Choice to get old pan or flat head, whats a better bet?

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Oct 29, 2012 | 08:41 PM

bagman1

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From: Bay Area

Choice to get old pan or flat head, whats a better bet?

First time here from the touring section thought this will be the place to get an answer about pans and flatheads. I have a chance to pick up a 42 military flat head that has all the correct gear on it for that era (rifle bag on forks, leather saddlebags and even military canteens on back). Aesthetically it looks almost restored, but I didnt see it running to see how mechanically sound it is.
There is also a 48 panhead that looks in very good or better condition. the chrome and paint looks again almost restored.
Does anyone have an idea of what they may be worth or which might be a better one to have (pan vs flathead).
The previous owner, now deceased owned a lot of toys including airplanes, so they may be mechanically sound, except theyve been sitting for 2 years and there is a large oil marks on the ground.
Anyone knowledgable with these old classics have an opinion or suggestions? Thanks in advance.

Oct 29, 2012 | 08:51 PM

j1mmy

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Joined: Dec 2009

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From: navarre ohio

i would take the panhead. the 45 is also a pretty collectible bike now, but a few years ago, they were below a ironhead sportster status. as cool as the bike is, it will never be much more then a $4k bike to me, or a lot of people. even a ratty panhead is just cool.

Oct 30, 2012 | 12:19 AM

panz4ever

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Joined: Oct 2005

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From: Santa Klaus County, Cali

Have to say I am partial...very partial... to pans but that is what has been my main ride since coming home at the end of 69 from fighting The Little People courtesy of the US government.

Had my 65 FLH since 10/70 and a 49 EL that is a work in progress for the last 9 years. Flatties and pans are two different beasts with different temperments. Each side has its own pluses and minises but for me I will take the pan all things equal.

If you get the chance put up some pics of both.

Original and restored versus put-back-together with Tawain Ted $hit is a big difference

Oct 30, 2012 | 12:27 AM

bagman1

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From: Bay Area

I have a pic of each on my phone right now, not the best but if you pm me your e mail address I will send them to you. Me and this site are not pic posting friendly. Thanks for the reply. I didnt think of the Taiwan crap, that would change things.

Oct 30, 2012 | 10:48 PM

Panimal

Cruiser

Joined: Aug 2012

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From: Wichita KS

I'd go for the pan but I'm biased too. Flatties are cool but you can't beat pulling up on a pan... except a few knuckles I know of. Haha! But before long, pans will be at the knuck status.

Oct 30, 2012 | 11:16 PM

Dual-Linkerts

Tourer

Joined: Jun 2012

Posts: 393

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From: Southern Indiana

The 48 panhead would be my choice hands down.
As far as the oil underneith them well they like to mark their spot lol nothing a little kittylitter cant take care of.

Oct 30, 2012 | 11:20 PM

bagman1

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From: Bay Area

Thanks for the replies. Im leaning towards the pan. I was told today that the pan didnt come out til 49, and that 48 was the last year of the knuckle. Yup these guys were the originators of marking their spots. lol