The 2005 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide is an iconic American touring motorcycle, part of a lineage dating back decades. Its full-dress touring body style epitomizes the open road experience. Key trims for this era typically include the Classic and the Ultra Classic, with the latter offering more premium features. While new pricing varied significantly by trim and options, expect a used market range from around $7,000 to $12,000 depending on condition and mileage. Its enduring popularity stems from its blend of classic styling, comfortable ride, and the unmistakable Harley-Davidson rumble, making it a beloved choice for long-distance cruising.
The Good
The 2005 Electra Glide offers exceptional comfort for long rides, legendary V-twin performance, and timeless, iconic Harley-Davidson design. Its robust build appeals to practical buyers, while the freedom and prestige it represents captivate the emotional rider.
The Bad
Owners should be aware of potential issues with the stock suspension, which can feel a bit firm on rough roads. Some models may experience minor electrical gremlins, and the air-cooled engine can run hot in heavy traffic, requiring careful monitoring. Clutch operation can also be heavy.
2005 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide: Quick Overview
- Engine: The primary engine for the 2005 Electra Glide was the Harley-Davidson Twin Cam 88, a 1450cc (88 cubic inch) air-cooled V-twin engine.
- Horsepower: While official horsepower figures weren't always prominently advertised by Harley-Davidson in this era, the Twin Cam 88 typically produced around 67-70 horsepower at the crankshaft. Torque was a strong suit, often in the range of 85-86 ft-lbs.
- Fuel Economy: Fuel economy for the 2005 Electra Glide generally ranged from 30 to 40 miles per gallon (MPG), depending on riding conditions, speed, and load.
- 0-60 mph Times: Acceleration was more about smooth, strong pull than outright sportbike quickness. 0-60 mph times were typically in the 5.5 to 6.5-second range.
- Towing Capacity: Motorcycles are not typically rated for towing capacity in the same way as cars. The Electra Glide is designed for carrying luggage and a passenger, not for towing trailers.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Electra Glide Standard: Base model with essential touring features.
- Electra Glide Classic: Added features like a larger fairing, comfortable passenger backrest, floorboards for both rider and passenger, and often a touring trunk.
- Electra Glide Ultra Classic: The top-tier model, offering the most amenities. This included a full fairing with a robust windshield, upgraded audio system (often with CB radio and intercom), cruise control, fairing lowers, ample storage in saddlebags and tour trunk, and premium seating for two.
- Transmission: 5-speed manual transmission.
- Brakes: Dual front disc brakes, single rear disc brake.
- Suspension: Telescopic front forks and adjustable rear air shocks.
2005 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2005 |
| Make | Harley-Davidson |
| Model | Electra Glide |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Motorcycle |
| Category | Motorcycle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | YORK |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 1690CC |
| Engine Size | 1690L |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 2005 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Have?
The 2005 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide, powered by the Twin Cam 88 engine, is generally considered a reliable machine, but like any older motorcycle, it has some common areas of concern for owners. One frequently discussed issue relates to the primary chain tensioner. Early Twin Cam engines, including those in 2005 models, used a spring-loaded hydraulic tensioner that could wear out over time, leading to a rattling noise from the primary drive. If left unaddressed, this wear could potentially damage the primary chain and sprockets. Harley-Davidson eventually updated this to a more robust cam-style tensioner, and many owners have retrofitted this upgrade.
Another point to watch for is the charging system. While not a universal problem, some owners have reported issues with the stator or voltage regulator failing, leading to battery charging problems. Regular checks of battery voltage while the engine is running are recommended.
The stock suspension, particularly the rear shocks, can be a point of contention for riders seeking a more refined or customizable ride. They can feel a bit stiff, especially when encountering rough pavement or carrying a passenger and luggage. Many owners opt for aftermarket suspension upgrades to improve ride quality and handling.
Electrical gremlins, though typically minor, can occasionally pop up. This might include issues with lights, gauges, or accessory connections. Ensuring all wiring connections are clean and secure is good practice.
