Visited a co-workers home in the country today (10 miles from pavement) and he had an old 1974 Sporty XLCH in the machine shed, which I aked if I could try starting...it hadn't run yet this year...
With some well taken advice on techinque, I got it running without working up too much of a sweat or getting hurt on the couple of kickbacks; what a sweet sounding old bike! My son-in-law is wanting to get started in biking and I think a kicker; ie an old brit bike or even an XLCH would be a good initiation...I wouldn't want it to be too easy on him...what do you guys think?

 

i figure i wouldnt tell someone else to do anything i wouldnt do myself.

ask yourself these questions: what was your first bike, and if you were to choose from all the available bikes today for your first bike, assuming approximate relative cost, what would you get?

my first bike was stone reliable. gave me the chance to concentrate on riding first. it just worked. when i did have to wrench, it was routine maintenance.

a 74 sporty is cool and all, but i would get something newer with modern brakes, and better reliability.

wrenching is fine, but riding is the point for me.

 

Yes, Yes, Yes. That is a great bike to start, or end. It will make a man out of him and if he is already there it will make a happier man out of him. I wish I could find one. Get it for yourself if the son in law doesn't want it. Don't let this bike get away.

 

My first bike was a 1972 XLCH. It forced me to learn, tested my mettle, and hooked me 100%. If your s-i-l is going to be passionate about motorcycles, as opposed to being a motorcycle rider, then go for it.

 

Does your son-in-law know how to ride and just doesn't own a bike?

Or is he a total beginner?

If he is just lacking a bike but can ride, then he should really appreciate the XLCH.

If he is a complete noob.......get him a modern carb bike. Good brakes and all, but also with a choke, petcock, etc.

Get the XLCH whatever you decide!

 

My first Harley was a 1974 XLCH. Other than the occasional "kick-through" when the ratchet slipped, it was pretty much a one-kick bike. Man, I loved that thing and would actually like to get another one someday.

 

killing it in traffic at a stop can be a harrowing experience.

 

How are his mechanical skills?

 

Ask your son-in-law. If he wants it knowing there is newer tech out here then it sounds like his first bike.

 

My First Bike (Purchased by me) was a 1969 XLCH .. But this was in 1970.. Brings back fond Memories .. But too old for that now.. As for your Son in Law, if knows what he is getting into .. Go for it ...