1978 Harley-Davidson FLH 1200 '75th Anniversary Edition' AMF Motorcycle

Description

The FL model designation has been used on Harley-Davidson motorcycles since 1941, mostly on its large-framed bikes. The FL was first introduced to the Harley-Davidson model line with a 1210cc version of its famous "Knucklehead" OHV engine that powered the EL in 1000cc form. The FL shared its frame with the EL and continued relatively unchanged until 1948, when it and the EL were given redesigned "Panhead" engines of the same capacities as before. These engines had several improvements over the earlier "Knuckleheads", including self-adjusting hydraulic lifters and aluminium cylinder heads to reduce weight and improve cooling. In 1949, a year after receiving the "Panhead" engine, the FL came to be called the Hydra-Glide and was given a new front suspension featuring hydraulically damped telescopic forks, replacing the leading link spring suspension of the time. The third and final change given to the FL model was in 1965, the final year of the "Panhead" engines. These last "Panheads" were the first "big-twin" Harley-Davidson engines to be equipped with electric starters, and this prompted a new model name, Electra Glide. In 1966, the "Panhead" engine gave way to the "Shovelhead" motor, gaining a 10 per cent increase in power in the process. With the new engine came electric start, an oil-tight driveline and more flexible power delivery. A fork-mounted fairing became available on Electra Glides in 1969, initially removeable, but later not as the instruments were moved from the fuel tank into the fairing. Front disc brakes became standard in 1972. In 1978 Harley produced a special edition of the Electra Guide designed personally by Willie G. Davidson to commemorate the company’s 75th anniversary. Just 2120 were made, making it one of the rarest of the company's motorcycles.