Sally I’m 68 yrs old and totally 💯 agree with what you and your husband are saying. But with parents teaching their kids they will be failures if they don’t go to college. The kids don’t develop any kind of mechanical skills and working with hand tools. Each generation gets softer and softer. I don’t even recognize this country anymore. 😎Dave H
I totally agree. I told both of my boys if you don't want to go to college, just don't go. Get a job, get some skills and take some classes later if you want to. Of course, some people think that's horrible, I think that's a longer term life plan. It's their life, I just want to give them their best opportunity to get ahead to make a sound decision. Just my 2 cents.
I’m also 68. My son went and got a degree, and hated working in the lab with all the DEI whackos and insane brainwashed office rats. So he quit. He sold himself (so to speak) to a heating and A/C company that sent him to school. He’s now a commercial technician, works hard with his hands and back, and is very happy. That kid will never go hungry. Theres still hope.
Duane, my parents were the same as you. When I was young was always working on my bicycle and other mechanical things and helping my Dad. My parents never pushed me to go to college. I ended up going to Vo-Tech in high school. Got a job out of high school working on cars and retired 3yrs ago. College is not for everyone 😎Dave H
@RideaGoodRoad I totally 💯 agree with you. College is not for everyone. You can make a good living working in the trades or driving a truck etc. There is a shortage of skilled trades people because parents are pushing their kids to go to college.😎Dave H
1967, I was 15 years old. I started dating my neighbors cousin. I knew her dad had this beautiful black Harley. ( 1965 Panhead) one day he says," you want to go for a ride?" I had a smile from ear to ear. A year and a half later, i went to check out this 1951 Panhead. This little skinny guy pulled this bike out of the chicken house. It was dusty and beautiful black with leather saddlebags. Shifter was on the gas tank and the clutch was on the left foot. An hour or so later and $650, i was driving that machine home.
I don't care about the "biker" life. I just like bike. My dad was military and had a Harley which he would take me to football practice on it. Since then I've wanted a bike. I've always been scared of them so I never bought one. I had a sportster for a very short time and that just fueled the Harley fire for me even more. I am now retiring from the military. I will be getting a Night Train as my retirement present and hopefully I'll get to travel with it.
The motorcycle "scene" has changed to the extreme. New bike prices are obscene and the dealers are selling used bikes at about the price they were when they were new. I've never had a lot of money so I buy used cars to drive and used bikes to ride. I've never made fun or talked shit to anyone that wasn't riding a HD. I'm just glad they have the backbone to even ride two wheels in this crazy no driving drivers on the road! Whenever I've had to sell one of my bikes all I want to do is break even. And I know that the bike is better in every way than when I bought it. I'm not gonna hoo-doo anyone on a bike that I've owned. Loved the video and listening to you both on this subject. You two give a good name to motorcycling and there are lots more out there with the same attitude! Ride and stay safe! Peace!
I'm 72 and wrenched my own rides since 1968 but admire the young folks who can write code, start businesses, speak publicly and do well in life without setting float height on a Linkert carb or shimming desmodromic valves. My family has young doctors and musicians who rarely even drive. We all find our niches.
Proud dad moment my oldest just came home from tech school and said his senior project to graduate college is to convert an old broke down bike into an electric bike. Now I’m not one for the electric fad at all but knowing he’s bettering himself with real skills makes me happy. I was raised without any mechanical skills. So I’ve recently bought a 85 ironhead as my back to basics bike. I will learn and he will inherit it someday. In the meantime her and I ride one up and enjoy the reconnection with the ride.
Your comments are well spoken!! You are correct there is no winning!! The only win you need is the smile on your face when you're going down the road or wrenching!! Keep smiling kids!!
@@ironheadsally Harley dropped the iron heads, and soon they plan to drop the evo, and the new models look like rice grinders! IMO Harley is dead! I got both an iron head and an evo and I'm done, ill never buy a newer Harley!
