Details
This 1976 Harley-Davidson FLH Bicentennial was custom ordered by Elvis Presley and is believed to be the best documented and only motorcycle of Elvis’ that is not on permanent display and available for private sale. This Electra Glide FLH Bicentennial was purchased by The King and received a custom blue and black color scheme with airbrushed detail prior to delivery. It was the last of three Electra Glides ordered by Elvis in 1976 and 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, and was received by Mr. Presley on August 11, 1976. 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’s 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), owner’s manual, and the original framed California title signed by Elvis. This one-of-a-kind piece of history will make an excellent addition to the private collection of any Elvis fan or Harley-Davidson enthusiast.
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’s 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
Engine doesn’t currently start
Peeling paint on the front brake reservoir
Gaskets may need to be replaced
Oil dampness on the underside of engine
Weathered tires
Due Diligence
Third-party inspection 8/30/2023
Third-party photos 9/6/2023
Included in the sale
Owner’s manual
Original set of keys
Framed original title
