Been having an itch for another bike and not really sure what I'm looking for, something old would be cool but really don't want anything older than a panhead. Of the choices above which would you pick and why, thanks.

 

Depending on what you are looking for, but neither will be cheap. 65 was last year for the Pan and first year for the e-start. 66 was the first year for the shovel motor but still with genny cases. And of course, the only made that design for four years before going to the cone motor in 1970.

Me, I prefer the 65 because I have been riding it since 1970. Hopefully next year, maybe late this year, it is going to be taken down to the frame and finally put back together with a proper restoration. Hopefully it will not take me as long as it is working out with my 49 EL (year 16 now).

 

65 is the 1st electric start so the best of the pans in my opinion. Pans however are getting scarce and driving the price up so you can have basically the same motorcycle in the 66 shovel at a lower price. Hard to say the last pan is any better than the 1st shovel so it's a matter of choice. i have never owned a pan, my 1st was a shovel 4spd big twin. She was needy, leaked oil, always wanting more attention. Sold her to buy my 1st house and regretted it ever since.

So 1966 Shovel FLH

 

Either or. For me it would come down to which one was the most original and was cared for the best. Then you'd have to figure in the price and see which one works for you.
Either, when put in good working order, would be cool bikes to have.

 

Here's a 1952 pan I wish I had the cash for: http://pueblo.craigslist.org/mcy/5096338384.html

The price seems right at $8900.

 

If you're not sure what you want, why the pan/shovel?
Why not a knuck or flathead?
Or newer still, how about a shovel/evo? (1984)
Every generation has it's pluses- your choice should have the points you are fond of.

 

I had a65 Pan and a 67 shovel. The Pan was good for a year but rode the shovel for 20+years. I liked the shovel way better. Blew my knees out when I was 11 so the e-start 67 worked better for me.You can't go wrong with either though.

 

If you want an itch for something different, try test riding some different style bikes - naked, sports, scrambler, etc.

 

Get Both, not sure which one I like better.

 

Both beautiful Bikes
Would love a PAN for local riding…..