Its not just America, its the same all over Europe as well. Its now easier to sign a loan agreement for an brand new bike than scrape up the cash for a used one. The average age of a biker here is 50 plus! Im from Ireland and have bought and sold lots of bikes, but I ve given up, as a bike for sale can sit for months unsold even if its underpriced. no one seems to have any cash money anymore and are dependant on credit. You can walk into a dealership with no deposit and ride a brand new bike away for a relatively small monthly payment. The price of parts also makes it hard to justify riding an older bike when you can have a new bike with 3 year warranty. Harley and other dealers no longer sell anything that the working man can afford. Love the channel, you're a breath of fresh air among the the shills
Great video ,Sally and Hubby. I like near the end, the comment about riding it after your fingers were in it, you walked right into that one. Lol. Stay safe out there.
I learned while i was in The Marine Corps at Marine Barracks 8th&I on a 1986 Honda Interceptor 500. After i left there i didn't ride again till 2013 when i met my ex who rode a Honda 919. I got hooked again and bought a 1998 Honda VFR had that and bought a 2006 Honda CBR1000. The CBR i bought with 19,000 miles on it and when i sold it it had 46.000 miles on it in 3 years! At the same time i had the CBR i bought a 2001 Goldwing, my friend owns a Honda dealership and gave me a cant walk away from deal. So i had both at the same time. I put 13,000 on the CBR and another 3.500 on the Goldwing in the same 8 month period that we can ride here in Ilinois. So i ride all local miles but i just get out and ride for the wind therapy. I love you guys im glad i found your channel. Id love to meet you one day to say thanks. And yes the hot blonde working on bikes is kinda hot. Hope your husband doesn't take offense to that. But thank you both.
David, we really appreciate it! Glad u got back on 2 wheels, I couldn’t imagine my life without a bike now. Thank u for watching and thank u for your service 🇺🇸🦅💚 ride free!!
Newer to the channel and I just love your content. I'm an ex m.c guy who's road all my life and got my girlfriend into riding for her first time. She went from a 250 gs to a 1200 xrsportster and now has her new 22 streetbob 114 and I ride a 90 fxr that I built up from a POS to a nice machine. But we're in the same boat you guys are we don't have much money and zip ties are my favorite tool but we love the lifestyle and the bikes. Keep up the channel I really like seeing another version of myself and my girlfriend out there.
I had the poster from the movie Easy Rider in my room when I was in college. I said to myself that's what I want to do one day. To be Free! To where me and the bike can become one! I tried several times at the American dream, opening and closing businesses, to only realize I was just dreaming. I've owned many of Japanese bikes during that time, but never was able to afford a Harley. This year I bought a 97 Fatboy from I guy I knew who was moving overseas. It was the first Harley I ever owned. If Harley was a watch, it would be a Rolex, but even old Rolex's need maintenance. I started watching your channel, and Sally you were dead on in your video about why I ride motorcycles. I feel the exact same way. Both of you all have given me the inspiration, and the wrenching motivation I need to fulfill my dream of riding a vintage Harley across country. I'm 62 years young, and nothing comes close to roaring down the highway, and twisting the throttle of a big twin!
yaaaaassss!! this is too heartwarming to read! Thank you for your comment. Everything is going to give you issues and need some TLC, but the satisfaction when you're scooting down the open road, that's the best feeling!! Happy wrenching and ride free always!! 🏁🦅💚😁
Hi from uk great vid guys My Dad really got me started he was a mechanic in the navy and always had a bike 90% of what I know I learned from him we would sit on the kitchen floor Dad would strip a carb then I would clean and put it back together next time I would dismantle and he would rebuild ride what he could afford working two jobs as Mam did to buy our house but we were happy we all rode stay free guys
Saved up and bought my first brand new Sportster in the 70's. Just turned 67 and took my homebuilt kickstart Shovel out for a short blast yesterday, after changing and road testing the new rear tire on my Moto Guzzi ADV bike. Almost 50 years of motorcycling and still love anything with two wheels and a motor, particularly Harley choppers. Have spent the price of a new bike on magazines, blown up, broke down and fell over many times. Learned on my own, mostly the hard way, how to wrench and when to trust the pros. I ride alone, been hot, cool, sore, frozen, soaked and miserable. Slept on the ground, in shacks and nice motels. Have done all the 'must see' events and smaller rallies. Over the years I've met very few people that wanted a motorcycle just because they love them and can't see a life without one. Luckily some were friends. And many that got into it for big money then moved on to something else. Some even had various brands but got that first Harley and immediately started drinking the kool-aid. The majority seem to be more interested in the status & lifestyle bullshit. The 'brotherhood' in motorcycling is a myth. I've always encouraged anyone to get the bike they wanted and learn to maintain, ride and enjoy it without any of the baggage.
