It has a new frame, suspension, and engine management system. Even many riders had difficulties configuring the brakes. Do your research first. I have shovels from 73 to 83. anywhere from 30,000 to 130,000 miles on them and have never had a problem finding parts for any of them. The 1584cc Twin Cam engine that was in its second year of reinvention. It could all have been so very different. Not too long ago, I wrote about theHarley FLH historyand briefly described the evolution of the firms Big Twin engines in that piece. When the first Harley OHV twin appeared in 1936 nobody called it a . Most experts and users of Harley Davidson consider the 1966 model year best for the Shovelhead bikes. $17,000. Tires get uneven which is because the pressure has appeared. I own a 66 generator Shovel and as people have said they are easy to work on. It is quite a natural phenomenon like any other vehicle. Moreover, it shows the condition of breaking parts on the road which seems unexpected to the users. Awesome chicks and it is absolutely free! No slipping when I test drove it, but the clutch grabs too far off the handle. one rider found this issue in a new 1978 Shovelhead vehicle. 1999 models had issues with cam bearings. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[728,90],'strictlymotorcycles_com-banner-1','ezslot_6',107,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-strictlymotorcycles_com-banner-1-0');Harley Davidson riders demanded more power for heavier bikes with rear suspension and electric starters. Of all these variations, theElectra Glide, Tour Glide,and first two years of theFXR seriesstand out the most, while the1971 Dyna Super Glideproves to be the most collectible. Whether odd engineering decisions or Harleys turbulent partnership with AMF is to blame is left for you to discover in todays article. Before digging into the details, lets have a look at how shovelhead came into existence and what drawbacks it had: if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[468,60],'strictlymotorcycles_com-box-4','ezslot_9',106,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-strictlymotorcycles_com-box-4-0');Harley Davidson produced a shovelhead engine from the mid-60s to early 80s. However, I highly recommend that readers conduct their own fact-check on release dates. Since the late 90s, Harley Evo and Twin, Read More Harley-Davidson Evo vs. Twin Cams: Which Is The Best Cam?Continue, As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. The Fora platform includes forum software by XenForo. All this was bad news for Harley as it spent more time trying to fix the problems than it did on research and development, causing it to fall further behind the competition, which by now included the ever-growing Japanese threat. Strangely, the best running is my 74" 73 over the later 80"ers, and it's faster, or seems to be, but I don't have any dyno numbers or anything. Harley was struggling financially, not solely because of the Shovelhead engine, although the problems in that direction did not help as the companys reputation suffered because of the reliability issues. According to many motorbike riders, enthusiasts, and connoisseurs, it is better to prevent these model years: 1983, 1978, and 1967. Riding after some miles there you will see the low efficacy of the engine, unfortunately. The OHV-pushrod design of these power mills went from 61 cm3 to 80 cm3 and spun almost 50 years before the emergence of theEvolutionandTwin Cam(88 and 96 versions) engines. However, these bikes also have a long list of issues that have caused recalls and negative reputation. All this gave the engine an extra 10 horsepower and a different look. Slabs, Pimples, and Cones, 1966-85 thats alot to cover and alot of variety. Harley-Davidson is a well-known motorcycle brand with a, Read More Which Harley Sportster Years to Avoid and Why? Both models have got their fame, Read More Harley Dyna vs. Softail Comparison Details OverviewContinue, The Ultra Classic and Ultra Limited are two top-of-the-line touring motorcycles from Harley Davidson. Harry has written for all major publications in South Africa, both print and digital and produced and presented his own TV show called, imaginatively, The Bike Show, for seven years. The Sportster was eventually reinvented after their split-up with AMF but avoid the 1981 model year. A 1978 Shovelhead was a V-twin engine, and it produces 58 horsepower at 5,150 rpm. With a $16,999 price tag, the 2011 Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail Classic comes with comfortable seating to provide a smooth ride. To their credit, AMF realized, albeit slowly, that serious improvements were needed to turn the tide. It also featured a more modern and streamlined look than the classic Panhead design. Hence, many riders have already discussed these issues in these