Unveiling the Captivating Story of the 1959 FLH Duo Glide Panhead

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Story behind the 1959 FLH Duo Glide Panhead
3. The Promotional Strategy of Harley-Davidson
4. Jerry Lee Lewis vs Elvis: A Lifelong Beef
5. The Value of Vintage Bikes: Jerry Lee Lewis's Sale
6. The Mystery of Elvis's Bike
7. The Significance of "What Made Milwaukee Famous"
8. Exploring the 1959 FLH Duo Glide Panhead
   • Features of the Duo Glide
   • The FLH Model: Built for Highway
   • Power and Performance: The 1200 cc V-Twin Engine
   • Impressive Design Details: Chrome Shocks, Stylish Horn, and Hydraulic Rear Brake
   • The Black Accents: A Unique Touch
   • Long-Distance Comfort and Riding Experience
9. Conclusion
10. Next Week's Bike and Beer Adventure

The 1959 FLH Duo Glide Panhead: A Vintage Motorcycle with a Unique Story

In the world of vintage Moto enthusiasts, few motorcycles hold the same level of allure as the 1959 FLH Duo Glide Panhead from Harley-Davidson. This iconic bike has earned its place in history, not only for its exceptional craftsmanship but also for the captivating story behind it. Sit back, relax, and join me on a journey through time as we uncover the fascinating tale of this two-wheeled titan.

The Story behind the 1959 FLH Duo Glide Panhead

In 1959, Harley-Davidson unveiled the FLH Duo Glide Panhead as part of a revolutionary design strategy. This model boasted both front and rear suspension, a groundbreaking feature that had not been seen before. Prior to this, the rear of the bike had a hardtail frame, making the addition of Chrome shocks a much-welcomed enhancement. Furthermore, the FLH model came with a higher compression motor, making it perfect for long-distance touring.

The Promotional Strategy of Harley-Davidson

As part of their marketing efforts, Harley-Davidson decided to gift two of these remarkable bikes to prominent rock stars of the era. In 1959, they presented one to Jerry Lee Lewis, also known as "The Killer." However, it was the second bike recipient, Elvis Presley, who became irked by the order of gift-giving. Elvis couldn't understand why Harley-Davidson had thought of Jerry Lee first, leading to an undisputed "lifelong beef" between the two rock legends.

Jerry Lee Lewis vs Elvis: A Lifelong Beef

The ongoing rivalry between Jerry Lee Lewis and Elvis Presley stemmed from their contrasting gift experiences. While Jerry Lee was thrilled to receive the Harley-Davidson FLH Duo Glide Panhead, Elvis felt slighted by not being the first choice. This friendly yet competitive feud added an interesting dynamic to their relationship and became part of the folklore surrounding these legendary musicians.

The Value of Vintage Bikes: Jerry Lee Lewis's Sale

In 2015, Jerry Lee Lewis's FLH Duo Glide Panhead motorcycle was put up for sale. The bike, considered a collector's dream, fetched an astonishing $385,000 at auction. This remarkable sale speaks to the enduring appeal and value of vintage motorcycles, particularly those with a unique history like the 1959 FLH Duo Glide Panhead.

The Mystery of Elvis's Bike

Unlike Jerry Lee Lewis's motorcycle, the whereabouts of Elvis Presley's FLH Duo Glide Panhead remain unknown. Speculations range from Elvis discarding it in a fit of frustration to it being sold privately or hidden away by a collector. The mystery surrounding this iconic bike only adds to its allure and fuels speculation about its potential value if ever discovered.

The Significance of "What Made Milwaukee Famous"

It's no coincidence that Schlitz beer, popular in Milwaukee, played a role in this bike and beer adventure. The song "What Made Milwaukee Famous" by Jerry Lee Lewis happens to be the slogan for Schlitz beer, making it a fitting choice for this episode. The synergy between the music, the motorcycle, and the beer adds depth to the storytelling and connects the dots between these cultural icons.

Exploring the 1959 FLH Duo Glide Panhead

Now that we've delved into the history and context of the 1959 FLH Duo Glide Panhead, let's take a closer look at its exceptional features and design elements. This outstanding motorcycle not only captures the spirit of the era but also offers a comfortable and exhilarating riding experience.

Features of the Duo Glide

The 1959 FLH Duo Glide Panhead showcased the best of Harley-Davidson's innovation. With both front and rear suspension, riders enjoyed a smoother and more comfortable journey. The addition of a spring-loaded seat further enhanced the riding experience, making long-distance trips a breeze.

