1976-harley-bicentennial-super-glide_6

Harley-Davidson adds psychedelic graphics and celebrates the Bicentennial. In 1976 Super Glides and Electra Glide were available in the Liberty Edition. Celebrating America’s Bicentennial, the bikes featured some of the most psychedelic American graphics ever applied to a production machine. After almost 45 years many of the graphics have faded or been stripped off, making the few machines remaining in original condition quite rare and desirable.

Looking for a lighter appearance, customizers began swapping Sportster fork units onto Harley-Davidson Big Twins. Willie G. Davidson and The Motor Company picked up on this trend producing the FX model, the Super Glide. By 1977 the formula was refined and the product got the name Low-Rider and the rest is history. Sales soared on these models as they offered the cool, kicked back look, low 27” seating great for women. The new 80” engine arrived in the Low-Rider in 1979, belt drive arrived in a few years as well. The Sturgis model was also based on this machine.

This Harley-Davidson Bicentennial machine is from the John and Jill Parham Collection and is one of many Harley-Davidson motorcycles from 1905 through the 2000’s that you can enjoy when you visit the National Motorcycle Museum in Anamosa, Iowa. Besides this Bicentennial Harley-Davidson, you can enjoy several Knuckleheads, Panheads, Bobbers and others from the large Harley-Davidson section in the Museum.

1976-harley-bicentennial-super-glide_10

Specifications:

    • Engine: Overhead Valve, 45 Degree V-Twin
    • Type: 1200 cc / 74 Cubic Inches
    • Bore & Stroke: 3.44 x 3.97
    • Horsepower: 65 HP
    • Carberator: Bendex
    • Transmission: 4-Speed
    • Primary Drive: Chain
    • Ignition : 12 Volt / Coil & Points
    • Frame : Double Down Tube
    • Suspension: Telescopic Fork / Hydraulic Shocks
    • Wheelbase: 63.5”
    • Wheels/Tires: 3.50 x 19” Front, 5.00 x 16” Rear
    • Weight: 623 lbs
16 replies
  1. Mark
    Mark says:

    I had an original ’76 bicentennial Superglide and I toured the western half of the United States with it with never a breakdown in over 100,000 miles. It did require quite a bit of maintenance, however. Unlike the Superglide pictured here, mine had a factory Keihin carburetor, a kick starter, and laced wheels.

    Reply
  2. Gordon bowerman
    Gordon bowerman says:

    I have he 76 super glide my dad bought it new in 76 and it was passed down to me it’s like in mint shape l love it

    Reply
  3. Mason
    Mason says:

    I just bought a teal n white 1976 e glide project bike . has the amf metal tank harley badging. has silver eagle wing fender tips. Super glide front end. Small single 3″ Speedo gauge on handlebars and NOT on tank which has blank chrome plate. Tractor saddle. I don’t know exactly what it is. But it’s very 😎 in its current patina.

    Reply
  4. Russell G Shearman
    Russell G Shearman says:

    Short bus driver told me yesterday that he has the Superglide Liberty Edition that he bought new in ’76 with 7800 mi on it now in Glens Falls NY. I have not seen it but want to. My 2004 FXDI was parked in front of his bus.

    Reply
  5. Harold Fenton
    Harold Fenton says:

    I have a 1976 Sportster Bicentennial model. Right now it is at RGB Customs in Wainwright Alberta being fully restored back to factory condition. It still has the original decals on the fuel tank. It is the only part of the bike that won’t be refurbished. How many of these were made? Anybody know?

    Reply
  6. Joe Ludovici
    Joe Ludovici says:

    I have a 76 FXE Liberty Edition Superglide. bought it in 1995. 22,000 miles on it
    does anyone know how many were made that year?

    Reply
    • Ron Lofgren
      Ron Lofgren says:

      Some web sites state that each of the three Liberty Editions had 1,976 units produced. I have a friend with one and have started my search.

      Reply
    • Tom patton
      Tom patton says:

      Old school guys at Harley had register books that told by serial number which ones were bicentennial but those guys R gone now and the books R no more

      Reply
  7. Tom patton
    Tom patton says:

    Old school guys at Harley had register books that told by serial number which ones were bicentennial but those guys R gone now and the books R no more

    Reply
  8. Jim V...
    Jim V... says:

    I have a buddy who has 1976 FLH LIBERTY EDITION BICENTENNIAL with only 6900 miles in excellent condition…..has all stickers, saddle bags with top touring pack…..EXACTLY LIKE IT CAME OFF THE SHOWROOM FLOOR….except missing 8 track player…..does anyone know what that is worth…. He is looking to sell to the right buyer.

    Reply

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