Well-worn patina is a source of pride for many classic-vehicle owners. Enthusiasts enjoy showing off those signs of wear and tear—often more than showy candy-apple paint and mirror-perfect chrome. You have something special if you can find a vintage Harley-Davidson that evokes its heritage and long life.
That’s what we have with the 1965 Electra Glide recently listed on eBay.
Endorsed by The King
Elvis Presley fans need no introduction to the ’65 Electra Glide. The King was an early buyer of this bike with an electric start. Not having to kick-start your big-capacity V-twin was a big deal in 1965. The required 12-volt electrical system was a welcome development over previous six-volt efforts.
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Harley-Davidson’s advertising promoted the new machine with a playful touch:
We’ve taken a few of the kicks away, but none we thought you would miss.
Elvis probably loved the Electra Glide’s power. Despite 1965 being the final year of the venerable Panhead motor - opens in new window or tab. (replaced the following year by the Shovelhead), the 55 horsepower made this machine an epic long-distance tourer. Many H-D aficionados put the ’65 somewhere in their top ten.
Retaining Its Original Looks
This gorgeous Electra Glide was first sold in Illinois in 1978 before relocating to California, where it remained untouched for decades. The current owner purchased it last year and commissioned its revival. The work included rebuilding the starter and adding a new coil, chains, and clutch.
The Glide racked up most of its miles in its early years. After rolling for over a decade without a mishap, it spent almost all of its life in storage. This is a rare opportunity to acquire a machine little altered from new.
Reviving a vintage Electra Glide like this one from storage might require some effort, as old rubber fuel lines - opens in new window or tab. may be cracked, and vintage gaskets could leak even more than a Harley should. Thankfully, eBay Motors has everything you need to wake up any vintage Milwaukee iron.
See It Running
The eBay listing featured extensive photography and a couple of videos. That includes a comprehensive walkthrough by the seller and an explanation of what’s been replaced. Would we have noticed that the Electra Glide's left-side gas cap isn’t correct for a 1965, or that the silencers are from a Shovelhead motor, not a Panhead? Luckily the seller knows his stuff and makes sure the bike is presented accurately.
After the brief tour, he hits the Electra Glide's electric starter, and the V-twin comes to life. It’s a refined thrum rather than the uncouth bark you’d typically associate with a more modern big-capacity twin wearing billet rims and candy paint - opens in new window or tab.. We appreciate all kinds of Harley-Davidson owners, but those with original vintage machines tend to be drowned out by the enthusiasts who prefer loud pipes.
Would we restore it or ride it? There’s no wrong answer with a special bike like this 1965 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.