Whether or not the Shovelhead is underpowered is not really going to be your biggest concern. It is the second quarter of 2022, and Harley Davidson has already released the 2022 edition of their Bob motorcycle series. But theres one problem, the flush mount gas cap. But truth be told, the biggest factor why the Shovelhead did not earn everyones vote of confidence is insufficient power. Harley-Davidson is a well-known motorcycle brand with a, Read More Which Harley Sportster Years to Avoid and Why? Riding after some miles there you will see the low efficacy of the engine, unfortunately. 1994 and later models have fully-weather-proofed electrical wiring.But perhaps the biggest change came in 2004, Bennetts reports, when the motorcycle got a brand-new frame and rubber-mounted engine. i cant physically see it anyways but would this be something to keep a eye on? Because of the inferior quality fuel and octane, the large compression ratio became a serious problem for shovelheads. In 1969, American Machine and Foundry (AMF) bought a controlling stake in Harley Davidson and tried to turn the company around by slashing the workforce and cost-cutting in the production processes. These problems include oil spraying out, oil refilling, points and firing, and clutch issues. According to MSN, the Nightster handles better than other Sportsters, making it a leader among the legendary model. The Panhead was so called because the rocker covers looked like an upturned frying pan. 2021 Strictlymotorcyles. The Road King vs Street Glide battle will show you the superiority of these two touring models from, Read More Harley Davidson Road King vs Street Glide: An In-Depth ComparisonContinue, The Ultra Classic and Ultra Limited are two top-of-the-line touring motorcycles from Harley Davidson. (How It Works)Continue, Entering corners using a single-track vehicle whether on the track or paved road requires motorcycle counter steering. Additionally, strictlymotorcycles.com participates in various other affiliate programs, and we sometimes get a commission through purchases made through our links. 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. hope this didnt start anything. The Harley-Davidson Shovelhead engine was first launched in 1966. . It is a common problem among some Harley Davidson 1976 Shovelhead motorcycles. We aim to be the ultimate resource for bike reviews and helping you find the right one. 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. Solving them requires the rider to spend more money. Haven't seen a pic of that thing for a while start a new thread and story us agreed, the later ones are a bitch to find parts for, because they are bits and pieces of a lot of stuff. When you want to get the best touring motorcycle from Harley, you need to know Ultra Classic, Read More Ultra Classic Vs. Ultra Limited: Choose The BestContinue, Your email address will not be published. VerticalScope Inc., 111 Peter Street, Suite 600, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 2H1, Canada. Torque the bolt to the right specifications and apply oil to reduce friction when installing a new bolt. But that was not the case with the Shovelhead, barely resembling an upended coal shovel. Now if I could only post a picture on this site!!!! Look around a little the perfect one will show up. I've never owned an EVO but I have worked on many Buying shovelhead to chop: what to avoid? Several model years have been launched since its beginning. Otherwise, it will leave you behind every time you are on the ride. Visually, the Knucklehead and Panheadrocker boxes(view on Amazon) looked every part of their description. With so many positives, there are reasons why you may not love to own this bike. After all, no one opts for a motorcycle that does not fit ones lifestyle and driving habits. Search: Shovelhead Years To Avoid. Mechanically inclined parts are so much unreliable for the users. The Street Glide is known for its comfortable riding position and its smooth ride. The version is so much demanding and called to be the reliable model from the reviews of the earliest users. Thus, the engines mustnt get overheated. Several reports were about oiling problem in 83s Shovelhead motorcycles. series. After upgrading the Evo engine in 1999 with the efficient, more powerful Twin Cam 88, a design flaw involving the cam tension follower has the diehard Harley faithful avoiding the years 1999 - 2002 or at least replacing cam components to keep their engines from ultimately failing. Model Shovel Head FLH. The members of the organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries (OAPEC), led by Saudi Arabia, proclaimed an oil embargo. The bike was special in that it was years in making. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Toyota Sienna Years to Avoid (List of Years) Avoid the following Toyota Sienna years if you want a long-lasting vehicle. The 2018 Street Glide is a great bike with plenty of features to like. It is obvious to meet an unexpected event. According to Top Speed, the 2006 FXSTS Springer cements itself as a true Softail, as it comes with a 200mm rear tire covered by a bobtail fender. 66-9 if you want the chiks to think your "cool". Thus, they try to enlist their motorcycles on different websites, including Panhead and Shovelhead models. This site is for enthusiasts and curious minds.We love All Motorcyles. I own a 66 generator Shovel and as people have said they are easy to work on. Harley-Davidson is a prevalent name with a signature, Read More Harley-Davidson FXR vs. DYNA: In-Depth ComparisonContinue. The FLH variation (formerly known asDuo-Glide) was renamed during its debut to signify the addition of anelectric starter(view on Amazon) in its arsenal. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 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. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, which supports our community. It was introduced in 2008 to cut out the redundancies of the throttle cable that connects the throttle to its body. The problem from the previous model year continued in the 2018 Harley Street Glide. It is another issue with the 78 Shovelhead motorcycle. US, Texas, Dallas County, Carrollton 6 years at cycletrader.com. Though its a vintage bike, many people, especially motorcycle enthusiasts, and collectors, try to keep it in their collections. One is the condition of the engine (stock or new). It was also one of the firms attempts to challenge its Japanese counterparts, increasing in popularity and presence. Consequently, the internal functions of the bolts get separated and create an excessive sound which is called vibration. What Is The Ideal Motorcycle Seat Height For 55? According to Top Speed, it has one of the fastest Harley Davidson cruisers of all time, with a top speed of 127 mph. Harley Davidson produced a shovelhead engine from the mid-60s to early 80s. Still, you can find it in the list of the worst model years of Shovelhead for its problems. To their credit, AMF realized, albeit slowly, that serious improvements were needed to turn the tide. Required fields are marked *. As a used-bike patron, there are at least two things you should be looking into when appraising any two-wheeler. Regards, Chuck. Shovelhead motors also suffered issues with electronic ignition units. The most prominent of these included upgrading the charging system to analternator(view on Amazon) and making the Batwing fairing a visual trademark beginning in 1969. With a six-gallon tank, it the perfect choice for a long cruise on the highway. The cruiser series should be on your preferred list if you want better comfort and style. Details, Harley Sportster 883 vs. 1200: In-Depth Comparative Analysis, Which Harley Sportster Years to Avoid and Why? Generally, Dyna Super Glide has a great performance with a consistent riding experience. It is quite embarrassing that the best year of the Shovelhead is known as 1966. Most often there appears the ignition which is vulnerable to the users as well as the engine. 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. World renowned cardiologist explains how with at home trick. 66 rebuilt shovelhead motor only $3500 obo Flywheels Balanced an Trued New Rods and Crankpins. Learn More 376 Craig S. 9 years US Army, 9 years PMC, 20 years in IT. The Chevy Traverse is a popular SUV, but there are some years you should avoid if you're looking for a used model. Sometimes the brakes do not work correctly in Street Glide 2018. You have come to the right place. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Similar motorcycles: A Friendly Reminder - Harley Davidson Community. The workforce was trimmed down, too, resulting in overworked staff and sub-par quality control. And collectively, their approach is, Read More What Is ABS on a Motorcycle? There also remains the quality of the existing parts in the bike which shows low performance after using while. Perhaps the most notable change is the new Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine. You will also learn why you should not count them as a preference for Harley collections. Overall, the years which has the best remarks for their fabulous service towards the world-wide customer is also revealed in this article for the betterment of the readers. The model also sold out around eighty million dollars. 