The 1968 Harley-Davidson was a groundbreaking motorcycle that introduced several significant advancements to the Harley-Davidson lineup. It was the first Harley-Davidson to feature an electric starter, a significant convenience feature that made starting the motorcycle much easier. The 1968 Harley-Davidson also featured a new frame design that was lighter and stronger than previous models, improving handling and stability. Additionally, the 1968 Harley-Davidson was the first Harley-Davidson to be equipped with a front disc brake, which provided improved stopping power.
The 1968 Harley-Davidson was a major milestone in the history of Harley-Davidson motorcycles. It was the first Harley-Davidson to incorporate several modern features that would become standard on future models. The 1968 Harley-Davidson is also notable for its historical context. It was released during a time of great social and political change in the United States, and it quickly became a symbol of freedom and rebellion for many young people.
The 1968 Harley-Davidson remains a popular motorcycle today, and it is considered to be one of the most iconic Harley-Davidson models ever produced. It is a sought-after collector's item, and it is often featured in motorcycle shows and events.
1968 Harley-Davidson
The 1968 Harley-Davidson was a groundbreaking motorcycle that introduced several significant advancements to the Harley-Davidson lineup. It was the first Harley-Davidson to feature an electric starter, a new frame design, and a front disc brake. These key aspects, among others, contributed to the 1968 Harley-Davidson's status as a milestone in the history of Harley-Davidson motorcycles.
- Electric starter
- New frame design
- Front disc brake
- Increased power
- Improved handling
- More comfortable ride
- New styling
- Symbol of freedom and rebellion
- Popular collector's item
- Iconic Harley-Davidson model
The 1968 Harley-Davidson's electric starter was a major convenience feature that made starting the motorcycle much easier, especially in cold weather. The new frame design was lighter and stronger than previous models, improving handling and stability. The front disc brake provided improved stopping power, which was a significant safety feature. These advancements made the 1968 Harley-Davidson a more enjoyable and safer motorcycle to ride.
The 1968 Harley-Davidson was also notable for its historical context. It was released during a time of great social and political change in the United States, and it quickly became a symbol of freedom and rebellion for many young people. The 1968 Harley-Davidson is still a popular motorcycle today, and it is considered to be one of the most iconic Harley-Davidson models ever produced.
Electric Starter
The electric starter was a major advancement for Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Prior to 1968, Harley-Davidsons had to be started with a kickstarter, which could be difficult and dangerous, especially for new riders. The electric starter made starting the motorcycle much easier and more convenient, especially in cold weather.
The electric starter was also a significant safety feature. Kickstarting a motorcycle can be dangerous, and there is always the risk of the motorcycle falling over and injuring the rider. The electric starter eliminated this risk.
The electric starter was a key factor in the 1968 Harley-Davidson's success. It made the motorcycle more accessible to a wider range of riders, and it improved safety. The electric starter is now a standard feature on all Harley-Davidson motorcycles.
New frame design
The new frame design of the 1968 Harley-Davidson was a significant advancement that improved the motorcycle's handling, stability, and comfort. The new frame was lighter and stronger than previous designs, and it featured a new suspension system that provided a more comfortable ride.
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Improved handling
The new frame design made the 1968 Harley-Davidson more agile and easier to maneuver. The lighter weight and stiffer frame reduced flex, which improved cornering and stability.
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Increased stability
The new frame design also improved the 1968 Harley-Davidson's stability at high speeds. The stiffer frame reduced wobble and vibration, making the motorcycle more comfortable to ride for long periods of time.
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More comfortable ride
The new suspension system of the 1968 Harley-Davidson provided a more comfortable ride. The new shocks and forks absorbed bumps and vibrations more effectively, reducing fatigue for the rider.
The new frame design was a key factor in the success of the 1968 Harley-Davidson. It made the motorcycle more enjoyable to ride, and it improved safety and performance. The new frame design is still used on Harley-Davidson motorcycles today.
Front disc brake
The front disc brake was a significant advancement for Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Prior to 1968, Harley-Davidsons had drum brakes, which were less effective and more difficult to maintain than disc brakes. The front disc brake provided improved stopping power, which was a significant safety feature.
