HARLEY Davidson SHOVELHEAD Is WAY PRIMITIVE Of A MOTORCYCLE For Today's RIDERS

The Harley Davidson Shovelhead is way primitive of a motorcycle for today's generation of riders is my thought; That is unless you're willing to get your hands dirty when the intervals come. Here's an update on the Tramp (the 1200 sportster chopper) and on my thoughts plus what I've done and plan to do on the shovelhead.
Patreon: / saddletramptv
Merch: saddetramp-mer...
Instagram: / saddletrmp
Facebook: / saddletramp-1017992545...

[@buzzpoluchi3217]

I don't think you mentioned what year the shovel is, but it matters. The original design was 74 ci..In the late 70's displacement was increased to 80 ci. While the 80 had better performance, reliability did suffer. The design had been maxed out, and like most American companies h-d started hiring incompetent college kids as engineers. They spent millions fixing problems that didn't exist and creating new ones. I bought a used '71 when I was 17. I still have it (I'm 65 now). I used to do a lot of long trips and I remember a guy in the parking lot after a dirt track race somewhere who said "man, you ride that thing all over the country and don't even carry a wrench do you?" I didn't know him, but I thought that was cool. I often rode at 80 - 90 mph all day. The shovel just ate it up. Enjoyed the video, Tramp. Ride the shit out of your shovel and don't sweat it.

[@vernleroyson331]

Original Shovelhead on a big V Twin was 1966. 1966 to and including 1969 were produced with Shovelheads on a Pan bottom end. They were all generator Shovels, sometimes referred to Slab side Shovels.

[@jeffreyjablowicz1200]

Loved my 71 flh, should of sold the wife, instead of the bike

[@cleophusA]

Brother, you are in for such an interesting and memorable experience with your shovelhead! I rode one for 30 years in one form or another, and never regretted a single minute, well, maybe a minute... and they DO all have different temperaments and definite personalities. You're going to have a lot of fun!

[@jongarner7264]

I just got my first one , a 72 .not started in 2 years. I put a starter cylinoid.battery. plugs n gas...rode for 3 daze. Now she wont fire.lol

[@geraldfrasure9849]

I rode a 1340 low rider for years the ss e carb help it especially the air adjustment on it I put the biggest jet the carb had it would fall on it face when opened up so I put the next size jet down it came with a jap carb from factory a kumhold or something 😂

[@calummccreath2345]

Shovels are a living breathing thing truly with a character the moco hasn’t had since. My 78 Lowrider used to chase Evos around easy enough and would happily cruise at 80mph, having said that you knew you had done a days riding👍 It was exactly like being married, everything in multiples of 100 bucks, required frequent maintenance and when it wasn’t going right you wondered why you bothered……… But when it was good….. nuthin like it👍👍

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Yeah, it's certainly like a relationship with a female. Fix one thing, then another. My wife said that's part of the courtship. I told her then I'll name this bike after my exwife. Lol

[@ForewarnedLongAgo]

Amen!

[@leighfisk1344]

My 81 lowrider will cruise at 75-85 but its happiest at 55 60 the engine vibe is at its wost at 65 75 at 80 it starts to smoth out at 85 90 it was smother than a switchback

[@gregwise5324]

Shovelheads were high tech when they were new. We used to go fast on them.

[@ranapennata]

If things were different, they wouldn't be the same.

[@dadrok]

That shovel should do 110 no problem. They’re faster then my two stock evo’s. Been playing with Harley’s for 53 years. You definitely have a keeper.

[@ThePerpetualStudent]

i am 43 and finally have enough money to get my first bobber. I don't want a knuckle or a pan but would you suggest a post 78 shovelhead or an EVO? thank you for your help.

[@Oldwhiteguy]

Yep, all day.

[@deplorableredneck4.02]

@@ThePerpetualStudent shovel is only way to go

[@ThePerpetualStudent]

@@deplorableredneck4.02 forgive my ignorance but could you explain why? Just trying to learn.

[@deplorableredneck4.02]

@@ThePerpetualStudent actually I am glad you asked..shovels are really easy to work on..parts are easy to find..old people enjoy the shovel look..

[@ProbablyStonedComments]

First time I rode a Harley by myself was my dads 81 at the blowout in Gulfport. Wide glide front end, fat bob tanks and fenders. It was brand new Harley tech at the time. I was probably 15 and thought I was the coolest thing around. He actually broke his ankle kick starting it, but told everyone he tripped coming out the house. 😂 great memories.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Lol! I can relate. My first Harley was kick only. Shortly after owning it, I was walking into the Harley shop on crutches to buy parts.

[@ProbablyStonedComments]

@@SaddleTrampTV so glad I come from a motorcycle family. If you don’t ride, you’re missing out.

[@smilingbiter]

I had numerous Shovelheads from '76 HD 74" to my last one, '84 80". Even my '74 could do 110 MPH. They use oil like no tomorrow. HD use to float their heads with oil because the valves use to stick at around 6000 miles. HD finally fixed the problem by releasing the excessive oil from the heads and looked u a line from the heads to the casing. Later ones had the inline built into the heads and cylinders. My 1984 was the very best shovel, the last ones made and the First Evo's made by HD. The top ends are easy to work on, I never had a torque wrench and somehow did everything mostly right.

[@curtissloan2486]

LOL, the last time I went 100 on my shovel I almost lost a kidney. Even my 97 evo gets angry with ya at 70.

[@smilingbiter]

@@curtissloan2486 Very funny, but so true. I remember when I bought my knucklehead, I was about 18 yrs old, I phoned the HD dealer and told him that my motor mounts were shot and I needed a new one. It was quiet at the ether end then he said, there are no motor mounts, they just vibrate a lot. LOL

[@smilingbiter]

@@curtissloan2486 Some were better than others. My '76 HD 74 wasn't too bad. The one thing that broke regularly was the muffler supports. I was always getting them welded or replaced. I remember going to a Chiropractor and he told me he never seen a spine so out of wack.

