Handsome Classic 1966 FLH Tames the Road in Style
Benchmark model became the modern standard for touring motorcycles.
Dashing Collectible
The Harley-Davidson Electra Glide is possibly the most evocative name in motorcycling history. Some even predict that early swingarm Big Twins will be the next 'Knucklehead,' or exceptionally collectible bikes. That possibility was not lost on Art Bulmann, who made sure to include this dashing 1966 Electra Glide in his extensive motorcycle collection.
Photos courtesy of Mecum Auctions.
Mechanical Aspects
Bulmann was well-known in the Chicago area as the owner of Jebens Hardware and Supply Co. in Blue Island, Illinois. His predilection for two-wheels began at an early age, and he began collecting in earnest after taking early retirement in 2001. He was known as the type of collector who was fascinated with the hands-on, mechanical aspects of motorcycles.
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Converted Space
Bulmann passed away in June 2019, and his collection of over one-hundred and fifty motorcycles was put up for auction as The Art Bulmann Motorcycle Collection. Prior to the January 2020 sale, A Gearhead Gone Too Soon in Mecum Magazine highlighted his wondrous cattle barn that had been converted to resemble a mid-century street, complete with brick pathways and floor-to-ceiling shop facades.
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Power Promise
The 1966 FLH Electra Glide was a perfect fit for Bulmann's museum-esque display space. As Harley-Davidson’s flagship model, the Electra Glide was introduced in 1965—the first year of the electric start and the last year of the elegant Panhead motor. 1966 ushered in the Shovelhead engine, with its new 'Power Pac' top-end that promised ten more horsepower and better lubrication.
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Better System
With its distinctive flat-sided rocker boxes, the Shovelhead was a mix of old and new technology. Its cylinder heads were a larger aluminum version of the Sportster cylinder, with more efficient combustion chambers and better cooling. Early motors, sometimes known as 'slab sides,' retained the Panhead's generator charging system until 1970, when it was switched to an alternator.
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Modern Mark
The Electra Glide celebrated its 50th Anniversary in 2015. Celebrating the benchmark occasion, the Harley-Davidson Museum noted in the Vehicle Profile archive, “The importance of the Electra Glide goes far beyond its versatility and popularity. It is the modern standard for touring motorcycles. Competitors have increasingly tried to copy everything from the fairing to the luggage units, but always missing the mark.”
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Turnpike Buddy
It took until 1969 before the Electra Glide received its iconic fork-mounted 'batwing fairing' as a standard feature. Before then, the windshield, saddle-bags and, 'Buddy Seat' were dealership add-ons. Yet, true to its intended form as a cross-country machine, the Electra Glide was fitted with a larger, five-gallon tank, known as the 'Turnpike' fuel tank.
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Life Miles
Art Bulmann collected motorcycles for his own personal enjoyment but loved to share his passion. His son Kyle reflected, “Some of my favorite memories are going on a motorcycle ride with my dad...it’s definitely a connection that’s been there my whole life.” One can only hope that this 1966 Electra Glide will keep clocking up the miles and making memories with its new owner.
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