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Improved stopping power
The front disc brake provided significantly improved stopping power over the drum brakes used on previous Harley-Davidson models. This was due to the increased friction between the brake pads and the brake disc, which allowed the motorcycle to stop more quickly and efficiently.
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Reduced maintenance
Disc brakes require less maintenance than drum brakes. This is because the brake pads are easier to replace, and the brake disc is less likely to wear out. Disc brakes are also less likely to be affected by water and dirt, which can make them more effective in wet or muddy conditions.
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Improved safety
The improved stopping power and reduced maintenance of disc brakes make them a significant safety feature. Disc brakes help to reduce the risk of accidents by allowing the rider to stop the motorcycle more quickly and easily.
The front disc brake was a major factor in the success of the 1968 Harley-Davidson. It made the motorcycle safer and more enjoyable to ride, and it helped to improve Harley-Davidson's reputation for quality and innovation.
Increased power
The 1968 Harley-Davidson was a significant advancement over previous models in terms of power. This was due to a number of factors, including a new engine design, a new carburetor, and a new exhaust system.
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New engine design
The new engine design featured a number of improvements over previous models, including a larger displacement, a higher compression ratio, and a more efficient combustion chamber. These changes resulted in a significant increase in horsepower and torque.
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New carburetor
The new carburetor was designed to provide a more precise fuel mixture, which resulted in better combustion and more power.
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New exhaust system
The new exhaust system was designed to reduce back pressure, which resulted in increased power and improved fuel economy.
The increased power of the 1968 Harley-Davidson made it a more enjoyable and exciting motorcycle to ride. It was also more capable of carrying heavy loads and pulling trailers.
Improved handling
The improved handling of the 1968 Harley-Davidson was a significant advancement over previous models. This was due to a number of factors, including a new frame design, a new suspension system, and a new steering geometry.
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New frame design
The new frame design was lighter and stiffer than previous designs, which reduced flex and improved cornering and stability.
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New suspension system
The new suspension system featured new shocks and forks that provided a more comfortable ride and improved handling.
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New steering geometry
The new steering geometry provided a more responsive and precise steering feel.
The improved handling of the 1968 Harley-Davidson made it a more enjoyable and safer motorcycle to ride. It was also more capable of handling rough roads and corners.
More comfortable ride
The 1968 Harley-Davidson introduced several advancements that contributed to a more comfortable ride, including a new frame design, a new suspension system, and a new seat.
The new frame design was lighter and stiffer than previous designs, which reduced flex and vibration. This resulted in a smoother ride, especially on rough roads.
The new suspension system featured new shocks and forks that provided a more plush ride. The shocks were designed to absorb bumps and vibrations more effectively, while the forks were designed to provide a more responsive and precise steering feel.
The new seat was wider and thicker than previous seats, providing more support and comfort for the rider. It was also designed to reduce pressure points, which can cause discomfort on long rides.
The combination of these advancements made the 1968 Harley-Davidson a more comfortable motorcycle to ride, especially on long journeys. This was a significant improvement over previous Harley-Davidson models, and it helped to make the 1968 Harley-Davidson a popular choice for touring and cruising.
New styling
The 1968 Harley-Davidson introduced a number of new styling cues that would become iconic for the brand. These included a new fuel tank, a new seat, and a new exhaust system.
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Teardrop fuel tank
The new teardrop fuel tank was a radical departure from the previous peanut-shaped tank. It was designed to be more aerodynamic and to provide a more comfortable riding position. The teardrop fuel tank quickly became one of the most recognizable features of the Harley-Davidson Sportster.
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Tuck and roll seat
The new tuck and roll seat was another iconic styling cue introduced on the 1968 Harley-Davidson. It was designed to provide a more comfortable ride and to give the motorcycle a more classic look. The tuck and roll seat is still used on many Harley-Davidson models today.
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Shotgun exhaust
The new shotgun exhaust system was designed to give the 1968 Harley-Davidson a more aggressive look and sound. It consisted of two shorty mufflers that were mounted high on the frame. The shotgun exhaust system quickly became popular with Harley-Davidson riders, and it is still used on many models today.
