Segment:
Full-dress touring motorcycle
Target Audience:
Long-distance riders, touring enthusiasts, those seeking comfort and luggage capacity.
Competitors:
Honda Gold Wing, Indian Chief Roadmaster (though Indian was less prevalent in this segment during these years), BMW K1200LT.
Features:
Large displacement V-twin engine, comfortable seating for rider and passenger, extensive fairing for weather protection, integrated luggage (saddlebags, Tour-Pak).
Manual Value Proposition:
Essential resource for owners and technicians to maintain, troubleshoot, and repair the Electra Glide Classic, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Workshop
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Specifications
Estimated Page Count:
Typically 500-800 pages for comprehensive factory manuals of this era.
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Language:
English (Assumed, standard for Harley-Davidson North American market manuals)
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission, Clutch, Drivetrain (Belt/Chain)
Chassis:
Frame, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Wheels, Tires, Brakes (Front & Rear)
Electrical:
Ignition System, Charging System (Stator, Regulator, Battery), Lighting, Instruments, Accessories, Wiring Diagrams
Fuel System:
Fuel Tank, Fuel Lines, Carburetor (CV Carburetor), Fuel Pump (if applicable)
Exhaust System:
Exhaust Pipes, Mufflers, Heat Shields
Bodywork And Trim:
Fairing, Saddlebags, Tour-Pak, Fenders, Seat, Handlebars, Controls
Comfort And Convenience:
Climate control (if applicable, e.g., heated grips), audio systems (if factory installed)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain/belt adjustment, spark plug service, brake fluid flush, lubrication points.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common performance issues, electrical faults, starting problems.
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission overhaul, brake caliper rebuild, suspension fork service.
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing specific parts like starter motor, alternator, carburetor, wheel bearings.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Reading wiring diagrams, testing circuits, diagnosing electrical component failures.
Chassis Adjustment And Alignment:
Steering head bearing adjustment, wheel alignment checks.
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Diagnostics:
Inclusion of specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) if applicable, though less common for carbureted models of this era; focus on symptom-based troubleshooting.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Precise torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, and other critical measurements for proper assembly and operation.
Type:
Evolution (Evo) V-Twin, air-cooled
Displacement:
1337cc (82 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.498 in x 4.25 in (88.9 mm x 108 mm)
Compression Ratio:
8.5:1 (typical for this era Evo engine)
Valve Train:
OHV, 2 valves per cylinder, pushrod actuated
Horsepower:
Approximately 60-65 HP (at crankshaft, estimated for period)
Torque:
Approximately 78-85 ft-lbs (at crankshaft, estimated for period)
Carburetor:
Keihin CV (Constant Velocity) 40mm
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane (91 RON)
Type:
Electronic Ignition (Points-less system)
Type:
5-speed constant mesh, manual
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios available in manual, but typically: 1st: 9.009, 2nd: 6.090, 3rd: 4.680, 4th: 3.615, 5th: 3.000 (These are approximate and can vary slightly by year/model)
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate, diaphragm spring
Drive Type:
Belt drive (Primary), Belt drive (Final) for FLHTC I (Internal primary drive)
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission/Primary Fluid or equivalent SAE 50 motorcycle oil.
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approximately 24 US fl oz (0.71 L) for transmission, plus primary chaincase.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 63.5 inches (1613 mm)
Length:
Approx. 93.5 inches (2375 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 770 lbs (350 kg)
Gvwr:
Approx. 1360 lbs (617 kg)
Fuel Capacity:
5.0 US gallons (18.9 L)
Front:
130/90-16 (Dunlop D402 or equivalent)
Rear:
130/90-16 (Dunlop D402 or equivalent)
Wheel Type:
Cast aluminum, tubeless
Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3mm (Standard for Harley-Davidson)
Safety Ratings:
Motorcycles do not undergo formal NCAP-style crash testing. Safety is inherent in design and rider responsibility.
Braking System:
Dual front disc brakes, single rear disc brake. Hydraulic actuation.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight/brake light, turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Steel, double-cradle frame for stability and rigidity.
Ergonomics:
Designed for rider comfort over long distances, minimizing fatigue.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 2,500 - 5,000 miles (refer to manual for exact intervals based on conditions).
Primary Fluid Change Interval:
Concurrent with engine oil change or as specified.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000 - 15,000 miles (depending on plug type and wear).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 1-2 years or as recommended by Harley-Davidson.
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson 20W-50 Synthetic or Semi-Synthetic Motorcycle Oil or equivalent.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3.0 US quarts (2.8 L) with filter change.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Brake Fluid (for models equipped with ABS, though ABS was not standard on all FLHTC I models of this era; confirm if present).
Fork Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Type 'E' or equivalent (e.g., Showa SS-8, Spectro HD Fork Oil)
Fork Oil Quantity:
Refer to manual for specific fork oil level/quantity, usually around 10-12 fl oz per leg.
Common Wear Items:
Cam chain tensioners (early Evo engines), rear brake pads, wheel bearings, battery.
Potential Failures:
Carburetor adjustment issues, aging electrical connectors, stator failure (less common on later Evo models), primary chain wear.
Schedule Type:
Detailed periodic maintenance schedule provided by mileage or time intervals.
Brand Focus:
Harley-Davidson has a long-standing heritage of producing iconic V-twin motorcycles, particularly known for touring and cruiser segments.
Electra Glide Lineage:
The Electra Glide line dates back to the late 1960s, evolving into the premium touring platform it is today. The FLHTC I is part of the 'Evolution' engine era.
Technological Advancements:
The 1990s saw Harley-Davidson transition from older technologies (like points ignition) to electronic fuel injection (EFI) and solid-state ignitions, along with refinements in chassis and suspension.
Manufacturing Location:
York, Pennsylvania, USA (primary production for this era)
Production Period:
1996-1998 models represent a specific iteration of the FLHTC I within the Evolution engine platform's lifecycle.
Model Reputation:
The Electra Glide Classic is widely regarded as a benchmark for American touring motorcycles, celebrated for its comfort, V-twin character, and touring capability.
Industry Acknowledgement:
Consistently ranked highly by motorcycle touring publications and rider surveys for its segment.
Emissions Compliance:
Designed to meet EPA emissions standards applicable in the US for the respective model years.