If there wasn’t a modern bike jack / lift in the picture. It would look like a shop in the 50’s early 60’s
Drag style bike Hello, With the influence of the local dragstrips all over So Cal, it is not a surprise that the low slung drag racing bikes were popular. But to incorporate it in the time period of larger custom built tanks of all sizes , this owner wanted a one of a kind custom tank. It had to be smaller than most, so he made it himself with smooth rolled steel and the hidden welding joints in the inside, tucked away. Knowing how much we could go with our own 2.5 gas tank on our Harley, this small custom tank would be at least three time less. It would be a race to the next gas station. It was a good thing during the time period, there were as many gas stations everywhere, as if they were Starbucks’s coffee shops of today. Jnaki Several other elements were obvious, a full rigid frame would make riding a little stiff. There is room for a passenger, but a bare minimum of support and comfort. The odd thing is that if it is a show bike, then pushing into a show is nothing, compared to stopping for gas every 40 miles or so, with such a small tank. But, that is a custom motorcycle of the times and if one wanted to be picky, everything is chromed, except for the seats and tank. The photo does not show the front end suspension in detail. If it were a solid bar used for the forks, it would have fallen in line with one of the simple styling cues at the time. A little rough due to the skinny tires and rigidity. The idea at the time was the length of the bars would take up the flex for road hazards. But, upon closer inspection, it is a shock suspension set of forks to ward off those rough roads and pot holes. YRMV
You know I really really like this thread, I've got 2 Shovels , (a rigid chop/bobber and a "pan" style Electra Glide) and an ironhead Sporty going right now can't show pics cause they're a bit to new I guess. Use you imagination!! Mitch
My Buddy was here today ridin his completely restored 38 UL , I was busy bonding and missed photos . I’ll get him to send me a few and post . I was discussing riding it , he same as me old dudes run and ride mice but hauling them down from 65 MPH needs to planned and for an experienced rider
Generator Shovelheads not welcome? It was a common modification to adapt Shovelhead top end to a Panhead cases . Although 66-69 Generator Shovelheads are their own design. Aka slabside . What’s the year cut off for motorcycles?
The cut off is '65 like all HAMB stuff. It's been my experience that the top end is the determining factor. neither alternator nor cone shovels are not permitted. I understand that you can mate cases and top ends from several big twins but the rules are set. I would defer to @Moriarity for the final answer.
Thank You . I’ll post anything after 65 on the off topic thread . So you’re telling me even if the paperwork states it’s a 1950 model but has a Shovelhead topend , right case Panhead , left case alternator shovelhead setting in a 56 straight leg frame it needs to be in the off topic thread . Got it
I do not know shit about motorcycles. if there were no shovelheads in 65 then bikes with shovelheads are off topic, just like a 32 ford with an LS is off topic
The Jalopy Journal