The FLH Model: Built for Highway

The FLH designation in the 1959 model stands for "Highway" and represents the bike's suitability for extended touring. Its higher compression motor provided extra power, delivering a whopping 55 horsepower. This feature, in combination with its comfortable design, made it an ideal companion for adventurous riders embarking on cross-country journeys.

Power and Performance: The 1200 cc V-Twin Engine

At the heart of the 1959 FLH Duo Glide Panhead was a robust 1200 cc V-Twin aluminum engine. This powerhouse generated a considerable amount of torque, allowing riders to conquer any terrain. With its distinctive mouse trap clutch and beautifully styled horn, the bike exuded both elegance and strength.

Impressive Design Details: Chrome Shocks, Stylish Horn, and Hydraulic Rear Brake

The addition of Chrome shocks to the rear of the bike was a significant upgrade in the 1959 FLH Duo Glide Panhead. This feature, paired with the striking design of the horn, placed between the cylinders, added to the bike's visual appeal. Another notable improvement was the introduction of a hydraulic rear brake, ensuring optimal stopping power and a safer riding experience.

The Black Accents: A Unique Touch

One distinctive feature of the 1959 FLH Duo Glide Panhead was the use of black accents instead of the customary Chrome. The black rims, crash bars, handlebars, and cover for the speedometer and ignition switch added a touch of sophistication and uniqueness to the bike's overall aesthetic.

Long-Distance Comfort and Riding Experience

One of the standout qualities of the 1959 FLH Duo Glide Panhead was its focus on rider comfort during long-distance rides. The combination of a comfortable seat, flexible hoses, and a well-designed tool kit ensured that riders could enjoy extended journeys without feeling fatigued. This bike truly embodied the spirit of adventure and exploration.

Conclusion

As we conclude our exploration of the 1959 FLH Duo Glide Panhead, we can't help but appreciate the captivating tale behind this vintage motorcycle. From its historic significance in the rivalry between Jerry Lee Lewis and Elvis Presley to its exceptional design and performance, this bike continues to captivate the imaginations of Moto enthusiasts worldwide. The 1959 FLH Duo Glide Panhead serves as a testament to the craftsmanship, innovation, and cultural impact of Harley-Davidson.

Next Week's Bike and Beer Adventure

Join us next week as we embark on a whole new bike and beer adventure. Stay tuned for another exciting journey through the world of vintage motorcycles and perfectly paired brews. Cheers!

Highlights:

• The 1959 FLH Duo Glide Panhead: The story behind an iconic vintage motorcycle.
• Jerry Lee Lewis vs Elvis: A friendly rivalry shaped by Harley-Davidson's promotional strategy.
• The enduring value of vintage motorcycles: A look at the impressive sale of Jerry Lee Lewis's FLH Duo Glide Panhead.
• The mystery of Elvis's bike: Speculating on the whereabouts and potential value of his FLH Duo Glide Panhead.
• Exploring the features and design elements of the 1959 FLH Duo Glide Panhead.
• The significance of the song "What Made Milwaukee Famous" in this bike and beer adventure.
• The comfort and long-distance capabilities of the FLH model: Ideal for touring enthusiasts.

FAQ

Q: What was the determining factor for choosing Jerry Lee Lewis first over Elvis for the gifted motorcycle?
A: While the exact reasoning remains unknown, it was part of Harley-Davidson's promotional strategy for 1959. Perhaps Jerry Lee Lewis's popularity or availability at the time played a role in the decision.

Q: What is the differentiating feature of the FLH model compared to the FL model?
A: The FLH model stands for "Highway" and features a higher compression motor compared to the FL model. This provides a boost in power and performance, making it better suited for long-distance touring.

Q: What are some other notable design elements of the 1959 FLH Duo Glide Panhead?
A: Along with the Chrome shocks and stylish horn, the 1959 FLH Duo Glide Panhead introduced a hydraulic rear brake for improved safety. The use of black accents on various parts of the bike also gave it a distinctive and sophisticated look.

Q: Are there any known replicas or recreations of the 1959 FLH Duo Glide Panhead?
A: While there may be replicas or recreations available, it's essential to verify their authenticity. Genuine vintage models from 1959 hold significant value and are highly sought after by collectors.

Q: Can you recommend any resources for further information about vintage motorcycles?
A: Yes, the following websites provide valuable insights into vintage motorcycles:

1. Harley-Davidson Official Website
2. Classic Motorcycle Magazine
3. The Vintage Motor Cycle Club