Hi guys.....firstly really love your videos....im 68 now , my son, Spanner, has inherited my 76 ironhead chop i built, with help, when i was 24.....currently just finished a complete nut and bolt rebuild of an 84 ironhead, if i can fix the fork oil seals she's good to go. Over the years I've built up loads of spares, tools and manuals. You're on the money with people not wrenching on there bikes, my son however is learning all the time, happy to ride n fix. One thing you said about college rings true, i spent 3 yrs learning leatherwork, never made a mistake cos the tutor was always there, first week in the real world i made a lot, luckily, Bill, a real old timer fixed them and showed me how to fix things. Both my son and i talk to our rides n will always stop if a biker is stuck by the road.........anyhow enough of all that......thanks for the insights.....love from the UK......Snake
Just found your channel, love your topic and passion. I'm a 68 year old, 40 years riding a BMW airhead. I started on a Suzuki 380 out of High School, then a Kawasaki KZ750. A lot of what you talked about applies to us Beamers. I enjoy doing most of the repair work myself and love the older bike (1978 R100/7). I once helped a 20 year old neighbor kid work on what was his uncle's wrecked bike. He is now in his 30's, married and in the military and still rides and work on his bike when he can. Teach 'em young, and get 'em on the road!
My neighbor two doors up the street when I was growing up in the mid 1980's inspired me to ride. He owned a bike shop and I would watch him leave on his Harley for work everyday and I knew that I would have one someday.
Man, that's why i been trying to work on my twin cam. Just bought my wife a cool little evo sportster. Im gonna do as much of the work on these bikes as possible. Love google and youtube for these projects. You guys have my utmost respect for doing what ya'll do. It's why i subscribed to your channel.
I’m 63 and I believe that my generation had a definite advantage when it came to working on our own Harleys. We still drove cars that were made in the 1960s and we didn’t have a lot of money because we were in school and playing sports or whatever so we didn’t have full time jobs. That being the case we learned to work on our cars. We learned to rebuild engines and do brake jobs and all sorts of things to keep our cars on the road, make them fast, etc. The same thing plied when I got my first Harley ( 1979 Low Rider purchased in 1984 when I was 22 years old) and every Harley I have owned since then (ten so far). I now own 2 Twin Cams and I continue to do the work and customization on those. Sure, some things are beyond me. I am not a machinist so some work will eventually have to be done out of house and at a shop. Still, I have never had a problem so far in the past 40 years that I wasn’t able to take care of on my own with some research and maybe the purchase of a special tool or two. I currently own two Twin Cams, a 2010 FLHTK and a 2016 FLSTC both injected with computer brains, so that could make things a bit more difficult if something goes wrong. Looking to find and an old Shovel Head that I can really enjoy tinkering on or rebuilding. It’s nice to know that if you have compression, spark, fuel, air and proper timing you can make that old engine run.
I'm 50. Grew up on the front and back of my dads bike, flipping through his Easyriders magazines and going to the flea market swaps in the early 80s... Daytona Bikeweek back then, went through the chopper craze...Ebay. Again, it started as a kid, like you, I grew up, my whole life in the culture. Keep doing what you two are doing.
I agree with what you are talking about. Been working on bikes for many many years and have set up my channel just to help others out there and pass on what I have learned to keep them going for many years after I'm gone. I'm no expert but I hope I can help and encourage others to keep these old bikes going. Great talk. Keep at it as these old bikes need people like you to to keep them going for the future.