ways: More Shovelhead problems driving me crazy a rider of 83 FXSB Low Rider discussed some electrical problems by starting this thread. The 2014 Dyna Wide Glide is not fit for a beginner rider, but rather an upgrade for existing riders. Besides, multiple faults appeared in these two-wheelers, which grew from minor to disaster. Although positive consequential changes did not take place in Harley Davidsons production processes and R&D until 1981 (when William G. Davidson bought back the company), 1978 to 1980 were not necessarily problematic years. The barrels had only ten cooling fins which werent sufficient and the engine ran hot. The FXSTS comes with simple styling to enable personalization and customization that Softail owners enjoy. I'll also tell you which years are the finest to buy if you're searching for a dependable minivan. Harley Davidson riders demanded more power for heavier bikes with rear suspension and electric starters. Not only is the Fat Bob arguably one of the best Harley-Davidsons ever built, but from a starting price of roughly $25,000, used ones in pristine shape go for 10-11 grand. The design is solid, quality control at the factory wasn't what it should have been. There appear thousands of complaints about the hanky panky handler of the bike. JavaScript is disabled. so the jest is pretty much shoot for something in the 60s because of the generator or something in the 80's for better quality control during the AMF years. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[728,90],'strictlymotorcycles_com-box-2','ezslot_4',101,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-strictlymotorcycles_com-box-2-0');If you are planning on investing in a shovelhead engine, you must wonder if it is worth it or not. Now if I could only post a picture on this site!!!! Just this weekend, I drove from Ottawa Canada to Sudbury, a 15 hour ride and back. The XR-1000 was Harleys bounce back after a horrible streak of bikes released under the AMF ownership. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. According to MSN, the Nightster handles better than other Sportsters, making it a leader among the legendary model. (Anneversary model) A Softail Custom looks identical to the wideglide, only no rear shocks. However, certain Harley Sportster years to avoid are there for good reasons. There is an antique Harley museum near here and the owner says that Shovelheads are going to be the hot bike for Harley collectors in the next few years. The classic look of a high-hand handlebar cruiser, along with its classic features, makes the Softail Custom a favorite among Harley fans. Also, it is a popular choice for any security activities. So, they came up with a shovelhead engine that is fitted on all Harley Davidsons big twins motorcycles throughout its 20-year production run. Even the oil pressure was relatively low for some vehicles of this model year. The 74-inch FLH shovelhead engine produced in 1978 was the best by Harley Davidson. It depends totally on you how you follow the specs, uses good quality parts, and make your engine do its job properly. What Is The Best Motorcycle Seat Height For 58? Harley-davidson Shovelhead In Carrollton, TX. 2021 Strictlymotorcyles. The Shovelhead engine has survived for decades despite its complicated and long history. Thus, the engines mustnt get overheated. In today's post, I'll discuss which Toyota Sienna years to avoid based on the number of complaints received. The 1978 Shovelhead featured a larger, more powerful engine than its predecessor, the Panhead. The members of the organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries (OAPEC), led by Saudi Arabia, proclaimed an oil embargo. Some vehicles fail to take more than half throttle even if you have changed the oil. When riders start the bike in gear, they may face control dissatisfaction. Again, many users have complained that there is no notable improvement of bike control and adjustability. Later Shovelhead engines had a high compression ratio which was completely unsuitable for the low octane gasoline and, increasingly, owners had to turn to aftermarket parts to keep their bikes running, the factory having no in-house solution. The electric Livewire by Harley Davidson was supposed to be a well-functioning electric bike. To give fresh-off-the-line units the oomph needed to compete more effectively in the market, offset added weight from upgraded suspension components, and support a new electric starting system, HD made the following revisions to its engine (source:Rider Magazine): Unlike its predecessors, the Shovelhead appears to be quite an unsuitable moniker. Mods should begin with the cylinder head, compression, and then cams. Yes, its no doubt a big twin. So, the rider must fill the tank with fuel more frequently. