Vehicle Segment:
Full-size, luxury touring motorcycle.
Target Audience:
Long-distance riders, touring enthusiasts, and those seeking premium comfort and features.
Competitors:
Chiefly competes with other large-displacement touring motorcycles from brands like Honda (Gold Wing), Indian (Roadmaster), and potentially BMW (K 1600 GTL).
Touring Amenities:
Extensive fairings, large windshield, comfortable seating for rider and passenger, ample luggage capacity (saddlebags, tour-pak), cruise control, and premium audio system.
Engine Type:
V-Twin, air-cooled, pushrod-actuated, overhead valve engine.
Ergonomics:
Designed for rider comfort on extended journeys, with a relaxed riding position.
Engine Service:
Complete engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, inspection, lubrication, timing, and component replacement.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection (EFI) system diagnosis, servicing, injector testing, fuel pump operation, fuel tank maintenance.
Ignition System:
Ignition system components, spark plug specifications, timing adjustments, coil testing, sensor diagnostics.
Transmission And Drivetrain:
Primary drive, clutch operation, 6-speed cruise drive transmission disassembly, assembly, gear inspection, fluid changes, final drive belt inspection and adjustment.
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame inspection, front fork service (including oil changes and seal replacement), rear shock absorber servicing and adjustment, steering head bearing maintenance.
Braking System:
Brake caliper servicing, master cylinder replacement, brake fluid flush and bleed procedures, ABS system (if equipped) diagnosis and service.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams for all circuits, battery maintenance, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), lighting systems, starter system, accessory wiring, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and troubleshooting.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fairing removal and installation, saddlebag servicing, tour-pak maintenance, seat replacement, cosmetic component care.
Comfort Features:
Cruise control system operation and diagnosis, audio system troubleshooting, climate control (if applicable) and passenger amenities.
Preventative Maintenance:
Detailed schedules for oil changes, filter replacements, brake checks, tire inspections, chain/belt adjustments, and general tune-ups.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting charts.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul for all major motorcycle systems.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Guidance on using diagnostic tools, interpreting error codes, and performing electrical system checks.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for critical fasteners across all components.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive, factory-level wiring schematics for electrical systems, including lighting, ignition, and accessories.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive factory-level service information suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and explanations of sensor readings and module functions.
Rebuild Instructions:
In-depth instructions for engine and transmission rebuilds, including specifications for wear limits and tolerances.
Engine Type:
96 Cubic Inch (1584cc) V-Twin, Twin Cam 96
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in. x 4.38 in. (95.25 mm x 111.25 mm)
Valve Train:
Pushrod-actuated, overhead valve, 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approximately 70-75 HP (at crankshaft, estimated)
Torque:
Approximately 92-96 ft-lbs @ 3500 RPM (at crankshaft, estimated)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane
Cooling Method:
Air-cooled
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil (or equivalent SAE 20W-50)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.0 US quarts (3.8 L) with filter change
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Cruise Drive Transmission
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic, multi-plate wet clutch
Final Drive:
Carbon belt, 51 tooth sprocket, 32 tooth pulley
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson GEAR OIL SAE 75W-140 (or equivalent)
Transmission Oil Capacity:
24 US fluid ounces (0.71 L)
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycles are not typically subjected to standardized crash testing like cars)
Braking System Type:
Dual-disc front brakes, single-disc rear brake. Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on certain models/trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control system.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, front and rear turn signals, brake lights, auxiliary driving lights (on Ultra Classic).
Chassis Stability:
Low center of gravity and long wheelbase contribute to stability.
Audio System:
Integrated AM/FM/WB stereo with CD player and CB/Intercom functionality. Handlebar-mounted controls for audio, cruise, and communication.
Display:
Multi-function gauge cluster with analog speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, voltage meter, oil pressure, and indicator lights.
Cruise Control:
Electronic cruise control for relaxed highway riding.
Cb Intercom:
Integrated CB radio and intercom system for rider-passenger and rider-rider communication.
Diagnostic Ports:
Service port for connecting diagnostic tools (e.g., Harley-Davidson Digital Technician) to read DTCs and monitor live data.
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Primary Chain Adjust Interval:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km)
Transmission Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months.
Final Drive Belt Inspection:
Inspect every 5,000 miles (8,000 km). Adjust/replace as needed.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 24 months, regardless of mileage.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km)
Engine Oil Specification:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil SAE 20W-50 or equivalent.
Transmission Oil Specification:
Harley-Davidson GEAR OIL SAE 75W-140 or equivalent.
Primary Chain Case Oil Specification:
Harley-Davidson FORMULA + Transmission and Primary Chaincase Lubricant (or equivalent SAE 50 motor oil).
Primary Chain Case Oil Capacity:
26 US fluid ounces (0.77 L)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 (for models with ABS) or DOT 5.1 (for non-ABS models, check specific manual for confirmation). Harley-Davidson recommends their own branded fluid.
Cam Chain Tensioners:
Early Twin Cam engines (pre-2007) had issues with hydraulic tensioners. The 96ci Twin Cam in these years generally has improved tensioners, but inspection is still recommended, especially for higher mileage bikes.
Regulator Rectifier:
Overheating and failure of the regulator/rectifier unit are known to occur, impacting charging system performance. Periodic checks and replacement if symptoms arise is advisable.
Starter Drive Clutch:
Potential for wear or failure in the starter drive clutch assembly, leading to clicking noises during starting.
Wheel Bearings:
Routine inspection and potential replacement of wheel bearings, especially after significant mileage or exposure to harsh conditions.
Brand Origin:
Harley-Davidson Motor Company, founded in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA, in 1903.
Brand Philosophy:
Emphasis on V-twin engines, American cruiser and touring culture, and rider community.
Touring Lineage:
The Ultra Classic Glide is the flagship of Harley-Davidson's long-standing touring motorcycle lineage, evolving from models like the Electra Glide.
Twin Cam Era:
This generation features the Twin Cam 96 engine, introduced in 2007, which offered increased displacement and torque over previous Evolution engines.
Production Period:
The FLHTCU Ultra Classic Glide has been a staple in the Harley-Davidson lineup for decades, with this specific generation covering 2007-2010 model years.
Brand Awards:
Harley-Davidson consistently ranks high in customer satisfaction surveys for touring motorcycles within its segment.
Motorcycle Reviews:
Generally well-received by motorcycle publications for its comfort, features, and iconic style, though sometimes criticized for weight and handling in tight situations.
Manufacturing Standards:
Manufactured to meet or exceed all relevant EPA, DOT, and California Air Resources Board (CARB) emissions and safety standards for its production years.