COLOR CODE51952 - Burgundy PearlHarley-Davidson Touch-Up Paint

The Look

This shade defined the Harley-Davidson aesthetic throughout the mid-to-late nineties. It is a sophisticated, deep wine-red that carries a lot of visual weight. In the shade, your bike looks like it is finished in a dark, brooding maroon, but the second you pull into the sunlight, the pearl particles catch the light and create a glowing crimson effect. Because this color was used across all models for several years, it has become a hallmark of the Evolution and early Twin Cam eras. Since your bike has likely been on the road for over two decades, keep in mind that the original finish may have matured or faded slightly compared to fresh paint.

Technical Details

This is a true pearl finish, which behaves differently than a standard solid or metallic paint. Pearl pigments are essentially translucent flakes that reflect and refract light. This gives the paint its depth, but it also makes the application sensitive to how heavy you lay it down. If you apply the paint too thick in one spot, the pearl particles won't settle evenly, which can make the touch-up look like a dark smudge from certain angles. Achieving a match is all about layering thin coats to build the color rather than trying to cover the damage all at once.

Best Practices

You can typically find the paint information on a sticker located under the seat or on the frame neck near the handlebars, though many owners find it easier to verify the specs through their dealer using the VIN. Before you spray or dab Harley-Davidson Burgundy Pearl (check for code 51952), you must shake the container vigorously for at least one full minute. Those pearl flakes are heavy and like to settle at the bottom; if they aren't fully mixed, your color will come out looking like a flat red. Test the color on the included card first to get a feel for the flow. When you move to the bike, keep the container moving to ensure the pigments distribute evenly. Give the repair plenty of drying time before deciding if you need another layer.