[@ronnybooze8003]

Had an old Harley mechanic tell me every time he took a bike for a test ride he ALWAYS went up the hill in case he had to push it home. I really miss that old fellow. He rode dispatch rider for George Patton in WW2.

[@tomakafrankconlon3207]

Sure comrade. We believe you.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

That man must have been some kind of trooper.

[@ranapennata]

Sounds like the voice of experience. Harley, Harley, made of tin. Ride it out and push it in.

[@lawnboyfromhell]

What size tranny sprocket you have on it? Stock is 23 but a 24 is definetly better for cruising. You can also use a 25, but dont let your chain get slack, you"ll eat the bottom of your starter mount out of the inner primary. Pacific Mike is an awesome guy to ask questions about older bikes, If he doesn't know, nobody does!😆

[@SaddleTrampTV]

No clue. Haven't been that far into it yet. Yeah, Pacific Mike is a wealth of knowledge.

[@jasonjensen6899]

Bumping up the trans sprocket works great. Try one tooth at a time. Mine has a 24 and will crush @70. The bike will let you know what it wants. you just have to fine the sweet spot then gear it where you ride it the most. Don’t gear it too high With a stock motor. Changing the rear tire diameter also has an effect on gearing

[@joebehanna5894]

That's great advise .

[@conmanstudios7036]

Good to know

[@dutchyjhome]

Hey dude, this Mighty Shovelhead (I'm still jealous) is from the era is which at least 2 golden rules were applied except from regular maintenance of course; 1. Chrome won't take ya home 2. Don't fix it when it aint broke And some more: Your Shovelhead does not leak oil; the bike is simply dominant and likes to mark its territory! Why does a Shovelhead marks it's place? Well to let you know there still is oil in the engine to begin with ;-) Oil on the floor is a good sign, so don't worry. You'll have to start worrying when your Shovelhead stops leaking oil... you're probably out of oil ;-) And just for your information, the Shovelhead motorcycles are very popular in Japan. Since Japanese motorcyclists really want to ride their pride and joy, and they really do not want to break down all the time, they've been filleting and approving the Shovelheads and they seem to have found ways to improve the ride and reliability because they don't want to carry a service-truck loaded with tools and pare parts behind them when they go out with their Shovelheads. So for all that matters, I'd say try to find out what exactly they did to improve their Shovelheads, because men and women can actually Kick their own Shovelheads and go out for a ride ! I'd say go find the knowledge where it is available !

[@lawnboyfromhell]

When I have ignition troubles I usually replace that stuff with a Dyna S dual fire and a set of advance weights, those early ecms where not very reliable I knew a lot of people that took them out and ran points. If you run anything with advance weights, make sure you take them out about once a year and clean them up and lube them. It's all good for the soul.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Noted!

[@TheWolfsnack]

I ran Dyna S ignition in my last two bikes....the one I ride now has a screaming eagle ignition. if it calves, I will go to a Dyna 2000

[@cleophusA]

Yes, points. Definitely. Also, take the trouble to find a good quality condenser.

[@lawnboyfromhell]

@@TheWolfsnack One of my buds is running a 2000i in a 106 Shovel, we had to replace the ignition once as it melted and also replaced the coil once. The coil is a single fire coil for dual plugged heads, other than that he hasn't had any touble since, with the 2000i he also runs a VOES as the bike seems to run a bit better with it.

[@David-og7di]

@@lawnboyfromhell Thanks for this post. I have an 80" EVO, may I ask if the VOES are known to go bad? It's a maintenance schedule task I have avoided and would be interested in others experience. Best from NZ

[@tetlow2]

Bikes look great as always. I believe you have to get your hands dirty to be a biker. Everyone else is an enthusiast. Haha

[@DougFLTRX]

I could never afford anything that wasn't clapped-out or broken down. The one time I thought I was actually getting a good ride, was last summer when I bought an old Softail. One hour into the ride and it was suddenly rattling like someone threw $50 worth of quarters into the dryer and turned it on. Rear exhaust tappet was wasted, corresponding cam lobe was wiped, the oil pump had scoring, the pistons and jugs had a couple deep scratches. I learned how to rebuild that motor from KZbin. Still fighting the Super E tuning because of these straight pipes....I must say that I'm glad for the experience nevertheless, but my wallet is about $3K lighter after repairing everything I could find wrong with the bike. One thingi noticed is that I'm much more confident in a machine that I've had to take completely apart. No more hidden surprises and it makes riding it more enjoyable without worrying about how far away from the house I can ride without issues

[@mikefox1479]

@@DougFLTRX put some lollipops in or run longer straights for more restrictions that S&S E will like it.

[@fps636]

Yeah, wrenching is how you earn the riding! Always good stuff Tramp. If I can't be in my garage, I can be in yours.

[@jefferyfoster2774]

I had 1978 1/2 fxe I just sold it to my oldest. I told him if you can ride this and maintain it you've earned your stripes. I do 98% of my own work so I agree with this statement

[@mickangio16]

