long haul on panhead.Advice?
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Cruiser
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 117
Likes: 6
From: Uk and French Pyrenees
long haul on panhead.Advice?
Hey all.
I just got my 1953 Panhead on the road for the first time. Its my first classic. Last out I was on a Road King so its a whole new world. I am planning a trip up to the Highlands of Scotland from Down South in UK. Once up there I'll be cruising around at an easy pace, but I am thinking to tow the old girl across country. Anyone got any advice about what a sensible daily mileage might be on such a bike... I dont have the Pogo seat on her. Got an original screen on order from the US but it wont be here for this trip...I'll try to attach a photo.
Would love to hear from anyone who does distance on one of these old bikes...Tips for the road most welcome.
I just got my 1953 Panhead on the road for the first time. Its my first classic. Last out I was on a Road King so its a whole new world. I am planning a trip up to the Highlands of Scotland from Down South in UK. Once up there I'll be cruising around at an easy pace, but I am thinking to tow the old girl across country. Anyone got any advice about what a sensible daily mileage might be on such a bike... I dont have the Pogo seat on her. Got an original screen on order from the US but it wont be here for this trip...I'll try to attach a photo.
Would love to hear from anyone who does distance on one of these old bikes...Tips for the road most welcome.
Cruiser
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 207
Likes: 1
I ride my 54 about 15k a year. long trips don't seem to bother her much at all. I keep the speed down around 60 or so (52-64 seems to be the sweet spot), although I have run it at 70-75 for as long as my back can take it.( about a hour or so) I run silkoline 20/50 motor oil, and a synthetic in the transmission. I have never had any problems other than the rear drum lugs striping out. I have owned my pan for 28 years.
If your pan is in good mechanical condition, go for it, it will be a trip you will never forget!
If your pan is in good mechanical condition, go for it, it will be a trip you will never forget!
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 7,499
Likes: 3,717
From: Santa Klaus County, Cali
burgs, not sure how the distance equates, but I have had my 65 pan as far east as Kentucky (start point is Calif). Never ran into problems other than excessive heat from Nevada. Tuned properly you should be able to get 25 mpg on her. Always take two lane black top and cruise at max of 55 mph. I hate the interstate and avoid it at all costs.
6th Gear
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 13
Likes: 0
I just put about a thousand miles on my 49' Pan at and around Sturgis. I had to replace the generator. I think the brushes went out on it. Other than that, no problems. I run HD 60 Wt in it. I'd run 70 Wt. when it's hot out if I could find some. I think Lucas might make a 70 wt.
1st Gear
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
Go for it....
I ride a 53 panhead as well. I would suggest a long haul but a few precautions need to be met. Make sure you are covered when it comes to hand tools. Always carry extra plugs. Check and tighten bolts and nuts at every stop. I get between 25 and 35 mpg(depending how Im riding) Always maintain a reasonable speed. (Up to 55 mph) Change oil before you leave. Keeping an extra voltage regulator and light bulbs will be a help. The problem with the old pans is obtaining parts. Trying to find a 6volt voltage regulator while sitting on side of road is frustrating. Dont forget the points and condensor. An extra pair may just save your *** one day. When ever I replace a part, I buy 2. Spares are life savers.
Good luck on the road and do all you can to avoid the pothole. Your *** will thank you by the end of the ride. Ride safe and watch out for the lunatics....
Good luck on the road and do all you can to avoid the pothole. Your *** will thank you by the end of the ride. Ride safe and watch out for the lunatics....
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Stage III
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
I've just got back to the UK from a 5.5k mile trip around the US, can't wait for the bike to catch up!
20/50w oil is fine for the UK's temp range. I only ride the poor old girl at about 50mph, but she returns about 45-50mpg (US gallons). Running a Bendix carb.
How far in one day depends how long you want to sit for. I managed 470 miles one day, but 250-350 was more normal. In the UK the problem is more likely to be finding a suitable road, traffic on the motorway is too fast and everything else is a bit wandering for point to point travel. I think I would use the A1 and try to get to Berwick in one long day then just potter about after that.
20/50w oil is fine for the UK's temp range. I only ride the poor old girl at about 50mph, but she returns about 45-50mpg (US gallons). Running a Bendix carb.
How far in one day depends how long you want to sit for. I managed 470 miles one day, but 250-350 was more normal. In the UK the problem is more likely to be finding a suitable road, traffic on the motorway is too fast and everything else is a bit wandering for point to point travel. I think I would use the A1 and try to get to Berwick in one long day then just potter about after that.
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Stage I
Joined: May 2013
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
From: verona
My dad goes to ROME
Hi
my dad wants to go from Verona (north Italy) to Rome in June for the anniversary with his Panhead. you can see him in the picture. How do you think he will manage this trip, i'm a little worried!!
my dad wants to go from Verona (north Italy) to Rome in June for the anniversary with his Panhead. you can see him in the picture. How do you think he will manage this trip, i'm a little worried!!