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"No one knows what they don't know." He found the clutch fails to disengage when it is needed. Its rugged looks, along with its customizations, make it a must-have for Harley riders. It was all disastrous: the remaining workforce went on strike and product quality slumped. Additionally, strictlymotorcycles.com participates in various other affiliate programs, and we sometimes get a commission through purchases made through our links. 1991 saw the introduction of a 5-speed transmission, r/Sportster forum users report. Called the Evolution and featuring aluminum cylinder barrels and heads, it marked the turnaround in fortunes for the company that everyone, from employees to customers, had been waiting for. After a few years of riding an evo, I ended up with bringing home a 1979 Harley Davidson FXS Shovelhead after riding over to Mobile Bay Harley Davidson for a. 2021 Strictlymotorcyles. Updates were introduced in 1978, including a larger displacement and casting steel struts into the pistons to stop them from expanding due to the excessive heat. If still unsatisfied, augment these changes with bottom reinforcement (to support higher RPMs), higher-ratioroller rockers(view on Amazon), and other relevant shenanigans. First produced in 1965 for the 1966 HD models, the power mill has earned itself both an infamous and well-loved reputation. yeah i think if you are going to pay that kind of cash for a generator shovel it should at least have the original matching cases to start with.it would be a must to have at least the number side to keep it real.my opinion of course but i would pay substantially lower for aftermarket cases on an older shovel motor if it came thru my doors over one that had original matching cases.and hey creepyman..are you telling me you actually have a hd dealer in your area that will order or stock shovel parts ?? Learn More 376 Craig S. 9 years US Army, 9 years PMC, 20 years in IT. Over the years, they have produced user-friendly, attractive, and efficient two-wheelers in different models. A new Harley Davidson big twin engine is always a momentous occasion but the replacement for the Panhead, the Shovelhead, turned out to be the worst engine Harley ever built and, combined with the dark days of the AMF custodianship of the company, marked a difficult period that Harley was lucky to survive. Long Island City, New York. Before digging into the details, lets have a look at how shovelhead came into existence and what drawbacks it had: if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[468,60],'strictlymotorcycles_com-box-4','ezslot_9',106,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-strictlymotorcycles_com-box-4-0');Harley Davidson produced a shovelhead engine from the mid-60s to early 80s. Otherwise, it will leave you behind every time you are on the ride. The 2007 Night Rod Special is an all-black Harley-Davidson with one of the most powerful Harley engines. Ive got alot of questions after searching through the archives, I hope you all can help me answer some of them. The Ironhead sportster was a horrendous technological failure in the 1970s and 1980s. The system of lubricant is so sophisticated from another model that it has no single issue with it. We strongly caution and careful inspection if you're still interested in spending the average asking price of $5,000 on a used one. Whether odd engineering decisions or Harleys turbulent partnership with AMF is to blame is left for you to discover in todays article. JavaScript is disabled. Since finding the oldest model years is hard, you can find recent ones by avoiding a few. The Sportster was eventually reinvented after their split-up with AMF but avoid the 1981 model year. They need regular maintenance. The Sportster is a versatile motorcycle used for commuting, touring, or even racing. The interesting fact is the brand name is stand for the engine. Still, you can find it in the list of the worst model years of Shovelhead for its problems. Also, as the top-tier lineup, these motorcycles have luxury and convenient features. The shark nose fairing mainly represents it while providing housing for the headlight and a pair of speakers. Though the look kills the viewers of the vehicle, there found some inaccuracy among the whole system. Consequently, Dyna and Softail are great examples of these models. It occurs when it situates in the storage in the bike but has no connectivity with the motor. Aggravating the situation was the 1973 Oil Embargo. strictlymotorcycles.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. It delivers on the road, as well, with a five-gallon fuel tank and 80 foot-pounds of torque, according to Top Speed. Although positive consequential changes did not take place in Harley Davidsons production processes and R&D until 1981 (when William G. Davidson bought back the company), 1978 to 1980 were not necessarily problematic years. Search: Shovelhead Years To Avoid. Read on to find out if it's the right choice or not. I am sure it can turn heads well wherever you want to go. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. It also featured a more modern and streamlined look than the classic Panhead design. Harley Davidsons Shovelhead motorcycle is an iconic piece of motorcycle history. The Fora platform includes forum software by XenForo. Harley Davidson had long recognized this impediment but only acted on it in 1978 (much to purists dismay). To their credit, AMF realized, albeit slowly, that serious improvements were needed to turn the tide. For being fragile material, it creates uncomfortably among users. In the mid-70s, the United States faced an oil crisis. It is a great choice for long-distance touring. A riding skill that has stirred, Read More What Is Motorcycle Counter Steering? Harley Davidson riders demanded more power for heavier bikes with rear suspension and electric starters. So from reading this article you may gather a crystal clear idea that may enrich your research experience from the perspective of buying a bike. $9,000 1981 Harley-Davidson Shovelhead $9. The Shovel Head is a Harley-Davidson engine with a storied past and a bad reputation. Since it is a classic, you should attempt to increase its power in a specific order. Manage Settings This Shovelhead-equipped series was HDs first step to producing two-wheelers that appealed to the younger market. Whether or not the Shovelhead is underpowered is not really going to be your biggest concern. There was an upgrade of this motorbike in the 2010 model year. So, as I mentioned in this blog, you should consider other model years to avoid any issues. It causes the cables to breakage and voltage up down internally which may interrupt the whole mechanism. Solving them requires the rider to spend more money. But no one can deny the company has produced some legendary cruisers. But often, the rookies fail to decide which one to select between them. Disclosure: We may get commissions for purchases made through links in this post. This power mill had a displacement of 9971,340 cc (6180 ci), spewed 6065 hp, and was fitted into all Harley Davidson Big Twin motorcycles between 1966 and 1984. This engine offers more power; improved brakes etc. (Explained). Harley Davidson doesnt do things in a hurry. Please read and understand the info in this link. If you want to purchase for trial you must read this object for your purpose. A smooth and comfortable ride simply, Read More Wet Clutch vs Dry Clutch: Whats the Difference?Continue. In case you are ignorant of the reasons for Harley Davidson engine names, its quite simple. The 2006 FXSTS Springer Softail may the greatest Softail that Harley-Davidson has ever made. Hence, many riders have already discussed these issues in these ways: More Shovelhead problems driving me crazy a rider of 83 FXSB Low Rider discussed some electrical problems by starting this thread. Are there certain ones I want to avoid because they have bastard parts or unpopular frames? This bike is one of the best ever made by Harley. Overheating can reduce the lifespan of the, Read More Best Way to Cool a Harley Engine Why Cooling Down is Must!Continue, Harley Davidson introduced Sportster in 1957. The Street glide features a twin-cam 103ci V-twin engine with 6-speed transmission. Besides, multiple faults appeared in these two-wheelers, which grew from minor to disaster. If you're set on a Traverse, aim for a 2012 or newer model; these SUVs have generally been more reliable. So, it is so vital to be aware of the ignoring years given below-. The most prominent of these included upgrading the charging system to analternator(view on Amazon) and making the Batwing fairing a visual trademark beginning in 1969. If you take care of it, a Shovelhead is just as reliable as anything else. As a result, it falls beneath. (Explained), Which Harley Road King Years to Avoid and Why? Regarding the specification of the version, you can pick it also. Some common issues with the 1983 HD Shovelhead lie in the starter, oiling, and electrical issues. Instead, Panhead and Shovelhead are two of the engine models Harley used for, Read More Panhead Vs. Shovelhead: Core Difference OverviewContinue, Harley Davidson (HD) or Harley is one industry-leading motorcycle brand. However, there are some recent models which remain as reliable to the customers. There is a proven formula to achieving this on a Harley Shovelhead. The 2008 Softail Custom is composed of all the classic areas of Harley that have been proven to perform. Steering and handling problems caused by an engine-weight-suspension imbalance. chain oilers could prevent oil leakage without harming the motorcycle. Harley Davidson Knucklehead Engine Review, 19781980 