COLOR CODE905208 - Black PearlHarley-Davidson Touch-Up Paint

The Look

This color defined the mid-2000s for the Motor Company, offering a sophisticated alternative to the high-maintenance upkeep of standard deep blacks. In the garage or under heavy clouds, it looks like a brooding charcoal, but direct sunlight pulls out a hidden world of silver and blue highlights. Since your bike was built between 2004 and 2007, it has likely seen enough road miles to have some character. You will find that this finish is incredibly forgiving, as the deep grey base hides road film and dust much better than a traditional solid black.

Technical Details

This is a pearl finish, which behaves differently than a simple metallic. It uses mica flakes to create a sense of depth that shifts as you walk around the bike. The biggest risk here is mottling, which happens when those flakes clump together in one spot and create dark or light patches. Because the flakes are heavier than the pigment, they tend to settle quickly. If you do not keep them suspended, the color will look uneven. This is a two-stage process, so the paint will appear flat and dull until the clearcoat is applied to magnify the pearl effect.

Best Practices

Harley-Davidson rarely makes it easy to find a paint code on the frame. Your best bet is to look for a sticker under the seat or on the steering head neck, though many owners find it faster to call a dealer with their VIN. Before you spray or dab Harley-Davidson Black Pearl (check for code 905208), you must shake the container for at least two minutes to fully wake up the pearls. Test the color on the included card to see how the flakes lay down before you move to your fender or tank. To ensure the pearls distribute evenly, keep the container moving across the surface and maintain a consistent spray distance. Work in the shade to allow for a natural drying time before you finish with your clearcoat.