Segment:
Classic American Cruiser
Reputation:
Iconic, long-distance touring motorcycle
Key Competitors 1965:
Indian Chief (though declining), British marques like Triumph and BSA for touring.
Signature Features:
Full fairing, saddlebags, comfortable seating for rider and passenger, large displacement V-twin engine.
Value Proposition:
A comprehensive guide for maintaining and restoring a legendary piece of American motorcycle history.
Wheel And Tire Assembly:
Yes
Troubleshooting Guides:
Yes
Component Disassembly And Assembly:
Yes
Diagnostic Procedures:
Yes
Electrical Troubleshooting Charts:
Yes
Carburetor Adjustment And Rebuild:
Yes
Brake System Servicing:
Yes
Depth:
Comprehensive Rebuild and Restoration
Diagnostic Level:
Advanced Diagnostic Troubleshooting
Repair Scope:
Full Component Level Repair
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, four-stroke, OHV V-twin
Displacement:
74.3 cubic inches (1213 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in x 4.25 in (87.3 mm x 108.0 mm)
Compression Ratio:
7.5:1 (typical)
Horsepower Est:
Approx. 55-60 HP @ 5000 RPM
Torque Est:
Approx. 75-80 ft-lbs @ 3500 RPM
Carburetor:
Linkert M-series (e.g., M35)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Capacity:
4.0 US gallons (15.1 liters)
Length:
Approx. 93.5 inches (2375 mm)
Width:
Approx. 37.0 inches (940 mm)
Height:
Approx. 57.0 inches (1448 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 635 lbs (288 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Est:
Approx. 1000 lbs (454 kg)
Safety Ratings Era:
Not applicable in modern terms; focused on rider skill and machine condition.
Braking System:
Drum brakes front and rear
Suspension Front:
Telescopic fork with hydraulic damping
Suspension Rear:
Swingarm with dual adjustable shock absorbers
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals (optional/variable)
Oil Change Interval Est:
Every 2,000-3,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first.
Spark Plug Replacement Est:
Every 6,000-10,000 miles
Chain Adjustment:
As needed, typically every 1,000-2,000 miles
Carburetor Cleaning Est:
Annually or as needed if performance issues arise
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson 20W50 Motorcycle Oil (or equivalent mineral-based 20W50)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3 US quarts (2.8 liters)
Primary Chain Case Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Primary Chain Case Lubricant (or equivalent SAE 50)
Primary Chain Case Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1 US quart (0.95 liters)
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson 4-speed Transmission Oil (SAE 50 or SAE 60)
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1 US quart (0.95 liters)
Fork Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Fork Oil (e.g., Type B or equivalent 10W fork oil)
Common Wear Items:
Valve guides, piston rings, clutch plates, brake shoes, electrical connectors.
Electrical Gremlins:
Wiring harness degradation, charging system issues (generator), points ignition timing.
Carburetor Issues:
Linkert carburetor can be finicky, requiring precise adjustment and cleaning.
Rear Shocks:
Original shocks may be worn, impacting ride quality.
Brand Philosophy:
American V-twin motorcycles, freedom, ruggedness.
Electra Glide Introduction:
1965
Electra Glide Significance:
Introduced the large fairing, saddlebags, and trunk, establishing the 'Bagger' category and the modern touring motorcycle.
Engine Evolution 1965:
Shovelhead engine introduced this year, replacing the Panhead.
Production Years Initial:
1965-present (with continuous evolution)
Historical Significance:
Recognized as a foundational model for the modern cruiser and touring motorcycle segment.
Collector Value:
Highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
Historical Vehicle Status:
Eligible for classic vehicle status in many regions.
