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Build a seventy two [72]

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Old Dec 22, 2022 | 09:16 PM
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Default Build a seventy two [72]

I am looking for a sportster 72 , but they are hard to find around here. I believe the frames are slightly different from the Custom 1200's. [not sure] Has anyone built 72 out of a 1200 custom? Would it just be front tire and rim ?, some apes. I prefer the custom gas tank anyway. Any ideas would be appreciated, even if they are a bit crazy. I want something a bit different
 
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Old Dec 23, 2022 | 07:03 AM
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Frames aren’t different. That would’ve cost harley too much money. The only difference is probably the exhaust mount where the mufflers attach.
 
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Old Dec 23, 2022 | 08:31 AM
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Well, perhaps a part number comparison could help.
If the frame remains the same, I wonder if the rack of the fork tubes (eg triple tree) is different.
So that is one part I would compare.
If the same, it could just be a matter of the 21-inch rim/ tire swap, to get that 72 stance.
Have fun with your project.
 
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Old Dec 23, 2022 | 08:45 AM
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The Custom and 48 have a slightly wider fork spacing. It's gonna look odd with the skinny 21" wheel. The fork rake are about the same and the 21" tire gives the appearance of a chopper look.
 
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Old Dec 23, 2022 | 11:49 AM
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Default fork width

That's a good point, thanks man ..I wonder what the actual width of both of them are. I have looked for good spec info , but havn't found much on the web. The rake is 30 degrees on both, but the trail is 4.9" on the 72, and 4.2" on the 1200 custom. I guess that narrower triple tree's are available online somewhere. Lotsa fun !
 
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Old Dec 23, 2022 | 11:54 AM
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Frame will be stripped so an exhaust should be the easy part. I am mostly confused about front end, forks, wheel, triple tree , etc.. 72 just has a better stance , and thats what I want.
 
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Old Dec 23, 2022 | 02:20 PM
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The longer trail is due to the 21" wheel. The best would be another 72 since it's mostly chromed out, but a non-fat tire 1200 would work. Most of the newer models, like 1200 Iron or Nightster would work but they have mid controls. And you'd have to get rid of the fork boots and chrome the forks, unless you like 'em black.

Originally Posted by Makea72
I wonder what the actual width of both of them are.
My '11 Custom is about 8 3/4" (223mm) wide on the forks.
Originally Posted by Makea72
I am mostly confused about front end, forks, wheel, triple tree , etc.. 72 just has a better stance , and thats what I want.
Don't forget the 72 has a bob rear fender and I'm sure that peanut tank adds to the look as well. Not to mention the spoked wheels and thin white wall tires.
 

Last edited by RKZen; Dec 23, 2022 at 02:34 PM.
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Old Dec 23, 2022 | 02:49 PM
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Default 21" wheel ?

I can fab a fender easy enough, Maybe a 1200 custom that came with a 21" frt wheel would be perfect. Don't some sportsters come with a 21" front? 72's are very rare in my part of the world, the only ones I have seen are over $12k.. I can get a 1200 for $4-$6k in good condition.
 
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Old Dec 23, 2022 | 03:15 PM
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2010 and older Custom is what you need. Has the 21" spoked front wheel, all chrome motor and 4.5gal tank. Just need to get the bob rear fender, round A/C cover and apes. Only difference is where the gauge sits.
 

Last edited by RKZen; Dec 23, 2022 at 03:16 PM.
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Old Dec 23, 2022 | 03:32 PM
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Hot Damn !... that sounds almost too easy ! Now the difficult prt will be to find one in this snowstorm we are having.
 
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