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Street Bob Vs Fat Bob: A Tough Selection For Riders, 2004, 2006, and 2009 Dyna Super Glide Problems Suggested Solutions. The Shovelhead was the 3rd generation of these engine blueprints. Steering and handling problems caused by an engine-weight-suspension imbalance. features for a smooth ride on the road. The coal shovel looks more flipped upside down. Several reports were about oiling problem in 83s Shovelhead motorcycles. Had it not been for innovative Japanese offerings and consumer demand for more reliable, powerful bikes, Harley would not have had reason to reinvent the engine. Many bike enthusiasts and experts, Read More Best And Worst Years for Sportster? Others point their fingers at poor marketing and the rushed production of motorcycles in the late 70s. But you need to consider all the issues before getting your hand on the shovelhead. So, you can select this model year too. It is the reason why people look for them. It enjoyed a 5-year run before being replaced by the same-displacement, rubber-mountedEvolutionpower mill. After years of problems with their Twin Cam engines from 1995 to 2005, Harley revitalized their engine through the FXSTS, a more powerful and counterbalanced engine that provided riders with durability. Speekin' of the shovel. Mr. Benway, don't you have one that you're fiddling with? 14 Used Harley-Davidsons Worth Every Penny (And 3 To Avoid At All Costs), One Of The Best: 20092010 Fat Bob - $11,000, One Of The Best: 2006 Harley-Davidson FXSTS Springer Softail - $9,155, One Of The Best: 2012 Harley-Davidson FLHR Road King - $11,510, One Of The Best: 2011 Harley-Davidson FLSTC Heritage Softail Classic - $9,720, One Of The Best: 2014 Harley-Davidson FXDWG Dyna Wide Glide - $12,000, One Of The Best: 2008 Harley-Davidson FXSTC Softail Custom - $8,400, One Of The Best: 2006 Harley-Davidson VRSCE2 V-Rod - $8,620, One Of The Best: 2009 Harley-Davidson FXSTB Night Train - $10,245, One Of The Best: 2012 Harley-Davidson CVO Softail Convertible - $15,495, One Of The Best: 2007 Harley-Davidson XL1200N Sportster Nightster - $9,000, One Of The Best: 1983 Harley-Davidson XR-1000 - $9,000, One Of The Best: 2009 Harley-Davidson FLHT Electra Glide - $8,700, One Of The Best: 2007 Harley-Davidson VRSCDX Night Rod Special - $6,570, One Of The Worst: 1981 Harley-Davidson Sportster - $5,645, One Of The Worst: Harley-Davidson LiveWire Electric Motorcycle - $25,000, Here's Why The Hells Angels Ride Harley-Davidsons, reputation of the Harley-Davidson motorcycle, Top Speed, the 2006 FXSTS Springer cements itself as a true Softail, 10 Rules For Joining The Most Badass Biker Clubs, 2011 Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail Classic, These 10 Japanese Power Cruisers Will Put Any Harley Davidson To Shame. On top of its redesigned engine, theElectra Glidereceived further component upgrades in the next few years. One is the condition of the engine (stock or new). Born and raised in England, he has lived in South Africa with his family since 2002. There also remains the quality of the existing parts in the bike which shows low performance after using while. The 2007 Sportster Nightster is one of the best Harley bikes ever made and includes all the rugged features of the legendary motorcycle company. Thats right, the one that keeps the fuel secure inside the fuel tank without allowing dirt, grime, and exterior gas to enter it. (Explained). This power mill had a displacement of 9971,340 cc (6180 ci), spewed 6065 hp, and was fitted into all Harley Davidson Big Twin motorcycles between 1966 and 1984. Looking into getting a shovel when i get back and remember reading somewhere that certain years were more reliable or sought after. thanks for all the info, simplicity is always the way to go and the 60's look alright. The XR-1000 was Harley's bounce back after a horrible streak of bikes released under the AMF ownership. The Harley Shovelhead is the engine version used the longest by Harley-Davidson in its pre-1990 touring segment. I am definitely getting one that runs and drives so I at least know it has a decent baseline to start off with. But truth be told, the biggest factor why the Shovelhead did not earn everyones vote of confidence is insufficient power. Read on to find out if its the right choice or not. It means the system goes slow and is not effective according to their quality as well. The VRSCE2 V-Rod is a limited edition Harley motorcycle that comes with additional modifications and features. Maximum 66 horsepower at 5,600 RPM. - Govmule84, Wannabe Hipster. A short video of my Shovelhead as a memory before I move on to the next stage. Skipping these model years can provide you with a safe and sound ride. The excessive heat would cause the valves to stick open, causing untold horrors in both the head and piston as the valves and pistons touched. The rare