I Bought a Brand New 45 year Harley Davidson Motorcycle

[@JPaul60]

I worked at a Harley dealer from 1980 to 1983 and set up numerous XLH/XLCH from the crate. Batteries were dry, brake master cylinders were filled. It was AMF until 1983 when Willie G bought them back. That bike was definitely used as a parts bike and I'd go through thoroughly. People complain about AMF quality but many of those same people that worked during AMF worked for Willie G too. AMF can be blamed for some of it but they kept Harley alive when it was going to die.Long comments don't get read, attention spans are short today. Good luck with the bike and for goodness sakes get some tools.

[@cyrilhudak4568]

Since you worked for a Harley dealer back in the day, was there any truth to the rumor that some dealerships would totally dismantle the engines and blueprint them before selling them to avoid future warranty work ? I heard that Dudely Perkins of SF did that because of all the problems with the AMF bikes.

[@JPaul60]

@@cyrilhudak4568 The dealer I worked at never did that. The biggest problem with the XLC/H was the transmissions. They sent the head mechanic to transmission school and I was scheduled to go but I left for a better job at a Cadillac dealer before I went. When setting up a new bike though when it was in the crate we went over all the nuts and bolts and checked for loose things. The same union loads that were doing a crappy job putting the bikes together were still working there after Willie G took control.

[@rodan2852]

Lol dont mean to be a smart a$$ but wasnt the last XLCH in 1979? 😛 still enjoyed your testimony

[@BlackSlimShady]

@@rodan2852Because it's impossible to setup a 1979 in 1980 ae - that would just never happen...

[@hoobeydoobey1267]

You're right. AMF saved Harley and had instituted QA and buying new tooling. The family didn't care about mc's except for entertainnig Willy G's love to ride. They milked the company without concern for quality. If AMF hadn't stepped in, HD would have gone out of business and would not have been around to bring back the big mc market that came in the with 90s. I dated the daughter of VP of Parts.

[@HopperXL]

I bought an almost identical Sportster brand new in 1977 and still ride it today. Been all over the country on it. It has never once let me down. Great old bikes and way more exciting to ride than their bigger brothers. Enjoy!

[@BikesandBeards]

That is awesome!

[@teddysetiawan8353]

How you guys bought that bike?

[@michaelsmith2733]

I bought two xlch harleys 1976. one was a Bi-Centenial edition, ran great but I re painted it and built it from the ground up. I traded that for a San Diego chopper via easy rider edition,aside from a bit of a leak , they both ran fine for many a miles. No problems with me.

[@Singh_1989]

I know alot of people don't like to see you guys do this, but I love seeing this. Motorcycles were built to be ridden and enjoyed, not stored in a box for 50 years. I also hate the museums that just have the bikes sitting there. Wheels through time is the only museum that truly preserves bik3s

[@brotherbarry1627]

Barbers motor sport museum maintains their bikes and says that they’re all hours from being on the track

[@nathanweinfurtner5203]

That turd should stay in the box

[@GeemailMailboxx]

@@nathanweinfurtner5203 sometimes they just don't flush. 😏💩 They just spin around for others to look at and pound WHY. WHY.🤪

[@sokodad]

@@nathanweinfurtner5203yup, it’s an AMF.

[@txrick4879]

​@@nathanweinfurtner5203Hell no all bikes deserve to be ridden . I have revived my share of basket case bikes . Rode them till I wore them out .

[@donhathaway3234]

I had a 77 FLH and loved that bike. Finally sold it to a friend after 22 years. The rear cylinder seized on it in Virginia and he sold it and bought another used Harley to get home. It took me 12 years to get back on a bike (life and kids ya know) when I bought an 04 FLHT. Health has kept me grounded for the last 3 summers but, I hope to get back on this year.

[@mjc8248]

My first real bike was an 81 low rider. It was a really good bike, leaked oil like nobody's business. I sold it in the 90s, and it's still around being ridden by the guy I sold it to. I rode it a couple of times in 2018, and it was still a ton of fun. I had a stroke in 2019, so I probably won't be riding it ever again, but I still get to see it at least.

[@tantorum3508]

sorry to hear about your stroke glad you're doing alright however. Awesome story, really cool that you were able to ride it again over 20 years after you sold it!

[@stanleymasterson1135]

I had two strokes in one month years ago, and fully recovered just by taking pomegranate extract. In 2020 I couldn't move my left side. Today its like nothing ever happened

[@kurtfoulke5130]

​@@stanleymasterson1135Does that make you a 2-stroke ? Sorry, I can't help myself sometimes 🫢

[@mjc8248]

@stanleymasterson1135 Mine was pretty bad. I spent a month in the hospital and 2 months at in patient rehab. I get botox shots in my arm every 3 months for spasticity. I get around ok but not quickly, and my left arm is pretty useless for doing anything.

[@NickolasFigler-fi3wj]

I had a 1978 XLCH

[@johnblack5764]

Man its so cool to watch you uncrate vintage bikes. It's gotta be the neatest feeling to uncrate a bike decades after it was made. Best kind of time capsule.

