Segment:
Full-size touring motorcycle
Reputation:
Iconic cruiser, known for comfort and long-distance riding.
Competitors 1970S:
Other large displacement American V-twins, British motorcycles, and emerging Japanese touring models.
Engine Configuration:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin engine.
Frame Design:
Steel cradle frame.
Suspension Type:
Telescopic front forks, swingarm rear suspension with dual shock absorbers.
Braking System:
Typically drum brakes front and rear, with some later models potentially offering front disc brakes.
Engine Overhaul:
Complete disassembly, inspection, reassembly, tuning, and troubleshooting of all engine components.
Transmission Service:
Maintenance, repair, and overhaul of the 4-speed constant mesh transmission.
Clutch Operation:
Service and adjustment procedures for the dry clutch assembly.
Fuel System Maintenance:
Carburetor (e.g., Keihin Butterfly, Linkert) servicing, fuel tank, lines, and filters.
Ignition System Diagnostics:
Spark plugs, coils, points and condenser, timing adjustments, and troubleshooting.
Electrical System Wiring:
Complete wiring diagrams, component testing, charging system (generator/alternator), lighting, and accessories.
Brake System Service:
Front and rear brake inspection, pad/shoe replacement, hydraulic system maintenance (if applicable), and adjustment.
Suspension And Forks:
Front fork disassembly, seal replacement, fluid changes, and rear shock absorber service.
Frame And Bodywork:
Body panel removal, installation, fairing (if equipped), and chassis maintenance.
Wheel And Tire Service:
Wheel bearing maintenance, tire inspection, and spoke wheel truing.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, chain adjustment, and lubrication schedules.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic procedures for common starting, running, and electrical issues.
Engine Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for complete engine teardown and reassembly.
Carburetor Tuning:
Adjustment and synchronization of the carburetor for optimal performance.
Electrical Component Testing:
Methods for testing ignition coils, generators, regulators, and lighting circuits.
Suspension Fork Rebuild:
Complete guide to disassembling, cleaning, replacing seals and springs, and refilling fork oil.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic procedures for identifying root causes of mechanical and electrical faults.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for critical fasteners across all vehicle systems.
Clearances And Tolerances:
Specified engine internal clearances, valve lash, and bearing tolerances.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive, detailed electrical schematics for all model variations.
Special Tool Requirements:
Identification of specific tools recommended or required for certain repair procedures.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin
Displacement Options:
Primarily 74 cu in (1200cc) Shovelhead engine. Some earlier models may have featured Panhead derivatives, but 1970-1978 is predominantly Shovelhead.
Bore X Stroke:
Approximately 3.4375 in x 4.00 in (87.3 mm x 101.6 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Varies by year and specific engine build, typically around 7.0:1 to 8.0:1
Horsepower Estimated:
Approximately 55-65 HP at peak RPM (highly dependent on tuning and specific model year).
Torque Estimated:
Approximately 75-85 lb-ft at mid-range RPM.
Carburetor Type:
Various models, including Keihin Butterfly (e.g., KB), and possibly Linkert carburetors on earlier production runs within this range.
Fuel Type Recommendation:
Unleaded gasoline, octane rating as per manufacturer's recommendation at the time (typically 91+ octane unleaded).
Ignition Type:
Contact breaker points and condenser ignition system, requiring periodic adjustment.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specification).
Points And Condenser Service:
Periodic inspection and adjustment recommended, often every 2,000-4,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 4,000-6,000 miles, depending on plug type and condition.
Engine Oil Type:
Varies; commonly SAE 20W-50 or SAE 50W motorcycle specific oil (e.g., Harley-Davidson 20W-50 SYN3 or conventional motorcycle oil).
Primary Chaincase Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ or equivalent primary lubricant (e.g., SAE 50W motorcycle oil).
Fork Oil Type:
Specific weight oil, usually SAE 10W or 20W (check manual for exact specification and volume).
Oil Leaks:
Common on Shovelhead engines; often from pushrod tubes, rocker boxes, and primary drive.
Carburetor Performance:
Older carburetors may require frequent cleaning and adjustment due to wear and fuel deposits.
Electrical Reliability:
Older wiring harnesses and components can degrade, leading to intermittent electrical issues.
Kickstand Wear:
Wear in the kickstand pivot and mounting points can occur over time.
Brake Performance:
Drum brakes require more frequent adjustment and maintenance compared to modern disc brakes.
Brand Legacy:
Harley-Davidson boasts a long and storied history in American motorcycling, dating back to 1903.
Electra Glide Introduction:
The Electra Glide line, initially introduced in 1965, became synonymous with large-displacement touring motorcycles.
Shovelhead Era:
The 1970s marked the transition to and dominance of the 'Shovelhead' engine, known for its distinctive rocker boxes, replacing the Panhead.
Super Glide Designation:
The 'Super Glide' designation often referred to a more stripped-down, performance-oriented version compared to the fully dressed Electra Glide (with fairings and saddlebags), though the manual covers both styles within this range.
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
Market Impact:
These models solidified Harley-Davidson's reputation in the large-displacement cruiser and touring market.
