Custom 1983 XLX Bobber Embraces Minimalist Excellence

Refreshing Change

In the world of custom Harleys, oftentimes less is more. But sometimes, it's hard to tell that given the extremes baggers and other over-the-top show bikes go to win trophies. So it's quite refreshing to see a clean, simple, well-executed Harley like this bobber we spotted over at Real Muscle Classics and Exotics.

Photos Courtesy of Real Muscle Classics and Exotics.

Masterfully Crafted

A grand total of 500 hours went into making this Harley a unique ride, and we're betting most of that was spent taking stuff off. The end result is a clean, mean, bare-bones machine that wins you over with master craftsmanship.

Photos Courtesy of Real Muscle Classics and Exotics. 

>>Join the conversation about this 1983 XLX Bobber right here in HDForums.com.

Beefy Powerplant

The centerpiece of this bobber is, of course, the engine that powers it. And that's a rather beefy 1340cc Evolution SS engine with lots of upgrades.

Photos Courtesy of Real Muscle Classics and Exotics. 

>>Join the conversation about this 1983 XLX Bobber right here in HDForums.com.

Machined to Perfection

The engine was first balanced and blueprinted, then stuffed with forged pistons, high rpm cams, and a large Mikuni carb. 

Photos Courtesy of Real Muscle Classics and Exotics. 

>>Join the conversation about this 1983 XLX Bobber right here in HDForums.com.

Breath Freely

The Evo breathes through black powder coated and wrapped exhaust pipes, and shifts are handled by a 5-speed transmission.

Photos Courtesy of Real Muscle Classics and Exotics. 

>>Join the conversation about this 1983 XLX Bobber right here in HDForums.com.

Classic and Clean

Other trick features include an open primary and hidden arm bar controls, which help give this Harley a classic, clean bobber look.

Photos Courtesy of Real Muscle Classics and Exotics. 

>>Join the conversation about this 1983 XLX Bobber right here in HDForums.com.

Stick With the Theme

Of course, a set of fancy billet wheels just wouldn't fit this bike at all. So the builder chose to stick with a classic set of Sanrimo wire wheels wrapped in Metzler Marathon rubber.

Photos Courtesy of Real Muscle Classics and Exotics. 

>>Join the conversation about this 1983 XLX Bobber right here in HDForums.com.

Zero Flash

The whole thing was topped off perfectly with a simple, no-frills shiny black paint job. No graphics or airbrushing here, because this bike doesn't need any of that flashy stuff.

Photos Courtesy of Real Muscle Classics and Exotics.

>>Join the conversation about this 1983 XLX Bobber right here in HDForums.com.

Quiet Excellence

After all, quality work and the right parts selection is enough. And this is one Harley that speaks for itself without having to resort to extremes.

Photos Courtesy of Real Muscle Classics and Exotics.

>>Join the conversation about this 1983 XLX Bobber right here in HDForums.com.

Flawless Execution

So while neon lights, fancy graphics, airbag suspensions, and super loud stereos continue to be popular in the custom Harley world, we prefer our rides to be a little more subtle. And this perfectly executed bobber would be welcome in our garage any day!

Photos Courtesy of Real Muscle Classics and Exotics.

>>Join the conversation about this 1983 XLX Bobber right here in HDForums.com.

For help with your maintenance and repair projects, please visit our How-to section right here in the forum.