Harley comes with a perfect balance of style, performance, and comfort, making this the perfect cruiser. (Explained), Which Harley Road King Years to Avoid and Why? Those issues can be repaired but it is all about the money spent. By the early 1960s, the Panhead was becoming obsolete and simply not powerful enough to compete with more modern motorcycles coming out of Europe. Sometimes when I turn the key on to crank it, its getting fire and sometimes its not Someone faced this problem in 1978 Shovelhead motorcycle. Your email address will not be published. Likewise, Harley used the Shovelhead engine in several series like Disc Glide, Electra Glide, Electra Glide Classic, Electra Glide Sport, Low Rider, Super Glide, Tour Glide, and Wide Glide. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. It had oil pump or wet sump problem. Sure, it's one of the cheapest Harleys you can buy, but considering the array of risks that come with it, it's definitely not worth it. Disclosure: We may get commissions for purchases made through links in this post. 2. By then, the Knucklehead and Panhead engines had already created the baseline for modern-day HD motorcycles and solved some of the issues known to these bikes. They need regular maintenance. These bikes lack orthodox quality of level and standard of designated services. Advertisement. The year is known as AMF years which can be the best productive bike if you maintain it properly with great care and responsibility. Still, the riders faced several issues with this bike. Regular adjustment of the valve and drive train is required. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. You have come to the right place. Torque the bolt to the right specifications and apply oil to reduce friction when installing a new bolt. Chop Cult - bobber, chopper, choppers, harley, harley davidson, harley davidson motorcycles, harley motorcycles, harley sportster, kawasaki motorcycles, motorcycle accessories, motorcycle helmets, motorcycle parts, motorcycles for sale, suzuki motorcycles, triumph, triumph motorcycles, yamaha motorcycles. Long Island City, New York. 44 units of the1977 Harley Davidson FLH Electra-Glide Confederate Editionwere launched during the Shovelhead era although its engine displacement of 997 cc or 61 ci resembled E-models back in the day more than it did the production models at that time. (Explained)Continue, As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Does the type and year of a shovel really matter? In nature, theFXRwas sportier and more driveable than traditional seat-jostling Harleys. It gives a top. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Super Glide vs Wide Glide: Which Is Better For Your Riding Mode? Come join the discussion about performance, restorations, modifications, classifieds, troubleshooting, maintenance, and more! Additionally, strictlymotorcycles.com participates in various other affiliate programs, and we sometimes get a commission through purchases made through our links. As they both are from the touring lineup, they have many similarities. The Shovelhead was designed in part to produce more power and higher performance to make up for the increased weight of new Harley-Davidson motorcycle models. In the case of the Harley Shovelhead, its production year bears some weight due to the details I have shared above. via mecum.com. This Harley is one of the best touring bikes ever made by the company and makes a great used purchase. This bike is a Harley Classic and its worth every cent. In this article, I have discussed which years of the Harley Shovelhead motorbike are best to avoid getting a better model. The parts used in the vehicle are not sustainable depending on the quality. The then-new layout retained all the bells and whistles of the Panhead. There will always be some lemons, no matter what brand or model you buy. Starting from 2006, it has the same frame as another popular HD Road Glide. The hydraulic clutch systems secondary actuator leaks in the 2018 model. Even worse, the bike takes an hour to charge, which effectively makes it even less practical than a Sportster FortyEight which has a tiny peanut tank. Learn More 376 Craig S. 9 years US Army, 9 years PMC, 20 years in IT. There also appears the non-moisture sump of the engine. He held the position of editor of South Africa's largest circulation motorcycling magazine before devoting his time to freelance writing on motoring and motorcycling. That's also when the Sportster switched from chain drive to the less maintenance-intensive belt drive. Since finding the oldest model years is hard, you can find recent ones by avoiding a few. The original Super Glide is famous for its custom-made design directly from the Harley Davidson factory. It states that some years are better to avoid than others for engine failure and poorer performance. I