Molly Ayala
The Harley-Davidson Electra Glide is an iconic motorcycle, with the 1966 model being the FLH Electra-Glide. While the exact number of these bikes produced that year is unknown, estimates range from 5600 to 7800. This model was groundbreaking for Harley-Davidson, with its shovelhead engine, efficient combustion chamber, and top speed of just under 100 mph. The 1966 FLH Electra-Glide was a significant milestone in the evolution of Harley-Davidson's flagship model.
Explore related products
![All Balls Starter Clutch Assembly [Early] Compatible with 1966–1981 Harley-Davidson FLH Electra Glide, 1982–1988 FLHT Electra Glide, FLHTC Electra Glide Classic](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61H1oprsgHL._AC_UL320_.jpg)
What You'll Learn
The exact number of 1966 Electra Glides is unknown
The exact number of 1966 Electra Glides produced is unknown. The Legend Begins, a publication on Harley-Davidson production figures, states that its information is not entirely accurate. The problem may lie in how the figures were calculated, as they were copied from various schedules and sales reports.
Author Bruce Palmer, in his book "How to Restore Your Military Harley-Davidson 1932-1952", names the source of these figures as Midge Kimbell, William H Davidson’s secretary. Palmer spoke to Kimbell, who clarified that the numbers were based on incomplete records and were not double-checked. An ex-police officer claimed there were 7,800 FLHs produced in 1966, but this remains unconfirmed.
The 1966 Harley-Davidson FLHB Electra Glide, also known as the "Shovelhead", was a groundbreaking model. It featured a new, efficient combustion chamber, cast-aluminum rocker boxes, and an electric starter. The engine displacement was 74 cubic inches, with a weight of 783 pounds and fuel capacity of 5 gallons. The FLH model produced 60 horsepower and had a top speed of just under 100 mph. It sold for $1,610 and was Harley-Davidson's top-selling model for 1966.
The Harley-Davidson Electra Glide has undergone several changes since its inception. In 1965, the Duo Glide gained an electric starter, and in 1969, the Electra Glide added a fiberglass fairing on the handlebars, hard saddlebags, and a top case at the rear. Significant changes were made to the FLH in 1970 when the American Machine and Foundry (AMF) conglomerate took control of Harley-Davidson. The ignition was relocated inside the gear case cover and driven off the camshaft.
Nashville Electric Service: Are Phone Calls Recorded?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$22
Harley-Davidson records are unreliable
Harley-Davidson motorcycles have a reputation for being unreliable, particularly the older models from the 1960s to the 1980s. This perception stems from issues with quality control and maintenance during that era. However, it's worth noting that Harley-Davidson records from this period are unreliable themselves, making it challenging to determine the exact production numbers for specific models, like the 1966 Electra Glide.
The production figures for the 1966 Electra Glide are uncertain due to inconsistencies in the available information. While some sources suggest that the exact number of 1966 Electra Glides produced is unknown, others provide varying estimates. For instance, an ex-police officer claimed that 7,800 FLHs were manufactured in 1966, but this remains unconfirmed.
The ambiguity in Harley-Davidson's records from the 1960s can be attributed to the way the figures were calculated and compiled. According to Bruce Palmer's book, "How to Restore Your Military Harley-Davidson 1932-1952," the production numbers were based on a document created by Midge Kimbell, William H. Davidson's secretary, shortly before her retirement in 1978. Kimbell confirmed that the list was a quick project and that the numbers were based on available records, with no double-checking performed, casting doubt on their accuracy.
The inconsistencies in Harley-Davidson's records from the 1960s may also be a result of the company's focus on ramping up production during that era. This rapid increase in production could have outpaced their quality control measures, leading to a higher proportion of defective motorcycles. As a result, the unreliable records and the presence of lemons during this period contribute to the perception of Harley-Davidson as an unreliable brand, especially for older models.
Despite the unreliable records, Harley-Davidson has a loyal fan base that appreciates the brand's iconic style, powerful engines, and commitment to innovation. Modern Harley-Davidson motorcycles have advanced technology and sustainable solutions, such as the introduction of the all-electric LiveWire model. Additionally, with proper maintenance, Harley-Davidson motorcycles can be highly durable and last for decades, with some riders reporting mileage well beyond 100,000 miles.