The new styling of the 1968 Harley-Davidson was a major factor in its success. It gave the motorcycle a more modern and aggressive look, and it helped to attract a new generation of riders to the brand. The new styling cues introduced on the 1968 Harley-Davidson would go on to become iconic for the brand, and they are still used on many Harley-Davidson models today.
Symbol of freedom and rebellion
The 1968 Harley-Davidson was more than just a motorcycle. It was a symbol of freedom and rebellion for a generation of young people. This was a time of great social and political change in the United States, and the Harley-Davidson represented a way to break free from the status quo.
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Individualism
The Harley-Davidson was seen as a way to express one's individuality. It was a motorcycle that was not like anything else on the road, and it allowed riders to stand out from the crowd.
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Non-conformity
The Harley-Davidson was also seen as a symbol of non-conformity. It was a motorcycle that was not ridden by the establishment, and it represented a rejection of mainstream values.
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Adventure
The Harley-Davidson was also seen as a symbol of adventure. It was a motorcycle that was made for long road trips, and it represented a desire to explore the open road.
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Freedom
Ultimately, the Harley-Davidson was a symbol of freedom. It was a motorcycle that allowed riders to escape from the everyday and to experience the open road. It was a motorcycle that represented the freedom to be oneself and to live life on one's own terms.
The 1968 Harley-Davidson was more than just a motorcycle. It was a symbol of a generation. It was a symbol of freedom, rebellion, and adventure. It was a motorcycle that allowed riders to break free from the status quo and to live life on their own terms.
Popular collector's item
The 1968 Harley-Davidson is a popular collector's item for a number of reasons. First, it is a relatively rare motorcycle, with only around 10,000 units produced. Second, it is a significant motorcycle in Harley-Davidson's history, as it was the first year that the company introduced an electric starter, a new frame design, and a front disc brake. Third, the 1968 Harley-Davidson is a beautiful motorcycle, with classic lines and iconic styling.
As a result of these factors, the 1968 Harley-Davidson is a highly sought-after motorcycle by collectors. Prices for a 1968 Harley-Davidson in good condition can range from $20,000 to $50,000, and even higher for rare or mint condition models.
The popularity of the 1968 Harley-Davidson as a collector's item is a testament to its quality, rarity, and historical significance. It is a motorcycle that is sure to appreciate in value over time, making it a wise investment for any collector.
Iconic Harley-Davidson model
The 1968 Harley-Davidson is an iconic Harley-Davidson model for several reasons. First, it was the first Harley-Davidson to feature an electric starter, a new frame design, and a front disc brake. These advancements made the 1968 Harley-Davidson more convenient, safer, and easier to ride than previous models.
Second, the 1968 Harley-Davidson was a beautiful motorcycle, with classic lines and iconic styling. The teardrop fuel tank, tuck and roll seat, and shotgun exhaust system are all design cues that have become synonymous with Harley-Davidson motorcycles.
Third, the 1968 Harley-Davidson was a popular motorcycle. It was the best-selling Harley-Davidson model of its time, and it helped to establish Harley-Davidson as a leading manufacturer of motorcycles.
Today, the 1968 Harley-Davidson is still considered to be one of the most iconic Harley-Davidson models ever produced. It is a popular collector's item, and it is often featured in motorcycle shows and events.
The 1968 Harley-Davidson is an iconic Harley-Davidson model because it was the first to feature several key advancements, it was a beautiful motorcycle, and it was popular with consumers. These factors have made the 1968 Harley-Davidson a sought-after motorcycle by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
FAQs on the 1968 Harley-Davidson
The 1968 Harley-Davidson is a milestone in the company's history and a popular model among riders and collectors. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about this iconic motorcycle:
Question 1: What were the key innovations introduced in the 1968 Harley-Davidson?
The 1968 Harley-Davidson was the first model to feature an electric starter, a new frame design, and a front disc brake. These advancements significantly improved the motorcycle's convenience, safety, and handling.
Question 2: What is the significance of the 1968 Harley-Davidson's frame design?
The new frame design was lighter and stronger than previous designs, resulting in improved handling and stability. It also reduced vibration and provided a more comfortable ride.
Question 3: Why is the 1968 Harley-Davidson considered a symbol of freedom and rebellion?