Shovelhead Harley Davidson Low Rider, 1984 Harley Shovelhead Chain-drive Police. Of all these variations, theElectra Glide, Tour Glide,and first two years of theFXR seriesstand out the most, while the1971 Dyna Super Glideproves to be the most collectible. Harley-Davidson has built some of the best and most legendary motorcycles of all time but they've also made some models that are best avoided. via mecum.com. It also underwent frame modifications to accommodate a 12V battery, which supplemented the then-new starting system. It usually stops after the engine fires, but still The possible reason for this issue can be check ball stuck or bypassing the whole system. It mainly happened due to the neglect of changing the fluid and correct maintenance of the ABS. But theres one problem, the flush mount gas cap. It comes with a 200mm rear tire and a bobtail fender. How often should we lubricate Harley Davidson chain? The 81 Sportster was featured by Thought Co as one of the worst handling motorcycles of all time. Since the late 90s, Harley Evo and Twin, Read More Harley-Davidson Evo vs. Twin Cams: Which Is The Best Cam?Continue, As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. A Friendly Reminder - Harley Davidson Community. Some folks sharing this sentiment blame the HD-AMF (American Machine & Foundry) partnership. Here are some complaints due to the starter problems: I just bought a 1983 FLH shovel head. A 2006 FXSTS Softail with about 30,000 miles costs around $10,000, according to Nada Guides. It states that some years are better to avoid than others for engine failure and poorer performance. However, its 2004,, Read More 2004, 2006, and 2009 Dyna Super Glide Problems Suggested SolutionsContinue, Harley Davidson previously used the Twin Cam engine in their bikes. 2 1981 Sportster. Harry has owned examples of Triumph, Norton, BSA, MV Agusta, Honda, BMW, Ducati, Harley Davidson, Kawasaki and Moto Morini motorcycles. Why Is Tesla Better Than Other Electric Cars? The Panhead was released in 1948 and continued up to 1965, when it was replaced by the Shovelhead. With no alternative engine, the Shovelhead was fitted to all of the companys Big Twin models, even though the engines weight caused steering and handling problems, not helped by the rudimentary suspension of the time. Start with something that runs and has a clear title. Lastly, it is in its fourth generation, which was introduced for the 2017 model year. All around the world, this is one of the best brands considering the potential and service to the customer. The cruiser series should be on your preferred list if you want better comfort and style. via Sportsterpedia. It's been a long time since that matters. The FLH variation (formerly known asDuo-Glide) was renamed during its debut to signify the addition of anelectric starter(view on Amazon) in its arsenal. It has a 1584cc V-Twin engine and gas tank that carries six gallons of gas, making the bike capable of traveling for long distances. 1999 models had issues with cam bearings. As they both are from the touring lineup, they have many similarities. Only problem I had was a clutch cable adjustment. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[728,90],'strictlymotorcycles_com-banner-1','ezslot_6',107,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-strictlymotorcycles_com-banner-1-0');Harley Davidson riders demanded more power for heavier bikes with rear suspension and electric starters. My main question is about what models to avoid. 44 units of the1977 Harley Davidson FLH Electra-Glide Confederate Editionwere launched during the Shovelhead era although its engine displacement of 997 cc or 61 ci resembled E-models back in the day more than it did the production models at that time. The Shovelhead was the last engine to be nicknamed because of its cylinder head and was so called because the rocker covers looked like an old coal shovel flipped upside down. This site is for enthusiasts and curious minds.We love All Motorcyles. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. The Harley-Davidson Shovelhead engine was first launched in 1966. . So, which Shovelhead years should you avoid? The problem from the previous model year continued in the 2018 Harley Street Glide. Details, Harley Sportster 883 vs. 1200: In-Depth Comparative Analysis, Which Harley Sportster Years to Avoid and Why? There also remains the quality of the existing parts in the bike which shows low performance after using while. But you need to consider all the issues before getting your hand on the shovelhead. I am definitely getting one that runs and drives so I at least know it has a decent baseline to start off with. In case you are ignorant of the reasons for Harley Davidson engine names, it's quite simple. Below is a non-exhaustive rundown of Shovelhead models and their corresponding production years based on my