Hard tail envy

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Jan 30, 2019 | 05:00 PM

#21

Crazy

Grand HDF Member

Joined: Sep 2009

Posts: 4,556

Likes: 1,846

From: Albuquerque, NM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hey Man

If you have limited tools and not a lot of mechanical ability then I suggest you buy a running motorcycle that has already been built as a rigid. But if you insist on doing a garage build on your own I'd suggest a Sportster, 2003 or older. Weld on hard tails are available everywhere. Low Brow Customs offers one and they are a pretty good company. Don't forget to get the proper size slugs.
https://www.lowbrowcustoms.com/voodo...ail-frame.html

As far as tools, I suggest you don't try doing the job without the proper tools which would include but not limited to a saws-all, welder, grinder, metal files, sand blast equipment, painting equipment and the know how to use them. You won't like it if the rear end cracks off on you. BTW. A Harley Ultra would hardly be suitable for a hard tail.LOL.

I agree with all that. I also think that some of the hardtail convo kit companies will install them for you. You just cut the frame where they tell you to, and then ship the frame to them. They weld it up using the proper jigs to ensure everything is straight. You're retaining the stock neck so your paperwork stays good as well.

OP: Good luck with your project.

Jan 30, 2019 | 08:09 PM

#22

tar_snake

Stellar HDF Member

Joined: Nov 2010

Posts: 3,118

Likes: 1,146

From: Directly above the center of the Earth

Rigids are not that nice to ride! They look great, and are the epitome of 'Harley', but even in my 20's with a '72 sportster iron head rigid, it *SUCKED* riding that beast! Even out on the relatively smooth, and not used much hiways around Lake Mead NV. It's also hard as hell on the components on the bike. Period.

Jan 30, 2019 | 08:17 PM

#23

Kingglide549

Banned

Joined: May 2018

Posts: 4,576

Likes: 978

From: Viet Vet, crossroads

You cant run fast enough to give e one............

Jan 30, 2019 | 09:07 PM

#24

Oakers3

Stellar HDF Member

Joined: Jul 2018

Posts: 3,338

Likes: 1,823

From: VA

Quote:

Originally Posted by DanHappy

True but they didn't know any better. Same as lots of people are amazed that, during the Civil war, the guys wore wool clothes. Didn't bother them ehy? Cause they didn't know any better.

Easy. All in perspective.

WWl Marines too. I have my grand dads uniform.

Jan 30, 2019 | 09:33 PM

#25

0maha

Seasoned HDF Member

Joined: Nov 2012

Posts: 6,556

Likes: 4,808

From: Omaha

I know guys who run unsprung seats on their rigid. That seems nuts. I put springs on mine, and very rarely bottom them out. It really rides quite well.

Jan 30, 2019 | 09:49 PM

#26

back again

Seasoned HDF Member

Joined: May 2005

Posts: 10,232

Likes: 9,325

From: Georgia

Like those above are saying as a daily ride very few have the ability to withstand the ride especially if you don’t pay attention to the road. Potholes will get your attention real quick.Until I bought the Train in 05 every bike I ever had was a rigid. Minus the 305 Dream my brother gave me to start it all way back in the ‘70s. Building a Sportster now. We’ll see how it goes at 65 years old.Springs or air bags under the seat are a must as well as a seat that fits your ***. I went with Led Sleds tail. Measure four times and cut or like someone above said send your bare frame to them and they will fit it. Not rocket science to fitting it if your mechanically inclined.
Evo Sportster are every where for the right price. Parts availability is endless these days. There are a couple build threads going on the forums now in General and Sportster pages. Good luck with it if you do it. G.