offering the rigid-look frame and a clean platform for customizers. 1997 Softail Standards are popular donor bikes for builds and affordable collector pieces.
Dyna Super Glide
Mid-weight Dyna blending Sportster agility and Big‑Twin torque. Common variants include custom and standard trims; 1997 Super Glides are practical riders and good cores for customization.
Wide Glide
Chopped, raked Dyna emphasizing classic chopper styling. 1997 Wide Glides attract buyers wanting cruiser looks with touring usability; collectors like original geometry and trim.
Low Rider
Sportier Dyna tuned for a lower stance and responsive handling. 1997 Low Riders are favored by riders seeking nimble Big‑Twin cruisers and make good collectible performers when well maintained.
Dyna Super Glide Sport
Sport-oriented Dyna variant with firmer setup and performance cues. Positioned for riders wanting a more aggressive Big‑Twin; 1997 Sport examples appeal to enthusiasts who value handling upgrades.
Sportster 883
Entry-level Sportster with an 883cc V-twin, popular for commuting and customization. 1997 883s are common, inexpensive starters and collectible when low-mileage or factory-original paint is present.
Hugger (883 Hugger)
A retro Sportster 883 with shortened rear fender and classic styling. Appeals to riders wanting a vintage look on a small-displacement platform; 1997 Huggers are desirable for period-correct restorations.
Sportster 1200 Custom
Higher-displacement Sportster with more torque and custom-inspired trim. 1997 1200 Customs are practical for everyday riding and collectible when kept in original spec.
Sportster 1200 Sport
Performance-focused 1200 Sport offering stronger acceleration and sportier handling. 1997 models interest riders seeking more power from a compact V‑twin and collectors who prefer sportier Sportsters.
