I have an opportunity to pick up this '72 1000Ironhead for $900. It supposedly doesn't leak and the engine turns over with the kick. The owner says it has a bearing issue but doesn't know what else. Electric start was added, it's 12v, the front end and swing arm don't seem to be OEM. The owner also says it doesn't leave puddles but there does look like there could have been weepers around the primary.*

The battery is toast and not sure the condition of the generator. The regulator is supposed to be new-ish.*

I've done top end work on an rigid Evo Sporty before but have never done any bottom end work nor have I worked on an Ironhead.*

Is the bike a good deal? Is it worth the risk? What should I look for? What other potential issues should I be cautious of?*

Thanks*

 

I say go for it...It is an antique and classic

 

The good news is it is under a grand. But, it is going to be a project and could suck up a couple more grand real quick. Like my brother once told me in the middle of a build, "If you spread it out/amortize over a couple of years it could be the cheapest hobby you ever had".

Bwana

 

Could probably part it out and recover your money if you change your mind. It is a classic. Go for it.

 

If you can afford it go for it. I'd love to have an old Sporty like that.

 

My only real downside is my garage is really only big enough to work on one bike at a time. I can store the bike and my other bike easily. But I can't have both bikes in the garage at a time while working on either one. Which will suck if I have to store my '07 Sporty for the winter. Plus I have no way to bring either one into my basement. Unless! I build a ramp to bring it down the stairs outside the sliding glass door and remove both doors. Hmmm

Which would have been ideal.

 

The $900 isn't the problem. It's the additional money I'll have to invest into it. Plus the cost of any tools I don't already have. I have a decent amount but I'm sure there'll be some I don't have.

 

Take your time and have fun!

 

depends, are you looking to restore it as a hobby, or to sell and make a couple bucks?

If you're looking to do it as a project for yourself, jump on it. $900 is a fair price for both of you. and will be fun.

If you're looking to build it to flip it, walk away. Unless you find deals on every part, You'll have $5000 into a bike that's worth $4000

 

A legitimate question I don't have an answer to. But you did help. If I have to put $4k into the bike to make it a solid runner, I may not be willing to do that.