1977 HD FXE
1977 HD FXE
I purchase a shovelhead frame with a Haifley brothers hardtail from my friend. The frame is in two pieces, not a simple weld job. I am debating whether I should finish with a hardtail or replace it with a rear suspension. I have never ridden a rigid frame. Either way, I intend to finish the bike. I want to include a springer front end. I like the look of a bobber with fat tires. Can anyone recommend wheels and tires of the appropriate size? I think the bike came with 21" and 16" rear. I am 60 years old and stand 6 feet 3 inches tall. I live near Houston, Texas.
Cruiser
Joined: Dec 2024
Posts: 176
Likes: 162
From: Virginia
I had several hardtail chops back in the 80s and 90s, I've also lived with back problems since then. When the roads are smooth there's no problem but not too many roads are without potholes, big seams etc these days.
You can build the best looking chops and bobbers with a hardtail but riding them ..... younger man's game unless you're fortunate enough to have a young man's body!
You can build the best looking chops and bobbers with a hardtail but riding them ..... younger man's game unless you're fortunate enough to have a young man's body!
1977 Shovelhead FXE
If I were to weld on a suspension, is there anything to consider other than the actual shocks? Is there a better swing arm or a specific angle geometry that will yield better performance? Again, the frame is in half, and a good portion is missing, so I have options.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2014
Posts: 5,499
Likes: 2,541
From: Lititz Pa
I don't know how old you are but if over 50 dump the hardtail idea.If you like the look of hardtail maybe a soft tail frame
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Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2019
Posts: 10,846
Likes: 7,482
From: OH
[QUOTE=rbuchals;21900713 I think the bike came with 21" and 16" rear. [/QUOTE]
O.E. was 16" rear & 19" front
O.E. was 16" rear & 19" front
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Cruiser
Joined: Dec 2024
Posts: 176
Likes: 162
From: Virginia
What are you working with? Is the whole seat post/ shock mount casting missing? ie: you only have the top tube,head stock, down tubes and motor/trans mount section?
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2020
Posts: 3,192
Likes: 2,235
From: College Station, TX
Forget a hardtail frame, your spine will thank you later.
MT90-16 is the original rear tire size. Unless you are going with an aftermarket swingarm and brakes you are a little limited on how much wider you can go. You can only space things out so far so they align and don't interfere. The springer front end you select will determine the front tire size.
Paul
MT90-16 is the original rear tire size. Unless you are going with an aftermarket swingarm and brakes you are a little limited on how much wider you can go. You can only space things out so far so they align and don't interfere. The springer front end you select will determine the front tire size.
Paul