Harley-Davidson Laser Red (BT) Touch Up Paint

The Look

This is the quintessential late-nineties Harley look. Released for nearly the entire lineup in 1998 and 1999, this color sits somewhere between a classic cherry and a modern candy. Since your bike has likely been out in the world for over two decades, the original finish has probably deepened or slightly shifted with age. It is a sophisticated red that avoids the "fire engine" trap by leaning into a rich, glowing undertone that catches the light during a sunset ride. Whether it is on a Fat Boy or a Road King, it provides a heavy, premium presence that makes modern flat colors look a bit thin by comparison.

Technical Details

You are dealing with a Pearl finish, which is significantly more complex than a standard solid red. Pearl pigments are translucent and reflective, meaning the final shade depends entirely on how the particles settle. If you apply the paint too heavily in one spot, it will look darker and lose its shimmer; if you go too light, the repair might look thin or slightly pink. Before you spray or dab Harley-Davidson Laser Red (check for code BT), you need to shake the container for at least a full minute to ensure those heavy pearl particles are suspended evenly in the liquid.

Best Practices

Finding the official verification on the bike can be a hunt. Look for a small sticker on the frame's steering neck or tucked away under the seat. If the sticker is gone, a dealer can confirm the match using your VIN. When you are ready to work, move the bike into a Garage or the Shade to keep the metal cool. Always test the color on the included card first to see how the pearl reacts to your specific Flow and Drying time. To get the best match, apply several thin layers rather than one heavy coat, and keep the container moving to prevent the pearl from pooling. Once the color is dry, a clear topcoat is essential to bring out that deep, inner glow that defines this era of Harley styling.