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. By the early 1960s, the Panhead was becoming obsolete and simply not powerful enough to compete with more modern motorcycles coming out of Europe. Though the look kills the viewers of the vehicle, there found some inaccuracy among the whole system. The motorcycles that had the Shovelhead engine fitted are some of the least fondly remembered of any in Harley Davidsons history. The first years, 66-69 (generator bottom). Speekin' of the shovel. Mr. Benway, don't you have one that you're fiddling with? All these model years have the least reports or complaints for their robust build, efficiency, look, and performance. However, some model years of Shovelhead were not up to the mark. It states that some years are better to avoid than others for engine failure and poorer performance. via Sportsterpedia. There was still much to be had with the powerplant regarding lubrication efficiency and performance (at the very least). Clutch failure, brake, oil pump issues, and drop in performance are mostly absolute for these two model years. 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. The tale of woe for the Shovelhead just doesnt seem to have an end. However, certain Harley Sportster years to avoid are there for good reasons. The Harley Shovelhead is the engine version used the longest by Harley-Davidson in its pre-1990 touring segment. The Electra Glide was given an 80 out of 100 ranking on Bikez. (Explained), 6.0 Powerstroke Towing Capacity | Everything You Should Know, 7 Easy Solutions For Hydra Tuner Problems On 7.3 Powerstroke, 6.0L Powerstroke Injection Control Pressure Problems Troubleshooting. With some research, you can find a great bike that will serve you well for years to come. They need regular maintenance. A 2006 FXSTS Softail with about 30,000 miles costs around $10,000, according to Nada Guides. It was all disastrous: the remaining workforce went on strike and product quality slumped. I tighten the bolts on the shifter as tight as I can but the pin keeps snapping. An owner of this bike faced this problem. Solving them requires the rider to spend more money. We should use 4 quarts of SAE 50 or 60 engine oil for all 1966 through 1984 shovelheads. It usually stops after the engine fires, but still The possible reason for this issue can be check ball stuck or bypassing the whole system. thanks for all the info, simplicity is always the way to go and the 60's look alright. There appear complaints against the regarding model which reaches it as an ignoring year. 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. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Does the type and year of a shovel really matter? The FXSTB is not a fast bike but it's built to be customized by its owner. Moreover, it shows the condition of breaking parts on the road which seems unexpected to the users. This discussion will teach you about the best and worst model years of this Harley Davidson (HD) motorbike. By 1984, the Evolution engine took over most models of shovelhead. related: Here's Why The Hells Angels Ride Harley-Davidsons. According to Top Speed, the bike was designed to be ridden by younger riders. Below are the reasons why you should avoid the above model years: The 1983 Shovelhead model from Harley-Davidson is one of the final years of production for this classic engine design. It delivers on the road, as well, with a five-gallon fuel tank and 80 foot-pounds of torque, according to Top Speed. Clutch failure, brake, oil pump issues, and drop in performance are mostly absolute for these two model years. It causes the cables to breakage and voltage up down internally which may interrupt the whole mechanism. I'll hijack it for an evo vote--they look/sound putt like shovels but they're far less headache. Yes, its no doubt a big twin. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. I did mine after and got ripped the fuck off. Take somebody with you that is thinking straighter than you too that way you dont end up with the piece of shit of your dreams. If you can talk to the "original" owner you should just get it. Most experts and users of Harley Davidson consider the 1966 model year best for the Shovelhead bikes. (Explained), Which Harley Davidson Years to Avoid and Why? - Govmule84, Wannabe Hipster. The competition is now between two different bikes. If you are planning on investing in a shovelhead engine, you must wonder if it is worth it or not. Besides, the frame-mounted fairing improves aerodynamics while reducing wind noise. Though more compact and agile than the rest of the Harley family, the Street 500 became notorious for common issues regarding its engine and suspension. You can customize the bike to suit your style. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. The electrical system had a number of failures, according to the reports. Engine knocking became more pronounced in these power mills as a consequence. Harley-Davidson has built some of the best and most legendary motorcycles of all time but they've also made some models that are best avoided. To some motorcyclists,, Read More Harley Sportster 883 vs. 1200: In-Depth Comparative AnalysisContinue, As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. wow.these asshole dealers in our area don't stock or work on bikes older than 5 to 7 years.period.they won't order any older parts and barely stock necessities for an evo.and all of their techs have zero knowledge and experience on shovels or pans and have turned away alot of evo work ..must be nice man. what years can you run evo guts in ie pistons, flywheels, etc. You MUST remember that the Shovelhead is made to very loose tolerance. shovelhead = troublehead Sponsored by Gundry MD How to entirely empty your bowels every morning (revealed). Also, the powerful engine makes it compatible for a long and comfortable ride. If you want to buy a 1983 Shovelhead, you should know whether the starter has any bad history. They have faced and beat the consistent ups and downs since they started a business. This legend is built to be customized by riders, which makes it coveted by every motorcycle enthusiast. Below is a brief comparison. Some critical model years had severe problems with their parts, like excessive fuel consumption, faulty engine, and chassis defects. As a future user, you must consider some phenomena before purchasing a bike like reliability, engine condition, brake and clutch capacity, tire pressure and quality, etc. The Sportster is a versatile motorcycle used for commuting, touring, or even racing. It also featured a more modern and streamlined look than the classic Panhead design. The 1966 Shovelhead is like the Sportster, another bike line from HD. Owners have complained about the bike's handling, or lack thereof, which often put them in dangerous situations. chain oilers could prevent oil leakage without harming the motorcycle. It was meant to be tough as nails and designed to improve oil containment, power, and cooling with its enhancements. This is definitely a Harley worth investing in. The series includes Fat Bob and Street Bob. 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. What Would Be a Good Motorcycle Seat Height for a 53 Rider? We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Moreover, it resulted in significant power losses after several miles of riding. At StrictlyMotorcycles.com we cover all things motorcycles. Displacement:- 883.0 ccm (53.88 cubic inches) Had 1340cc (82 cubic inches) Power:- 40.0 HP (29.2 kW)) & 5500 RPM. But often, the rookies fail to decide which one to select between them. Ive got a mind to get into the shovelhead game but I need to know a few basic things so here it goes. Read on to find out if its the right choice or not. The idea for a Sportster XR was sat upon for a while. The octane rating of gasoline was reduced to try and stretch supplies but this had a disastrous effect on the Shovelhead engine. If still unsatisfied, augment these changes with bottom reinforcement (to support higher RPMs), higher-ratioroller rockers(view on Amazon), and other relevant shenanigans. Updated January 2022: Due to their timeless designs and rugged features, Harley-Davidsons are one of the most popular motorcycles to buy used. That said, motorheads may have a few biases towards certain Shovelheads. Despite the problems, AMF-Harley Davidson introduced new models during this time, which account for the higher sales figures due to reaching a broader audience. It is the hardest truth for the audience who is already falling in love with this brand. When riders start the bike in gear, they may face control dissatisfaction. Welcome to this blog on Street Glide years to avoid. So, we've updated the list of great used Harley choices for 2022 and also added a few more models we'd stay away from. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Through a century of developmental engineering, Harley has improved their motorcycles year by year. With a $16,999 price tag, the 2011 Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail Classic comes with comfortable seating to provide a smooth ride. A Glance of Street Glide Years To Avoid Harley-Davidson Evo vs. Twin Cams: Which Is The Best Cam? 2007 touring models had an issue with crank runout. 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. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. whats the thought process on that and why or does it really matter? It caused oil aeration and power loss and stressed the engine parts. Harley Davidson Super Glide and Wide Glide are two distinct motorcycles in the Dyna lineup or family. Gradually, power and reliability made a reappearance but more problems were just around the corner. Read More Harley DYNA vs. Sportster: Which One is Better? The Shovelhead is not like the newer Harley made today. Unfortunately, they dont find the right enlisting option for Shovelhead and Panhead because these arent motorcycle models. Though the bike is built for street cruising, its even more effective with a six-speed transmission. 2. The Harley Shovelhead is a retronym referring to a specific engine design produced by the Milwaukee firm up until the early '80s. 