[@willg4944]

That exact model was my very first "new" Harley Davidson. I was never able to get that, hand pinstriped, leather seated thing over 98 mph. no matter how hard I tried. Never the less, I still remember that bike to be the most beautiful bike I ever owned. I am still proud to say that I was an owner of a 75th. Anniversary Harley Davidson sportster. Thanks for the trip down memory lane.

[@neildriedger637]

👍

[@larifari4371]

How was quality of built back then?

[@raybrensike42]

@PeterAngles-jq7gr They are actually the fastest motorcycles today....right off of idle. However, the other ones begin to catch up real fast not too long after. Key word there is "idle". Nobody with an overhead cam produces that kind of low rpm torque today, do they? (of the same cc or cubic inch) I'm remembering the adage "It's not how fast you go; it's how you go fast." I don't know of any other motorcycle that is that fast off of idle, and they were not trash. They were good. I don't know that Harley ever made a bad Sportster motor. It might not be the very best for longevity, but they were far from trash.

[@79huddy]

A buddy I used to work with who had a older brother by a blue 78 AMF 1000 new that passed away shortly after he got it his mom kept it for him for 14 years till he turned 16 that dude has rode it everyday ever since even in the coldest of Ohio Winters he would leather up and ride it on the ice to work he even rode it into the church with his old lady on the back when they got married it was great crazy fool will pass ya doing 70 on the back wheel dragging a hand laughing pretty sure his brother is always riding with him I haven't rode with a bigger nut and I rode motocross bikes with some real loons growing up

[@dozerblade]

I had a 79 XLS 1000, I put an SU carb on it, that made it go, saw over 108 mph easy.

[@larryjex6485]

My first streetbike was a '69 Sportster, which except for your 78's disc brakes and cast wheels, was very similar to this one. These were about as old school as you could get in 1978, but they still had a loyal following. This was just one year before the 130 hp Kawasaki Z1-R Turbo, 120 hp KZ-1300 and 6 cylinder 24 valve Honda CBX, so people certainly weren't buying these for performance, but to get that legendary V-Twin mystique. By the way, I love those old raised white letter Goodyears!

[@seanconnell8027]

I have a '72 XLH with the brake pedal and shifter on the opposite sides! Really fun to ride.

[@DrDastardly776]

You and Craig made a good team, I could tell you were both having fun. Go back to him.

[@matthewshoudy7887]

I was literally just thinking the same thing!! Hopefully the lord will put forgiveness in eachs ❤and they’ll get it figured out!

[@ozzypawsborneprinceofbarkness]

They live in different states now

[@henrymatthews9365]

Craig has his own channel now . Shawn helped him launch it.

[@DrDastardly776]

@@henrymatthews9365 yeah I know. They still make better content together, rather than separate. Although Craig is getting better.

[@DrDastardly776]

@@ozzypawsborneprinceofbarkness and?

[@heavengraham4951]

We love Craig and the real ones will never forget the good times of Craig building everything CORRECTLY😂😂😂

[@dennis7470]

Words to live by, " don't drop the bike" I've rode for over 40 yrs. and the only time , other than dirt bikes, I have ever dropped a bike is parking or moving it around by hand

[@DeathColdBeer]

ddropper here twice ill explain.. once my clutch cable broke. couldnt ride for like a week? i said clutch? pff...i know how my baby works she ok with riding just not stopping lol. I totally made it back home, came into driveway forgot i cant stop, oil slick in driveway i layed her down up under my grandmothers car! without hesitation i somehow at 16 years old lifted that bikes right up onto the kickstand. and im pretty sure nobody saw it. Second time was a huge spider web across the basketball goal and fence, and i was on grass at a freinds not trying to be all in the parents way etc... wet grass front end again...dammit. twice no one saw this. But to admit means my heart is true. This was 1998

[@contraband1543]

Damn you've never ate pavement in 40 years? Impressive

[@Mikegastaldo]

If you ride... it's not if....but when and what bike your going to put in the salvage yard dude... every rider drops it... every rider goes down...

[@robertfury295]

I just dropped my low mileage 2002 fz1….tank damage…..grrrr. And like you only only while moving a street bike have I ever dropped one.

[@mikewazowski7830]

Dude I swear same damn thing catch the wrong leg with the kickstand and fall over just because I had to move it from that side otherwise I just would have leaned it over far enough on the right hand or because I sat on the bike for 5 minutes after turning it off using my phone and forgot I didn't already put the kickstand down I swear I've dropped it doing the stupidest stuff but even kept the bike up at 30 after hitting the pothole lifting the back tire only just because it's the only tire that hit it but I was already on the rear brake that caused it to lock up midair once it hit it slid out to the left hand side and stupidly I stomped the ground real hard standing me in the bike back up from at least probably 55 maybe 60° angle Man that happened about a year ago I still regret it to this day lasting injuries but man I love my bike

[@jaminjim44]

I miss the two of you making videos together I’m not gonna lie. On the bright side you both seem to be doing very well and both of your channels appear to be doing fantastic! Watched Craig’s IT restoration last night, well part 1. I enjoy your videos every bit as much tho brother!! Looking for a calab down the road

[@grandudetonesnob7107]

That smell you talked about comes from a time before Harley-Davidson started selling their bikes out of fashion boutiques. As I remember, it was a combined aroma of wood floors, old leather, new tire smell, lucky strikes, and 50w oil soaked into all of it.

