Video: Brand New 1978 Sportster Dyno Test
After spending almost a half century in a crate, this classic 1978 Sportster hits the streets for the first time.
Several months ago, YouTuber Bikes and Beards bought a brand new 1978 Harley-Davidson Sportster, still in its original shipping crate. While this may be a priceless collectible to some, it’s a motorcycle – and motorcycles are made to be ridden.
Since they’re made to be ridden, the Sportster needed a lot of work despite being effectively brand new. However, after some TLC – not as much as you’d expect, actually – the Sportster roared to life.
The inside of the gas tank needed to be etched, as moisture had gotten inside and began to corrode it. The fuel line and petcock was replaced as well, and the air filter had apparently turned to dust. However, the original battery held a charge. After the fluids were changed, the Sportster was ready to roar to life.
Some Things Never Change
One slightly humorous detail is that the clutch plates were warped, likely from the factory. Had this bike lived a different life, they likely would have been fixed under warranty. Bad build quality during the AMF era? You must be kidding!
All joking aside, it’s a beautiful bike. Wearing its black and gold 75th Anniversary paintjob, the tank and fenders are tastefully accented with gold-trimmed mag wheels. These Ironhead Sportsters have been really growing on us lately and it’s very cool to see a brand new one out in the sunshine.
Even with the clutch fixed, it’s still a hard bike to shift, requiring a lot of effort. The buckhorn handlebars aren’t the most comfortable things in the world, either. With all that said, though, it’s incredible to see a 45 year old Sportster, more or less fresh out of its crate, cruising the streets.
So, just how powerful is it? Time to hit the dyno. 44 horsepower and 42 lb/ft of torque sure won’t set the world on fire, but accounting for drivetrain loss, it’s pretty close to what you’d expect from a new Sportster in 1978. Harley-Davidson rated these bikes at 55 crank horsepower, so factoring in somewhere around 15% drivetrain loss, you’re doing pretty well.
We probably wouldn’t have been brave enough to uncrate a collector piece like this and ride it. However, we’re very thankful that someone else was brave enough to do the dirty work.
Join the HD Forums now!