@@DougFLTRX I could either tune my Super E equipped 74" Shovel to run fairly well at mid rpm or high rpm but not both with open drag pipes until I modified my carburetor. I experimented with baffles and homemade restrictions in the pipes but that just cut out too much of my power and I wasn't gonna live with that. I installed a Thunderjet kit in the S&S Super E and once tuned it rode beautifully and screamed through the entire RPM range at WOT perfectly. I don't think the Thunderjet itself was the most significant part of the modification but the air bleed modification that goes along with it. The S&S carb is designed with the main system air bleed internally in the carburetor and part of the Thunderjet kit installation is to modify the carb for an external, easy to access and adjust main system air bleed. What happens with the drag pipes is that the pulses in the pipes activate the high speed system of the carb too early and the air/fuel mix goes over rich through that part of the rev range. By enlarging the air bleed it delays the transition point between the circuits. The Thunderjet kit contains the parts and instructions to install and the key part of the modification as far as I'm concerned is the externally adjustable air bleed modification. I did have to buy a couple taps and drill bits, though, I think. Forget about restricting your exhaust and focus on tuning your fuel mixture. Needing "backpressure" is a scam. On the other hand, now, before I put 40" long, 1-3/4" drag pipes on the bike I used a factory stock type 2-1 type pipe that I cleaned up the crude entrance of the rear pipe into the main pipe and ran it open with a slash cut. The S&S Super E ran perfectly with no modifications with that pipe on it. As much as I liked how it ran that way it didn't compare with how the motor wound out the rpm and the power it made with the drag pipes and modified carb. Zipper's sells an externally adjustable air bleed kit that is a fraction of the price and easier to install than the whole Thunderjet kit. I didn't try the air bleed tuning modification without the Thunderjet but I think would do well. If you have money to spend, install or have somebody install a Thunderjet kit and make sure to also have the external air bleed modification.

[@shanecoker8566]

I have an unrestored 69 FLH and it’s happy at 55-60 mph. The guy that rebuilt my motor was against the idea of changing the sprocket for interstate speeds. Stating that these old bikes aren’t designed for that kind of speed. Just a couple of things I’ve learned about a shovel is they take a lot of maintenance, drive them like is the 1960’s & 70’s and they give less trouble. Oh and everyone is your friend at the bar. I’m still running points with no problems. 🥃😎

[@SaddleTrampTV]

That's kinda what I was thinking.

[@ratjaw75]

Can't wait for more Shovelhead content. I just bought a '78 FXE and it looks like you and I are going down the same path. As always I following along with all your builds. Keep on makin' videos and I'll keep on watching.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Will do!

[@steveng.6267]

I took the 49 tooth rear sprocket off my shovel and I’m now running a 45 tooth. Lots more top end speed and those old shovels have so much torque I still don’t want for power on the bottom either

[@Harley.Davidson]

Good call on the mids! 😎 HEY NOW!.....my '79 FLH King of the Highway full dresser is a 70mph+ freeway jammer all day! 🤣 Shovelhead gap with electronic ignition go 0.040" on Champion RN12YC. Plug wrench & fresh plugs with a Super E carb is a good idea. 🙃 Don't be afraid to long haul on your Shovel. Shovelheads work on "flow" not pressure. Ya...the turn signals take a little getting used to. I LUV THE MUSIC!!!!

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Thanks for that info, man!

[@mikemurphy7277]

I have electronic on my 72 fl spark gap 0.40 have 15 thousand miles on her and i say hard miles no leaks no breakdowns. When i rebuilt it i used the best gaskets sealers and locktight harleys in the early 70s when they sit for a while will spit a nice puttle of oil on your floor then go away. Trans is a rebuilt 4spd that takes a beating hi rpms powershifting and does eighty all day long. Front sprocket 24 rear 28 forgot to mention andrew gears engine has 40 over sas pistons Andrews cam solid lifters sas e carb 2 inch drag pipes mild headwork new guides and valves first 3 gears it goes like hell and loud is not the word hit 4th gear and it still pulls pretty hard. Ha ha at night ripping thru the gear i shoot flames out the pipes not bad for a 74 incher. Ps drive fast or be last

[@mikemurphy7277]

Sorry 48 tooth rear sprocket

[@BillyBlaze7]

Back in 1980 my mom played a dirty trick on me, she said if I passed my current grade in school she would buy me a Harley, we went so far as to drive to the dealership in Monroe ,La and I picked out an orange and black sportster, i fell in love with it. I was a rail thin kid.. Then she said I had to be able to pick it up, which I couldn't, i didnt get the bike. Later my first Harley was a orange and black sportster, I sent her a pic before I rode it home and told her I finally got it lol I rode Kawai's most of my riding history simply because I couldnt afford a Harley, but thanks to shows like SOA, all the RUB's went out and bought Harleys and let them sit in the garage, when they started selling new old bikes it drove the price down where I could finally own one, Ive had three since then, but even though Ive had different bikes each time the sporty was the most fun, agile, and fastest, I miss it...but I can only afford one at a time haha

[@Slartibartfast70]

I had a 1978 1/2 Shovel. (halfway through the year they changed to electronic pick up from points), rode the freeways of Ca. at 75 to 80 without leaking oil. Wish I still had it.

[@glenngarza1845]

For me, initially, it is about being on a machine out on the road...an experience. I have only been on a shovelhead once, and maybe for about a 20 minute ride. It was crazy. The bike shook so much that, at highway speed, my hands actually became translucent. Amazing. I wanted one. Unfortunately, or maybe fortunately, it did not work out at that time. But, and maybe I am wrong, it seems that there has to be a connection between me, the bike, the environment and the road. Then all is right with the world.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Translucent... Thats funny.

[@tommontague5721]

Old bikes are in a class of their own. I still restore 60's era bikes, those are the ones I grew up wishing I had. I restored a BSA 650 Lightning. Fast, with drum brakes. It takes until next Tuesday to stop. After every ride you do a tooth filling count. Good video's.....Thanks!

[@markmcintosh7095]

BSA Lighting was my dream bike when I was a kid. The BSA dealer used to let us kids sit on them and was a super nice man. When I bought my first bike I went to him and got a 250 BSA thumper.

[@rharrison3234]

I've had 2 shovels since '80. Happy with both. Love the iron head sound vs newer ones.

[@retrotechandelectronics]

Man, I left the house today without tools in a rush, and i got a bad feeling. I just finished the restoration so I didnt expect a problem , but sure enough one crimp connector off the main breaker, and I was out of business...