Im almost 60. I bought my first bike, an old 67 sportster, a neighbor had it his garage. I cut all the grass in the neighborhood. He helped me getting it running. I spent as much time as i could at the harley shop. Back then people were helpful. The older bikers taught me many lessons i still remember. Harley shops are nothing like that now, sadly. I tried to help young people around where i live. They dont want an older bike. Something has changed. I grew up reading easyriders. I always wanted to build bikes, make them better. Hell, i always thought an older bike was better. There are a few people that still value the older bikes, most people i see now, they just want a new bike. The shop will do the work im told. Something bad has happened. Thanks for the videos. Yall are real people.
I think it changed when electronics moved into bikes. Used to be able to manually find TDC, set points, etc. Now you just get left on the side of the road waiting for the trailer to come and the bill from some HD store with all the reboot computer BS tools. I’m not good with new bikes. My newest HD is a beautiful ’08 King- 15 years old and it’s for sale because of computer settings BS. I’m done.
Appreciate it Lauren! I couldn't imagine where we would be if I started earlier in life. Better late than never, but definitely a shift in thinking overall so people don't want these older bikes! thanks for watching!
Very well said. I started at 9 years old on a Honda 70 step thru. That sowed the seed for me. Then Came Bronson sowed the seed for me to own a Harley. I'm nudging 72 now and have three Harleys in the shed among other bikes. You have great intentions but unfortunately you can't change the course of the mighty human machine. It will move on regardless of us. For me I just power on regardless and to heck with anyone who chucks of at my efforts. Stay safe. Cheers from down under 🇦🇺 Stan.
Appreciate it Stan!! Thats awesome, i can only imagine how things would have been if i had the opportunity to start earlier lol if we can influence atleast one young rider than its worth it 😁😁 just like you and the grand kiddo, will remember that for life 💚 cheers Stan!
My wife has a shirt that says- buying and riding a new bike is a hobby, keeping an old bike running is a passion. She rides a 97 Springer and I have a 96 Fatboy. I do as much work as I can, clutches, cams, wiring or anythin that doesn't need a lathe or a press. I love the Evo and have had one since 2002. Totally agree with the cost and the attitude that comes with "money" people. Not all, but most. Just talked to a guy, while my 9 year old and I were out for a ride, and he said it cost him $3000 to put new handlebars on! I can't imagine! I love your channel! Thanks for being real
I truly love the real world you two put out here! I have been riding since 1977. My Dad had a bike shop, I was a little fella, he had a Honda qa 50 in a crate, he told me if I could put it together and it ran, it was mine! I did it and have been hooked ever since!
I enjoyed listening to this. I am 40 years old and have been around bikes my entire life and always looked up to the gray beards in the biker community. The guys with all the knowledge and willing to take you under your wing. I can’t stand what the biker community has become. All these yuppies and their $35,000 Street Glides being towed behind their campers to the bike rallies. The whole thing has become a joke.
Absolutely agree! Those old timers that knew their scoots inside and out, they have all my respect and I'll listen to any advice they give...some RUB that signed a big ol loan payment is only showing that he can spend money, that doesn't take as much skill 😂😂
Hats off too you both for bringing what's going on in the OG Iron life. I'm just burnt on seeing blackout RGs and Street Glides with riders that barely know how to tie their shoe or even how they got on their in the first place.
On my 2006 5 speed twin cam, you need to check the transmission oil with the bike upright and level, not on its side stand. Now, the oil needs to be checked on the side stand
I got back into bikes in 2020. I bought an '09 WR450F - street legal. I started toying with the idea of SM wheels. They were expensive. I found a 2000 Bandit 1200 close by for $400. It was in totes. Crankshaft in hand. I put a lot of time and money into putting that bike back together. It has a stage II Dale Walker kit, it's fast as fk. Now, I have 6 bikes and a Kawi ZR-7 I'm returning to service for a new rider. My newest bike is an '06 Road King that was crashed and Bubba'ed-up. I've a lot of work to go, but it ran and drove when I bought it. Harley's mostly seem simple but heavy. Interesting channel/perspective. I've never put a car or bike "in the shop." My grandpa Edwards was a machinist and a farmer. There was a lot of "gear headedness" handed down through the Edwards family. 👍 Subscribed
Wow thats awesome, sounds like a sweet stable of scoots! Definitely great seeing more of the gear head traits being passed down thru family. Thanks for watching!!