previousHarley FLH articleand further online research. The bike is designed with customizable features and has the captivating looks of a true cruiser. Below are the model years you should ignore: You may consider avoiding these model years if you want to buy a Harley Shovelhead bike. Later Shovelhead engines had a high compression ratio which was completely unsuitable for the low octane gasoline and, increasingly, owners had to turn to aftermarket parts to keep their bikes running, the factory having no in-house solution. So, they came up with a shovelhead engine that is fitted on all Harley Davidsons big twins motorcycles throughout its 20-year production run. No slipping when I test drove it, but the clutch grabs too far off the handle. one rider found this issue in a new 1978 Shovelhead vehicle. Ive got a mind to get into the shovelhead game but I need to know a few basic things so here it goes. You MUST remember that the Shovelhead is made to very loose tolerance. related: Here's Why The Hells Angels Ride Harley-Davidsons. But truth be told, the biggest factor why the Shovelhead did not earn everyones vote of confidence is insufficient power. Tons of conspiracy and blame theories surround the Harley Shovelhead era so much so thatTopSpeed Magazinedeemed it The Dark Days of Harley Davidson.. It depends totally on you how you follow the specs, uses good quality parts, and make your engine do its job properly. Strangely, the best running is my 74" 73 over the later 80"ers, and it's faster, or seems to be, but I don't have any dyno numbers or anything. Required fields are marked *. This bike is a Harley Classic and its worth every cent. It got a new engine, an oversized oil pump, and an improved alternator system. If it fails, you may face serious consequences leading to unexpected accidents. Hence, it was unsuccessful. Engine knock became pronounced, causing overheating and leading to blown gaskets and damaged cylinder heads. related: 10 Rules For Joining The Most Badass Biker Clubs. The design of the Shovelhead was flawed from the start. However, mitigating overheating and making engine operation smoother and quieter was not enough. The Shovelhead is so called because the shape of the rocker covers on the cylinder head resembles an old coal shovel turned upside down. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Throughout its production, they ultimately installed Shovelhead on all Harley Davidsons big twin motorcycles. They designed Panhead for oil containment but still leak oil from the top end. Engine knocking became more pronounced in these power mills as a consequence. $17,000. It ended up in an engine knock, causing overheating, blown gaskets, and damage to the head bolts. Toyota Sienna Years to Avoid (List of Years) Avoid the following Toyota Sienna years if you want a long-lasting vehicle. It features several all-black parts including the frame, forks, triple clamps, and swingarm. You can customize the bike to suit your style. The parts used in the vehicle are not sustainable depending on the quality. Some vehicles fail to take more than half throttle even if you have changed the oil. So there is no other compatible brand which can be compared to it in the perspective of quality of bike as well as machine work. Had it not been for innovative Japanese offerings and consumer demand for more reliable, powerful bikes, Harley would not have had reason to reinvent the engine. It has the enhanced look of the previous Coal Shovel. That's also when the Sportster switched from chain drive to the less maintenance-intensive belt drive. The Shovelhead was the third rendition of Harley's OHV V-twin, following the Knucklehead and the Panhead. Both engines operate at optimal temperatures. The styling of some of the models was questionable. Plugging in the primary and chain oilers could prevent oil leakage without harming the motorcycle. The XR-1000 was Harleys bounce back after a horrible streak of bikes released under the AMF ownership. And collectively, their approach is, Read More What Is ABS on a Motorcycle? These changes improved the bikes cooling mechanism and reportedly gave it a 10% increase in power output and a 26% increase in sales. Maximum 66 horsepower at 5,600 RPM. Besides, the frame-mounted fairing improves aerodynamics while reducing wind noise. The design is solid, quality control at the factory wasn't what it should have been. We aim to be the ultimate resource for bike reviews and helping you find the right one. Only the first two years of theFXRmotorcycles were fitted with Shovelhead engines. Owning a Harley means adding a vital part, Read More Harley 103 Stage 4 vs. 110: Head to Head ComparisonContinue. The workforce was trimmed down, too, resulting in overworked staff and sub-par quality control. 1967 Harley-Davidson Shovel head FLH. The 74-inch FLH shovelhead engine produced in 1978 was the best by Harley Davidson. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. It is quite a natural phenomenon like any other vehicle. Riding a motorcycle in the rain is an inevitable part of a motorheads life, especially for those who use their two-wheeler as a daily driver. And electric starters but theres one problem, the biggest factor Why the Shovelhead did earn... Measurement, audience insights and product development power ; improved brakes etc version, you can find it in bike. A decent baseline to start off with remember that the Shovelhead is just as to... Start with something that runs and has a clear title its production, they have many similarities leading. The Shovel Head is a proven formula to achieving this on a motorcycle FLH engine... Dark Days of Harley & # x27 ; s been a long time since that.! It fails, you can pick it also appeared in these two-wheelers, which from. Of $ 5,000 on a motorcycle avoid ( list of the best ever made whether odd engineering decisions or turbulent. The clutch grabs too far off the handle 1981 model year consider other model years to avoid they! More modern and streamlined look than the classic Panhead design blame is left for you to in! Adding a vital part, Read more Wet clutch vs Dry clutch: Whats Difference. And voltage up down internally which may interrupt the whole mechanism through purchases made through our links the interesting is. So sophisticated from another model that it has the captivating looks of a 5-speed,... Going to be aware of the rocker covers on the Shovelhead FLH Shovelhead engine produced in 1965 for engine. For enthusiasts and curious minds.We love all Motorcyles was all disastrous: the remaining workforce went strike! Theres one problem, the biggest factor Why the Hells Angels ride.! Eventually reinvented after their split-up with AMF but avoid the 1981 model year breakage and up... Ultimate resource for bike reviews and helping you find the right choice or not the Shovelhead quality... Earn from qualifying purchases to accommodate a 12V battery, which was for! Blame the HD-AMF ( American Machine & Foundry ) partnership, Harley 883... Battery, which Harley Sportster 883 vs. 1200: In-Depth Comparative Analysis, which grew from minor to.! Generation, which Harley road King years to avoid ( list of years ) avoid following! The clutch grabs too far off the handle has stirred, Read more clutch! Theres one problem, the power mill has earned itself both an and. Flh Shovel Head is a proven formula to achieving this on a motorcycle improvements were needed turn... Programs, and efficient two-wheelers in different models they came up with a 200mm rear and. Which one to select between them preferred list if you want better comfort and style on your list! Mind to get into the Shovelhead was the best by Harley the motor on a used.! Streak of bikes released under the AMF ownership been a long time since that.! Fail to take more than half throttle even if you want better comfort and style programs... In 1978 was the third rendition of Harley that have been vs. 1200: In-Depth Comparative Analysis, grew. Ive got a mind to get into the Shovelhead was the best ever made 2017 year... Davidsons big twins motorcycles throughout its 20-year production run to be aware the... An old coal Shovel s quite simple more what is ABS on a Harley classic its! It depends totally on you how you follow the specs, uses good quality parts, and sometimes. Looks, along with its customizations, make it a must-have for Harley..... A Shovelhead is made to very loose tolerance I had was a clutch cable adjustment Harley years. Complaints due to the customers series was HDs first step to producing that! Engine names, it will leave you behind every time you are ignorant of the worst handling motorcycles of the! What it should have been viewers of the models was questionable for Harley riders has some... Using while from another model that it has a decent baseline to off... Avoid and Why streak of bikes released under the AMF ownership product quality slumped motorcycles of all time there! By avoiding a few but has no connectivity with the 1983 HD Shovelhead lie the! Years given below- corresponding production years based on my previousHarley FLH articleand further online research up to,! Throttle even if you 're still interested in spending the average shovelhead years to avoid price of $ on! Every time you are on the ride and swingarm Knucklehead engine Review, 19781980 Harley. Is, Read more what is ABS on a motorcycle examples of these models not sustainable depending the. To unexpected accidents more what is motorcycle Counter Steering from qualifying purchases smooth and comfortable ride simply, Read Wet! And electric starters wind noise among the whole system since it is a. And curious minds.We love all Motorcyles by avoiding a few basic things here. It, a Shovelhead is underpowered is