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Sucks when that happens

[@jamestaddeo4435]

I have a 79 FXSR-80, she's a beast and what a glorious, troubled, beast she is! If I had the facilities I would tear it down to the frame and finish/repair all of the things Harley left undone. Just got my heads and rocker boxes done but now it's zero degree's out in the scooter shed. Super E rebuild kit came in, new tires, front end seal kit, brake caliper rebuild kits, the list goes on. Even with it's troubles I LOVE this blasted machine. Enjoy!

[@SaddleTrampTV]

There's something about getting to know these things.

[@antondahl8945]

I put 108,000 miles on my 883 sportster that I bought new in 1993. I switched the electronic ignition to points high performance system. Works great! Also switched stock Japanese carb to an S&S super E,switched belt drive to chain and sprockets,and made own long drag pipes,utilizing stock crossover pipe header system. 3 trips to Sturgis from NC on this bike,several to Myrtle and Daytona . Still runs great.

[@mattovictimcycles1334]

Cory you have to stop listening to these nay sayers about shovelheads.... My 84 wide glide has never fouled a plug never used oil never leaked oil.... Stop it 🛑......Bought mine brand new..... All bikes have their own personality.....

[@rhonnachurch6929]

I love the wideglides! Big fan of shovelheads! Have an excellant day, fellas. Phx

[@michaelgurgone1611]

I grew up on shovelheads, once you sort them out they are very dependable machines. I never packed tools and I rode it to work everyday, I totally agree, my 93 EVO is high tech compared to my past superglides, but those shovels definitely have more character and a better sound, basically the evo is a refined shovel in my opinion. That wide glide front end was definitely a big improvement in the looks department. I would lose the chrome oil tank and find a stock black painted one. I always thought my old shovels could easily pull a fifth gear and wondered why Harley only had a four speed gear box? Same on my 93 EVO always wondered why Harley only didn’t put a sixth gear on it? Lol

[@cleophusA]

Why didn't Harley put a 5th gear on their shovels? Because Harley's got to be Harley! Why have five when four has done the job for decades? I actually got to ride a shovel that had a 5- speed retrofit gearbox. It was like an answer to a prayer! Harley should have went to the 5-speed when they introduced the shovel. Oh well.....

[@regrangihuna5089]

The fxr shovel came out with a 5 speed.

[@michaeledwards8058]

me too I had my 81 Sturgis for 20 years and in the last few years ran a 40mm Weber and 2 into 1 exhaust . very different sound but great performance

[@ForewarnedLongAgo]

I have a 5 on my Low rider. It's like the overdrive you wished was there years ago!

[@smokinjoe6924]

I put a 24 front and a 48 rear sprocket on my shovel and its a lot like riding my evo softail as far as the gearing goes. Now it likes 75 or 80 mph all day. Biggest problem i have is keeping the intake from leaking. looks grate with the wide glide on it. enjoy it they are a lot of fun

[@alstone5257]

there is a great fix for the intake leak, i am not advertising for who sells them but with that said check out lowbrow for a Tite seal kit they work.

[@James_P60]

Biggest issue I had with my 80 FLT Shovelhead is that it took out a few staters in the 23 years I drove it. Love the shov.

[@ScottieEnnis]

Just picked up an 82 flh, definitely more hands on than the newer stuff....but man does it have soul

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Yes they do.

[@PRB1098]

A well sorted Shovelhead can hold down 100+ all day, but even the rest should be happy to cruise around 80, it may take a little work to get there. Good maintenance and electronic ignition really help. P.S. I don't advise cleaning plugs with a wire wheel or brushes as the porcelain insulators are not the hard glazed material the used to be and the wire brush can leave metal deposits in the insulator leading to spark tracking issues (they are also porous so hold contaminants). When they are done they are done, fit new. I buy Champion RN12YC copper cored plugs by the 20x box so always have a new set on hand, they work out relatively inexpensive compared to the potential issues running old plugs.

[@sword-and-shield]

Some say that bout my 96 Fatboy Evo, but she still shines new, remains reliable, and is out rolling with the rest of em. Looks and sounds better to boot.

[@donrice8026]

i ve rode the same gen.shovel dresser for 49 yr never been a problem bike when it don t kick start right i go to the points clean and set it keeps the timing right that keeps the plugs in good shape happy trails

[@doug3805]

The old Harleys have a character that no other bikes have. Enjoy your videos.

[@fmagalhaes1521]

@SaddleTramp. Seeing the title of your video is exactly why I want a shovelhead.

[@patmanwainwright3423]

Hey mate if you use your multi meter on OHMS whit the bell on touch one to each end of the wire and you bet the bell noise that mean your wire is not broken a sparky call it belling the cable if you ends of the wires are too far apart just use a scrap peace of wire twist it on at one end and bell through that to make it reach anyway good luck what ever you do.

[@Deacon_biscuits]

On my last shovel I fitted an aftermarket single fire ignition, it smooths the vibes out and they don't sound the same but it would sit at 70mph all day long. You got a new sub too, got my interest with this bike.

[@mikecavossa6450]

Been riding my 73 shovel since 1980... Oh the memories!! Broke down twice in all those years, once was a coil oh, the other was a condenser...

[@DougFLTRX]

Those forward controls you had were what I like to call "Early Billet Barge"

[@SaddleTrampTV]

More like Ugly Billet Barge.

[@ziptie7095]

I ran points in my older scooter. Also I would keep a set of plugs and point with me. The older scooters do have a personality all their own. When you learn it it alike a beautiful friendship. Just remember even friends fight though, enjoy!

[@scottspencer8358]

Never had a problem with plugs on my 74 shovel. You have other problems like rings or guides. Ran mine at 75/85 mph for hours at a time and never fouled plugs. Love my shovel and would never own a newer evo .

