1976 Harley Davidson FLH BICENTENNIAL

Details

This 1976 Harley-Davidson FLH Bicentennial was one of three Harleys custom-ordered by Elvis Presley in 1976. This Electra Glide FLH Bicentennial was purchased by Presley and received a custom blue and black color scheme with airbrushed detail prior to delivery. It did not remain in his possession long and was subsequently sold to a Memphis Harley-Davidson dealer. It is powered by a 1200cc "Shovelhead" V-Twin engine with a 4-speed manual transmission. It includes a stitched leather saddle, chrome accents, and painted hard-sided saddlebags. An included vanity plate shows California registration through August 1977 and the odometer shows just 1,262 miles. Following Presley's death in August 1977, this FLH Bicentennial was sold to a buyer in New Jersey for display and was subsequently placed on display at the Pioneer Auto Museum for over 35 years. It was last publicly sold in 2019 for $800,000 and is currently located in Beverly Hills, CA.

A current inspection highlights some peeling paint on the brake fluid reservoir and minor rust under the seat. While it has been maintained lightly over the years, the engine didn't start at the time of inspection and will require some mechanical attention if the buyer intends to ride it. Extensive third-party photos depict a well-preserved, beautiful custom bike. The sale includes the original set of keys (complete with Elvis Taking Care of Business lightning bolt), the owner's manual, and a framed California title with Elvis' signature, complete with a misspelling of his middle name.

This Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide FLH Bicentennial is being sold through a CLASSIC.COM Pro and is located in Beverly Hills, CA.

About the model

The Harley-Davidson Electra Glide FLH is a classic touring motorcycle designed for long-distance cruising. Typically equipped with a powerful V-twin engine available in different configurations it was known for torque and reliability. While the Electra-Glide has evolved over the years, it retained classic styling and an unmistakable retro Harley look. In 1976 the FLH Bicentennial commemorated the United States Bicentennial and included a limited production paint scheme and badging.

Features and Specs

• 1,262 original miles
• 1200cc Shovelhead V-Twin engine
• 4-speed manual transmission
• Custom blue and black paint
• Hard-sided saddlebags
• Chrome accents
• Stitched leather saddle

Known Modifications

• None

Service History

• Maintained and preserved over the years
• On long-term display between 1983 and 2019

Ownership History

• Aug 1976 purchased new by Elvis Presley
• 1977 purchased by a New Jersey hotel owner for display
• 1983 Acquired by and on display at the Pioneer Auto Show Museum
• 2019 sold for $800,000 through GWS Auctions

Known issues

• The engine doesn't currently start
• Peeling paint on the front brake reservoir
• Gaskets may need to be replaced
• Oil dampness on the underside of the engine
• Weathered tires

Due Diligence

• Third-party inspection 8/30/2023
• Third-party photos 9/6/2023

Included in the sale

• Owners manual
• Original set of keys with an Elvis keychain
• Framed 1976 title