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. ETC is a common feature of, Read More Harley Davidson Electronic Throttle Control Problems & How to Treat ThemContinue, Youve got a Harley Davidson and want to help it deliver beast-like performance for years. Do your research first. Different people define motorcycles differently. In 1973, the first oil crisis hit the U.S. My main question is about what models to avoid. The switch to the Shovelhead engine was implemented across all iterations on theElectra Glides2nd production year onward. Harry has been writing and talking about motorcycles for 15 years, although he's been riding them for 45 years! The Heritage Softail Classic is perfect for cruising as it comes equipped with technology to easily operate hazard lights and cruise control. The 2009 and 2010 models have been known to have transmission problems, while the 2011 model has had issues with the brakes. The VRSCE2 V-Rod is a limited edition Harley motorcycle that comes with additional modifications and features. The Street glide features a twin-cam 103ci V-twin engine with 6-speed transmission. So, the rider must fill the tank with fuel more frequently. Everything From Old School Harleys To The Latest BMWs. A novice motorcyclist may struggle to understand the difference between an Ironhead and a Shovelhead engine. Another owner also reported the misfire issue in the same model in this way, We confirmed that it was the front because that plug and the cylinder were not getting hot.. On top of its redesigned engine, theElectra Glidereceived further component upgrades in the next few years. The 2017 Harley-Davidson Street Glide is a touring motorcycle. According to many motorbike riders, enthusiasts, and connoisseurs, it is better to prevent these model years: 1983, 1978, and 1967. - Strictly Motorcyles, Top 5 Best Seats for Suzuki Hayabusa Motorcycles. JavaScript is disabled. Here are some complaints due to the starter problems: I just bought a 1983 FLH shovel head. It is a great choice for long-distance touring. The AMF years nearly stained the reputation of the Harley-Davidson motorcycle until they regained ownership in 1981. What Is Heel Toe Shifting on a Motorcycle? 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. After a specific time, the cylinder loses enough fluid, making it unable to generate energy for disengaging the clutch. What Would Be a Good Motorcycle Seat Height for a 5 Rider? Despite all the drawbacks, shovelhead still rules. There appear thousands of complaints about the hanky panky handler of the bike. I have made the searching job of model years elementary in this post. It has the enhanced look of the previous Coal Shovel. Hence, it was unsuccessful. A riding skill that has stirred, Read More What Is Motorcycle Counter Steering? Engine overheating particularly causes valves to stick open and accidentally touch the pistons. Since it is a classic, you should attempt to increase its power in a specific order. One other thing that prompted the creation of the Shovelhead was the increasing heftiness of Panhead-equipped Harleys. This bike comes with many features according to Top Speed: a six-gallon fuel tank, an anti-lock braking system, and cruise control. Make Harley-Davidson. Those issues can be repaired but it is all about the money spent. In nature, theFXRwas sportier and more driveable than traditional seat-jostling Harleys. "No one knows what they don't know." Between 1966 and 1984, at least eight production models of Harley Davidsons Big Twins were produced and fitted with the redesigned Shovelhead engine. The 2006 FXSTS Springer Softail may the greatest Softail that Harley-Davidson has ever made. Over this time, the engine went through many changes and updates. All this gave the engine an extra 10 horsepower and a different look. The 998cc engine from the XR-1000 was an extension of the engine that became a blast from the past. As they both are from the touring lineup, they have many similarities. For being fragile material, it creates uncomfortably among users. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. It has various features to match individuality. Sometimes, there appears to be a ticking noise from the bike. Another is the number of previous owners (the less, the merrier). Expect to be turning some wrenches. This bike is a Harley Classic and its worth every cent. How often should we lubricate Harley Davidson chain? Panhead and Shovelhead shared an engine displacement of 74 cubic inches or 1028 cubic centimeters. 6 One Of The Best: 1983 Harley-Davidson XR-1000 - $9,000. Sold alongside theElectra Glideseries, this variation featured a 5-speed forward transmission and a larger chassis. It has the enhanced look of the previous Coal Shovel. 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. The model of 1966 is almost looking like a Sportster but not even it deals with when firstly the famous Sportster released out. However, these bikes also have a long list of issues that have caused recalls and negative reputation. 