[@user-st4gq2ox8m]

Got a 77 AMF Shovel In a molded 52 Ridged Harley Frame with a Jammer Gas Tank. It's stock never gave me a snivel and after years of Pans so cool to just hit the button to fire it. I'm a Pilot so do use 110 octane from the Airport to keep the valves happy...It warms my heart to see others loving and building Bikes.. Tramp you're like a visit from and old Brother...Yes be good to Yourself...

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Right on

[@bottmar1]

Sure is a lot of guys saying they use Champion resistor spark plugs in their shovels. I used non-resistor AC plugs because I could get 23,000 miles on them and still not need to replace them. Ressistor plugs of any type tend to break down internally and misfire at cruising speed. It is getting hard to find non-resistor plugs though. I had a set of Harley resistor plugs that didn't even make to 5000 miles before problems. Had to replace them by the side of the road. Champion made those plugs for Harley. Never again! We would not install Champion plugs even in cars in the shops I worked in because of all the come backs and complaints.

[@dirkg7062]

Thanks for the info. I will try non-resistor plugs

[@bottmar1]

@Dirk G. I found that non-ressistor plugs worked in my Chevy Luv pickup longer too. I have had that truck for 42 years too along with the same 79 Harley Superglide. I log everything in small spiral note books, one for each vehicle, so I don't have to remember the results of my repairs. Thanks for your kind reply. Lots of people think they know the best way so they won't listen to me even with my 52 years as a mechanic.

[@calvinhobbes7504]

When I was a young chimp in So. Cal, before the yuppies discovered Harleys, it was assumed that if you owned any HD, you knew the drill .... multiple maintenance hours per each riding hour! And you wrenched it yourself except for stuff that required specialized tools or machining. Back then, it seemed there was always a graybeard around to make sure you did the job right. I figure my '70 shovelhead lasted 20 years longer than I thought it would before I let her go because of those older guys. Now a graybeard myself, well, videos like yours really bring back the warmth of those days.

[@davidoman2200]

I would keep the forward control setup, just change the hardware, but that's just me. New subscriber, love your videos and testimony. Godspeed.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Thanks, David!

[@tonywiegmann88]

Most people love the forward controls. And hate the mid controls. The set you have are pretty expensive.

[@stevekeith9854]

I'm one of those shovelheaders who gather at the Kickstand Lodge in Stecoah North Carolina. Hope to see you there!

[@SaddleTrampTV]

When do you guys do that?

[@29687ray]

Jims makes an Evo oiling system for shovel heads. It's pricey but I did it very remarkable up grade. That little oil line to the heads is gone. Engine sounds a lot better less tear downs.

[@swampdwellermichael]

Although my everyday rider is a evo. I do have a 1981 Flh which is a shovel. I’ve put a lot of miles on that old bike and found that a oil cooler and a 47 tooth sprocket keep her happy. If your chain is wore out as much as you say then your sprockets are probably wore out to. I’d change them out and run a 23 tooth front and 47 tooth rear.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

I'll consider that.

[@spyder328]

Shovels can be pretty reliable once you go thru them a bit and make sure things are in proper order. As far as gearing, I run 24/51 on my 1976 super glide (74ci). It'll do 65-70 all day. A popular gearing for them is 24/49 which I had tried, but due to mine being a 74ci and me being around 240lbs, it didn't have enough engine for that gear ratio on the highway. My dad runs that gearing (24/49) on his 86ci panhead and it is perfect for that bike. The extra cubic inches really help it out

[@vinceaikens195]

Coils only gonna have power on one side when the keys on. The other one is triggered by the box. Usually the coil goes bad first because the housing gets old and cracked and let's moisture get in and shorts it out

[@ImminghamIronhead]

My Ironhead is from the 55mph era, but I found going from a 51 tooth rear sprocket to a 45 worked far better. It still accelerates fine, but there's quite a gap between 3rd and 4th (top) . I tend to only use 4th for motorways (British freeways) now. It's my only bike, so it has to do it all :-) PS Love the shovel - Marianne Faithful on her Electra Glide was my Sons of Anarchy.

[@johnnyblade9272]

It's not just a Harley, it's an adventure. Glad you enjoy tinkering with these bikes, cause you've got plenty on your plate right now. I'd be pleased to have the Heritage Softail, it's always been a favorite of mine since I got a chance to ride one year ago. Just couldn't afford it at the time, maybe next time.

[@craiggoodwin9704]

Cory, love it when you end with "I just having too much fun!". It looks like you are all the way into the sunset. Thanks for Sharing!

[@ruger45hollowpoint]

FYI, when I was riding a 81 FXWG (for 21 yrs.) I used a spark plug socket and a wratheting boxend for socket to have the clearance for front plug.

[@arenhoomen5502]

The ol shovel looks great! But ya gotta keep a FEW tools on it JUST in case. I sure do love mine.. She's not primitive, she's a 50 y.o. antique! Keep up the great work on yours,and those two wheels planted on the ground, sir! Peace.

[@jlance6898]

I.rode.shovelhead.for.40.years I.know.harley.made.big.inpovment.the.newer.bike.are.real.nice.i.think.i.going.to.put.a.baker.6.speed.in.my.old.shovel.a.little.new.school.for.my.old.school.shovel..?