I got a 2002 fatboy with 32,000 miles for 1500 bucks! Wow ! seller said the bottom end was bad it was knocking. Turned out when I got it home and started troubleshooting, it was the compensator sprocket bolt was loose. Checked the cam chain tensioners and they look to have been replaced at some point. Was going to flip it and make 3 or 4 grand but i Gave the bike to my son for his 21st birthday. Now he won't bug me to ride my bikes.
Thanks for being real. I'm 66 and been riding and turning wrenchs si ce I was 16. It's a way of life for me. Agree just ride what ever you can afford and enjoy. I ride Harleys now and have for a long time. Newest being a 1997 softtail. Oldest 58 ironh3ad chopper. Keep I real.
I was that guy who replaced everything on a bike, and the cause was just a loose battery terminal, my bike would sit in the garage a month with me trying to fix it by myself...but I think by starting out that way, is why I can now get her going on the side of the road in about 20 minutes and keep on rolling. Yep I still cuss and throw wrenches sometimes, but dude, theres no better feeling when you get something fixed and that bike comes back to life nothing better
Y'all would love my 92 fxrs low rider convertible. Stock, restored by me, preservation foremost, has all of it's original accessories, runs like a top, anti-dive front air even works. She's an honest runner and a blast to ride!!! I just loved restoring, preserving and riding her. Love your channel, your self reliant perseverance and honesty. Thanks...love what you do. As an aside...I am in the midst of restoring/preserving the cutest lil 1950 mg td!!! Gotta love it. Vintage Rocks!!!!
I'm now 57, 3 yrs ago bought a 76 ironhead rolling basket case. Two yrs to get it riding, 3 months over last winter to fix oil leaks and fix top end. This bike is a blast to ride. Still figuring out the jetting for the CV carb. Working on this bike is extremely enjoyable to me. The amount of negativity I've gotten for having an old bike is crazy. I built and maintain the bike I love, if you can't understand that I can't help you understand. Buy, build what you want, the enjoyment in the long run is worth it .
Just found your page great stuff I started on new harleys 10 years ago now I ride a 78 shovel and an 81 ironhead they require more love but i love them both I don't miss the modern bikes I used to have.
i love you guys and all of your content .... definitely my kind of people every bike i have ever owned started out rusted and busted with a little love i made them my own . i ride because i love motorcycles in general . old ,new, rusted, shiny i respect them all to me its all about being in the wind
But there is still some old school riders and wrenchers that feel just the way you two do. Keep up the great videos that polish the point about old HDs being a jewel of a find and a life experience to own.
As a ex hàrley mechanic in the 70s I got a good buy on a 2006 1200 custom the man told me the truth about it had it a year ever good motorcycle 5000 miles no problems😊
All of this!!! Buying my Ironhead was met with so much negativity. Especially since i traded a beautifully care for 99 VFR for it. Doesn't matter what brand it is, theres always someone there to try and discourage you. Starting this rebuild, just reignited my love of riding. Yes, it sucks being without a vehicle because someone was less than honest and sold me a lemon... But ill be damned if thats going to discourage me from getting the ol girl back up running on two wheels under her own power! (Side note... I'm always cool with getting advice/knowledge on bikes... I.e. rebuilding an ironhead. 😜)
We need more people like you guys. I think the main problem is laziness and egos, people are too lazy to wrench and they think its a flex to ride home a $30,000 bike. I on the other hand just found an 88 fxr! I was able to ride it home but definitely needs some work. But im super excited about it. Keep being you, and if i ever see you on the road im going to buy you guys a beer!