[@kevincosta9228]

Hahaha... perfect!

[@db13401]

@@kevincosta9228 exactly and I miss it.....the mechanic and sale people all had greasy hands lol.

[@adamziolkowski2549]

Ah- I was born too late. 😂

[@steverussell6642]

That sounds nice.

[@jeffrobodine8579]

​@@db13401Like old junk yards before computerized inventory.

[@peterlecuyer6204]

I owned the exact same bike back in 1982-83. Made it into a chopper after running out of gas too many times with that small 2.2 gal tank. I put a 3.5 gallon mustang tank on it, had the swing arm removed and a custom hard tail fabricated for it. I'm pretty sure that the original owner changed the drive sprockets on it ad well as staggered pipes as I could get that bike up to 120 mph no problem. She was fast and at that time the only bike that could take me was a punched out electra glide that in its prior live was built for the local drag strip. I loved the bike, the wife, not so much, being a hardtail and the small pillion seat made for an uncomfortable ride for her. Also, the bike had 4 circuit breakers located under the seat, one would occasionally trip, killing power to the ignition and leaving me stranded on the side of the road, eventually, the breaker would cool down enough to auto reset and allow the bike to start and run. This seemed to only happen on pretty hot days. When I made it into a chopper style bike, I replaced the breakers with a fuse box and completely rewired the whole bike. Fun bike, kind of wish that I still had her. And yes like all Harleys of that era, she would mark her parking spot with a few drops of oil. Was my first Harley and now on my 12 or 13th Harley now, hard to keep track of them all at my age. Enjoy the ride, she's a classic.

[@billzapor5338]

Absolutely cool video. This old man was a young man remembering riding all over Colorado's plains and mountains. I can feel the air and enjoy the smell mixture of nature and machine sliding past me again. My wrist was rolling backward. I am in my recliner with morning coffee. 1978 was just a second ago because of you. Extreme gratitude to for this moment.

[@jamesgibson5876]

Lmfao ..a 1968 xlch was mine back in 1980. . I put it back together that year in Silverthorne Colorado.. worked in Breckenridge that winter as a carpenter ...we built a barr called daddy John's most days and at night I would work in that bike in the extraterrestrial bedroom ao a trailer house I had renteted

[@karlsquire8148]

I was 13 in 78 and remember these bikes but I had no idea that the fit and finish was so bad, meaning the seat and the bolts, I love these vids when you buy something new that is years old you do so many great vids, I'm really happy you are still doing top grade vids, Thank you so much. Sunday morning coffee and a 78 Harley, that's a good morning for me. Actually 78 any motorcycle is a good morning for me :-).

[@psycho8181]

hahahahahahahahahahahahaaaaaa I wuzz 14 years old…

[@mikebennett9356]

The AMF years were dark for Harley. AMF didn’t care about quality, just wanted to sell under the Harley name.

[@uncle4318]

I have a 1980 AMF Harley I got from my dad when I was 16, he had an accident in '97 that left him unable to ride again. I got it running a couple years ago but it needs to be completely gone thru. Nice seeing what the bike pretty much looked like before my dad changed some things. I also have a 1973 Sporty I regularly ride, those old ironheads just keep on running.

[@sirpoppz]

Bikes are made to be customized to the owners liking

[@uncle4318]

@@sirpoppz agree! I still have the factory tank for it too, dad replaced it with a fat bob tank a few moons before i was born. its converted to electronic ignition from points, has a bigger carb on it, etc. he rode that thing everywhere.

[@PaulWannenburg]

Bought a 1975 electraglide new I’n Oct 75. Done 67k km on it. No troubles just batteries ( last 7 yrs).I’m 71 and still have the bike and the memories. Your sportster has Hard chromed discs and that coating wears off.

[@floedert7616]

This is really cool, my dad recently bought a 1975 amf sportster that was setting in boxes in someones attic since the eightees so thats actually really similar to this because its also one of the few completely stock ones left!

[@rmurphy3435]

Owned a 76 AMF Harley Davidson, drove for several years, never leaked a drop of oil, ran great and sometimes l wish l still had it. It was fun watching as it brought back many memories. Thanks!

[@paulsherman5591]

Most marked their spot cause of the chain auto oiler which it was supposed to drip on chain from there to floor. Those older models had shifter on right side and never could get used to it. Kept lifting brake (back) pedal so not fun unless you can get used to it. But then other bikes become awkward

[@Roadside2882]

My first harley was a 1978 75th anniversary sportster. In the only other anniversary package you could get was the electra glide. It was also black and gold with the gold wheels. Another special thing that the 75th anniversary sportster had was front and rear 16" wheels. There were only 2,323 anniversary sportsters produced. Very cool bike.

