When you think of influential American artists, Elvis Presley ranks quite high on the list. Dubbed ‘King Of Rock’, he remains most famous for his chart-topping music (with over a billion records worldwide) and snazzy dance moves (how can we forget the iconic Rubber Legs?). But did you know that in addition to music, Elvis was also an avid motorcyclist? That’s right! When not thinking music, Presley indulged in motorcycles and had a particular affection for Harley-Davidsons with (reportedly) eleven examples to his name. The most iconic in the list, however, is his last cruiser - an FLH 1200 Electra Glide.
Elvis’ Harley-Davidson FLH 1200 Is As Iconic As Motorcycles Can Be
Elvis bought the said cruiser motorcycle in 1976, just a few months before his demise in 1977. Even in his short ownership tenure, the rockstar had it wrapped in a special colorway (with blue and black inserts with golden pinstripes from head to toe) and punched 126 miles on the odometer. After his death, the motorcycle went to a hotel owner in New Jersey (for display purposes), who later sold it to the folks at the Pioneer Museum in Murdo, South Dakota.
To date, the motorcycle has remained in Elvis Presley’s name, with the original title signed by himself, and registered to the musician's home address - 845 Chino Canyon Road in Palm Springs, California. Like the title, the motorcycle is completely original too. It is powered by Harley-Davidson’s V-twin, 1,207cc powerhouse that produces roughly 60 horsepower and 70 pound-feet. All this reaches the rear wheel via the OEM four-speed gearbox. Also present are the original telescopic forks, shock absorbers, spoke wheels, whitewall tires, and disc brakes. Not to mention, the chrome, electronics, clocks, and leather saddle are all in tip-top condition, as the motorcycle was in a glass box for over 30 years.
Elvis-Owned Harley-Davidson FLH 1200 Could Now Be Yours
It’s safe to say all this makes the said FLH 1200 one of the best collectibles in the world. And this is why it sold for a reported $800,000 at its last sale conducted by GWS Kruse Auctions in 2019. Now, four years later, Elvis’ cruiser is back on the market, this time, listed by Mecum Auctions as part of its Indy 2023 star offering.
The motorcycle currently has 1,261 miles on its odometer and comes with an original certificate of ownership signed by Elvis. Don’t expect it to be anywhere near ‘affordable’, though, as it will probably better its previous selling price this time around. We expect a price tag of around $900,000, and if you have that kind of money to spare, be sure to block your calendar from May 12 to 20, 2023.