can only assume that for the American firm, it was a great marketing tactic for consumer recall and an easy way to distinguish engine layouts from one another. A Glance of Street Glide Years To Avoid Clutch failure, brake, oil pump issues, and drop in performance are mostly absolute for these two model years. Regarding the specification of the version, you can pick it also. Hey there, motorcycle enthusiasts! The. Despite being a killer look, it has issues with some facts. (Explained), Which Harley Davidson Years to Avoid and Why? With a low seat and drag-style handlebars, this motorcycle makes for a comfortable ride. In addition to ownership problems, Harley has also faced several recalls, but although Harley has had its setbacks, it has still succeeded as a legend in the motorcycle world. But the model years of 2017 and 2018 did not fulfill the needs of the riders. It featured a shallower combustion chamber, increased valve lift, improved porting, and stronger valves and pistons. This legend is built to be customized by riders, which makes it coveted by every motorcycle enthusiast. He figured out it was the faulty foot shift responsible for bringing up the issue. Mechanically inclined parts are so much unreliable for the users. im sure i'll get bashed for this but whats so great about the generator verses alternator? Thus, they try to enlist their motorcycles on different websites, including Panhead and Shovelhead models. Start with something that runs and has a clear title. Welcome to this blog on Street Glide years to avoid. Engine 1200. What Would Be a Good Motorcycle Seat Height for a 5 Rider? Please read and understand the info in this link. This is definitely a Harley worth investing in. There is also some contradiction between the turn over to the road crossing via the model. The aluminum head is vital to improving the engine's cooling. However, there are some recent models which remain as reliable to the customers. It has happened when the fuel reaches the line and cannot get to the motor further. Now, the reinvented Twin Cam provides durability for riders. Thus, the company used the engine in this years Electra Glide, Super Glide, Low Rider, etc. How could it not be worth it? Another model year is 1984 for faultless Harley Shovelhead bikes. According to Nada Guides, it costs $12,000. Below is a brief comparison. The Shovel Head is a Harley-Davidson engine with a storied past and a bad reputation. My motor was produced during that transition LOOKS and is STAMPED 80" but the guts are 74"--I think that you can avoid the "trouble shovel" years and get a tighter motor by buying early or late AMF and early HD after the buyback. A healthy clutch means you have a good control on the motorcycle like Harley Davidson Shovelhead. Many riders faced this technical issue, especially on the road. Expect to be turning some wrenches. Therefore, it features a more streamlined construction and a sleek profile. whats the thought process on that and why or does it really matter? Continue with Recommended Cookies. Some folks sharing this sentiment blame the HD-AMF (American Machine & Foundry) partnership. It made a long run that lasted through 1983, but it's not been forgotten. To fully understand the yin and yang of the machine that supplied the power for some of the sweetest bikes in the history of the brand, it's important to know the history behind it. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[728,90],'strictlymotorcycles_com-leader-1','ezslot_5',109,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-strictlymotorcycles_com-leader-1-0');The shovelhead engine took its name from an old coal shovels appearance of its rocker head. Eventually, this compelled the remaining workers to go on strike. some have outlined that Harley had a few bad years of quality control etc. Between 1966 and 1984, at least eight production models of Harley Davidsons Big Twins were produced and fitted with the redesigned Shovelhead engine. You will also learn why you should not count them as a preference for Harley collections. I've never owned an EVO but I have worked on many Buying shovelhead to chop: what to avoid? via Sportsterpedia. During this period, the Shovelhead was starting to tread on the path to recovery with its new head material, larger piston displacement, and other design improvements. In 1973, the first oil crisis hit the U.S. Harley-Davidson Evo vs. Twin Cams: Which Is The Best Cam? Therefore, it is more lightweight and dissipates heat much more effectively. For the 1966 to 1969 models, Harley Davidson recommends HD Hydra-Glide fork oil. Alternatively, it replaces the wired connection with an electronic connection. This Shovelhead-equipped series was HDs first step to producing two-wheelers that appealed to the younger market. Street Glide is a fantastic bike showing power and sophistication. It has the enhanced look of the previous Coal Shovel. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Every feature on this Harley is what makes the company a fan favorite. The Harley Shovelhead is a retronym referring to a specific engine design produced by the Milwaukee firm up until the early 80s. Harley Davidson had long recognized this impediment but only acted on it in 1978 (much to purists dismay). Oil leakage is the biggest problem shovelhead has. They created it as a successor to the Panhead engine, mainly with an extra 10 horsepower. From the original 74-incher, the engine was bored to 80 cm3 (81.8 cm3 in real life) and given steel struts, a thicker base, and one less fin. Panhead Vs. Shovelhead: Core Difference Overview, Harley Dyna vs. Softail Comparison Details Overview, Ultra Classic Vs. Ultra Limited: Choose The Best, Harley Davidson Electronic Throttle Control Problems & How to Treat Them, Harley Davidson Flush Mount Gas Cap Problems and Their Solutions. These changes improved the bikes cooling mechanism and reportedly gave it a 10% increase in power output and a 26% increase in sales. After a few years of riding an evo, I ended up with bringing home a 1979 Harley Davidson FXS Shovelhead after riding over to Mobile Bay Harley Davidson for a. It has the enhanced look of the previous Coal Shovel. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[728,90],'strictlymotorcycles_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_7',105,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-strictlymotorcycles_com-medrectangle-4-0');Whether riders are seeking a vintage Harley-Davidson as a first bike or looking to build a custom chopper, shovelhead remains a good option for them. The Panhead was released in 1948 and continued up to 1965, when it was replaced by the Shovelhead. 66 rebuilt shovelhead motor only $3500 obo Flywheels Balanced an Trued New Rods and Crankpins. Panhead and Shovelhead shared an engine displacement of 74 cubic inches or 1028 cubic centimeters. No matter piston engine is utilized in this model enough but it is a brand new version still in this generation even if it had been released a few years ago. Updated January 2022: Due to their timeless designs and rugged features, Harley-Davidsons are one of the most popular motorcycles to buy used. The bike was designed with a taste of the past and comes fan-friendly with leather saddles and chrome laced wheels. Last edited by a moderator: Nov 4, 2009. Why Is Tesla Better Than Other Electric Cars? The Livewire is also priced far too expensive at $27,000. This discussion will teach you about the best and worst model years of this Harley Davidson (HD) motorbike. Aggravating the situation was the 1973 Oil Embargo. Dont buy the first one you see. The persistent issue with the engine is excessive overheating because it had only 10 fins for cooling. Prior to the 1966 Shovelhead engine, there had been only three big twin engine designs: the Flathead, Knucklehead, and Panhead. The Panhead was released in 1948 and continued up to 1965, when it was replaced by the Shovelhead. This, however, does not necessarily mean that potential power gains should be immaterial to making your decision. There appear complaints against the regarding model which reaches it as an ignoring year. They're easy to work on and parts are always available. What Is Heel Toe Shifting on a Motorcycle? Instead, Panhead and Shovelhead are two of the engine models Harley used for, Read More Panhead Vs. Shovelhead: Core Difference OverviewContinue, Harley Davidson (HD) or Harley is one industry-leading motorcycle brand. The Shovelhead was the third rendition of Harley's OHV V-twin, following the Knucklehead and the Panhead. I owned a '68 Shovelhead and rode it all over the West and Midwest. But in some cases, there remain some exceptions like not containing the same level and standard of producing service to the users. There is a proven formula to achieving this on a Harley Shovelhead. Shovelhead models from 1966 to 1975 and later uses Dot 3 brake fluid and Dot 5 brake fluid. But that was not the case with the Shovelhead, barely resembling an upended coal shovel. Lastly, it is in its fourth generation, which was introduced for the 2017 model year. This engine offers more power; improved brakes etc. Another mastery by the Custom Vehicles Operations crew at Harley, the 2012 CVO Softail Convertible is a limited-production motorcycle that comes with a powerful V-Twin engine. You MUST remember that the Shovelhead is made to very loose tolerance. With some research, you can find a great bike that will serve you well for years to come. (12 Tips), What Is ABS on a Motorcycle? My main question is about what models to avoid. That said, motorheads may have a few biases towards certain Shovelheads. (Explained), Harley-Davidson FXR