Im in the market for a motorcycle with a shovel head motor. which frame is a good buy and which years to avoid? thanks

 

Since there is Only Three..and the Rubbermount ones were from 1980 on... the choice seems clear!!!!

 

Three? 4-speed/solid mount, 5-speed/rubber mount, and what?

OP you have to tell us what kind of bike you want? Using modern words, Touring/Bagger or FX/Dyna style? Or maybe something in between?

 

Well if it a Shovel model and is still on the road chances are that the extra nuts and washers thrown into the motors and trannys by the AMF era factory assembly workers have most likely been removed.

That said, as mentioned a bit more specifity migtht be of assistance here.

Got some pics of any particular Shovel models you are partial to?

 

Or are you talking bout after market custom frames?

 

rubber mounted is my first priority. second is fx\dyna style. no preference in tranny style. thanks

 

All Rubbermount [shovelhead] frames are Not nearly the Same... FLT is Not FXR

and Geeze!!!! Not even Fruit and Vegetable....
I'm Gonna go with
"Google Image what you like and Share that"

Personally I like the original 4-speed for versatility
http://www.amraonline.com/BikePics/74-74%20rt.jpg
same Bike
http://www.amraonline.com/BikePics/Psudo2.jpg

 

Me thinks a shovelhead is a bad choice for you, shovels can be a particular beast that needs a certain mindset as an owner. I'm not feeling it from you.

 

I'm agreeing with that Absolutely..

 

Dude, do yourself a favor and buy a Dyna. Find an older 90's model with an Evo motor and have at it. 5 Speed is plenty for those bikes, ride and enjoy. $5k will get you a lot of motorcycle with no headaches. As usual, buy the best one you can afford. Good luck.