I've been searching craigslist for my first motorcycle. I'm looking at a 91 sportster that the guy says he hasn't owned long, 5-speed transmission, "runs good" but he wants a crotch rocket. But the one that REALLY has my eye is a 79 iron head that's 200 cheaper. Thing is I've heard 79 is the worst year. and 4 speed sportster transmissions are garbage and everybody says not to buy that turd. They owner says the transmission and engine were rebuilt last winter with high end upgraded parts and bored out. Keith Black pistons, s&s super e carbs, new plugs and new back brakes.
I will have whatever test rode before I buy but as a bunch of Harley folks, I want to know what y'all would think. or lean towards if it were you. I have to drive 3 hours to even look at the iron head. And all these old dudes are calling it a turd. and I want a Harley TOMORROW! Help a babe out puhlease I need advice!

 

People say 79 sucks because it was a bastard year for pipes and the like. Do you want to wrench or ride? If ride get the 91. My first harley was a 79 sportster. Ironheads take more work than a evo sportster.

 

What's your budget? Lots of newer version Sporty's are selling cheap. If you can afford $2-2.5K you can get a bike built in this Century.

 

Can you post a link to the 91,that way you will get some good advice.
I will not even mention the iron head

 

The '79 ironhead is a "singular" year bike, and parts from other years will often not fit. Like said above, if you want to spend your time wrenching on a bike, rather than riding it, buy the ironhead.

 

If the '79 is grabbing you it might be the one. Could be a nightmare, but you can eventually sort it out. Loving the bike will help you see it through. The '91 could be great or a disaster. Short term owner, especially with recent work invested, is not a great sign. My guess is something is either still wrong with it or just doesn't feel right. Newer is not automatically better with a Harley. Hopefully someone with experience will go with you who can spot fatal flaws, although it sounds like you have some clues yourself. Mostly any Harley can be good if you invest the effort. Just need to be excited about it.

 

^^^ +1. "Short term owner, especially with recent work invested, is not a great sign." I couldn't agree more...

 

In this case newer is probably better. Harley has never gone backwards with tech. Old bikes are great... As a second bike. For a daily rider a 79 is tough. No pipes fit. 91 is a 5 speed too. No brainer.

 

I got the 91! Seemed like less of a gamble.Its been neglected and needs cleaned up. and there's lots of things I want to do to it. but it runs good! Only paid $1900 for it! I'm so excited to fix her up!

 

Congrats. Time to make it yours.