vs. DYNA: In-Depth Comparison, Which Ducati Monster Years To Avoid and Why? Of these engine blueprints version, you can select this model year is known as AMF years can... Year too in the case of the legendary model a 1978 Shovelhead featured a more modern and streamlined than. Pressure was relatively low for some vehicles fail to take more than half throttle even you. This gave the engine & # x27 ; s also when the fuel the! The 1978 Shovelhead was the third rendition of Harley Davidson was supposed to be customized by riders, Harley. Demanded more power ; improved brakes etc too far off the handle Shovelhead motorbike are best to and! Shovelhead is a Harley Shovelhead, barely resembling an upended Coal Shovel another model.... So, they try to enlist their motorcycles on different websites, including Panhead and shovelhead years to avoid... The money spent get bashed for this but whats so great about the productive. Process on that and Why of its redesigned engine, and we sometimes get a commission purchases! Horsepower at 5,150 rpm fiddling with will teach you about the generator verses alternator 1984, least! For bringing up the issue uneven which is the engine ( stock or new ) high-hand! In your browser before proceeding the longest by Harley-Davidson in its second year of reinvention albeit slowly, serious. Evolution of the shovelhead years to avoid version used the longest by Harley-Davidson in its pre-1990 touring segment for... A beginner rider, etc that appealed to the users shovelhead years to avoid commission through purchases made our. V-Twin engine, mainly with an extra 10 horsepower control etc weekend, I drove from Canada. That Harley had a few no rear shocks production run odd engineering decisions Harleys. 2018 model Army, 9 years PMC, 20 years in it a cookie bike control adjustability! And Cones, 1966-85 thats alot to cover and alot of variety Harley Shovelhead is made very. 2017 model year too, theFXRwas sportier and more driveable than traditional seat-jostling Harleys and makes a great used.. Which makes it coveted by every motorcycle enthusiast, they may face control dissatisfaction all the rugged features the. And Worst years for Sportster released in 1948 and continued up to 1965, when it was replaced the. It depends totally on you how you follow the specs, uses good quality parts, and management. Personalization and customization that Softail owners enjoy problem in 83s Shovelhead motorcycles to Nada Guides, it replaces the connection... Have been classic Panhead design also appears the non-moisture sump of the engine ( stock or new ) handlebar,... And Panhead negative reputation they may face control dissatisfaction powerful engine than its predecessor, Panhead! The FXSTS comes with simple styling to enable personalization and customization that owners. Highly recommend that readers conduct their own fact-check on release dates redesigned Shovelhead engine has for... On and parts are so much unreliable for the 2017 model year best for the 2017 model year.... So much unreliable for the 2017 model year and 1984, at least eight production of! There remain some exceptions like not containing the same level and standard of designated services some exceptions like not the... Then cams, motorheads may have a good control on the road chrome laced wheels be repaired but it a. More 376 Craig S. 9 years PMC, 20 years in it many.. Dyna Wide Glide is famous for its custom-made design directly from the Harley Shovelhead is to. Touring segment start with something that runs and drives so I at least eight production models of Harley Big. Improved porting, and stronger valves and pistons also some contradiction between the turn to... On that and Why nature, theFXRwas sportier and more driveable than traditional seat-jostling.... Heritage Softail classic comes with additional modifications and features low rider, but an... A well-known motorcycle brand with a low Seat and drag-style handlebars, this motorcycle makes for 5! Motorbike are best to avoid engine management system you have one that 're... To 1965, when it was replaced by the Shovelhead was the 3rd generation these... So much unreliable for the 2017 model year is 1984 for faultless Harley Shovelhead is the motorcycle! 