What Model for a First Time Bike Build?
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Road Warrior
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 1,388
Likes: 132
From: Baltimore, MD
What Model for a First Time Bike Build?
Thinking ahead of a winter project and I'm considering building a Harley. I'm reasonably handy and I've done several projects on my current ride. I've got the space, the tools and the ability. I'm looking forward to the learning. My question to the group is: what model or and years would be good for a first time builder? I don't want to build something I could just go buy on a used lot. Since I have a touring bike already, I'm not looking at doing one of those. I'd probably want a carbed bike, just for simplicity. But do I want a Shovel? Or an FXR? Or a Softail? Should I avoid the AMF years? Something with easy to find parts would be great, too. What would your recommendations be?
Thanks,
Steve
Thanks,
Steve
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 2,415
Likes: 197
Pick the one YOU like and have at it! When you get to the core (engine and power train) they are basically all the same. IF I were doing a build I'd start with an evo fat boy or a soft tail standard. Evo parts can be had from S&S, Revtech and many other suppliers. They are a little simpler than a twinkie and not as hard to find parts for as a shovel or pan.
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Road Warrior
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 1,388
Likes: 132
From: Baltimore, MD
Funny you mention a Fat Boy. When I was out bike shopping for my current ride (a 2007 RK Custom) I was in the market for a Fat Boy. I saw the RK Custom and initially thought it was a FB - minimal chrome, no windshield, etc. I call it my Fat Boy on Steroids! So a FB might be a good choice - but as you said, an EVO model, not the counter-balanced model... we shall see!
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2010
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From: Long Island, New York
Evo Softail, dime a dozen on CL and the aftermarket will have you covered for ANYTHING you can think to do. And the motors are pretty bullet proof. Try and find a low mileage bike and have at it. Good luck.
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Road Warrior
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 1,388
Likes: 132
From: Baltimore, MD
Interesting. I've been leaning towards an Evo for just that reason (solid motor, easy to learn/fix). And I saw a local guy has a Softail Custom for sale as a project bike (ha ha). Says it's all there but the motor is torn apart. I'm skeptical, but inquiring. Ideally, I think I'd like to do an Evo Fat Boy. But a ST Custom with the larger front wheel would be a nice cruiser alternative to my Road King...
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 9,570
Likes: 7,942
From: Long Island, New York
Interesting. I've been leaning towards an Evo for just that reason (solid motor, easy to learn/fix). And I saw a local guy has a Softail Custom for sale as a project bike (ha ha). Says it's all there but the motor is torn apart. I'm skeptical, but inquiring. Ideally, I think I'd like to do an Evo Fat Boy. But a ST Custom with the larger front wheel would be a nice cruiser alternative to my Road King...
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2011
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From: Niagara Falls, Canada.
Sporty all the way ! They are about the easiest bike to get custom parts for and are very popular with the 'customisers'.
Check out the Sportster section here...b.
Check out the Sportster section here...b.
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Road Warrior
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 1,388
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From: Baltimore, MD
Originally Posted by Architect
No reason for a "project", a solid running bike can be had for under $5k, look around. You can have a lot of fun making the bike yours without touching the motor and transmission. Good luck.
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Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2013
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From: In my head
If you're a bike builder then the options are unlimited.
If I had a choice, I build a 90-94 FXR. My first build I learned things the hard way. It's cheaper to buy a used bike and do a total rebuild than it is to start from nothing. Starting from zero means you have to buy every nut and bolt, usually you have about twice the amount into it than it's worth. It will be a one off that's for sure but it gets expensive starting with nothing on the table.
If you buy something used as a starting point, try to find something as unmolested as you can.
Just my 2 cents
If I had a choice, I build a 90-94 FXR. My first build I learned things the hard way. It's cheaper to buy a used bike and do a total rebuild than it is to start from nothing. Starting from zero means you have to buy every nut and bolt, usually you have about twice the amount into it than it's worth. It will be a one off that's for sure but it gets expensive starting with nothing on the table.
If you buy something used as a starting point, try to find something as unmolested as you can.
Just my 2 cents
Thread Starter
|
Road Warrior
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 1,388
Likes: 132
From: Baltimore, MD
If you're a bike builder then the options are unlimited.
If I had a choice, I build a 90-94 FXR. My first build I learned things the hard way. It's cheaper to buy a used bike and do a total rebuild than it is to start from nothing. Starting from zero means you have to buy every nut and bolt, usually you have about twice the amount into it than it's worth. It will be a one off that's for sure but it gets expensive starting with nothing on the table.
If you buy something used as a starting point, try to find something as unmolested as you can.
If I had a choice, I build a 90-94 FXR. My first build I learned things the hard way. It's cheaper to buy a used bike and do a total rebuild than it is to start from nothing. Starting from zero means you have to buy every nut and bolt, usually you have about twice the amount into it than it's worth. It will be a one off that's for sure but it gets expensive starting with nothing on the table.
If you buy something used as a starting point, try to find something as unmolested as you can.
As I've been reading and researching this project, I've come to the same conclusion: that I should start with a re-build project, not a "build" project. I'd like to do an FXR but as far as not-yet-restored bikes, I'm finding more FX's than I am FXR's. Which is fine. An FX sounds like fun, anyway!