Sweet Deal: Low Miles, One-Owner FXRC

Custom Edition

Finding a stock FXR is somewhat rare—let alone a one-owner, low mileage, factory custom at a reasonable price. Unofficially known as the 'Candy Glide' because of its metallic orange paint, the FXRC Low Glide Custom was released as a special edition model in 1985. This FXRC is number 522 of just over one thousand produced that year.

Photos courtesy of BaT.

Flashy Run

As a limited edition special, the Low Glide Custom was only shipped to select dealerships. It was accompanied by little to no advertising. Starting in 1985, the FXRC enjoyed a short production run with yearly color variations until 1987. Unlike today, the flashy candy orange finish and gold pinstriping of the 1985 FXRC was not overly appealing to enthusiasts.

Original Miles

Yet, for those that did like the unique finish, the FXRC was a 'must-have' bike. The machine shown here is a one-owner bike, bought new at Iron Horse Corral in Monroe, Louisiana. In almost stock condition and with only 11,265 miles on the clock, the well-maintained FXRC was recently sold at auction by the original owner for $8,600.

Neon Pumpkin

In the auction's comment section, the former owner creatively explained how he came to purchase his FXRC. While visiting the Monroe dealership in 1985, he got a tour of the 'back' to check out the store's collection of vintage Indian motorcycles. It was at that point that he spied the “neon pumpkin” on a lift undergoing its initial checks.

Set Hook

The former owner states that he was “smitten.” Problematically, the limited edition FXRC was actually promised to another customer. The dealership still let the former owner take that bike for a test ride and the “hook was well and truly set.” He remembers exclaiming, “You have to get me one of these!” After a week of looking the dealership managed to secure another example.

Critical Struggle

The FXRC was the best Harley-Davidson had on offer in 1985. Struggling to keep financially solvent after its split from parent corporation AMF, the Motor Company had turned its attention to performance and handling. Introduced in 1984, the 80 cubic-inch Evolution motor, along with the excellent FXR chassis, was a critical part of the struggle to remain viable in the face of increasing import competition.

Stiffer System

The FXR platform was derived from the 1980 FLT Tour Glide. Then equipped with the Shovelhead engine, the FLT featured a new five-speed transmission and a three-point elastomer-cushioned mounting system that isolated the powertrain from the frame. Now iconic, the FXR chassis incorporated a similar triangulated mid-section, resulting in a stiffer architecture, better handling, and increased lean angles.

Remarkable Riding

In many ways, the limited edition FXRC was a precursor to Harley-Davidson's current and highly successful CVO program—launched in 1999. Still enamored with his Low Glide Custom, the seller noted, “The paint is pretty remarkable in the sun and I’ve never tired of the look of this bike. If I were still riding this would not be leaving my custodianship.”

>>Join in the conversation about this FXRC right here in Harley-Davidson Forums.

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