Harley-Davidson Dark Wineberry Sunglo Tricoat (51836) Touch Up Paint

The Look

This color is a time capsule from 1993, a year when Harley-Davidson celebrated its 90th anniversary with some of the most soulful reds ever put on a fuel tank. Whether it is draped over a Heritage Softail or a touring frame, this is a moody, deep burgundy that stays quiet in the evening but explodes with a vibrant, glowing red the moment it hits direct sunlight. Because it was a premium choice for a very limited window, your bike carries a specific kind of vintage prestige that modern factory paints struggle to replicate. It is a sophisticated look that demands a clean, mirrored finish to truly show off its depth.

Technical Details

You are dealing with a Tricoat, which means the depth you see is the result of a multi-stage process. This is a metallic finish that relies on a specific ground coat and a translucent mid-layer to create that signature "Sunglo" shimmer. This is a high-reward color, but it requires patience. If you apply the mid-layer too heavily in one spot, the red will look darker and muddier than the rest of the fender. If you go too light, the metallic effect will lack the punch of the original factory finish. The goal is to build the color with thin, even passes so the metallic flakes sit correctly and do not bunch up into dark streaks.

Best Practices

Harley-Davidson rarely prints paint codes on the bike itself, so if you are double-checking, you might find a reference on a sticker under the seat or on the frame neck, though a VIN search at a dealer is often more reliable. Before you spray or dab Harley-Davidson Dark Wineberry Sunglo Tricoat (check for code 51836), you need to shake it for 60 seconds. This is vital because the metallic particles and pearls are heavy and settle quickly. Always test the color on the included card to make sure the number of layers you are applying matches the shade of your bike. When you move to the bike, keep the container moving to ensure an even distribution of the pearl. Allow for plenty of drying time between each layer, as rushing the process will lead to a soft finish that loses its clarity.