Of course, here is the full article about the 2017–2019 Harley-Davidson Touring Milwaukee-Eight 107 (FLHTCU Electra Glide Ultra Classic).
The 2017–2019 Harley-Davidson Touring Milwaukee-Eight 107 models, particularly the FLHTCU Electra Glide Ultra Classic, represent a significant milestone in the company’s long history of producing grand American touring motorcycles. Launched for the 2017 model year, this generation marked the introduction of the ninth Big Twin engine from Harley-Davidson, the Milwaukee-Eight. This new powerplant was the centerpiece of a comprehensive update to the touring line, designed to address the demands of modern riders for more power, improved comfort, and a refined riding experience without sacrificing the traditional character of a Harley-Davidson.
The primary difference from the previous generation, which was powered by the Twin Cam 103 engine (2014-2016 Project RUSHMORE models), was the engine itself. The Milwaukee-Eight 107 featured four valves per cylinder (totaling eight valves, hence the name), a single chain-driven camshaft, and dual spark plugs per cylinder. This design allowed for a 50 percent increase in intake and exhaust flow capacity compared to the Twin Cam. Furthermore, the new engine incorporated a single internal counter-balancer, which was engineered to cancel 75 percent of the primary vibration at idle, resulting in a much smoother experience at a standstill and on the highway. Rider and passenger comfort were also significantly improved by strategies to reduce heat, including precision oil or liquid cooling of the cylinder heads concentrated around the exhaust valves.
The Heart of the Tourer: The Milwaukee-Eight 107 Engine
The Milwaukee-Eight 107 (107 cubic inches / 1746cc) was engineered to deliver more torque and power across the rev range compared to its predecessor. Riders immediately noted quicker acceleration from 0-60 mph and in top-gear roll-on scenarios. This performance enhancement was achieved while improving fuel efficiency and meeting stricter global emissions standards.
Key mechanical improvements included:
Reduced Mechanical Noise: A single camshaft design and optimized components led to a quieter valvetrain, allowing the iconic V-Twin exhaust note to be more prominent.
Improved Charging System: The charging system was upgraded to provide 50 percent more output at idle to better support the power demands of modern infotainment systems, heated gear, and other electronic accessories.
Slimmer Primary Drive: A narrower primary drive cover and a low-profile air cleaner cover provided more legroom for the rider, enhancing long-distance comfort.
Chassis and Suspension Upgrades
Complementing the new engine, the 2017–2019 touring chassis received a major suspension overhaul. The front suspension featured new Showa® SDBV® (Dual Bending Valve) technology, which provided the damping performance of a racing-style cartridge fork with linear characteristics and reduced weight.
The rear suspension was equipped with new emulsion-technology shock absorbers. These offered 15 to 30 percent more pre-load adjustment than the previous air shocks, with a single, tool-free knob to hydraulically adjust the pre-load. This made it significantly easier for riders to set the suspension for the weight of a passenger and luggage, improving both comfort and handling dynamics. Standard on the FLHTCU were Reflex™ Linked Brembo® brakes with ABS, providing consistent and powerful stopping performance.
Key Features of the 2017–2019 Harley-Davidson Touring Milwaukee-Eight 107 (FLHTCU)
The FLHTCU Electra Glide Ultra Classic trim level was designed for the ultimate two-up touring experience. It came standard with a host of features aimed at long-haul comfort and convenience. The iconic “batwing” fairing housed a full infotainment system and provided excellent wind protection.
Standard equipment included:
Boom!™ Box 4.3 Infotainment System: A 4.3-inch screen with hands-free mobile phone, media, and navigation capabilities.
Tour-Pak® Carrier: A full-size luggage carrier with an integrated passenger backrest, providing ample storage and support.
Comfortable Seating: A one-piece, two-up Electra Glide seat designed for all-day comfort for both rider and passenger.
Full-Length Floorboards: Providing a variety of foot positions for the rider, along with adjustable passenger footboards.
* Hard Saddlebags:** Lockable, injection-molded saddlebags offering secure and weather-resistant storage.
Across the 2017 to 2019 model years, the core mechanical and feature set of the FLHTCU with the Milwaukee-Eight 107 remained largely consistent, with changes primarily focused on new paint colors and cosmetic options each year.
Specifications Table: 2018 FLHTCU Electra Glide Ultra Classic
| General | |
| Brand | Harley-Davidson |
| Model | Electra Glide Ultra Classic |
| Model Code | FLHTCU |
| Model Years | 2017–2019 |
| Type | Touring |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 1,360 lb. (617 kg) |
| Maximum passengers | 2 |
| Performance | |
| Max. power | Approx. 90 Hp (67 Kw) @ 5,450 RPM (Rear Wheel Estimate) |
| Max. torque | 114 ft-lb (154 N•m) @ 3,250 RPM |
| Top designed speed | Approx. 110 mph (177 km/h) |
| Size | |
| Length | 102.4 in. (2600 mm) |
| Width | 38 in. (965 mm) |
| Height | 61 in. (1549 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 64 in. (1625 mm) |
| Seat height (unladen) | 29.1 in. (740 mm) |
| Ground clearance | 5.3 in. (135 mm) |
| Curb weight (running order) | 908 lb. (412 kg) |
| Engine | |
| Type | Milwaukee-Eight® 107, 45° V-Twin, Air/Oil-Cooled |
| Displacement | 107 cu in (1746 cc) |
| Bore × Stroke | 3.937 in. × 4.375 in. (100 mm × 111.1 mm) |
| Compression ratio | 10.0 : 1 |
| Starting system | Electric starter |
| Fuel supplying system | Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) |
| Ignition control system | ECU Ignition |
| Lubricating system | Dry Sump |
| Oil capacity (with filter) | 5.2 qt (4.9 L) |
| Engine oil type | SAE 20W-50 Harley-Davidson® H-D® 360 Motorcycle Oil |
| Transmission | |
| Transmission type | 6-Speed Cruise Drive® |
| Clutch type | Wet, multi-disc, hydraulically actuated |
| Driving system | Belt drive |
| Primary reduction ratio | 1.353 (46/34T) |
| Final reduction ratio | 2.125 (32/68T) |
| Gear ratio | 1st: 9.593; 2nd: 6.65; 3rd: 4.938; 4th: 4.00; 5th: 3.407; 6th: 2.875 |
| Chassis | |
| Tire size | Front: BW 130/80B17 65H; Rear: BW 180/65B16 81H |
| Rim size | Front: 17 in. Impeller Cast Aluminum; Rear: 16 in. Impeller Cast Aluminum |
| Capacity of fuel tank | 6.0 gal (22.7 L) |
| Fuel consumption | Approx. 43 MPG (5.5 L / 100 km) |
| Electric | |
| Battery | 12V / 28 Ah |
| Headlight | Dual Halogen (Daymaker™ LED optional) |
| Tail light | Incandescent / LED |
| Suspension | |
| Front Suspension | 49mm Showa® Dual Bending Valve (SDBV®) |
| Front travel | 4.6 in (117 mm) |
| Rear Suspension | Premium standard height hand-adjustable emulsion shocks |
| Rear travel | 3.0 in (76 mm) |