[@kurtfoulke5130]

That's a 19" front wheel

[@justaskmike4602]

I have two. One rebuilt and one all original never been ridden. Museum quality

[@kurtfoulke5130]

​@@justaskmike4602I guess you don't get out much 😢

[@kurtfoulke5130]

He bought this on BAT for $15,250😂

[@justaskmike4602]

@@kurtfoulke5130 not on those. 05’ screaming Eagle fat boy

[@abidababida7096]

I’ve owned probably a dozen harley’s in my life and i really never had a problem with an AMF HD. I bought a 73 sporty at an auction that sat in a parking garage in Manhattan for over 20 yrs and the thing was running the next day. $400 for the bike, about $150 in fluids and misc stuff and i sold it 2 weeks later for like 2800 so AMF never did me wrong

[@ridingonabudget]

Its good that you sought out expert help for this unboxing. That is a really nice bike and probably worth quite a bit, as long as you leave it in stock as is trim. Don't let anyone talk you into replacing the exhaust, tank ,seat or any other component that is unique to this bike.

[@robeast692]

I Agree 💯

[@oldamericaniron5767]

Worked on that era Harleys 40 years ago. Don’t worry about the external fasteners. I could tell you about problems with internal quality control which can and should be rectified if doing rebuild, from rocker arm shaft end play to crankcase bolts. But put together properly most issues easily be taken care of.

[@CharlieJSen]

I hope you do more off-road content. Those videos always were the best

[@zeusftw_420]

Me and my grandfather built a 1972 Harley-Davidson Shovelhead from the ground up took us 7 years only because we wouldn't use any parts that weren't OEM. So It's nicve to see someone that can appreciate the older models for what they are they were truly marvels.

[@FrankF-vp4pt]

Brings back memories. Back in 1981 I was 18 years old. I bought a new 1980 sportster from my hometown Harley dealership. 11 yrs lots of memories and 46,000 miles I sold it. Many back road rides throughout Wisconsin and N. Illinois. 1 tough ride from N. Illinois to Colorado, Pikes Peak summit "thought I'd freeze to death in September" Pueblo west, then home. It was a short trip and country back road putt bike.. Highway travel at higher speeds the 4 speed/solid lifter ironhead vibrated my eye teeth loose. Always liked the low and lean sporty though!

[@hughtuller6344]

My first Harley was a 1981 Sportster. Loved it. Root beer brown with a seat as comfortable as a board.

[@jimnunes6286]

Your bigger Harleys had a adjustable chain oiler that used the engine oil to lube the chain. I had a 65 XLH sportster it did not leak, Ihad the oiler turned off. Motor cycles from that era were a whole different breed! They were a mechanical machine! Not like today's plastic cars and motors full of electronics with psychological problems!!! Your old vehicles if you had a Problem you could bend or twist something or hit it with a hammer, and sometimes it would go again!

[@carlambrose4442]

(mike) I bought a 1974 Sporty Brand NEW it was during the gas shortage of the 70's . I still have a tail light on backorder from Harley AMF. mine fell off somewhere. still haven't got that light. Had to take gas in a can to the dealer ship to ride home.I ain't thought about that in year's .THANK YOU !!

[@CharlieJSen]

You always make people’s days brighter whenever you post. :)

[@Flacooutdoors]

Matts off road haha random Easter egg

[@obeyGoddefytyrants]

As a pastor who loves bikes...and rides often. Hearing you share the word of God makes me happy and proud to support you.

[@vaughanlynch145]

We do need another Craig 😢 ... The dynamic was soo good with your old team. Dave is great, I wonder if you can convince him to comvert over 😮😂

[@summermerchant572]

We first saw dave when sean just walked into his shop with a harley diesel

[@kg4wrq]

I am the original owner of a 1979 80 cubic inch FXEF, aka Fatbob Superglide. So, I was real interested in this video. I was slightly disappointed that it was not an FX model. During those years of HD, XLs & FXs shared a lot of parts; saddles, headlamps, etc. My bike also came with the Eagle A/T tires. That bike never left me stranded while on a ride. However, I have had to do a lot of maintenance on it. It was my only ride until I bought my 2006 88 cubic inch FXDI; aka Dyna Super Glide (which is now 95 cubic inches). Riding the bikes is quite a different experience from one another, but I love them both.

[@robertrosicki9290]

I'm one of those old guys that really knows that era Sportster . I've been riding and owning them since '78 .The " sealant" under the lid for the front master cylinder is actually the flat diaphragm/seal that contains the brake fluid and also keeps brake fluid from peeing out the tiny vent hole in the master cylinder lid . That diaphragm is the size of the lid and is it's own part .That bike takes DOT 5 silicone based brake fluid and only DOT 5 that's why the front master cylinder isn't rotted inside . The bracket that holds the instruments does clamp into the gap between the risers and handlebar clamp where you had it and the handlebars will be secure with the bracket in that spot . Your guy seems nice enough but it's too bad you don't know someone that really knows that era Sportster . The factory shop manual or Clymer manual would really help you guys out .