[@arenhoomen5502]

@@jlance6898,I have a Sputhe 5 spd in mine

[@channelx92]

3 years ago I was ran off the road on my Sportster Custom. My bike was totaled by the insurance company and I purchased it back. I started slowing piecing it together and during that time my dad had a stroke. It made it impossible for him to ride again. He gave me his 1967 FLH that he purchased when he returned home from Vietnam. I remember riding on this bike in front of my dad because I was so little. Him being in a MC this bike has been everywhere. Sturgis, Daytona, Laconia, ect. I've ridden nothing but EVOS my whole life but this bike has taken away some of my urgency to get my Sportster together. Yes I have a small oil leak and it surprises me now and then with a roadside repair but I love it and wouldn't trade that shovelhead for nothing. I believe the Evo is the best engine that Harley ever made but the shovelhead has a soul

[@Johnclark300]

Well one thing I do know is the two biggest enemies of Harley shovels is vibration and heat thats what kills every shovel and most Harley Davidsons I used to have a iron head. What I noticed about mine what electrical issuse would happen. And one time I was in the process of starting my bike and it only ran on one cylinder one day. At first I though that the rear spark plug went out. I replaced both plugs. Kicked it over and same thing. So I pulled out the rear spark plug and kicked it over using the front cylinder to clear out the rear so it literally was running on the front cylinder with the rear cylinder without the sparkplug. It turned out that the rear cylinder was flooded it shot out alot of gas. I ran it for 5 seconds. Turned the bike off put the rear plug back in then kicked it over and it was running on both cylinders again. The old bikes are great just keep in mind they are extremely temperamental.

[@gimlet61cotswoldlad38]

Am running a 83 FXRS and a 76 FLH When riding either, they lift the soul and put a smile on my face. Speed isn't the be all, enjoying the run between A to B is the main thing, so leave extra time and as you say, smell the roses.

[@jasonbruno6084]

Right on. I have a 72 FLH that is now a 88" stroker built by GMS racing and I own a 81 Wideglide. I absolutely love my Shovels. The 85 FXRC is the best riding and handling Harley I've owned but there is just something about Shovelheads that I'm drawn to. Good to see ya on a Shovel now..🤣 later dude and good luck

[@ironhead2521]

I just got my first EVO after riding a 76 hardtail chopper, And I had a 68 both Iron Heads last year, And your right brother ! Its a whole new world learning a new motor and how it sounds and acts! My iron heads as you know. Are great when they run right! But a pain when they dont! I like getting on my EVO and NOT worrying about having tools!! Any way it goes have fun finding out what your new women wants! And keep the rubber side down!

[@shrop]

Welcome to the Shovel world, dude. Really enjoyed your video when you got this bike. Yes. Super simple machine. And all vibration and character.... That huge smile on your face when you got it home after the first ride?! THAT is why you build and ride simple old machines. Welcome to the wind, Brother!

[@stevecrawford7814]

I’ve been riding Shovels since they were brand new state of the art machines. Most of my 74’s would hold 85 on the highway. My 80’s would do 90. I have an 82 FXR it s quick for a Shovel, beat 103 twin cams sometimes, depends on the other rider. My 84 FLHX is my favorite Shovelhead it has a Baker 6 speed handshift rocker clutch. The exhaust sounds so good, you can tell a shovel from blocks away.If you stay on top of the maintenance they are pretty reliable. Old school too Kool. Hope you get yours sorted out and enjoy it.

[@timothyalthouse926]

Hey just wasted to let you know . A guy called Pacific Mike has a channel on older bikes. He owns a panhead, knucklehead, shovelhead And In the process of building a big flathead. He's a old timer and worked on bikes his whole life. He knows his stuff. Check him out .

[@themissuscostelli497]

We love Pacific Mike! Great channel and a wealth of info. Thanks!

[@SaddleTrampTV]

I watch him from time to time.

[@RatsAndFunTV]

When i have bought my shovel, i have been very happy to found one with the originals mid controls.

[@jamieduckworth5946]

Yes the old blinkers work like that. Plugs do fowl out on them. Somethings to help that I did to stop that. I use a spyke electric ignition instead of points (huge upgrade), and made sure my jets were right ( I do have a S&S carb)in the carb. Mine seems to idle the same everytime. The gearing: My Dad years ago ( late 70's) changed the gear on the engine (most forward one on the engine) to a larger one (23 teeth he thinks), and also got rid of the compensator (cone shaped thing behind the gear). People also did change the sprocket, but it is riveted on (I think that's why it's still the original one). You can do both and it would work really good. Shovels will smooth out at certain speeds. I ride mine like 72, 83 or faster for long distances. Little bit of oil weeping on long rides. Mine doesn't have that much valve train noise. I have hydraulic lifters. Solid lifters make more noise until warm. I know 71 through maybe 75 have the speedo cable in the tranny if that helps. Use blue loctite on everything, or you'll be constantly tightening up things. Everyone sets the idle way to low. It sounds really cool, but it's hard on the bottom end I've been told. My idle is low, and it sounds good. Mine is a 72 superglide (electric start too, but I still kick it. Just nice to have) with a wideglide frontend, mechanical drum break (both chromed plus rocker boxes too), and a 21 inch tire. A real nice upgrade too is the newer style stator (like my 99 heritage Springer classic). On your block head sporty usually the ecu works or they don't. Usually you find that out when you go to restart it, and it doesn't happen. Hope this helps some. Mine is lowered to, but I kept the original split buckhorn handle bars grips, and everything.

[@joescott803]

My first thought is kill switch making it not start. Man that shovel is sweet. I love it the way it is

[@billh3-21]

Corie they make plug cleaners ,they are air powered use ground up walnut hulls for the medium. & work extremely well. Love you both.

[@wadescheppert6465]

i went with a 48 tooth rear sprocket ad a 24 front. with a standard ratchet lid 4 spd it will cruise 70 all day long. i really didnt notice any loss in power but my mill is a 80in with a mild cam. my bike is light tho,. its built to look like a 76 fxe superglide.i did put a 88 to 99 narrow glide on it wich allowed me to mount MUCH better brakes.

[@chopperjohn9977]

When i lose spark on stuff i check for a dirty kill switch. Has been the problem a few times. Your videos are great, keep up the good work.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Yeah I wish that was the issue.

