Saw this sportster on FB. Owner says it's a 72 and that the rocker boxes were replaced. Also says the jugs were powder coated. I don't have access to the vin numbers yet. Is there a way to tell a 900 from a 1000 without checking numbers, just by looking at these pics. I may go see it this week but it's got me curious.

 

The 900cc cylinders are 3 inch bore and have casting numbers 16561-57 on the front jug and 16581-57 on the rear jug. The 1000cc engines started in 1972, and the most reliable way to identify cylinders, short of disassembling the engine, is looking at the casting numbers.

Paul

 

Thanks Paul

 

I love those right hand shift ironheads. Back in 1974 I purchased a XLCH, it was a blast.

 

71 is first yr for that cam & primary covers
also for notched rocker boxes
might been usin up leftovers tho
low # might indicate that

 

73-up front end if that matters to you

 

Yes it does! I'd rather have the disc brakes up front lol

 

Right hand shift is cool once you get used to it. I had a right hand shift and a regular (left hand shift) at the same time and it got confusing. Found myself standing on the gear shift on the Harley trying to stop at times, lol.

 

Looks like a nice bike (from the limited pics). Those are the preferred style of rockers (IMHO). Is it an "H" or "CH"?