The idea of a factory-built custom Harley-Davidson is obviously nothing new. For those that don’t want to have to finagle with their new bikes yet want something far from stock, these bikes offer a turnkey solution. H-D has been building bikes like this (officially) since 1999, when it launched the Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO) lineup. And only two years later, it built one of the coolest factory customs ever conceived – the FXDWG2 CVO Switchblade.
Harley-Davidson's brazen ad for the 2001 FXDWG2 stated, “Cars have to be upside down and on fire to get this much attention.” The November 2000 cover of American Iron Magazine described the Screamin' Eagle Wide Glide as “Red Hot & Stock!” Officially dubbed the Switchblade, the FXDWG2 was indeed one sharp-looking bike.
Featuring a Scarlet Red paint scheme with 24 karat gold flames, the CVO Switchblade looked like something that just rolled out of a custom bike shop in the early 2000s. Based on the Dyna Wide Glide, this special ride also came with a slammed suspension, Twin Cam 88 motor, full-length tank console, Lightning Star wheels, slash-cut exhaust, billet turn signals, and a silver-faced speedometer.
The Switchblade is one of only a handful of factory customs to have a matching frame paint. Far from just hot looks, it was fitted with the 88 cubic-inch Twin Cam motor. Introduced two years earlier, the Twin Cam replaced the proven, but outdated Evolution engine. In development since 1992, and code-named P-22, the Twin Cam was a quest to deliver more power and reliability.
Under the Switchblade's impressive cosmetic touches is an FXDWG 'Wide Glide' base model. First introduced to the Dyna platform in 1993, the FXDWG was a reworking of the popular FXWG. Produced from 1980 until 1986, the FXWG was a stunning factory custom in its own right, with a flamed Fat Bob fuel tank, a wide front end, and 21-inch spoked front wheel.
The Wide Glide was only issued as a CVO/Screamin' Eagle model on two occasions and in very limited numbers. Harley-Davidson must have realized that the Switchblade was a hot item, as it was quickly followed by the 2002 Screamin' Eagle FXDWG3. Offered in a more sedate Navy Blue Pearl and Vivid Black, the FXDWG3 retained the characteristic flames, but not in precious metal.
The ostrich leather seat is a distinctive feature of the Switchblade. While the unique design made a reappearance on the FXDWG3 in both gray and black, the tan version is a real stand-out. Liberal application of chrome gave the Switchblade added visual clout, and went far to support Harley-Davidson's claim of 'attention-getter.' While numbers vary, there were only 1676 Switchblades built-in Scarlet Red and Gold Flames worldwide.
The Switchblade was a flashy move by Harley-Davidson towards exclusive, upmarket machines. An approach that echoes some of the Motor Company's current change in corporate leadership and new production direction. The Switchblade also marked the end of the once-maligned, now exulted FXR platform, which had been re-released for the first two years of the Screamin' Eagle/CVO program.
From its slammed suspension to its Lighting Star wheels the road-hugging Switchblade is a dramatic machine. An instant hit with the media, it was called the best-looking machine around. Its Twin Cam engine was considered the best performing V-Twin cruiser motor on the market. The Switchblade was an unmistakable trailblazer, one that served to define a premium brand as we know it today.
This example is about as clean ands stock as you will find, low miles nothing jagged with stock seat stock bars original in every way except for maybe the cruise control was added, fluids and battery have all been changed, tires and brakes in great condition. If you have questions ask away. We may have suggestions for a transport if that's what you are thinking and we will assist in every way possible. Deposit of $200 due within 2 hours of sale, full payment due within 7 days, bank wire transfer only.....Thanks For Looking ! Bike is located near Milwaukee Wisconsin