Each year, Harley-Davidson enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the release of one of the brand’s Icons collection bikes, a moment often overlooked by many. The unveiling of this year’s retro marvel occurred recently, towards the end of last week, courtesy of the Milwaukee-based company.
But what exactly are an Icons Harley-Davidson? For approximately four years, the motorcycle manufacturer has endeavored to revive the allure, appeal, and timeless styling of some of its legendary models by giving the existing lineup a makeover that transports onlookers back to the golden age of motorcycling.
Last year witnessed the manifestation of this desire with the introduction of an Electra Glide Highway King inspired by the 1968 FLH, following previous releases like the formidable Low Rider El Diablo.
With the primary product launch for the year now behind them, Harley-Davidson has shifted its focus to unveiling the 2024 Icon motorcycle. Enter the Hydra-Glide Revival.
Similar to its predecessors, this special motorcycle boasts a distinctive paint scheme and unique graphics, applied over components that deviate from their stock counterparts. Several factors influenced the motorcycle’s design.
The first factor pays homage to two historic Harley-Davidson models, namely the E and F. Specifically, it’s the adoption of the Hydra-Glide telescopic front suspension by both models starting in 1949—a milestone marking its 75th anniversary in 2024.
The second factor stems from the release of a movie titled “The Bikeriders” (trailer below the text). Premiering last summer at the 50th Telluride Film Festival, the film follows the journey of a midwestern motorcycle club throughout a decade in the mid-20th century.
Starring Tom Hardy, Austin Butler, and Michael Shannon, among others, the film promises to captivate fans of two-wheeled machines. Drawing inspiration from both the 1950s E and F Harleys and “The Bikeriders,” Harley conceived the Hydra-Glide Revival, a testament to meticulous customization resulting in a visually striking motorcycle.
The emphasis is undoubtedly on aesthetics, with the motorcycle sporting a Redline Red paint accented by a Birch White panel on the fuel tank sides—the same paint scheme utilized on mid-1950s Harley models.
Beyond its striking appearance, the Hydra-Glide Revival features chrome V badges and scripts reminiscent of decades past, adorning the fuel tank and front fender skirt. Chrome elements extend to the fenders, engine guard, fork covers, and even the engine itself.
Furthermore, the instrument graphics pay homage to the speedometers of 1950s-era bikes, while a special two-tone windshield enhances both style and functionality. With a height of 21 inches (53 cm) when installed, the detachable windshield includes a lower portion painted to complement the motorcycle’s bodywork.
To ensure the Hydra-Glide Revival remains unmistakable, Harley-Davidson incorporates a serialized insert on the handlebar riser cap and an Icons Motorcycle Collection graphic on the rear fender.
These visual enhancements are accompanied by mechanical improvements, including a modified Milwaukee-Eight 114 V-Twin engine equipped with a Screamin’ Eagle High-Flow air cleaner concealed beneath a chrome cover. The motorcycle’s chassis features a mono-shock rear suspension and standard ABS for enhanced performance and safety.
With its limited production run of just 1,750 units, each priced at $24,999, the Hydra-Glide Revival continues Harley-Davidson’s tradition of offering iconic motorcycles that blend heritage aesthetics with modern engineering.
