Harley Davidson, a well-known motorcycle brand, has a vast universe of models and styles that can be confusing for newcomers. To help you better understand the frequently used names, acronyms, and styles, we have compiled a list of Harley Davidson model abbreviations. This will aid in clarifying some of the perplexity surrounding HD's model abbreviations and make it easier for you to navigate the Harley Davidson universe.

Harley Davidson, the world's leading motorcycle brand, has five main families of bikes: Touring, Softail, V-Rod, Dyna, and Sportster. Each family has its own distinct features and characteristics. Within each family, there are many different models and variations, like siblings, parents, aunts, uncles, and distant cousins. So, when it comes to Harley Davidson, there's a lot more to it than just a simple "Harley."

Harley-Davidson motorcycles are known for their unique abbreviations and acronyms. These can be found on various parts of the bike, such as the breather or front fender, depending on the model and any aftermarket parts. When it comes to deciphering these abbreviations, there are three general standards to keep in mind.

What the 1st Letter of Your Engine Series Means

G = Servicar three wheeler, 1937 to 1972

E = Overhead valve 61 cubic inch "big twin" (Engine and trans separated)

F = Overhead valve "Big Twin"

K = Side valve 45 and 55 cubic inch sports bike that replaced the WL in 1953 and was replaced by the Sportster® in 1957.

U = Side valve "big twin"

V - Side valve 74 cubic inch 1930-36

W - Side valve 45 cubic inch made 1937 to 1952

X = Sports and Special Construction

V = Revolution Motor

The Importance of the 2nd Letter in Front End Size Identification

L = Wide front tire and Hydra-Glide style front forks

X = Narrow Tire and Sport Forks

Understanding the 3rd Letter: A Guide to Frame Style Designation

The third letter in the model name of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle designates the frame style, allowing you to distinguish between Touring, Softail, or Dyna models. This letter is an important identifier for Harley enthusiasts and helps them choose the right bike for their riding style and preferences.

H/T = Highway/Touring Frame

ST = Softail Frame

D = Dyna Frame

Additional letters may also be used to indicate certain features that come with that particular bike family. This can sometimes lead to confusion, as Harley-Davidson may use the same letter to represent different features on different bikes.

Touring Models

Harley-Davidson's Touring Models are the biggest bikes in their lineup, designed for long-distance rides and accommodating passengers. These models are equipped with saddlebags and extra storage space, making them ideal for extended trips. The Touring Models are also perfect for riders who frequently travel with a passenger, as they offer ample room for both the rider and their companion. Some of the popular models in this family include the Road King, Electra Glide, and Street Glide.

Touring Model Letters	Model Name
FLHR	Road King
FLHRCI	Road King Classic
FLHRSI	Road King Custom
FLHP	Road King Police
FLHS	Electra Glide Sport
FLHT	Electra Glide Standard
FLHTC	Electra Glide Classic
FLHTP	Electra Glide Police
FLHTCU	Ultra Classic Electra Glide
FLHTCUL	Ultra Classic Electra Glide Low
FLHX	Street Glide
FLHXSE	CVO Street Glide
FLHTCUSE	CVO Ultra Classic Electra Glide
FLHTCUTG	Tri-Glide
FLHTK	Electra Glide Ultra Limited
FLHTKL	Electra Glide Ultra Limited Low
FLHX	Street Glide
FLHXS	Street Glide Special
FLHXXX	Street Glide Trike
FLTC	Rubber Mounted Dresser Classic
FLTCU	Rubber Mounted Dresser Classic Ultra
FLTR	Road Glide
FLTRSE	CVO Screamin' Eagle Road Glide
FLTRX	Road Glide Custom
FLTRXS	Road Glide Special

Softail Models

Harley-Davidson's Softail models provide riders with the classic hard-tail appearance while also offering the advantages of a concealed suspension system that provides a smoother ride. These bikes are perfect for those who value comfort or require a motorcycle that can handle bumps in the road with ease. Additionally, the Softail is an ideal option for riders who prefer to ride alone or with a passenger.