Measuring Electric Ceiling Fans: A Step-by-Step Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products
An ex-police officer claimed 7,800 FLHs were produced
The exact number of 1966 Electra Glides produced is unknown. While the FLH was the top-selling model for 1966, there is uncertainty surrounding the production figures.
An ex-police officer claimed that 7,800 FLHs were produced in 1966, with serial numbers starting at 2036 and ending at 18099. However, no evidence was supplied to support these serial number ranges, and they remain unconfirmed.
The discrepancy in the figures may be due to the way they were calculated. It is believed that the information was compiled from various schedules and sales reports, and it is unclear whether the numbers represent the amount of 1966 model Glides made or the number produced in the calendar year 1966.
The 1966 FLH Electra-Glide was a significant model for Harley-Davidson, featuring a new \"Shovelhead\" engine with improved combustion chambers, resulting in a gain of about five horsepower. The engine's cylinder heads were patterned after those of the sportster model, and the new cast-aluminum rocker boxes had a distinct shape from the Panhead's, leading to the "shovelhead" moniker.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the exact production figures, the 1966 FLH Electra-Glide remains an iconic model in Harley-Davidson's history, known for its performance, long-distance touring capabilities, and array of optional extras.
Understanding Action Potential Delays: Electrical or Chemical?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Harley-Davidson's flagship model
The distinctive “shovelhead" moniker was adopted by enthusiasts due to the new cast-aluminum rocker boxes' shape, which differed noticeably from the Panhead engine of the previous year. The 1966 FLH Electra-Glide had a top speed of just under 100 mph and offered a range of optional extras. The "King of the Highway" accessory package included front and rear bumpers, extra quiet dual mufflers, a buddy seat, crash bars, saddlebags, and a windscreen.
The 1966 FLH Electra-Glide's engine displacement was 74 cubic inches, with a weight of 783 pounds and a fuel capacity of 5 gallons. It produced 60 horsepower at 5,400 rpm. The motorcycle's transmission was completely rebuilt, and the required parts were either re-chromed, new, or cadmium coated. The restoration of this model was a meticulous process, ensuring that 100% of the parts used were original Harley-Davidson, with no aftermarket parts.
While the exact production numbers for the 1966 FLH Electra-Glide are not confirmed, sources indicate that there may have been 7,800 units produced, with serial numbers ranging from 2036 to 18099. The FLH had an MSRP of $1,610, while the FL model was priced at $1,800. Today, the 1966 FLH Electra-Glide remains an iconic classic, sought after by collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.
Setting Up Electricity for Your New Rental
You may want to see also
Explore related products
The 1966 FLH sold for $1,610
The 1966 FLH, also known as the "Shovelhead", was a groundbreaking model for Harley-Davidson. The engine's cylinder heads were patterned after those of the sportster model, creating more efficient combustion chambers and resulting in a gain of about five horsepower. This new model had a top speed of just under 100 mph. The name "shovelhead" was adopted by enthusiasts due to the shape of the valve cover and the new cast-aluminum rocker boxes.
The 1966 FLH was the top-selling model for Harley-Davidson in 1966. The optional "King of the Highway" accessory package included front and rear bumpers, extra quiet dual mufflers, a buddy seat, crash bars, saddlebags, and a windscreen. This package was also available for the 1969 model, which included a fiberglass fairing on the handlebars, hard saddlebags, and a top case at the rear.
The 1966 FLH was a significant model for Harley-Davidson, with its improved engine performance, iconic design, and popularity among consumers. Its impact on the company's history is reflected in its high sales and lasting legacy as a classic motorcycle.
Harvesting Electricity From Air: The Science of Power Generation
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
It is unclear how many 1966 Electra Glides were made. One source mentions that 7,800 FLHs were produced in 1966, but this is unconfirmed.
The 1966 Harley-Davidson FLHB Electra Glide was a motorcycle with a Shovelhead engine, a top speed of just under 100 mph, and a weight of 783 pounds.
The 1966 Electra Glide was the first to feature the "Shovelhead" engine, which had an aluminium head with a different-shaped combustion chamber. The 1966 model was Harley-Davidson's flagship model and its top-selling model for that year.
The 1966 FLH Electra-Glide sold for $1,610.
