i'm thinking about building my own bike using the good ol ironhead motor but been hearing a lot of complaints.. anyone have any suggestions? besides the electrical complants about the weak generator, ppl been telling me to save up for a SH

 

In my opinion Ironhead sportsters had too many weak areas. Besides the electrical system, the transmissions were not the best and the case area behind the front sprocket was prone to cracking. If that happens its time to find a new motor case. Remember the newest Ironhead is over 20 years old and was probably owned by people who liked to go fast and rode hard. Don't get me wrong a well cared for Sportster is a joy, but finding one that wasn't abused is going to take some work.

 

The cost of a typical ironhead doesn't seem to be too much less than a late model EVO sportster. If it were me, I'd go for the EVO simply because the ironheads are getting so old. I&nbsp\\;see used EVO sportsters&nbsp\\;for sale occasionally pretty cheap. Don't get me wrong, I've had an ironhead since 1981 and love it but if I was going to build a bike, I'd look towards newer technology.

 

Get an EVO.

 

How do you know if there is a crack by the front sproket. I have a 84 and know I am wondering if I should take the exhaust off, take the cover off and look I am leaking some oil onto the chain but there is a seal that is there Any help thanks Charly

 

You have to remove the sprocket and degrease the area to tell for sure. The crack usually starts at the mainshaft. Hopefully your leak is just the seal.

 

Ironheads are cool, but if you want a reliable bike spend the extra cash for the evo sporty motor, you can really abuse the hell out of them and they won't let you down.

 

If you don't mind doing maintanence, are handy with tools, can read a manual, and aren't afraid to ask ?'s here, than there is nothing wrong with an ironhead. I love mine and wouldn't even consider owning and EVO.

Rich

 

Do they crack often and why do they and what can i do to prevent this from happening Thanks If there is a crack what can you do to fix this

 

im with you pyro no evo for me!