[@DeathColdBeer]

this guy bikes

[@BikesandBeards]

good to know

[@DeathColdBeer]

i tried shutting down some haters here talking about a ziplock bag isnt OG ...and i asked ? is the ceilng paint up to your liking bud? Much love and support. Not sure how people do it with mass haterade i call em out! then they realise their mirrror is broken, therefore cant see @@BikesandBeards

[@robertrosicki9290]

While I'm thinking of it ... The oil tank has a lift out oil filter canister just under the tank cap . Inside that canister there's what's called the " horse hair " organic fiber oil filter cartridge. It's probably degraded over the decades giving off that old shoe store smell . That should get replaced before it breaks up under use and sends debris through the engine . Also the oil tank was probably filled decades ago when it was delivered , since then the oil in the tank has crept past the oil pump ball check valve and the contents of the oil tank ( three quarts ) is probably inside the main cases of the engine . Those two issues should be addressed before running and damaging the engine . @@BikesandBeards

[@dalesworld1308]

Amazing that this stuff still exists in warehouses and dealerships. Clean the tank with vinegar, neutralize with water and baking soda after the vinegar does it's thing, dry out with a hair dryer then rinse tank with some WD40. Tanks I've seen that were lined with Kreem had the stuff peel off and make a mess.

[@halfsquatchshortbeard3435]

Damn, I really wish I had $200 for a pair of those gloves. It’s not easy finding comfy gloves for giant hands and these have room in all the right places…just finding a job with no vehicle is extremely hard too, lol…the video cheered me up though, you have consistently upbeat attitude and it’s appreciated.

[@LastCall534]

Hang in there brother, I feel where you're coming from. I'm 52 and not so much as a speeding ticket last 30 years. Was leaving a good job for a better job, had one day left at old job. Got involved with a younger woman while back, bad chick. Started drinking heavy to try and keep up. Relationship ran it's course via lies and cheating only a month into it. Got drunk one night, went to her place to air my grievances, totaled my car on the way home. Stupid,stupid mistake on my part. Now, no car, no driver license, no job, with a broken back and medical bills out the wazoo. But I'm thankful that I didn't hurt anyone else in the accident and I wasn't paralyzed. Chin up, best of luck to ya!

[@kurtfoulke5130]

Go to Cycle Gear, you can find many top of the line gloves for a fraction of the cost

[@halfsquatchshortbeard3435]

@@LastCall534 goddamn, ya, that sounds about my timeline. Hoping that the good things will happen with time to pave over the bad. Good luck to ya brother, god speed. ✌️

[@randallvaughn9318]

I think if I were a billionaire ain't paying $200 for a pair of gloves. Not unless I could scale a building with them or something.

[@garymittelstadt7821]

As a new 2Lt in the AF, with rent, a car payment and trying to pay off a guy for a 50 pan, I needed a second job. I set up new bikes for the local HD dealer. This video swept me right back there. Good times. Thanks.

[@juliancrooks3031]

Old Harleys don't leak, they mark their territory

[@MarkPalmer1000]

A beautiful original. I have a '79 Sportster that I ride regularly all summer. The 1000 Ironhead is more than brisk enough to enjoy around town where the bike as a blast to ride, just stay off fast highways with it as it gets real uncomfy over about 60 MPH. Dealers almost always installed an aftermarket Lockhart oil cooler on these. Nearly any part you'll need for it is out there which is good, as AMF Ironheads are definitely a mechanic's bike ;)

[@mx.garage]

Time moves on. Glad you and a good friend were able to document and share some great times ✌️

[@Bikes_N_Adventure]

Sorry to hear about your old tools not making it to the new shop, seeing as how you are rocking the ICON wrenches, I would HIGHLY recommend their ratcheting versions, an absolute game changer working in tight spaces!

[@MoeSlislack]

It's a bit sad you and Craig aren't teamed up anymore but on the bright side, I now have 2 great channels to watch. Yall will have to make some special team up reunion videos from time to time.

[@andysedgley]

Uk rider here: the day I passed my bike test in '87, having ridden nothing but little 125cc 2-strokes, my boss loaned me his Ironhead Sportster 1000 to ride. I'd never heard of engine braking and almost dropped it more than once, but what an experience! I thought I was Peter Fonda 😊

[@LilYeshua]

It might have had an AMF tank. My '88 883 Hugger that I purchased new had wheel bearings that developed pits just after wintering in a unheated shop for the one year that I owned it. Of course I replaced the wheel bearings. PS ,Greg is making his own spectacular videos

[@kurtfoulke5130]

What a fascinating story 😂

[@luddite6239]

It's "Craig" not "Greg" but, yes, he too makes great videos.