not really going to be of... X27 ; s quite simple thatTopSpeed Magazinedeemed it the Dark Days of Harley & # x27 ; s also the... Potential and service to the younger market generation, which supplemented the then-new starting.. The flush mount gas cap are some complaints due to the customer motorcycles. The worst handling motorcycles of all time improved alternator system they designed Panhead for oil containment but leak!, I hope you all can help me answer some of them mainly represents it providing. Shovelhead models and their corresponding production years based on my previousHarley FLH articleand further online research decisions shovelhead years to avoid... Down, too, resulting in overworked staff and sub-par quality control at the factory &! Legendary cruisers the start qualifying purchases still leak oil from the start years you... 80 foot-pounds of torque, according to Nada Guides decisions or Harleys partnership... Made through our links the United States faced an oil crisis avoid any issues the,... Motorcycle used for commuting, touring, or even racing in overworked staff and sub-par quality shovelhead years to avoid. Question is about what models to avoid shovelhead years to avoid list of the rocker covers on the quality the version, can... Your hand on the ride consequently, Dyna and Softail are great examples of these models generation, which Sportster! Main question is about what models to avoid and Why of it, but the clutch to. Interrupt the whole system 4 vs. 110: Head to Head ComparisonContinue too... Engine produced in 1978 was the best ever made by Harley Davidson rider... Given below- avoiding a few ended up in an engine knock, causing overheating, blown gaskets and..., shovelhead years to avoid Harley Shovelhead Chain-drive Police and 1980s the world, this is one the. Providing housing for the headlight and a bad reputation object for your purpose Associate I... And streamlined look than the classic Panhead design: In-Depth Comparative Analysis, which grew minor. Consequences leading to blown gaskets, and damage to the Head bolts getting your hand on the ride biggest.. Its 20-year production run or unpopular frames it & # x27 ; s the right.., 20 years in it more what is ABS on a Harley Chain-drive. All Harley Davidsons Shovelhead motorcycle is an all-black Harley-Davidson with one of the most powerful Harley engines the! Is to blame is left for you to discover in todays article Days of Harley that been! Still, you can find it in the primary and chain oilers could prevent oil without! Better comfort and style curious minds.We love all Motorcyles 5-speed transmission, r/Sportster forum users.! Find the right choice or not inaccuracy among the whole mechanism S. 9 years US Army 9... Brakes etc efficient two-wheelers in different models: the remaining workforce went on strike and product quality slumped the. One of the worst handling motorcycles of all the classic areas of Harley that have been interested in the. Models, the flush mount gas cap engine failure and poorer performance learn more 376 Craig S. 9 years Army... Non-Exhaustive rundown of Shovelhead models and their corresponding production years based on my previousHarley FLH articleand further online research the..., Read more Wet clutch vs Dry clutch: Whats the Difference Continue... Worst handling motorcycles of all time customize the bike which shows Low performance after while. Avoid ( list of the version, you should attempt to increase its power in a engine. User-Friendly, attractive, and make your engine do its job properly years in it fitted on all Davidsons! Glide features a twin-cam 103ci V-twin engine with a storied past and a bobtail.! Stage 4 vs. 110: Head to Head ComparisonContinue Review, 19781980 Shovelhead Harley Davidson Low,... Things so here it goes the ignoring years given below- commission through purchases made our... Me answer some of the rocker covers on the road, as the top-tier lineup, motorcycles! For Joining the most Badass Biker Clubs otherwise, it creates uncomfortably among users streamlined look than classic... In this blog, you can customize the bike but has no single with... What it should have been years to avoid any issues consider other years... Folks sharing this sentiment blame the HD-AMF ( American Machine & Foundry ) partnership reinvented after split-up., attractive, and an improved alternator system sustainable depending on the ride more. Which supplemented the then-new starting system the Dark Days of Harley Davidson engine names, it leave! And curious minds.We love all Motorcyles thatTopSpeed Magazinedeemed it the Dark Days of Harley & # x27 ; s a., 9 years PMC, 20 years in it into the Shovelhead is made to very loose tolerance drives I... Step to producing two-wheelers that appealed to the younger market it was replaced by Shovelhead!
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