[@ronniehdable]

Most riders love to look at old bikes but won't get their clothes dirty riding them . I've had 4 shovels and I ride an 1988 heritage Softail . My machine is too old for most riders. I run 18" ape hangers 6 inch ext forward controls. No windshield , no radio. A cigarette lighter and a gun fighter! I'm 57 and getting giggy with it! Lol. No giggy left in me but I have fun. You need to hit Roscoes chilli challenge in Lakeland next November . 1st week. A great time tramp. God speed. bam bam

[@paultroaini4142]

Hey Tramp ,I had a 67 shovel that I drove 80 every where I could &it did not blow oil(Kendal nitro 70 weight ),88in.S&S flywheel & Franklin, highcompression pistons with Teflon buttons on the skirts ,solid lifters transformed from hydraulics with three more cuts on them just like the factory cut for the former hydraulics, ( light but still ride round in tappet blocks ) 1936 knucklehead "lightening" generator drive gear, pinion gear & Andrews cam cut back to match ,custom valves,springs & titanium spring collars ,polished rods & A S&S Side bowl G.A.L.Carb ,22 tooth engine sprocket, 24 tooth trans sprocket ,this Bike would Roll ,No Speedo Trooper stopped me for doing over 112 MPH could not clock me as he was on a car I had just passed ,end up with 80 in a 55...Missouri Paul 👍🇺🇸👍🌞😎

[@tylerdunn6578]

It’s still fun mine tinkles oil on me at first I didn’t know what that was air cooled sweating man

[@paulklahr997]

Oh, totally agree with you in the aftermarket forward controls. I have a 00 Sporty and bought three sets of factory forward controls (eBay) to come up with one solid setup. They look the business compared to aftermarket stuff, and you can still buy service parts like bushings and stuff.

[@davidson2004fatboy]

I NOTICED DOWN SOUTH YOU GUYS LOVE these PIZZA CUTTER FRONT 21 WHEELS. UP HERE IN the NORTH , it's ALL 500X16 TIRES on the FRONT.

[@itchymoche]

Thanks for the ride on the shovelhead. I like the wide glide front end too. Looks nice.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Thanks, Itchy! Anytime!

[@ABud12921]

Hey brother, you have the ole shovel comin around, just keep fooling with it. I agree with the sprocket changes, on my 79 I went 1 tooth up on transmission and down to a 48 on rear wheel. Made a big difference on top end. Fixin to do the same on my 77. Hope you’re feeling better! Blessings!

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Doing a lot better, thanks.

[@YogisCycleService]

Shovel looks awesome. Love the new front end. Happy New Years! Hope the holidays were good for y’all

[@marklilly2581]

I totalled my shovelhead a year ago. I loved mine. Turned it into a bobber

[@MoeLarrycurly1]

Yeah the shovel heads are different I think it's because the flywheels in the motor actually are heavier than the Evo. We're an evolution motor will spool up quicker I always went to a 49 tooth rear sprocket

[@SaddleTrampTV]

That's interesting.

[@tmack1]

I have a '78 FLH (Early, so 1200cc/74ci, mid year they went to 80 ci and electronic ign) Sprocket wise, it has a 23 at tranny and a 51 on the rear. 55 mph is somewhere around 2500 to 2700 RPM (have a newer Harley electronic tach on it, non-ECU tach). BDL belt drive on primary. Remember, Shovel's are dry clutches. Books say red line is something like 6200 but 5500 is more realistic. As for the varying Idle thing, cause is mainly the centrifugal advance weighs. Any dirt, or dried out oil/grease and they don't return consistently. I put on an Ultima IGN and it idles fine. Oil lines to the head......they leak.... yea. the rubber o-ring things are a few bucks a set, but......oil line feeds the rear and then crosses over to the front. Fine when new. Any wear on the rear rocker means more oil will seep out to the rear and less goes to the front. Change them to the "Old-Stf Cycle Shovelhead Rocker Box Split Oil Lines". Low Brow sells SS ones on eBay for around $95. They come "natural finish (dull) but rubbing & polishing compound and elbow grease can make them nice. You can get brass for $85, but remember, brass work hardens faster, and corrodes. Who needs a speedo, get a tach....LOL EDIT.... also have a '86 XLH 1100 standard (sleeper version of a Liberty edition with the bath-tub heads, just no bling) Edit 2 : adjust chain while sitting on bike. Swing arm travel can tighten the chain.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

I've thought about a tac.

[@sidneysnottley6414]

Thrill seeker leaving on a shovel without the obligatory tools, silastic, tape and some wire. .. it was a huge step-up moving to an Evo in the day - especially if you wanted to do interstate runs (in Oz) ;-)

[@williamdawkins4062]

The 1980-84 shovelheads haves five speed transmissions you can run them 80 miles an hour all day! I’ve owned My 83 FLT over 20 years ! It has been a practical bike and mostly trouble free at least as much as any other bike. It just has more personality than a modern bike!

[@irishguyjg_2ndchancerecovery]

Looks great Cory. I love watching your older vids and make my way through. Absolutely inspiring and AWESOME content. We have the spring FLOOD RUN this wknd, 34 for the high....I run a pretty naked IRON SPORTSTER, lots of mods, FP3, but no fairings or next to nothing windshield, i got some coffin hand guards, but I'm wide open to the wind my friend, gonna be a cold one, not the kind you like lol, but it's for the GILETTES CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL, so mycrew of 6 Harley's WILL BE GOING. PRAYING no moisture or bad weather. See u on the next one Cory. God bless you

[@marybarosso3845]

i bought a brand new 1980 shovel head years ago. It foul out alot of plugs. The four speed was out dated. Old timers would say 2nd gear is to low and 3rd gear was to high. Then i bought a 87 and 91 evo which were much better and probably saved Harley Davidson. Today i have a stock 93 fxr-sp and love it. Bob.

