Harley-davidson Electra Glide
Where did it come from?
From Milwaukee, where else? Well, actually these days the engines and transmissions are made in Wisconsin and the bikes in Pennsylvania. There’s been an Electra Glide on Harley’s books since 1965, when the addition of an electric starter to the existing Duo Glide gave the bike its new ‘Electra’ tag. Since then, according to those who know, there have been more than 100 variants, with greater or lesser levels of luxury and accessories. However, the ‘batwing’ fairing that remains the Glide’s trademark feature only dates from 1969 as an accessory, and 1971 as standard.
What changed?
Everything and nothing. Over the years it’s gone through multiple evolutions of the big 45° V-twin, different chassis and from carburettor to fuel injection. The central theme remains - big motor, comfy seat, classic touring style.
Why do people like it?
Because it’s a big, brash all-american cruising tourer - a two-wheeled Winnebago. But also because it’s amazingly comfortable for long distance.
Cult rating 4/5
Tricky this. Harleys are divisive anyway, but Electra Glides - especially the full-dress versions - tend to rile anyone who doesn’t like American metal. On the other hand, the average Joe in the street may not know much about bikes, but he sure as hell knows that when he looks at a ’Glide, he’s looking at something special. You’ll always get a reaction.
The problem is...
Cost (a new Electra Glide Ultra retails at just over £23,000 even before you start accessorising, and used ones hold their values well…), upkeep, a garage big enough and secure enough to keep it in.
Without the Electra Glide...
Harley might not have weathered the difficult days of the 1970s, when indifferent ownership and labour disputes nearly sunk the company. Ironically for a brand that has always traded on its ‘outlaw’ image, it was steady sales of the Electra Glide to police forces all over the States that helped keep the firm’s head above water until the 1981 change of ownership started the long road back to profitability.
“He sure as hell knows he’s looking at a ’Glide”