All 1985 AND 1986 Wide Glides (FXWG) as well as the 1985 Super Glide Fat Bob (FXEF) and the 1985 Low Rider (FXSB) had that unique frame set-up. There is no ''first batch'' or ''early' 1985 FXWG.
1985 was not the only year for that unique FXWG. There was also a limited-production 1986 FXWG, which is the rarest Evo. Claims of the exact number vary but no more than 900 were produced. The 1986 version was pretty much identical to the 1985 but with different paint/decals. It was a landmark motorcycle, the only 4spd Evo that year, and the final big twin Harley-Davidson made with a 4spd gearbox and a kickstarter.
Each of those models I mention used modified Shovelhead FX frames. This was at a time when the factory was ''clearing out the parts bin'' and using up remaining Shovelhead inventory.
The frame backbone on these particular 4spd Evos (there were also two 4spd Evo Softails, in 1984 and 1985) was raised an inch or so to fit the taller Evo, with the consequence that the seat fitment also had to be modified. A ''tongue'' plate was welded on, and seats made by the factory (and briefly by Mustang in the aftermarket) for the 1985 FXEF, FXSB, FXWG and1986 FXWG have a ''female'' slot on their base to fit the frame tongue. They do not fit any other previous FX Shovelhead model.
The frame was also shaved at the seatpost and at the downtubes, to fit the Evo rocker boxes and exhaust.
The MoCo is very helpful even these days with customer queries about bikes modern and older. Definitely call the customer service helpline. If they cannot help you they will put you through to the archive/museum. Loads of Shovelhead owners have received detailed info about their particular motorcycle, including build date, via this method of contact.
PS: here's a picture of the tweaked FX frame for 4spd Evos. The raised backbone for the taller Evo engine is obvious. Look closely to see the shaved frame tubes and the uhique seat tongue which is just above the seat post.
View attachment 1200207
Already are, Paul. Prices even rising in the USA now. The money is ALL ih original bikes though, not customised ones. Original paint is what all buyers are hunting. It is now hard to find an original example of any of these for under 8,000 English pounds in the USA.
Down here in Australia and New Zealand, hold on to your cuppa, but mint original 85 4spd Evo FXs are hitting 15,000 UK pounds now, and an absolutely mint and bone stock 1986 FXWG was sold by a Melbourne shop last year for 20,000 UK pounds.
Customised/repainted ones are worth 40-50% less. A cruel twist of fate because the first thing anybody did to their new or factory-paint bike at that time was get it sprayed. Factory paint was uncool! I bought a 95% original 1985 FXEF from its original owner in early 1992 (it was purchased at Warrs in early 1985) and set about ruining it in just that fashion. Ah, the wisdom of old age....