Regarding recalls, specific recalls for the 2005 Electra Glide model year would need to be checked through Harley-Davidson's official recall database or the NHTSA website using the VIN. However, common areas for recalls across various Harley models in this era could include fuel line concerns or potential issues with braking systems. Long-term reliability is generally good with consistent maintenance. The Twin Cam engine is known for its durability if cared for properly, with regular oil changes, filter replacements, and attention to the aforementioned tensioner and charging system. Many 2005 Electra Glides with proper care continue to rack up hundreds of thousands of miles.
Another point to watch for is the charging system. While not a universal problem, some owners have reported issues with the stator or voltage regulator failing, leading to battery charging problems. Regular checks of battery voltage while the engine is running are recommended.
The stock suspension, particularly the rear shocks, can be a point of contention for riders seeking a more refined or customizable ride. They can feel a bit stiff, especially when encountering rough pavement or carrying a passenger and luggage. Many owners opt for aftermarket suspension upgrades to improve ride quality and handling.
Electrical gremlins, though typically minor, can occasionally pop up. This might include issues with lights, gauges, or accessory connections. Ensuring all wiring connections are clean and secure is good practice.
Regarding recalls, specific recalls for the 2005 Electra Glide model year would need to be checked through Harley-Davidson's official recall database or the NHTSA website using the VIN. However, common areas for recalls across various Harley models in this era could include fuel line concerns or potential issues with braking systems. Long-term reliability is generally good with consistent maintenance. The Twin Cam engine is known for its durability if cared for properly, with regular oil changes, filter replacements, and attention to the aforementioned tensioner and charging system. Many 2005 Electra Glides with proper care continue to rack up hundreds of thousands of miles.
How long will the 2005 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide last?
The 2005 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide is renowned for its long-term durability. With diligent maintenance, including regular oil changes, filter replacements, and addressing known wear items like the primary chain tensioner, it is not uncommon to see these motorcycles accumulate well over 100,000 miles. Many owners report reaching 150,000 to 200,000 miles and beyond. The Twin Cam 88 engine, while not a high-performance screamer, is built for the long haul. Weaknesses that can emerge over time primarily revolve around components like suspension, bearings, and the aforementioned charging system and primary tensioner, which are typical for any vehicle of this age and mileage. Consistent care is key to unlocking its impressive longevity.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2005 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide, particularly in its higher trims like the Ultra Classic, offered a respectable suite of features for its time, prioritizing comfort and entertainment for long-distance travel.
Entertainment: The Ultra Classic trim typically came equipped with a robust AM/FM stereo system, often with a cassette player and CD compatibility. Some models also included a CB radio and an intercom system, allowing riders and passengers to communicate, and even communicate with other riders equipped with similar systems. The sound quality was considered good for a motorcycle of its era, designed to be audible over wind noise.
Comfort and Convenience Features: Cruise control was a significant convenience feature, especially for highway riding, reducing rider fatigue. Rider and passenger floorboards provided a comfortable platform for feet, and adjustable fairing lowers offered protection from wind and elements. Ample storage was provided by large saddlebags and the rear tour trunk, essential for touring.
Safety Features: Basic safety features included dual front disc brakes and a single rear disc brake, providing adequate stopping power for the bike's weight and performance. Lighting systems included a prominent headlight and taillight, along with turn signals. Reflective elements were also integrated into the design.
Driver-Assistance Features: Driver-assistance features as we understand them today were virtually non-existent. The focus was on rider control and basic comfort aids like cruise control.
Optional Features: Beyond the standard equipment on each trim, owners could often add further customization options, such as upgraded exhaust systems, custom seats, additional chrome accessories, and various luggage solutions.
Crash-Test Ratings: Motorcycles, in general, are not subjected to standardized crash-test ratings in the same manner as automobiles. Therefore, specific crash-test ratings for the 2005 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide are not available. Safety on a motorcycle is primarily dependent on rider skill, adherence to traffic laws, and the protective gear worn by the rider and passenger.