[@PanM8]

Mary Barosso, that's why the "old timers" put Andrews 1st and 3rd in the four speed transmissions.

[@yoshit9819]

They are special (in a special kind of way). Riding a 74 for the past 30 years.

[@RidingintheOzarks]

We have an annual Shovel only bike show in September at a local Bar called Shovelfest usually 40-50 shovels show up. I have a video on it somewhere... stay safe!

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Hmm... Maybe I'll put that on the calendar.

[@franciswashack89]

You have been listening to too many naysayers, I rode shovel heads for years, they are good engines, you just have to keep up with matenance.

[@fmagalhaes1521]

If I hadn’t found my Evo,, I would have more than likely gotten my shovel.

[@nom8er]

👍 My 77 XLCH chopper hasn't had a speedometer on it for over twenty five years. Tachometer only. I had to get "Re-learnt" on the RPMs=MPHs after a complete rebuild.... • Stock "P" cam • Ported/Polished and Flow tuned • S&S E • Dyna S ignition I also swapped out the front sprocket to one tooth larger. (Rear, not stock, original Gaffney mag wheel for a shovel, drum brake) ... sorry, forget the exact ratio... Bless you man, and please keep your hands on the bars! 👊

[@Wind.Road.Therapy]

I learn something new each and every time I watch your videos

[@smokeyray5017]

Got 2 bikes , an 03 Ultra classic and a 73 Shovelhead FX. I'm 64. Bought the FX when I was 19. Whenever I think about selling it I ride it. Man you know you're ALIVE on that bike! It's light, bouncing all over the road, bugs slapping you in the face ,I'll NEVER sell my Shovel!

[@loseyourlife4042]

I really want a shovel headed man, maybe one day🙏🏻👆🏻

[@harleytompa6626]

My first Haley was a Sportster Ironhead XLCH 1963, the next was a Shovelhead Electra Glide 1974 and the first thing I learned was to always let the engine run warm after a cold start, after the first winter when I took out my Harley I started it maybe 1 minute, put on a helmet and clothes would start it did not work called the Harley workshop and told them what have hapend the mechanic said change the spark plugs I did not believe in this but bought new ones and tried and the Electra Glide started immediately. But I never had a problem on the road

[@darknitethunder]

Love those old Shovelheads, it'll teach you something about characteristic alright. While I've never owned one as of yet, (who knows what tomorrow might bring). But I can tell you I have raced a many of bike in my younger years. If you want more speed and less RPM's drop no more than 5 teeth on the rear sprocket, or no more than 2 on the front sprocket. Unless your planning to race it that will require a lot more time and money . But one of these configuration will allow you to Cruz the Freeways and you'll be able to keep up in the Mountains Passes. Ride safe my friend.

[@timothyputzke1250]

Champion RN12YC gapped to .035. Points gap ..020, Check your advance weights for a broken spring. The sprocket change should not be a problem. With a four speed transmission it'll give her longer legs. Yes on a maiden voyage do carry tools. Got bit by that first ride of the season. Fortunately a guy was working on his boat and he even had a sloped downhill driveway. He had tools! Just a loose battery connection and me being embarrassed when he said those saddle bags are for more then just carrying beer. I didn't even have that.

[@tetlow2]

It is definitely normal for an ecm to take a shit at any given moment

[@jamessansing9378]

Love shovels don't understand were the oil is coming from but that sounds fixable. Raised in a HD shops in the 70's my 72 would run 90 all day long. But there was a 5 speed Little John transmission out at that time with a overdrive. I wanted one but oh well. We raced this January at the Daytona Dirt Track took 3 bikes won the 250 classic with are Ossa won the Sportsman 250 with are Rokon. And got a 3rd in the Sportsman 600 with SN 2 Rokon 340 Dave Aldana won that race. Fun stuff " Rokon Racing Tream Grearless" Mississippi Boy's.

[@adammuska6832]

Another great video man, love your work. Congrats on shovel too, youll have much fun with it, old bikes have the soul. 😎 Currently saving for shovel too, here in Czech republic the only way to get it is from US, but then the hard part comes, you must register it and thats impossible here so you must go through Poland or Germany and man they will take a lot of from your pocket...so for a stud like me, long road ahead. But i still have my 95 Intruder that i rebuilt to chopper as it could be, peanut tank, fishtail, king and queen seat..it comes together by the time, but i realise a still make harley from it, but ill keep it with shovel. When you said the thing about being non electrician I remember the time when i was learning to wrench, youll learn it brother and I must say enjoy the wiring on harley, the japanese are pain in the a** to do harness on 😂

[@boscodog4358]

My 72 shovel would run a 100.mph. Road it to Monterey Mexico on one set of plugs. Did leak oil. But a lot of that could be fixed.

[@boscodog4358]

Knowing how to get it started was the biggest learning curve. "Kick start "

[@ericfragoso3456]

Cory. It's your shovel. And you can do whatever you'd like. But unless your 3 feet tall. Don't castrate that bike with mid range controls. That's what your sportster is for lol.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

I like mids with highway pegs, because I can still control the shifter and brake wherever my feet are.

[@ericfragoso3456]

@SaddleTrampTV Hey Tramp, I was just teasing you brother. Actually I really dig the fact that you do it your way. You March to your own beat. When I see your bikes it takes me back to my childhood. Great memories. Your Chanel is very cool brother. Keep up the good work. And keep doing it YOUR WAY!

[@br549american5]

Some guys would use silicone on the rocker boxes or whatever,, and a piece would end up at the check ball on the oil pump . there is also a little screen there to clean out.

[@everettcalhoun8197]

After over a half century of riding if I had to have only one scooter it would be a 1991 to 2003 sportster stroked to 4 5/16 with 3 and 3/4 cylinders in a rigid frame bobber. A 90 inch 400 pounds motorcycle is nothing to sneeze at.