Touring bikes: the Harley-Davidsons story

American culture seems to lend itself well to touring motorcycles. Long open roads that are plenty wide and cheap gas make the perfect habitat for big dinosaur bikes. It's because of this Harley Davidson had an early start in touring motorcycles. Since World War II (maybe even prior to) Harleys could be had with windshield and saddle bags.

1946 Harley FL (Knucklehead 1000cc)













1952 Harley FL Hydra-Glide (Panhead 1000cc)













These early touring bikes were prefect for America's long straight roads. Harley's tourers took off with the FL model (which has evolved to Harely's current touring line-up) and introduction of their overhead valve engines (starting with the Knucklehead). In 1949 the FL replaced the front spring suspension with hydraulically dampened forks, creating the Hydra-Glide. Rear suspension was added in 1958 replacing the ridged frame and creating the Duo-Glide.

1959 Harley FLH Duo-Glide (Panhead 1000cc)













1970 Harley FLH Electra Glide (Shovelhead 1200cc)













1989 Harley FLHTC Electra Glide (Evolution 1340cc)













2009 Harley FLHTCU Ultra Classic Electra Glide (1584cc)











The 2009 models might look very similar to yesterday's models, but they are full of updates such as fuel injection, CD players, and ABS brakes. Today Harley's line-up of touring machines is made up of several models each with different features and equipment.

images from 20th century motorcycles