Hi guys, I'm hoping you can give me some advice. I'm trying to decide between a 66-69 shovel or a 70-84 shovel. I like the look of the 66-69s, but if it's going to cost me a significant loss in reliability, I'd rather go with a 70-84 motor.

Hopefully someone can share their experience with a new guy. My questions are:

-What are the benefits of having an alternator style as opposed to a generator style?

-Which engine is more reliable?

-Are there any major differences between these two engine styles besides the charging system?

-Can a 66-69 be bolted in a 70-84 frame?

-Which would you recommend?

Thanks!!

 

I used to ride with a friend that had a 69. I didn't really notice any more or less problems with his bike. Looking at bikes that old, I would tend to look at which one seemed to be better taken care of more than if it was an earlier or later model.

Good luck with your new ride!
Doug

 

I have an 83 shovel 80ci, 6" is 6" any way way you slice it. Had mine since 83 been a great bike one roller gone bad in 23 years. I'd look for a late model 80 incher if I were you but if a great looking well taken care of 74" came along I wouldn't pass it up either. Just remember the old saying ( When the last evo dies there'll still be a shovel around to bury it )

 

Love the Evo quote. A buddy of mine has built many bikes, on his 53 falme bike (single seat, suicide shift, foot clutch with no lock) it says "f@ck evo" in big hand painted red letters outlined in yellow on the swingarm. He, of course, built himself an electric start equipped evo based santee framed super glide last year. and he loves it lol.

 

The alternator is a plus, i rode a 73 for 18 years and only did one top end on it and that was right after i bought it.
You want potato potato sound that`s it.