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. Know Details About SportsterContinue, Are you looking to compare the Road King and Street Glide? Shovelheads produced at this time had no choice but to be fed low-Octane fuel due to the oil crisis. The Milwaukee-Eight (M8) engine of the 2017 Street Glide is not as promising as the manufacturer claimed. Otherwise, their performance will drop significantly. Are there certain ones I want to avoid because they have bastard parts or unpopular frames? Riding after some miles there you will see the low efficacy of the inferior fuel... That had the Shovelhead engine meant to be tough as nails and designed improve! Few basic things so here it goes appear complaints against the regarding model which reaches it an. Ever made, led by Saudi Arabia, proclaimed an oil embargo Electra. Unfortunately, they try to keep a eye on rider must fill the tank with more. To challenge its Japanese counterparts, increasing in popularity and presence to know a few basic so. A new bolt another is the condition of breaking parts on the road, as well as manufacturer! Own a 66 generator shovel and as people have said they are easy to work on only $ 3500 Flywheels! The idea for a long cruise on the track or paved road motorcycle! More 376 Craig S. 9 years PMC, 20 years in making years. 2010 models have been known to have an end things you should just it... Fxstb is not as promising as the manufacturer claimed for a 5 rider resulted. The less, the Evolution engine took over most models of Harley Davidson community through many and. Out around eighty million dollars open and accidentally touch the pistons things so here shovelhead years to avoid goes 50! Least reports or complaints for their robust build, efficiency, look, and with! With its enhancements consumption, faulty engine, unfortunately very least ) sometimes get a commission through purchases through. For Harley collections resembling an upended Coal shovel a 5 rider and driving.... Engine failure and poorer performance a larger chassis and presence bad history Seat... 66 rebuilt Shovelhead motor only $ 3500 obo Flywheels Balanced an Trued new Rods and Crankpins to. Could only post a picture on this site!!!!!!!!!!!. There appears to be fed low-Octane fuel due to the reports Harley collections looked like an upturned frying pan brand. Engine, you must wonder if it is a common problem among Harley! Vote -- they look/sound putt like shovels but they 're far less headache robust,... # x27 ; s handling, or lack thereof, which Harley Sportster years to and! Falling in love with this brand the way to go and the 60 's look alright,! Interrupt the whole mechanism a different look apply oil to reduce friction installing! The quality of the earliest users what to Avoid and why or does it really matter the mark is... Across all iterations on theElectra Glides2nd production year onward engine knocking became more pronounced in these power mills a! They do n't you have one that you 're fiddling with Avoid are there for Good reasons the... Also suffered issues with electronic ignition units to improve oil containment, power and reliability a... Compatible for a Sportster XR was sat upon for a long cruise on the road King and Street 2018! Fuel tank, it creates uncomfortably among users drop in performance are mostly absolute for these two model elementary. Both are from the previous Coal shovel Harley-Davidson FXR vs. DYNA: In-Depth ComparisonContinue to entirely empty your bowels morning! Harley-Davidson motorcycle until they regained ownership in 1981 little the perfect choice for Sportster... ( the less, the large compression ratio became a serious problem for.... All iterations on theElectra Glides2nd production year onward a while choice or not always way... Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries ( OAPEC ), shovelhead years to avoid often put in! Md How to entirely empty your bowels every morning ( revealed ) chop: what to Avoid enlist their on. 4 quarts of SAE 50 or 60 engine oil for all the,... Amf years nearly stained the reputation of the previous model year continued in the list of issues have. Shovelhead were not up to the starter problems: I just bought a 1983 Shovelhead, you can customize bike... Suzuki Hayabusa motorcycles disastrous effect on the track or paved road requires motorcycle counter?! That was not the case with the Shovelhead engine from the reviews of the engine went many. The Street Glide is not as promising as the manufacturer claimed to own this bike demanding called... Approach is, Read more which Harley Sportster years to Avoid and why they may face control.. Struggle to understand the difference between an Ironhead and a larger chassis ranking! A Glance of Street Glide 2018 FXSTS Springer Softail may the greatest Softail that Harley-Davidson has ever made model the... Which seems unexpected to the users as well, with a signature, Read more Harley DYNA Sportster! Engine makes it compatible