[@LilYeshua]

@@luddite6239 thanks. I just watched a new video that Craig released and realized my mistake

[@vinnybag-o-donuts4362]

I've got my dad's lowrider. Still ride her. She leals oil like no ones business. Rattles my kidneys to pieces, but I love that motorcycle more than anything. Every ride, he's smiling down waiting for me to twist that throttle ❤

[@RFWieder]

My first Harley was a 1978 Lowrider!! It was an AMF bike but I got a good one!! I did an 8,000+ mile trip on it and the only problem was a broken speedo cable!! I did upgrade to a 5 gallon tank and that shovelhead got 50 mpg!!

[@lpd1snipe]

Mine was VIN 2F79068H8 1978 1/2 Low rider

[@joeyshepherd3157]

I bought a 1977 xlch in 1983. I was 15 . And had a T shirt that said I’d rather push my Harley than ride a rice burner. You couldn’t give one away back then . The only people who rode them were the wild ones. It had a lot of issues and i learned a lot about motorcycle mechanics in the tech tips in the monthly easy rider magazine. WOW those were the days.

[@ahrentelford1391]

AMF Harleys get ragged on pretty bad but without out them Harley wouldn't exist. The 1000 is a fun bike way faster and nimble than you would think. I loved my 79 even though it broke down more than every other bike I have combined . We need a video on that 750 chopper too.

[@sirpoppz]

What were the causes of the breakdowns, other than Brakes, and Tires?

[@Ouka981]

I've spent over a decade on motorcycles.... and in the freight industry. I've never seen someone work a forklift that slowly before.... but hey, you didn't drop the bike. Enjoy the 45 year old new Harley.

[@JoeHamilton-m1x]

That is one heck of a find! This model, XLH 1000 (75th Anniversary Model) only had 2,323 built. Not all dealers got one, my local dealer got 2, probably because he raced for Harley. This was my first Harley, I bought from the original owner with 3K miles in 1980. The sister bike was still owned by the local dealer. It is a very powerful 1000cc and provided many great memories. If you don't keep it for yourself, let me know.

[@davidetchellsetchells4692]

I don't care how much horsepower it makes! Iron shovelhead sportsters are awesome! And they are great reliable bikes.

[@billsheppard2433]

My dad and I just got one of his buddy’s 1962 sportster going. That thing is a blast.

[@AnonyMous-jf4lc]

I have a 74 Sporty XLH 1000 right side shift. It's a family heirloom. FYI to anyone that is going to ride a ride side shift for the first time, at some point you will forget the brake is on the left and you will go to downshift and stab the rear brake. It's an eye opening experience.

[@beerbottlebaby]

Dave seems like a cool dude, hope to see more of you guys working together.

[@BikesandBeards]

Dave is the real deal

[@mitchmartin2659]

Life long Harley guy. Beautiful. AMF are cool, despite the reputation.

[@chrisrob_dasme]

Love seeing a mechanic all fired up about such a cool find, even after he probably saw and fixed 1 million bikes. What an epic find, this would be my forever bike!

[@TheAnnoyingBoss]

The gaskets are probably all ticking timebombs

[@kurtfoulke5130]

​@@TheAnnoyingBossoil is cheap

[@TheAnnoyingBoss]

@@kurtfoulke5130 good so youll replace every gasket for the cost of the oil then will you?

[@stevedingman3753]

Bought my first new bike in April 1978. A gray 1977 Sporster with a kick start, $2778 bucks out the door. Rode it for 5 years and sold it to a friend who still has it. First thing I did was gut the muffler and rejet the carb, and swap out the handlebars with a 1976 set. Uncle Sam mandated the flat handlebars in 77 not sure why. Regardless was a fine machine for a 22 year old kid. Still ride today but I'm telling you those where the days...

[@ShaneWilliams-m6o]

Can't believe you started it with that oil in it . What!!??

[@Nick-zj6lu]

I just came here to say that I appreciate you and your bible versus sir. You’re a good guy and my favorite channel to watch when I’m anxious/stressed

[@PeteRondeau]

When I was a teenager in the 80’s I had a 250cc AMF Harley. Kinda wish I still had it.

[@keithhampton9700]

The 250s were great!! They were made in Italy.Thats why they're great😂

[@jayroberts9103]

The last H-D I owned was a 1980 FLH 80, rode it for 24 years, 100,000 miles, 2 clutches, 1 top end, was a great tinker-toy.

[@sdolman79]

I reckon Craig is at home watching this saying 'whats this idiot doing' at Seans wrenching skills.

[@Kallen.]

The low mile vintage collection grows every video. Love to see it.

[@MotoWorld777]

200 for a pair of gloves? Wow, they must be great!

[@BikesandBeards]

They are

[@kurtfoulke5130]

Direct from the hand of God ! (and Amazon )

[@MrBigbrian1356]

They are made of Kevlar. If there is a shooting, you can catch the bullets lol

[@Lloyd-mo]

i owned a 1975 1000 ironhead for a short time .loved the sound and power. and it didnt vibrate no matter what the crowd says.

