Market Position:
The FLHT Electra Glide Standard is a quintessential American touring motorcycle, offering comfort, iconic styling, and robust performance for long-distance riding. It represents a foundational model in Harley-Davidson's touring lineup.
Competitors:
Competes with other large-displacement touring motorcycles from manufacturers like Honda (Gold Wing), Indian (Roadmaster), and BMW (R 1250 RT).
Key Features:
Large-displacement V-twin engine, comfortable riding position, classic Harley-Davidson styling, touring-oriented features, and a strong aftermarket support ecosystem.
Engine:
Comprehensive coverage of the Harley-Davidson Twin Cam 88 engine, including disassembly, assembly, inspection, and tuning.
Fuel System:
Detailed diagnostics and repair for fuel injection systems (EFI), fuel pumps, fuel lines, and evaporative emissions control.
Transmission:
In-depth procedures for the Harley-Davidson 5-speed Cruise Drive transmission, including clutch, gear inspection, and rebuild.
Electrical System:
Complete electrical schematics, troubleshooting guides for ignition, lighting, charging systems, battery, and accessories.
Suspension:
Front fork (including telescoping fork oil changes and seal replacement) and rear shock absorber service and specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system maintenance, including disc inspection, caliper overhaul, hydraulic system bleeding, and component replacement.
Chassis:
Frame, swingarm, steering head bearing service, and wheel bearing replacement.
Bodywork:
Fairing removal and installation, fender service, seat maintenance, and related component adjustments.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, including oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, and drive belt inspection/adjustment.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for virtually all repair operations, from minor adjustments to major component overhauls.
Rebuilds:
Detailed procedures for engine and transmission rebuilds, including specifications for critical components.
Diagnostics:
Guidance on using diagnostic tools and interpreting fault codes for EFI systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
File Format:
Digital Download (likely PDF)
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable for quick access to information.
Print Quality:
High-resolution, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text when printed.
Binding Type:
N/A (for downloadable format)
Paper Type:
N/A (for downloadable format)
Engine Type:
Harley-Davidson Twin Cam 88 V-Twin
Displacement:
1450cc (88 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in. x 4.0 in. (95.25 mm x 101.6 mm)
Valvetrain:
Overhead valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approximately 65-70 HP (claimed, at crankshaft)
Torque:
Approximately 86-90 lb-ft @ 3200 RPM (claimed, at crankshaft)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded premium gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition with spark plug fouling sensors
Cooling Method:
Air-cooled
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4 quarts (3.8 liters) with filter change
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 (or equivalent API CG-4 20W-50) motorcycle oil recommended
Transmission Type:
5-speed Cruise Drive
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate, manually operated
Final Drive:
Carbon reinforced belt drive
Transmission Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Formula +, or equivalent V-Twin transmission lubricant
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 24 US fl oz (0.7 liters)
Length:
Approximately 93.3 in. (2370 mm)
Width:
Approximately 39.0 in. (990 mm)
Height:
Approximately 52.4 in. (1331 mm)
Wheelbase:
63.5 in. (1613 mm)
Ground Clearance:
5.1 in. (130 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 760 lbs (345 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
1160 lbs (526 kg)
Saddlebag Capacity:
Integrated hard saddlebags (volume varies, typically around 2.2 cubic feet total)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
5.0 US gallons (18.9 liters)
Safety Ratings:
Motorcycles are not typically subjected to formal NCAP-style crash ratings. Safety relies on rider skill, proper maintenance, and adherence to traffic laws.
Active Safety Features:
Powerful braking systems (dual front discs, single rear disc), stable chassis, and good rider visibility.
Passive Safety Features:
Sturdy frame, integrated fairing for wind protection, and rider-centric ergonomics to reduce fatigue.
Lighting System:
Halogen headlamp, auxiliary driving lamps, taillight, and turn signals for optimal visibility.
Infotainment System:
The 2004 FLHT Standard typically featured a basic AM/FM radio with an external antenna and potentially a CD player. Later models or optional upgrades might include more advanced audio systems.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited; primary focus on mechanical systems. ABS was an option on some touring models of this era but may not have been standard on the Standard trim. Cruise control was also often an option.
Connectivity Features:
Minimal to none in the modern sense. Relies on analog gauges and basic audio controls.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 2,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (check manual for specific recommendations)
Transmission Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles or 12 months
Primary Chain Case Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plugs:
Inspect every 5,000 miles, replace as needed (refer to manual for specific type and gap)
Drive Belt Inspection:
Inspect tension and condition every 2,500 miles
Front Fork Oil:
Spectro Heavy (or Harley-Davidson equivalent) is commonly used, with specific viscosity and volume detailed in the manual.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Hydraulic Fluid (check manual for specific type and bleed procedures)
Coolant:
N/A (Air-cooled engine)
Known Issues:
Some Twin Cam 88 engines from this era may experience issues like oil leaks from the crankcase or transmission, cam chain tensioner wear, and potential IMS (Inner Primary Bearing Seal) leaks. The manual will provide diagnostic steps for these and other common concerns.
Brand Heritage:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, boasts a rich legacy of motorcycle manufacturing, particularly in the cruiser and touring segments. Known for its distinctive V-twin engines and rider community.
Model Evolution:
The Electra Glide lineage dates back to the 1960s, evolving through various engine platforms (Shovelhead, Evolution) to the modern Twin Cam. The FLHT designation signifies the standard, unfaired (or minimal fairing in this case) touring model, distinct from the full-faired FLHTC (Classic) or FLHTCU (Ultra Classic).
Production Years For Twin Cam 88:
1999-2006
Manufacturing Location:
United States (primarily York, Pennsylvania and Milwaukee, Wisconsin)
Brand Awards:
Harley-Davidson as a brand has received numerous accolades for its engineering, design, and cultural impact throughout its history. Specific awards for the 2004 FLHT Standard are less common as they focus on individual model years, but the Electra Glide platform is consistently recognized for its contribution to the touring motorcycle segment.
Reliability Ratings:
While specific model year ratings vary, the Twin Cam 88 is generally considered a robust engine. The manual's detailed maintenance and troubleshooting sections are crucial for maintaining optimal reliability.