Released during a time of social and political change, the 1968 Harley-Davidson resonated with young people seeking to break free from societal norms. Its powerful engine and distinctive styling represented a spirit of independence and nonconformity.
Question 4: What makes the 1968 Harley-Davidson a desirable collector's item?
The 1968 Harley-Davidson's rarity, historical significance, and iconic styling make it a sought-after collectible. Its value has steadily appreciated over time, making it a wise investment for collectors and enthusiasts.
Question 5: How does the 1968 Harley-Davidson compare to other models in terms of performance?
The 1968 Harley-Davidson offered improved performance compared to previous models, thanks to its more powerful engine and advanced features. It provided riders with a more thrilling and responsive riding experience.
Question 6: What are some of the notable styling features of the 1968 Harley-Davidson?
The 1968 Harley-Davidson introduced several iconic styling cues that would become synonymous with the brand. These included the teardrop fuel tank, tuck and roll seat, and shotgun exhaust system, giving the motorcycle a distinctive and timeless appearance.
The 1968 Harley-Davidson remains a celebrated motorcycle for its historical significance, innovative features, and enduring appeal. It stands as a testament to the enduring legacy and craftsmanship of Harley-Davidson.
For more in-depth information, refer to the following sections:
Tips on Maintaining and Enjoying Your 1968 Harley-Davidson
The 1968 Harley-Davidson is a classic motorcycle that requires proper care and maintenance to ensure its longevity and performance. Here are some valuable tips to help you keep your 1968 Harley-Davidson in pristine condition and enjoy the riding experience:
Tip 1: Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial for the optimal functioning of your 1968 Harley-Davidson. Adhere to the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule, including oil changes, filter replacements, and brake inspections. Regular maintenance helps prevent minor issues from escalating into significant problems, saving you time and money in the long run.
Tip 2: Proper Storage
When not in use, store your 1968 Harley-Davidson in a dry, well-ventilated area. Protect it from moisture and extreme temperatures to prevent corrosion and damage to its components. If possible, use a motorcycle cover to shield it from dust and other contaminants.
Tip 3: Battery Care
The battery is a key component of your 1968 Harley-Davidson's electrical system. Ensure the battery terminals are clean and free of corrosion. Regularly check the battery's voltage and charge it as necessary. A properly maintained battery will provide reliable starting power and prevent unexpected breakdowns.
Tip 4: Fuel System Maintenance
The fuel system of your 1968 Harley-Davidson requires attention to ensure proper fuel flow and engine performance. Use high-quality fuel and avoid leaving fuel in the tank for extended periods. Clean the fuel filter and carburetor regularly to prevent clogging and ensure efficient fuel delivery.
Tip 5: Tire Care
Proper tire maintenance is essential for safety and handling. Regularly check your 1968 Harley-Davidson's tire pressure and tread depth. Tires with insufficient tread can compromise traction and increase the risk of accidents. Replace worn tires promptly to ensure optimal grip and performance.
Tip 6: Customization and Upgrades
While the 1968 Harley-Davidson is a classic, you may consider tasteful customizations or upgrades to enhance its functionality or appearance. However, it is essential to use high-quality parts and accessories compatible with your motorcycle. Consult with experienced mechanics or Harley-Davidson experts before making any significant modifications.
Tip 7: Enjoy the Ride
Finally, remember to enjoy the ride! Take your 1968 Harley-Davidson out for regular spins and appreciate its timeless design, powerful engine, and unique character. Riding your motorcycle should be a pleasurable and memorable experience.
By following these tips, you can maintain your 1968 Harley-Davidson in excellent condition, ensuring years of riding enjoyment and preserving its value as a classic motorcycle.
Conclusion
The 1968 Harley-Davidson stands as a pivotal motorcycle in the history of the iconic American brand. Its introduction of an electric starter, new frame design, and front disc brake revolutionized Harley-Davidson's lineup, enhancing convenience, safety, and handling. These advancements, coupled with its distinctive styling, made the 1968 Harley-Davidson a symbol of freedom and rebellion for a generation.
Today, the 1968 Harley-Davidson remains a highly sought-after collector's item, a testament to its rarity, historical significance, and timeless appeal. Its legacy as an innovative and iconic motorcycle continues to inspire riders and enthusiasts worldwide.
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