Entertainment: The Ultra Classic trim typically came equipped with a robust AM/FM stereo system, often with a cassette player and CD compatibility. Some models also included a CB radio and an intercom system, allowing riders and passengers to communicate, and even communicate with other riders equipped with similar systems. The sound quality was considered good for a motorcycle of its era, designed to be audible over wind noise.
Comfort and Convenience Features: Cruise control was a significant convenience feature, especially for highway riding, reducing rider fatigue. Rider and passenger floorboards provided a comfortable platform for feet, and adjustable fairing lowers offered protection from wind and elements. Ample storage was provided by large saddlebags and the rear tour trunk, essential for touring.
Safety Features: Basic safety features included dual front disc brakes and a single rear disc brake, providing adequate stopping power for the bike's weight and performance. Lighting systems included a prominent headlight and taillight, along with turn signals. Reflective elements were also integrated into the design.
Driver-Assistance Features: Driver-assistance features as we understand them today were virtually non-existent. The focus was on rider control and basic comfort aids like cruise control.
Optional Features: Beyond the standard equipment on each trim, owners could often add further customization options, such as upgraded exhaust systems, custom seats, additional chrome accessories, and various luggage solutions.
Crash-Test Ratings: Motorcycles, in general, are not subjected to standardized crash-test ratings in the same manner as automobiles. Therefore, specific crash-test ratings for the 2005 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide are not available. Safety on a motorcycle is primarily dependent on rider skill, adherence to traffic laws, and the protective gear worn by the rider and passenger.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
2005 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2005 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide had a significant price tag. Depending on the trim level (Standard, Classic, or Ultra Classic) and chosen options, the original MSRP could range from approximately $17,000 for a base model to upwards of $22,000 or more for a fully loaded Ultra Classic.
Currently, the used market prices for a 2005 Electra Glide typically fall between $7,000 and $12,000. This range is heavily influenced by mileage, overall condition, maintenance history, and the presence of desirable upgrades.
Harley-Davidson motorcycles, especially iconic models like the Electra Glide, tend to hold their value relatively well compared to many other vehicle types. Depreciation is more gradual after the initial years. Factors significantly affecting resale value include low mileage, a well-documented service history, clean aesthetics, and popular aftermarket modifications. Conversely, high mileage, visible wear and tear, or neglected maintenance will decrease its market desirability and price.
Currently, the used market prices for a 2005 Electra Glide typically fall between $7,000 and $12,000. This range is heavily influenced by mileage, overall condition, maintenance history, and the presence of desirable upgrades.
Harley-Davidson motorcycles, especially iconic models like the Electra Glide, tend to hold their value relatively well compared to many other vehicle types. Depreciation is more gradual after the initial years. Factors significantly affecting resale value include low mileage, a well-documented service history, clean aesthetics, and popular aftermarket modifications. Conversely, high mileage, visible wear and tear, or neglected maintenance will decrease its market desirability and price.
2005 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Cost of Ownership
Owning a 2005 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide can be moderately costly, especially compared to smaller displacement motorcycles. Insurance premiums will vary based on rider experience, location, and coverage levels but are generally higher for touring Harleys. Fuel costs are reasonable, with an average of 30-40 MPG, but premium fuel is often recommended. Routine maintenance, including oil changes, filter replacements, and tire upkeep, is essential and adds to yearly costs. Repair costs can be significant, particularly for specialized Harley-Davidson parts or if major issues arise, though the Twin Cam is generally robust. Overall, it's not an economical vehicle to own but offers significant value in terms of experience and durability for the enthusiast.
2005 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2005 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
2005 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Insurance
Insurance for a 2005 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Motorcycle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2005 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Compare to Other Motorcycle?
In the realm of full-dress touring motorcycles around 2005, the Harley-Davidson Electra Glide was a dominant force, but it faced competition. Key rivals included the Honda Gold Wing (GL1800) and the Yamaha Royal Star Venture.
