1966 Harley-DavidsonNo image available

1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead

touring60sUnited States

The 1966 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead is a 1207cc twin-cylinder touring motorcycle that became one of Harley-Davidson's most memorable motorcycles of the 1960s.

Specifications

Engine

Type
OHV V-twin Shovelhead
Displacement
1207 cc
Cylinders
2
Power
60 hp @ 5400 rpm
Torque
95.0 Nm
Compression
Bore × Stroke
87.3 × 100.8 mm
Cooling
Air-cooled
Fuel System
Linkert carburetor

Chassis & Transmission

Frame
Steel double loop
Front Suspension
Telescopic fork
Rear Suspension
Twin shock
Front Brake
Drum
Rear Brake
Drum
Front Tyre
Rear Tyre
Transmission
4-speed
Final Drive
Chain

Performance

Top Speed
155 km/h (96 mph)
¼ Mile

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
320 kg (705 lbs)
Wet Weight
345 kg (761 lbs)
Seat Height
690 mm
Wheelbase
1550 mm
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
19.0 L

History & Story

In 1966, Harley-Davidson launched the 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead — a touring motorcycle that would come to define an era of motorcycling. Hailing from United States, it combined United States engineering with touring motorcycle appeal.

At the heart of the 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead sits a 1207cc OHV V-twin Shovelhead engine producing 60 horsepower at 5400 rpm. The twin-cylinder powerplant features a twin-cylinder layout with air-cooled cooling, fed by Linkert carburetor. Power reaches the rear wheel through a 4-speed transmission and chain final drive.

The chassis employs a steel double loop frame with telescopic fork up front and twin shock at the rear. Stopping power comes from drum front and drum rear brakes. Tipping the scales at 320 kg (705 lbs) dry, the 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead offers a manageable riding experience with a 1550 mm wheelbase.

Performance-wise, the 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead achieves a claimed top speed of 155 km/h (96 mph). With a generous fuel capacity of 19.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for touring motorcycle duties. The seat height of 690 mm makes it accessible for most riders.

Today, the 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead is considered a respected classic that attracts serious collector interest and continues to appreciate. Parts availability is rated as good, making ownership relatively straightforward. It remains an icon of Harley-Davidson motorcycling from 1960s.

Known Issues

  • Oil leaks considered normal on vintage models
  • Generator and voltage regulator issues
  • Head gasket seepage
  • Rocker box oil leaks
  • Primary chain tensioner adjustment

Fun Facts

  • The 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead was one of the largest-displacement motorcycles of its era
  • The 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead was produced in Harley-Davidson's United States facilities
  • The 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead featured a steel double loop frame typical of 1960s design philosophy

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Good
Collector Rating
7/10

Resources & Parts