Differences between 2005 dyna and later models
 

I am interested in a used dyna superglide and would like to know the major differences and improvements made in this model between the 2005 thru 2009 time frame. I am leaning towards an older bike that is a 2005 but wonder if H-D made any drastic improvements like on their touring platforms that would make me want to shell out the extra cash for a later model. I know on the touring platforms they put in a 92ci engine in 07 (?) and the major over-haul of the frame in 09 would likely make me target a 09 or later model if I wanted a touring bike.

Thanks for your feedback.

05 is the last year of carbureted

Big change in 06 was use of the 6 speed tranny. Beware of the infamous inner primary bearing failure. Mine was shot at 4400 miles. Only, as far as I know, affects the 06 model.

Lots of changes - different cubic inch in and 6th gear not available in 05. Not to mention fuel injection ( actually I believe some 05 were carb and some fuel inj. )

The frames were changed drastically in 2006 and up almost too numerous to list, major item on the Dynas was a reduction in pieces in the frame. I think the changes in the touring was lengthening the frame and making it stronger.

Another big change in '06 was the front forks. Before '06 it was 39mm. With the '06 and up it was "beefed" up to 41mm I think.

the best of 2005 and the best of later models
 

If you can find an '05 FXDX, grab it- best handling stock harley made, well next to the FXR. '05 was the last year for the FXDX. In '06 Dynas had significant upgrades: stiffer frame, 6 speed transmission and 49 mm front forks. I have an '06 streetbob and I love it. You can pick up an '06 for a good price, because it has the 88 cu inch motor. 96" introduced in '07. the 06's were the last year for the 88's- a very good platform for dependability, running cooler than the 96's and for increasing performance upgrades.
If you look at an '06 don't let the inner primary bearing problems scare you off- replace with proper fix and you're set. Good luck. Jay

2006: Changes to frame and other parts of body. Many parts fit only '06 - present or '96-'05
2006: Upgrade to 6 speed transmission from 5 speed.
2006: "Upgrade" (some may argue on that) to Fuel Injection from Carb
2007: Change from 88" to 96" ci stock motor. (Not necessarily an upgrade since an 88" with a 95" kit will kick it's ass any day :) )

04,05 88CI Twincam fuel injected or carbed narrow glide front end 5 speed
06 88CI Twin cam midglide front end, 49 mm forks, frame changed, 6speed transmission
and semi self primary chain tensioner also indicator lights moved frow earlier model
headlight brow to tank and handle bar bracket & wider rear tire.

07 96 CI Engine changed cam tensioners etc also some time around 07 fuel injection
system changed from open to closed loop? 96 CI engine had quite a few redesigns
with oiling etc hope this helps not sure how thorough this list is but there have
been quite a few changes in the last 5 years

like stated before if you find a clean 05 FXDX they are a great ride There are also some small differences with the 04,05s from earlier years one item is different dia axles

Oh I cannot stress this enough this is a MUST
What ever year you purchase Also spend the Bucks and get the factory service/repair manual and the factory parts refrence book
not the accessory book.
both a must there are alot of folks that work in delership parts depts that do not know what they are doing just a sign of the times and economy

Hope this helps
Carl

Others have covered most of the main stuff. '04 and '05 Dyna models have a seat that will only fit those years. I personally like the carb on my '04 Wide Glide (although I still need to change the slow jet), but my buddy's '05 FI Wide Glide w/ Stage 2 is pretty nice as well. When it's time to re-do the motor on my bike, I'll go w/ a 95" kit.