Professor Peabody’s wayback machine has been located at The Motor Company and someone’s been spinning the dials. When I saw these photos I had to stop and take a second look, the bike appears to be a perfect 1969 Electra Glide, but it’s not, it’s brand new with a definitive retro look, it’s the 2021 Electra Glide Revival. Yes, it’s fitted with all of the modern technology you would expect in 2021, 4 valve heads, dual spark plugs, Anti-Lock Brakes, Electronic Linked Braking, Traction Control, Drag-torque Slip Control System, Hill Hold Control and a lot more, so it’s equipped for today’s rider, but wow, just take a look at this.
We live in a very dynamic time, each of us experiencing constant change,†said Brad Richards, Harley-Davidson vice president of styling and design. “The Electra Glide Revival model is an oasis in this daily turbulence, a way to reconnect with the fundamental Harley-Davidson DNA that created Grand American Touring.
Chrome steel laced wheels and wide whitewall tires, along with white saddlebags, chrome grab rail on the solo saddle, period badging plus 1969 was the first year for the batwing fairing, it all adds up to a classic look in this rolling time machine. You’ll want to turn on Sirius radio to the 60s on 6 and dig up that calendar from 69 to make your garage complete. Did I say I love this thing? I REALLY LOVE this!
This may not appeal to some younger riders, but to those of us who remember those days, it’s a visual rush back through time and guaranteed to make you smile.
Harley Davidson Icons Collection
Electra Glide Icon Revival for sale now
Here’s an original ad for comparison
Duffey Wolvin says
I wonder if the sales of this vs the new stuff (like Pan America) is going to make HD move forward, or retreat back into only making legacy cruisers.
Paul Crowe says
I don’t think they can do only legacy cruisers, but I’d bet there’s a solid market for these. As noted above, the look of this bike brings back a lot of memories for me and if I were buying something right now, I might wander over to the Harley dealer to have a look, though these are a limited production model and unlikely to be in every dealer’s lineup.
JP says
If I was a bagger sort one of these would be worth a look, but the newer stuff like the Pan is just too fugly. Looks like Bender and not in a good way. Makes me wonder if they hired someone from the Pontiac Aztek team.
Paul Crowe says
Ouch, just saying Pontiac Aztek conjures a mental image you can’t unsee.
On being a bagger sort, I never have been, but as time goes on I feel less need for “hair on fire” performance and riding a bike like this would fit quite easily into a day on the road. Funny how that happens.
Drive The Wheels Off says
I realized I haven’t repeatedly returned to examine any motorcycle as many times as I have for this one in a long time.
One can be into bikes like the above and performance bikes at the same time. (same goes for cars).
Not sure what the Pan Am has to do with this post other than take a subjective jab at a bike that is not relevant to the topic at hand. There’s probably 2 different design teams. The attitude towards HD is comical.
Drive The Wheels Off says
Mid-mount foot controls, please. Otherwise, great job.
Mdkuder says
Most of their bike stayed similar for centuries. I do think this is nice though.
HEL Performance says
Classic Harley feel of course with some incredible modern technology! Imagine riding one of these back in the 70’s with advanced navigation and hand and voice commands!
Drive the Wheels Off says
Old Blue Eyes estate:
search for: Twin Palms – Sinatra House
Paul Crowe says
They needed a period location and it’s perfect, but how many times have you heard Harley Davidson and mid century modern in the same sentence? Good catch on the location ID.
Paul Crowe says
To add to the previous comment, there has been a big trend among advertisers to set their products in mid century modern locations. I’ve noticed it a lot with auto manufacturers. It sets a mood, it triggers nostalgia for a particular period of time, as in this case with Harley which also accentuates this model’s connection to those years. It implies an air of sophistication with the luxury auto brand. Emotional buttons being pushed. There’s a magazine, Atomic Ranch, which is extremely cool for those of us that like that period, it’s worth checking out a few issues.
How many famous movie scenes can you name that were filmed in mid century modern locations? The connection is strongest among those of a certain age, among the younger audience, I’m not sure what they feel, though I have a hunch many studies are available that will tell us.