I've a 2006 Xl883/1200 and a 2004 Ultra Classic. I don't think either of those would be great candidates for the hard tail conversion. Craigslist isn't coming up with cheap hardtails yet. I'm a thinking I could buy a bike cheap (ha) and do a conversion. Any suggestions on make/model/year which would be easiest for a guy with tools, but not much specialty tools?

 

Did you try Facebook?

 

Have you looked at kits & or hardtail frames online?
If you don't want to buy a bike use your Sporty.

 

looks like my sporty wouldn't be a great candidate due to the year and rear motor mount issues. `

 

MORE THEN THAT
HAVE YOU EVER RODE A hard taIL?

I will tell you this they are a TT bike , and that is about it, -sit there and stare at it.

 

Ebay has a couple.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Weld-On-Har...-/131313159361

 

Hardtails are the reason that Harleys now have suspensions (such as they are)..

 

I have a hard tail shovel with more miles on it than most "tour" bikes on here. Don't judge a book by it's cover as they say...

 

OK, you can appoint yourself and your coment to the exception, as most will not ever put too many miles on a Hardass Hardtail kidney dropper.
I rode one about ten miles ..once.
Let me to hell off!
Like I said, they sit around a lot looking kool, but going nowhere.
That would be the norm, not you.

 

Jeez man, back in 'the day' those old guys rode hard tails all over the country !...b.