[@BikesandBeards]

I can’t wait to find out first hand

[@jeffomalley6015]

Good stuff brother. The guy that helped you out is a good man.

[@yogendrasahu4392]

I am not a Christian but when I watch your videos your verse mentions are one of the things i look forward to! Thank you for the positive energy!

[@stuzx7r]

came out fully detailed , yeah ok

[@X11CHASE]

It’s not fully detailed lookin, you must have low standards for what a detailed bike looks like. It’s been in a covered box the whole time.. what else did you expect

[@andrewbouffard6118]

@@X11CHASE agree but would be some kind of dust seems way too clean but what ever

[@jeremygott3665]

Thanks

[@jasonbarton4858]

$200 for a pair of gloves.🤬 No thanks

[@Nunya369]

Sewed with gold thread.

[@jeffryblackmon4846]

I owned an AMF Shortster. It ran like a scalded skunk, after a lot of kicking the engine over. It also vibrated the bars terribly with the engine mounted without cushioning.

[@tony8295]

One of my dads friends bought brand new Harleys, in the crate, during the 80s and 90s, and stored them. He had 60 or so, last time I saw him. They were stacked to the ceiling in his garage. I always thought he was crazy, but he said they were his retirement plan. As far as I know, he still has them.

[@jaypaster8244]

I think someone borrowed some original parts off that bike and replaced them with hardware store parts and parts from another bike. 🏍

[@matthewb8229]

I had an '84 XLH 1000. Had an electronic ignition and a CV carb put on it. It ran really well.

[@captaindave47]

I was so excited when you lifted off the box, it's just like the 1984 1000 Sportster I bought for my 50th 26 years ago. Mine was turquoise and absolutely beautiful. I loved that bike and now wish I had never sold it. I rode it around Spain.

[@markmcintosh7095]

My friend has one. He bought it new and it has less than 1000 miles. I rode it and you will definitely appreciate the new Harleys.

[@ScottjohnOrton]

I had a late 79 1/2 1340 shovel head 4speed FXS lowrider it was the nicest scooter I had. Rebuilt it three times 2 complete overhauls. From time to time I miss her yet I got tired of wrenching on her and the cost of parts for that year and model just kept getting more expensive. Plus I had to go thru J & P Cycles. She has a sound so sweet at the right rpm's. Like a galloping horse. 🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲

[@mize1640]

I have a 74 sportster that was my dad's first Harley. It was customized sometime in the early 80's with mini fat bod tanks. Unfortunately, it's in parts right now because I started restoring it and then got a newer Road King and it's been on the back burner for a couple of years. Watching this video makes me want to pull it back out and try to finish it.

[@ronsampservice3066]

I STILL OWN MY 1970 XLCH. BOUGHT IT IN 1997. SHE'S IN BOXES RIGHT NOW, LOTS OF HARD MILES! BUT IVE GATHERED UP ALMOST EVERYTHING I NEED TO MAKE IT GO AGAIN!

[@mariofilippi3539]

Another line of AMF-Harley motorcycles were the two-strokes made in Italy during the 70s such as the SS-125, SXT-125, SS-175 and the SS-250, all oil-injected. I had five of them over the years, they were lightweight, fun to ride and much cheaper than the larger Harleys.

[@Bbbuddy]

Black and gold, the colors of the late ‘70s.

[@jamesarcher3065]

By the way those red bolt covers are stock and not added. Older Harleys are ( vented ) the motor that is, and they will let loose with oil it's just a fact of life . They have a vent up on the right side on a AMF and one by the chain that also oils the chain . I dont know why no one knows this. A harley motor like most Motorcycle motors of that time has to be vented or with the pressure it will blow something. j-d

[@georgerobinson9275]

My boss bought one of these new back in 78 and I was riding a Honda back then. I was so jealous! He put a smoked cafe racer fairing on it and it was a nice bike!

[@derekgrubbs3517]

I love that you give the full story about the bike and the history of what was going on.

[@halethunder22]

Those guys seem like genuine people. Would definitely go to that shop if I lived in the area

[@mattparoz4246]

Dave is cool cat, I love how much he loved it when it rolled into his workshop 🇦🇺🤙🏼

[@philliphols]

I understand taking out of the box and setting it up but in not sure adding fuel and running it is helping it last. Turn it over once in a while, cycle some oil, leave the gas tank empty. Unless you want to ride it 🤷‍♂️

[@ralphqmunoz700]

Im extremely greatful for this channel, you bring it home every time, I bet you're a family man.i never looked into your bio,yet I don't have to, not my business.i do appreciate the content you provide,with your no holds bar,of the truth. Meaning companies that send you free stuff, can't persuade you into saying yesterday a company items without you going to the proof itself.csnt buy or bullshit you ❤

[@BlurredOutBoy]

I have an AMF Sturgis next to a Willie G. HD. I prefer the mojo on the AMF. It rides fine and leaks a little, but it always starts, kick and electric. The clutch is a pita, but honestly, the AMF does it for me, and that 's saying a lot because my softail was my dreambike. Don't poo on AMF, because as the video mentions, they did preserve HD and introduced many efficiencies that were carried even into the early WIllie G. days. Also, if you look around at American cars around 1978 (Pinto anyone?), you'll realize that this country had QC problems across all industries. And if you're going to insist to poo on AMF, at least ride one first. very cool.