As it has been already stated you and your husbands dedication and expertise for older bikes is enjoyable to watch and hear. My Army mentor’s family gave me his old 1977 shovel head after he passed. I have been looking for someone that had the same old school passion that Dennis had and you guys are the perfect fit to show some respect to his legacy. Since “the rat” is beyond my expertise I would be honored if you would spare some of your time putting the spirit back into her With respect, Rick
I am glad I stumbled upon this video. I live in CO as well and am looking for my first Harley. I appreciate the help here. I have ridden motorcycles off and on for several years. I am not into cars at all, but I have always loved bikes. My first introduction were Honda dirt bikes that belonged to a friend. My first road bike was a used V Star 650. I sold that and bought a used Triumph Speed Triple. After being hit by a car, I have difficulty pulling the clutch now, but I don't ever want to stop. I want to experience a Harley for once, and I have heard the same bs from people about them. I believed a lot, if not all of it as well. One thing I have learned owning a Triumph... it's expensive to own one. Parts are not cheap and all my parts have had to be shipped from UK. I want to stay in this, keep loving bikes. I want to learn how to fix my own stuff, but I can't find anyone to teach me.
Thank you for watching!! and yes, this is why I post this stuff, it's hard to get into, and with less people wrenching in general, it's even harder for those of us that want to learn!! Honestly if you can find a reasonable used carburated Harley- like from the 90s that rides well, talk to the people you buy it from and see where that contact can take you! EVO sportster is probably the safest bet for starting out! rip it around and hopefully you won't need to do any major repairs for a while 😁🦅💚 ride free
I think you guys are maybe 40 years too late with your thoughts on motorcycling. I got into bikes in 1973, and everyone I knew couldn't even think of buying new. we always bought "Handyman" specials. There was always a ton of work the needed to done. And if you didn't know how to do something, someone else did, so you always could get back on the road for as cheap as possible. Fast forward 50 years later, nobody wants to fix anything. They just put blind faith in the dealer mechanic's, and show up with a fistfull of hundreds when they pick it up. No one owns tools, or wants to buy them. They feel their time is worth too much to fix things themselves. Buying a bike for little to no money down, with 84 month's to pay for it, is the way to go these days. Whats even funnier is people who buy a camera's and decide their gonna do "How To " videos. Seems like they don't know the correct names for tools or parts, and work on a dirt floor with flip flops on. Seems the only bikes that get real attention is Knuckles and Pans. Sportster's were cheap to buy in the old days, and the made millions of them so the mystique about them just isn't there. Keep doing what floats your boat and makes you happy . If you can find my facebook page, I have 2 pics on there,. one is my first Harley, a '48 Pan, and the second is my current bike a '06 Road King Ex NYC Police bike. They both needed work when I bought them, I guess some things never change.,,
I made a point to get a Harley with an Evo or shovelhead engine. I would have loved a shovelhead, but my 1994 ElectraGlide found me. She has 126000 original miles. The engine has never been torn down. The bike does not leak oil. The bike makes good power and stops and rides well. I shall ride her until I die.
I bought my 2004 Harley Sportster from some army dude for2,500 ive made it my own and has been a great journey learning how to take it apart i love my used Harley puts a smile on my face everyday!? ❤️🔥
I agree, people suck and I’ve gotten shit on by someone who was to fix my triumph. They tooo my money and time. I want to get into old Harley stuff, but unless you know someone or with deep pockets it’s hard. It’s very admirable that you guys are teaching the younger generation. I wish you guys were closer to me
I started out on an 883 Sportster, & traded up to a Dyna because I thought I needed a bigger bike. After replacing 2 fuel pumps I went back to a carbureted Sportster, No regrets I think the next bike is going to be an Ironhead Sportster.
I started on a Briggs & Staten hard tail mini bike. Then rode Kawasakis until my 1st HD a VROD. Yep I was a black sheep of the HOG group. I’m with you guys, I’d take an 883 and ride the hell out of it. There’s a reason they were around for 60yrs. I wish I had someone like you guys in central Alabama. You’re right about the bikes, everyone has to have a bagger with a stereo and GPS so they don’t get lost. I have a Heritage that I love. However if I was a mechanic I would love to have an EVO or Panhead. I’m too old to start now but I get everything you’re saying and I couldn’t agree more. Keep the videos coming.
