Hey there! Ran across this site while I was searching for some information on a HD I have seen at one of the dealers. It is a 1981 FXE Shovel. I have a few questions though.

I am a newbie at the bike scene. I have driven dirt bikes and a oldHonda 750 (can't remember the model, it was a friends bike), but that was back almost 15 years ago already and I wasn't an "avid" rider.

I have always wanted a bike of my own. I searched Hondas, Yamaha, and so on, but the HD has always moved me. I have always loved the sound of these bikes. Heck, I have a 69 Cutlass with the Rocket 350, dual 3" exhaust with giant glasspacks on it. What a BARK!

I love classic machines. I think the newer stuff just looks too "newer". So while I was searching, I ran across the 81 FXE. Wow. I fell in love with the bike immediately. I have tried to turn my attention away from it, but I just can't seem to.

Here are my questions.

1) After reading this forum for a while, I understand that with the ownership of a shovel comes some wrenching. I'm not afraid of this. I have a 69 Olds Cutlass, and a 93 Chevy K3500 with over 220,000 miles on it right now. I wrench on them just about every time I drive them! But I am curious as to how deep of wrenching are we talking? Are we talking about complete engine tear downs, or just some tweaking of carbs, ignition, etc?

2) Being a newbie, I am a little scared to jump right into a classic. I fear laying it down and having to shoot myself for messing up a classic. How would the FXE be for a newbie rider?

3) Should I pass on my shovel and look for something a bit cheaper, ride for a while, and then start looking at something more?

I would be using this bike as a daily commuter to work on the days that the weather holds out. (about 5 miles one way through the city) I would not be using it on long rides as I have a family with 3 boys so if we go anywhere, we would use my Trailblazer. It kind of sounds like the older bikes would be perfect for in town due to gearing.

And finally, what kind of things should I look for when I look at the bike? Sounds like oil seepage is an issue on these engines. Where at and how much is too much? Any other problem areas?

Thanks for any and all input!

 

I have been ridding a 1980FXEF80 since 1982. It has always treated me good.

 

Welcome to the HDForum rockman,
A lot of your questions have been discussed in previous posts, you might take a look and see what you find. IMO the shovel is a great first motor cycle but every person has different opinions on what is a good first road bike. You didn't mention the price of the Shovel?

 

Thanks for the welcome. I am pretty anxious about finding something this year.

The Shovel that I have been looking at has leather saddle bags on it. It has 29,548 miles on it. It is an 81 FXE and they are asking $5500 for it. I have a picture of it attached.......I hope!

I am trying to surf the forum and work at the same time.

 

Thats a nice looking bike and the price is very reasonable IMO
good luck [8D]

 

Since you are handy with tools and the price seems pretty good, it sounds like it could be a good deal for you.
Armed with the factory service manual and parts books, you will be able to fix most problems with the bike.
Have you heard it run? Does it smoke anytime from cold to hot or when it's reved up?
Oil leaks are pretty subjective as to what is tolerable. Myself, I will not tolerate ANY leaking that creates a drip.
If you buy it, ride the hell out of it...but be careful out there on the roadways of America.

 

You sound like a good candidate for shovel ownership
First, consider a good rider training course!
My shovel was my first street bike. Never had a problem with it. The stock shovel isn't a huge powerhouse, not a bad thing with a first bike. The brakes aren't the greatest, but they do work.
That bike looks like a pretty good deal. It would look better with drag bars...

 

Just as an update. The shovel was sold long before I had a chance to look at it. So I am keeping my eyes open. I am working at selling one more vehicle and then I may be able to step up my price range a bit.

 

welcome from maine