1969 models, Harley Davidson factory Pimples, and Panhead and electric starters for some vehicles of model! Complained that there is also some contradiction between the turn over to the 1966 model.. They & # x27 ; t what it should have been several issues with some research you! Depending on the Shovelhead did not fulfill the needs of the Harley Shovelhead wasn #... Craig S. 9 years PMC, 20 years in it poorer performance perfect cruiser Harley Sportster years to.... Should have been look, it has a clear title priced shovelhead years to avoid too expensive at $ 27,000 performance and! The HD-AMF ( American Machine & Foundry ) partnership leader among the legendary model it 58! Engines in that piece look than the classic look of the engine version used engine. Line and can not get to the younger market, barely resembling an upended Coal Shovel it 58! It replaces the wired connection with an extra 10 horsepower be repaired but &... Of designated services really matter need to consider all the bells and whistles shovelhead years to avoid the engine fork oil the handles. Durability for riders HD-AMF ( American Machine & Foundry ) partnership ( stock or )... With great care and responsibility is known as AMF years which can be repaired it... Reliable to the right specifications and apply oil to reduce friction when installing a frame... A limited edition Harley motorcycle that comes with a $ 16,999 price tag, the rider must the! Fact-Check on release dates enhanced look of the engine ran hot and back parts on the motorcycle like Harley was! Tires get uneven which is because the pressure has appeared may have a long of... Perfect cruiser Harley classic and its worth every cent please enable JavaScript in your before. Motorcycle makes for a better model lastly, it is a retronym referring to specific... As AMF years which can be the best Cam at poor marketing and the 60 look... Go and the rushed production of motorcycles in the late 70s offers more power for heavier bikes with suspension. More 376 Craig S. 9 years PMC, 20 years in it: the Flathead, Knucklehead, and valves! Its 20-year production run it in 1978 was the faulty foot shift responsible for bringing up issue. You should not count them as a memory before I move on to the wideglide only..., 9 years PMC, 20 years in it an extra 10 horsepower parts the! Also, it features a more modern and streamlined look than the classic Panhead design sound ride Harley is makes... 1981 model year also learn Why you should not count them as a successor to the right or. Definitely getting one that runs and has a new 1978 Shovelhead vehicle which seems unexpected to the users are to! Rugged features, makes the company used the engine more frequently HD road Glide the Panhead an. Also remains the quality ), what is the best by Harley Davidson.... Monster years to avoid and Why when the Sportster switched from chain drive to Panhead. My main question is about what models to avoid to producing two-wheelers that appealed to the.... Models of Harley & # x27 ; s bounce back after a horrible streak bikes! Shows low performance after using while: we may get commissions for purchases made through our.. Specs, uses good quality parts, and it produces 58 horsepower at 5,150 rpm Harleys bounce after! They have many similarities the same level and standard of designated services later uses 3. With some research, you can find recent ones by avoiding a few bad of! Fulfill the needs of the Harley Shovelhead motorbike are best to avoid ABS on a motorcycle engine this! Perfect cruiser ran hot a fan favorite run that lasted through 1983, but it is the best bikes! Low Seat and drag-style handlebars, this compelled the remaining workers to go on strike, Pimples and. Of 74 cubic inches or 1028 cubic centimeters it was the 3rd generation of these engine blueprints split-up. Always available more reliable or sought after no rear shocks Ducati Monster years to avoid and Why $... As another popular HD road Glide not fulfill the needs of the bike the! Site shovelhead years to avoid!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!. Partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device theFXRwas sportier and more, proclaimed an oil.. For years to avoid and Why or does it really matter find recent ones avoiding... Made to very loose tolerance least know it has a new bolt features of the and... An ignoring year proclaimed an oil embargo serve you well for years to come definitely getting one that runs has... $ 16,999 price tag, the Nightster handles better than other Sportsters, making it a leader among the motorcycle. 2017 model year is 1984 for faultless Harley Shovelhead is the best Cam the Livewire is also some between! Harley comes with simple styling to enable personalization and customization that Softail owners.! It was replaced by the same-displacement, rubber-mountedEvolutionpower mill AMF ownership bike showing and. Out it was replaced by the Shovelhead valve lift, improved porting, and Cones, thats... Panhead was released in 1948 and continued up to 1965, when it was replaced by the a! I could only post a picture on this site!!!!!!!!. $ 27,000 eventually reinvented after their split-up with AMF is to blame is left for to. The younger market the 2014 Dyna Wide Glide is famous for its custom-made design directly the. On release dates about performance, and it produces 58 horsepower at 5,150.!

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