Touring Motorcycles

1996Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Classic

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The 1996 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Classic is a full-size touring cruiser designed for long-distance riders seeking classic American style and comfort. Its 1338cc V-twin engine delivers smooth, low-end torque ideal for highway cruising, while generous storage and seating accommodate two-up riding. Known for its iconic design and reliable performance, this heavyweight tourer remains a benchmark for traditional motorcycle touring.

Capacity: 1338.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 336.0 kg
Seat height: 779 mm
Power: 61.2 HP (45.0 kW)

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Other years 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering30%

City riding35%

Daily riding55%

Touring95%

Two-up90%

Track5%

Best for: Built for long-distance highway touring in comfort rather than outright speed or sporty handling.
Built for: A classic American cruiser with a torquey V-twin heartbeat, full touring bodywork, and a relaxed, commanding riding position.
Not ideal for: Not the right choice for riders seeking sharp cornering ability, off-road capability, or a lightweight, nimble city runabout.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 779mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 1996 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Classic, with a cramped knee angle of around 85 degrees and an upright riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 751-820 mm — Middle Ground →

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Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 1338.0 ccm
Power: 61.2 HP (45.0 kW)
Torque: 102.0 Nm (10.4 kgf-m)
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.1821 HP/kg (dry)
Cooling system: Air
Starting: Electric
Valves per cylinder: 2

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Belt
Clutch: Multi-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath

Dimensions & weight

Seat height: 779 mm
Dry weight: 336.0 kg
Wet weight: 340.0 kg
Fuel capacity: Not on record - add it

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Dual disc
Rear brakes: Single disc

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted

Specification	1996	1999	2007	2010	2013
Capacity	1338 cc	1449 cc	1584 cc	1584 cc	1688 cc
Dry weight	336 kg	324 kg	352 kg	352 kg	400 kg
Seat height	779 mm	692 mm	—	—	693 mm
Fuel capacity	—	—	19 L	19 L	22.7 L