Softail Model Letters	Model Name
FLST	Softail
FLSTC	Heritage Softail Classic
FLSTF	Fat Boy
FLSTN	Softail Deluxe
FLSTSC	Springer Softail Classic
FLSTSE	CVO Softail Convertible
FLSTSB	Cross Bones
FXSTB	Night Train
FXSTC	Softail Custom
FXSTD	Softail Deuce
FXSTS	Springer Softail
FXSTSB	Bad Boy
FXSTSSE	CVO Softail Springer Screamin' Eagle
FXCW	Softail Rocker
FXCWC	Softail Rocker Custom
FXS	Softail Blackline
FXSB	Softail Breakout
FXSBSE	Softail CVO Breakout

2018-Up Softail Models

In 2018, Harley-Davidson unveiled their latest Softail Models, which feature a Mono-shock design. This new platform represents a significant shift for the company, offering riders a smoother and more comfortable ride than ever before. With its sleek design and advanced technology, the Softail is quickly becoming one of the most popular models in the Harley-Davidson lineup.

2018-Up Softail Model Letters	Model Name
FXBR	Breakout
FLDE	Deluxe
FXFB	Fat Bob
FLFB	Fat Boy
FXBB	Street Bob
FLSB	Sport Glide
FLHC	Heritage Classic
FXLR	Low Rider
FLSL	Slim

Dyna/FX Models

Harley-Davidson's Dyna and FX models have been a staple of the company's lineup since the early 1990s. These bikes feature the iconic Harley big-twin engine and classic styling, with the Dyna model standing out for its exposed coil suspension. Compared to the smaller Sportster models, the Dyna boasts a larger engine and, in some cases, a slightly larger gas tank. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just starting out, the Dyna and FX models offer a thrilling ride and unmistakable Harley-Davidson style.

Dyna/FX Model Letters	Model Name
FXDB	Dyna Street Bob
FXDC	Dyna Super Glide Custom
FXD	Dyna Superglide
FXDL	Dyna Low Rider
FXDF	Dyna Fat Bob
FXDFSE	CVO Fat Bob
FXDS-CON	Dyna Convertible
FXDWG	Dyna Wide Glide
FXDX	Dyna Super Glide Sport
FLD	Dyna Switchback
FXR	Superglide II
FXRS	Low Glide
FXRS	FXR Sport Convertible
FXRT	Sport Glide
FXRP	Police/Defender
FXRS	FXR Sport
FXS	Low Rider

Sportster Models

The Harley Sportster Models are a popular choice for riders who prefer a smaller size bike with great versatility. These bikes are designed for both solo and two-up riding, and come with two motor size options - 883cc or 1200cc. While some may refer to them as "Skirtsters" or "girls bikes," the Sportster Models are beloved by many riders for their agility, style and performance.

Sportster Model Letters	Model Name
XL	Sportster
XLH883	Sportster Hugger
XL883	Sportster 883
XL883C	Sportster 883 Custom
XL883L	Sportster 883 Low
XL883N	Sportster 883 Iron
XL1200	Sportster 1200
XL1200C	Sportster 1200 Custom
XL1200L	Sportster 1200 Low
XL1200N	Sportster 1200 Nightster
XL1200R	Sportster 1200 Roadster
XL1200S	Sportster 1200 Sport
XL1200V	Sportster Seventy-Two
XL50	Sportster 50th Anniversary Ed.

V-Rod Models

Harley-Davidson's V-Rod Models stand out from the rest of the lineup due to their unique engine, which was developed in collaboration with Porsche. These models are equipped with a powerful Revolution Engine that uses liquid cooling and overhead cams to deliver an exceptional performance on the road.

V-Rod Model Letters	Model Name
VRSC	V-Rod
VRSCAW	V-Rod (240mm rear tire)
VRSCB	V-Rod Black Finish
VRSCD	Night Rod
VRSCDX	Night Rod Special
VRSCF	V-Rod Muscle
VRSCR	Street Rod

Other Models

In addition to their traditional motorcycle models, Harley has expanded their offerings to include trikes and their Street Bike series. With these new options, Harley is able to cater to a wider range of riders and continue to grow their presence in the market. No matter what type of rider you are, Harley has a bike or trike that will suit your needs and style.