Harley-Davidson FLHC Electra Glide Classic

The Harley Davidson Ultra Classic Electra Glide is the Quintessential American Touring Motorcycle


Long-haul tour riders know that they really are limited with choices when it comes to a full-dress touring bike. The Honda Goldwing and the Yamaha Royal Star Venture are two options, while the American side of the pond offers up one offering from Victory motorcycles and a few from Harley Davidson, including the Harley Davidson Ultra Classic Electra Glide.

While other manufacturers have recently tried to build ground in this popular segment of the market, the impressive history of the Harley Davidson motorcycle company and the Ultra Classic Electra Glide leave little doubt that Harley Davidson is well ahead of the pack in terms of market history, established-bike reliability, and customer loyalty. While Honda may be the more popular of the two, the Harley Davidson Ultra Classic Electra Glide is considered by many to be the less civilized, in an entirely good way.

One look at the Harley Davidson Ultra Classic Electra Glide’s deeply padded sofa in place of the traditional saddle, and you’ll understand why they say that. Harley Davidson has gone to a lot of trouble to make the Ultra Classic Electra Glide as ergonomically perfect as possible while maintaining the lines of a cruiser. Honda’s Goldwing isn’t really a cruiser as much as it is a style all its own, leaving the Harley Davidson Ultra Classic Electra Glide alone among American touring cruisers as a touring bike that doesn’t scream old man bike.

The Harley Davidson Ultra Classic Electra Glide is powered by Harley Davidson’s air cooled 1584cc V-twin engine, producing the torque necessary to move this rig wherever you want to go while providing the kind of deep, throaty rumble that keeps you interested in twisting the throttle as often as possible. Mated with a six-speed transmission and belt final drive, the Harley Davidson Ultra Classic Electra Glide is a low-maintenance ride worthy of all the miles you can throw at it.

Weighing in at a hefty 814 pounds, the Ultra Classic Electra Glide isn’t for the weak of heart or the weak of limb. Remember to practice proper lifting technique if you drop this bike off its kickstand. Other long-haul amenities include a Harman Kardon stereo system for the Harley Davidson Ultra Classic Electra Glide as well as CB radio, intercom, and CD player.

A good bet for an add-on would be satellite radio, an add-on sure to be popping up on these bikes within a few years.

Other amenities for the Harley Davidson Ultra Classic Electra Glide include electronic cruise control, air-assisted suspension, and plenty of lockable storage, and height adjustable passenger floorboards. You can also opt for the 105th anniversary Ultra Classic Electra Glide which gives you chrome accents, special badging, and anniversary specific paint scheme. The six-gallon fuel tank will provide you with lots of smiles as you pass gas stations knowing that you’ve got plenty of miles left to go.

The Harley Davidson Ultra Classic Electra Glide, while in a class more or less by itself, is a class-leading bike among tourers, offering the practicality you need and the comfort you can’t live without. While it is on the pricey side, riders of the Harley Davidson brand know that there really is no substitute.

I am currently available on a contract basis for freelance projects from technical writing to ghostwriting. My areas of specialty include small business administration, auto repair and auto/motorcycle restor. View profile

  • Harley-Davidson Tri Glide Ultra Classic Road Test Rider Magazine
  • How does a 2002 Harley Davidson sportster 883 compare to a 1980 Sportster…
  • Harley-Davidson XR-750 – Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
  • Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 – Review – XL1200S
  • Sportster History