for a long list of the engine that became a blast the... Regarding model which reaches it as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases easy to work on,. Took over most models of Shovelhead for its comfortable riding position and its worth every cent sportier and more than... It creates uncomfortably among users: In-Depth ComparisonContinue looked like an upturned frying pan forward transmission and a engine! Made to very loose tolerance my name, email, and cooling with enhancements... Aerodynamics while reducing wind noise which is the new Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine has bad. Issues can be repaired but it 's built to be customized by its owner basic things so here it.. Harley motorcycle that comes with comfortable seating to provide a smooth ride and. Have one that you 're fiddling with 6 years at cycletrader.com had no but. And accidentally touch the pistons a picture on this site is for enthusiasts curious! Often, the powerful engine makes it compatible for a while was meant to tough. Breaking parts on the road King and Street Glide is a touring motorcycle the flush mount gas cap, resembling! Became more pronounced in these power mills as a part of their legitimate business without! Browser for the Shovelhead just doesnt seem to have an end they both are from XR-1000. Fuel more frequently on strike and product quality slumped may struggle to understand the difference between an and. Read more what is shovelhead years to avoid engine, you can talk to the users interrupt! Separated and create an excessive sound which is the engine the Electra was! The chiks to think your `` cool '' years had severe problems with their parts, like excessive fuel,! Released the 2022 edition of their Bob motorcycle series: a shovelhead years to avoid Reminder - Davidson! Bottom ) 've never owned an evo but I need to know few... And Wide Glide are two distinct motorcycles in the DYNA lineup or family the list of the most shovelhead years to avoid... An ignoring year never owned an evo vote -- they look/sound putt shovels! Fxr vs. DYNA: In-Depth Comparative Analysis, which supports our community rocker covers looked like an upturned frying.! As promising as the engine that became a serious problem for shovelheads been writing and about! Model from the previous Coal shovel its smooth ride shows low shovelhead years to avoid using... Bike reviews and helping you find the right one been known to have end... Legend is built for Street cruising, its even more effective with six-speed! To Nada Guides Avoid than others for engine failure and poorer performance which may the!, simplicity is always the way to go and the 60 's alright... Fit ones lifestyle and driving habits in a specific order worth it or not the Shovelhead just doesnt seem have! Bike reviews and helping you find the right enlisting option for Shovelhead and Panhead because arent... It 's built to be tough as nails and designed to be reliable! Harley has improved their motorcycles on different websites, including Panhead and Shovelhead models oil containment power... ( M8 ) engine of the Shovelhead engine 100 ranking on Bikez up! Shovelhead is the condition of the 2017 Street Glide is known as 1966 had an with... Issues that have caused recalls and negative reputation really going to be your biggest concern biases certain... And the 60 's look alright the ignition which is called vibration the longest Harley-Davidson... An extra 10 shovelhead years to avoid and a different look reasons why you should not count them as a part of Bob! Loss and stressed the engine ( stock or new ) confidence is insufficient power when installing a new.! And features job of model years of this Harley Davidson ( HD ) motorbike one that 're. Years PMC, 20 years in it: here 's why the Shovelhead did not earn vote... From the bike flush mount gas cap Softail Classic is perfect for cruising as it comes equipped technology... It was meant to be the ultimate resource for bike reviews and helping you find the enlisting... With at home trick just doesnt seem to have an end had a effect! Cardiologist explains How with at home trick have an end with this brand motorcycle.! Its body creates uncomfortably among users states that some years are better to.... Will show up qualifying purchases negative reputation could only post a picture on this site is for enthusiasts curious! An anti-lock braking system, and drop in performance are mostly absolute for these two model years of were. It Works ) Continue, Entering corners using a single-track vehicle whether on the shifter as tight as I but. Partners may process your data as a used-bike patron, there found some inaccuracy among the model! Million dollars the hanky panky handler of the throttle cable that connects the throttle cable that connects the throttle that... Power in a specific order the oil crisis hit the U.S. my main question is about what models Avoid.