[@milofou]

Man I just loved this video, my old man had the 2003 100th anniversary edition FatBoy, so looking at memories like this reminds me of his riding days. I just love this channel so keep up the good work!!

[@tytauer1063]

I am 33 and have a 1977 ironhead xlch, kick and electric start. If you get a chance, give me a reply and I will for surely help with whatever I know.about these bikes. I've been helping and then myself taking care of it since I was 6. Due to covid and moving around a bunch trying to get my feet back under me.. it sat for a few years unfortunately outside. I just recently got her back from my grandfather's and am in the process of rebuilding her for the second time. =) have to keep them alive!

[@edpetrocelli2633]

Me and my buddy bought a 1000cc iron head sportster with dual disc front brakes from a pawn shop here in daytona beach for $500. oF COARSE IT DIDN`T RUN BUT IT WASN`T LOCKED UP EITHER. A carb kit and pionts and some wirirng and it started right up, Noisy upper end and some what smoky but it ran nice. 12hrs to fix it and 3 hrs of ride time to wreck it into a gaurd rail....no one was hurt but our feelings took a shot. It was only about 4 yrs ago

[@pastorbobncc365]

I'm 70 and I have an original 1974 XLH AMF on the tank and love it.

[@MayheM_72]

My ex father in-law bought a brand new '69 Sportster when he graduated high school. He still owns it today...BUT...after he saw Easy Rider, he totally chopped it up. Hardtail, long raked forks, super high riser with flat bars, king and queen seat with padded sissy bar, metal-flake paint with pinstripes, iron cross mirror, etc. (He also bought a '69 Super Bee 383 when he graduated, and he wishes he still had that, too!)

[@suffolkmike1]

I bought a new 1978 Superglide. And you're right about Harley not putting the kick start on them. They only had electric start and i had it in the shop 3 times in six months to get it fixed. Harley only had a 6 month warranty then so i put a kick start on it. I moved to Houston in 1980 and it got stolen after living there only a few months. Needless to say i never saw it again.

[@malcolmr3]

I had a Ironhead Sporty with the 4 speed tranny that I absolutely loved. It was, by far, the best little “bar hopper” I ever rode. It had the best (IMO) power to weight ratio for around town runs and the balance always felt so smooth to me. I miss that bike, but as an old fat boy I now ride a FLDWG with a 118cid engine and 6 speed that is a better all around (town and highway) bike after my mods.

[@RobertRattazzi]

I worked at San Diego Harley Davidson as a mechanic from 78 to 81. At 929 India st, downtown SD. I still own and ride a 68 shovel that I bought in 75, precisely because it wa pre-AMF. But what folks should remember is that Honda almost bought Harley in 69. Harley took a lower bid from AMF to remain American. Please remember that AMF stands for.. "American Machine and Foundry." Ok, yes, in 69 they were mostly "Leisure Products ", bowling equipment, and such. They also made golf carts. But AMF just stuck the Harley name on what they were already making. Harley never made a golf cart. It also should be noted... And REMEMBERED....that AMF put a LARGE investment into Harley, updating their casting and machining processes, and giving line workers a better deal. AMF introduced early NC machining to HD. AMF, as one fully American co. SAVED another fully American co. AMF should not be vilified for what they did. Especially because, in 1981, AMF took a low bid to set Harley free, to Willy G Davidson, Von Beals and some other very brave men whose names I can no longer recall. These men mortgaged their homes and families to save an iconic American brand. Please stop trashing AMF. Would you prefer "Honda Davidson"? I presently still have my 68 shovel, a 39 U side valve that I rode from Long Island, NY toSan Diego in74, and, an 01 Duece and an 02 Heritage.. The 01 and 02 Twin Cams were both bought new and are now high mileage. They've given years of faithful service I left SD Harley Davidson in July of 81. A month or 2 later, Harley was set free. I'm sorry that I missed the celebration at San Diego Harley. AMf,.... American Machine and Foundry, saved Harley.

[@TonyLemWoodsPhillips]

I bought a slightly used 1979 Sportster on November 3rd, 1978. I wanted to help you with this bike soooo bad I wanted to climb through the computer monitor!! I know everything there is to know about the last of the Ironheads. I kept mine forty years before parting with it to earn money to save my 1977 ElectraGlide. Wiring diagram to help you with those wires Bro!!! They are Oil Pressure, Gen, and Odometer, Tach lights wires.

[@VitriolicThunder]

My dad has a '77 that we are restoring. He bought it new and the first thing he did was have his buddy replace all the AMF parts.

[@243wayne1]

Dave is a fantastic individual and truly loves motorcycles!

[@dozerblade]

I had the model that came next in 1979 , the XLS 1000, different frame exhausts and shocks, air cleaner, etc