Hi Jim. I have a couple Kings and an EVO Fatty, that I love best. I had to go to baggers because of my bad back-(3 lumbar disks). I still write my touring directions on the inside of my windshield with a grease pencil, and I NEVER get lost. A World War2 aviation-radio-operator/gunner B-24 aircrew guy taught me that trick. Then when i get there, i use my bandana and wipe it clean real easy. My friend did it in the 1950’s. Sadly he crossed over a few years back, but I am thankful to him for what he taught me. Those guys KNEW something. So That’s my GPS and i get made fun of. But I’ve been with folks using GPS and they get all turned around. A lot. 🤔 We gotta teach young people these tricks or they will be lost to history forever. I really like this Ironhead Sally site. I feel at home here.
Thats awesome! I heard an oldtimer talk about it before i started riding and now we use a dry erase marker to right down directions on my tank 😂 passin the torch and keeping it going, appreciate the support!
Ah, the 'fun' of fixing. Another shoe string bike rider here. Bought my first bike for $400. when I got out of the army in 1972, on my 8th bike now at 76 yrs old,, I keep them awhile. Buying tools and manuals make it possible. I've had my Pan/FXE since 1998 and my current project, a 1978 XLCR with different tank and rear fender and heavily modified drag racing engine since 2016 that I found at an estate sale. It was under $1500 but with enough surprises that I probably should quit the impulse buying. The Sporty sat for several years before I bought it and another seven before I started on it. This one is a learning experience, example, rear disc caliper bleeder frozen, tried chemicals then the propane torch then oxy/acet torch with a #2 brazing tip and more chemicals. After 3 weeks part time on it, it came out without damaging the caliper (if you don't count catching the combustible padding around it to protect it in the vice on fire) just to find the brake pad backing plates missing. Missing small parts are harder to find I think. I like your attitude about these and it helps to keep me going. I moved to middle Tennessee 19 yrs ago but haven't found like minded riders. So you two and a few other people with channels are keeping it alive, thanks. Your experiences with buyers and sellers are what I see also, not alot of honesty left.
Ohh yes all the joys of the used market! Lol, an thanks we appreciate that! Theres still honest folk that just love bikes out there,we’re all busy fixing our stuff 🤣🤣 ride free and enjoy!
Best advice I can give for someone without a lot of money trying to get into this, get a shop manual for your bike with some tools. Learn how to rebuild and jet a carburetor. Learn how to time and engine. And learn how to read a spark plug. I can't count how much money I've saved by not having a bike payment or paying a shop to do the work
I LOVE you guys. My project EVO is running like a top and it's time for another project. (While I can ride the Road King). The search is on for the "just right" FXR or Dyna. P.S. PBR is the best! 😉
My first bike was a 1963 Sportster XLCH Ironhead. My current bike is a 2017 Sportster Superlow 1200T {Touring}. I am currently building a 1985 Sportser XLS 1000 Roadster chopper.
So i got into motorcycles when I was little in the early 90's, I was always just fascinated with Harleys especially, how loud they are and the styling, unfortunately I was the only one in my family that even liked motorcycles, I had an aunt and uncle who lived in another state that had a Harely that I got to see maybe twice, they knew I loved Harleys though so every birthday and christmas they would send me Harley merchandise. I told myself when I got older I would have a harley someday! Either a fatboy or a dyna wide glide, those were the two models I was obsessed with. When I first got into bikes I was fairly young and ended up getting multiple sport bikes, Harley Davidson's were kinda put at the back of my head mainly because they were always so expensive. Fast forward many years, I am now retired Army and have lots of injuries, my sport bikes days are over, I went out searching for a 90's era fat boy or Wide glide, I got super lucky and found a 1 owner 1999 Wide Glide and I have been loving it ever since, I plan on riding to Sturgis next month, that's been a bucket list thing my whole life as well. Thanks for all the great videos, Its so refreshing to see people like you in the Harley community, also fellow Coloradans, we live in a state that has beautiful riding areas! -Patrick L
I have a 73 Ironhead sportster had it for 38 years and my wife’s first date was on it we still together and we have a few more Harleys. Nothing is wrong with them
I currently have 3 old Harley's and 2 of them are in the shop. It's not that I can't do the work myself it's the problem of not having a garage to work on them in. I'm 46 myself and don't own a car so my bikes are my only transportation. But just some advice for anyone looking at buying a Evo. There were actually 2 different styles of Evo engines the 84-88 and then 89 and on. I have a 88 softail and this was a interesting lesson for me. I also have a 89 Sportster and a 99 low rider.