Performance: The Electra Glide's Twin Cam 88 engine offered strong low-end torque, perfect for cruising and effortless acceleration from a stop. However, in terms of outright power and high-speed performance, the Honda Gold Wing, with its liquid-cooled, horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine, generally offered a smoother, more powerful, and refined ride. The Yamaha Royal Star Venture also provided ample power from its V-four engine.
Features: The Electra Glide, especially the Ultra Classic, was well-appointed with features like cruise control, a good audio system, and ample storage. The Gold Wing often set the benchmark for features, including advanced audio, reverse gear, heated grips, and a more integrated cockpit. The Royal Star Venture also offered a robust feature set for touring comfort.
Reliability: Harley-Davidson's Twin Cam engines of this era were generally reliable with proper maintenance, though they could be prone to certain wear items as discussed. Honda's Gold Wing is legendary for its bulletproof reliability and lower maintenance needs, often considered more dependable out-of-the-box. Yamaha's Royal Star Venture also boasts a strong reputation for durability.
Price: The 2005 Electra Glide was competitively priced within the premium touring segment, though often slightly less expensive than a similarly equipped Gold Wing.
Alternatives:
Performance: The Electra Glide's Twin Cam 88 engine offered strong low-end torque, perfect for cruising and effortless acceleration from a stop. However, in terms of outright power and high-speed performance, the Honda Gold Wing, with its liquid-cooled, horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine, generally offered a smoother, more powerful, and refined ride. The Yamaha Royal Star Venture also provided ample power from its V-four engine.
Features: The Electra Glide, especially the Ultra Classic, was well-appointed with features like cruise control, a good audio system, and ample storage. The Gold Wing often set the benchmark for features, including advanced audio, reverse gear, heated grips, and a more integrated cockpit. The Royal Star Venture also offered a robust feature set for touring comfort.
Reliability: Harley-Davidson's Twin Cam engines of this era were generally reliable with proper maintenance, though they could be prone to certain wear items as discussed. Honda's Gold Wing is legendary for its bulletproof reliability and lower maintenance needs, often considered more dependable out-of-the-box. Yamaha's Royal Star Venture also boasts a strong reputation for durability.
Price: The 2005 Electra Glide was competitively priced within the premium touring segment, though often slightly less expensive than a similarly equipped Gold Wing.
Alternatives:
- Honda Gold Wing (GL1800): For a smoother, more technologically advanced, and arguably more reliable touring experience, the Gold Wing is an excellent alternative. It excels in comfort and long-distance cruising refinement.
- Yamaha Royal Star Venture: If you seek a powerful V-four engine with a unique style and a comfortable touring package, the Royal Star Venture is a strong contender. It offers a blend of cruiser aesthetics with touring capabilities.
- Indian Roadmaster (older models): While less common in this exact year range, older Indian Roadmasters offer a classic American touring experience with distinct styling, though often with less modern features and potentially higher maintenance.
Final Verdict: Is the 2005 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide a Good Motorcycle?
The 2005 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide is ideal for riders who prioritize the classic American touring experience, the distinctive Harley-Davidson sound and feel, and a comfortable platform for long-distance journeys. It's perfect for those who appreciate iconic styling and are willing to embrace the lifestyle associated with the brand.
It is absolutely worth buying, especially on the used market. Given its age, buying new is not an option. Opting for a well-maintained used model, ideally a Classic or Ultra Classic trim for enhanced comfort and features, is the way to go. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect for evidence of regular maintenance, pay close attention to the primary chain tensioner, charging system, and suspension. With proper inspection and care, a 2005 Electra Glide offers a fantastic entry into long-distance motorcycle touring with a legendary machine.
It is absolutely worth buying, especially on the used market. Given its age, buying new is not an option. Opting for a well-maintained used model, ideally a Classic or Ultra Classic trim for enhanced comfort and features, is the way to go. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect for evidence of regular maintenance, pay close attention to the primary chain tensioner, charging system, and suspension. With proper inspection and care, a 2005 Electra Glide offers a fantastic entry into long-distance motorcycle touring with a legendary machine.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.