Vehicle Segment:
Full-size touring motorcycle
Target Audience:
Long-distance riders, touring enthusiasts, classic motorcycle collectors and restorers
Era Competitors:
Indian Chief, Triumph Bonneville T120, BMW R75/5
Electra Glide Defining Features:
Large fairing, comfortable seating for two, ample luggage capacity (saddlebags and tour pack), V-twin engine torque and rumble, iconic Harley-Davidson styling
Benefit To Owner:
Empowers owners to perform all maintenance and repairs, saving significant costs and ensuring longevity and optimal performance of a classic motorcycle
Engine:
Shovelhead V-Twin (disassembly, assembly, tuning, diagnostics, lubrication, cooling)
Fuel System:
Carburetor (e.g., Keihin, Linkert) adjustment, cleaning, rebuilding, fuel lines, fuel tank maintenance
Ignition System:
Points, condenser, spark plugs, ignition coils, timing adjustments, troubleshooting
Transmission:
4-speed constant mesh (overhaul, clutch adjustment, lubrication, shifting mechanisms)
Drivetrain:
Primary drive (chain, clutch), final drive (belt or chain, depending on specific FL variant), drive shaft, universal joints
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (generator/alternator), lighting (headlight, taillight, signals), horn, switches, starting system
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection, steering head bearings, front fork (Glaser springer or similar), rear suspension (shock absorbers, swingarm)
Braking System:
Front and rear drum brakes (adjustment, lining replacement, hydraulic components if applicable for later 1970 models)
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearing service, spoke tensioning, tire fitting and pressure recommendations
Bodywork And Trim:
Fenders, fuel tank, fairing (if equipped), seat, saddlebags, control levers, cables
Lubrication System:
Oil flow, oil pump, oil filter (if applicable), oil specifications
Maintenance:
Regular servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, chain adjustment, battery care
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common problems (starting issues, poor running, electrical faults, braking problems)
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component repair and replacement (engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, brake system service)
Overhaul:
Complete disassembly, cleaning, inspection, and reassembly of major components
Adjustments:
Carburetor tuning, ignition timing, clutch and brake lever adjustments, throttle cable adjustment
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, wiring diagrams, part identification
Level:
Comprehensive Professional Workshop Level
Diagnostic Capability:
Detailed fault finding guides and diagnostic procedures
Rebuild Information:
Complete engine, transmission, and component rebuild procedures
Scope:
Full coverage of all mechanical and electrical systems
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, OHV (Overhead Valve)
Displacement:
74 cubic inches (1200cc) - Standard FL motor for 1970
Bore X Stroke:
Approx. 3.4375 in. x 4.00 in. (87.3 mm x 101.6 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Typically 7.0:1 to 8.0:1, depending on specific variant and tuning
Horsepower:
Approximately 55-60 HP (estimated, official figures often not published for this era)
Torque:
Strong low-end torque, crucial for touring, estimated 60-70 ft-lbs
Carburetor:
Single Keihin butterfly (e.g., CV carb) or Linkert M-Series carburetor
Fuel Type:
Unleaded or Leaded gasoline (depending on octane and engine modifications), typically 90+ octane
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3 quarts (2.8 liters)
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin Motorcycle Oil, SAE 20W-50 or equivalent API SG/SH rated oil
Type:
4-speed constant mesh manual transmission
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios vary, but typically designed for strong acceleration and highway cruising.
Clutch:
Wet multi-plate clutch
Final Drive:
Either belt drive or chain drive, depending on FL variant and factory options.
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Transmission Lubricant, SAE 80W-90 gear oil or equivalent
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approximately 1 pint (0.47 liters)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 62.5 inches (1588 mm)
Length:
Approx. 93.5 inches (2375 mm)
Width:
Approx. 37 inches (940 mm)
Height:
Approx. 54 inches (1372 mm) (to top of windscreen/fairing)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 650-700 lbs (295-318 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not typically published for motorcycles of this era, but load capacity is significant for touring.
Luggage Capacity:
Significant, provided by large saddlebags and potential tour pack/trunk.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 2,000-3,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (typical for era)
Filter Replacement Interval:
Oil filter (if equipped) every oil change; primary chain inspection and adjustment every 1,000 miles.
Spark Plug Service:
Inspect and gap every 2,000 miles, replace as needed.
Carburetor Cleaning And Tuning:
As needed, or every 5,000-10,000 miles for optimal performance.
Ignition Timing:
Check and adjust every 5,000 miles or as required.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 20W-50 (preferred for air-cooled V-twins of this era)
Transmission Oil Viscosity:
SAE 80W-90 gear oil
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson Primary Chaincase Lubricant or compatible heavy-duty oil
Engine:
Oil leaks (common with age), valve guide wear, potential oil pump drive wear, carburetor flooding or hesitation
Electrical:
Generator output issues, regulator problems, aging wiring insulation
Transmission:
False neutrals, shifting difficulty, clutch slippage
Chassis:
Worn steering head bearings, weak suspension components, brake shoe wear
Harley Davidson Legacy:
Established in 1903, Harley-Davidson is synonymous with American motorcycle culture, known for its V-twin engines and custom styling.
Electra Glide Lineage:
The Electra Glide name dates back to 1965, marking a significant shift towards larger, more comfortable touring motorcycles. The 1970 model is part of the early Shovelhead era, evolving from the Panhead.
Shovelhead Introduction:
The Shovelhead engine was introduced in 1966, replacing the Panhead. It featured distinctive rocker boxes resembling shovels, hence the nickname.
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
Production Era:
Shovelhead models were produced from 1966 to 1984.