So, the '89 onwards are the better models? Or the other way around? Eventually I will be looking for an evo, but considering their reputation it won't be long before they too are overpriced as well. Appreciate the heads up though.
Owning only bikes and no car, that's living the dream and making it work! good point on the different evo engines, earlier case breathers and the newer head breather engines.
The earlier models engines are case breathers, so there is a crankcase vent line from the bottom of the engine, also the transmissions were upgraded to a better splined shaft transmission for the later models. I personally prefer the case breathers, seen lots of the new style engines get choked out from the head breather routing pushing oil directly into the air filters....gotta love the EPA! 😂
I just bought a 1993 Harley Davidson sportster it had been sitting for probably six years. Everyone said go buy a new one and I was like no I want to give it life. It’s been in the shop for about two months now and it’s almost done and like 10 days I have to save my favorite part has been looking for parts at different biker events or online
Thank you for your video. You seem like nice guys. The kind of workshop that can be trusted. There are too few of that kind around - everywhere. Back in 1978 I bought a Suzuki GT550 when I was a student for $850. I maintained it myself because it was the only way I could afford the bike. I went on a 2,500 mile camping trip through Europe with my girlfriend as passenger. All the way we saw Harleys parked at the roadside of the Autobahn. As you said "You cannot recreate that with any other brand". Maybe those bikes stayed in the garage for a reason. I'm 66, retired, and still rides a motorcycle. I'm too busy to spend time rebuilding motorcycles. I just bought a used Suzuki SV650 from 2017 at a fraction of the price of a HD wreck. I just need to change the oil and check the brakes. What's not to like?
Mmm I think this is part of a change that came over the whole motorcycle sales world (all brands) awhile back. Dealerships stopped working on older bikes or providing parts/support for older bikes. My stepdad (long time Harley rider) noticed that the dealerships got rid of bike mechanics and started replacing them with technicians. The bike I ride the most (an older Kawi) is victim to the same problem. 2 years ago, I couldn't find anyone willing to work on a weird engine problem since the bike was more than 10 years old by then .. and I ended up changing the engine myself (that was fun!) after finally figuring out how bad its problems were. Anyway we do have one younger Harley rider in the family, his son-in-law who has a Sportster. We all work on our own bikes in the family. The Harley I've ridden the most is an 07 Dyna .. stepdad's spare bike .. he lets me borrow it sometimes when visiting. Edit: He's got an old shovelhead that we're going to rebuild sometime once some other projects are out of the way.
Dang Suzy, that is a great point, more technicians and parts changers than mechanics now! Nothing like figuring it out on the fly and getting back into the wind!! Ride free and thanks for watching! 💚🦅🏁😁
The younger people can’t drive a car with 3 pedals. Because they don’t want to learn. I bought a new 09 FXSTC. Not because I wanted a NEW bike. I bought it so that when I retired it would be paid off and I might not have a place to work on it. And I didn’t know how healthy I would be. So now I have a bike that fits me and the only things I need to keep up with is oil, air, belt just general maintenance. Would I buy a new one now. Nope. Love mine. At 71 it’s the last one I’ll own. It’s still fun for me. Same for hot rods. I still own my 72 Dodge Demon I bought new. I like it. Younger kids buy cheap foreign little 4 cyl cars and cut the mufflers off. You two are doing good !! Thx for the videos.
I was one of the younger people that wanted to learn, had to buy my own stick shift and learn how to drive it that day! thats the issue, less of those vehicles around so less young people even have the chance to learn. Appreciate ya watching!! Ride free and enjoy 💚🦅🏁😁
The wonderful thing about Sportsters is their aftermarket support, You can literally build one from the catalog, