Thank you for the info Twizted, that frame photo really helped.

Please notice that I am looking for a project bike, a good running shovel in a straight frame. Why would I buy an original and immaculate bike and then tear it down? I am not a collector, and those bikes in those conditions are not to be found in 5-6K range anyways, and when they show up they go quickly

See, this is kind of bike that you'd like:
:
https://losangeles.craigslist.org/sf...532701704.html

I missed one like this for $6500. It's not gonna go for that price, but even at $7500 it wouldnt be a good candidate for a project.

 

Yeah maybe later in the winter

 

Wait till the rainy season sets in hard and christmas & tax time bills start coming due, reasonable condition & priced bikes will start popping up. Or if you are willing to travel a bit expand the search to Nev. & Az. You guys have big swap meets down your way, don't discount those.

 

For me anyway that last bike is still overpriced. I would not spend more than $2500 - $3000 for a "project bike". I'd look for a non-runner but that is basically complete with a good title (VIN amd frame). Both of my FX models were non-runners but basically complete bikes. I went a different route and returned them to stock configuration, but only because I had the parts necessary to do so; otherwise they would have been something along the lines you are contemplating.

I'll keep an eye for you but I live on the west coast so distance might be a negative for you.

 

And they go for significantly less than an FLH or any FX. Certainly not the bike to bob. I love Shovels, but I'd never own an FLT.

 

Brother, from what I'm reading, you would do yourself well to learn A LOT more about Shovelheads, the changes throughout the years, what fit what, what's OEM, etc.
I know it's hard when you didn't grow up around them, but it's knowledge you need, IMHO.

 

The odometer reading means nothing. On that bike it can be changed in flash. I've seen it done. Also, it doesn't look
like much is original on the outside. The engine? who knows what has been done? And by whom? This is an AMF
shovel. Not famous for reliability. Not famous for performance. Known for labor intensive maintenance. I know I once owned
one, an '81. I bought it new. Value? it's not even something to fool around with. Not a reliable ride or an inexpensive project. For $5500
you could do a whale of a lot better.

 

my 80 flt framed bike
needed lil customize for rear head to fit n not hit
wanted fxr, couldnt find cheap one
under 600 lbs w/full tank
carb & stand alone ign

 

Fair is what ever you are will to pay. How ever the Shovel mark feeds those that push and make money on them. And they are among the best at creating a profitable hype.
Know what you are willing to pay. Do what your are doing now so you know what you are really getting.
IMO if a bike is cut up to make some kind of bobber the value is only in the engine and transmission rest is most junk

 

Somebody's got the itch bad and a not to clue, never ends well.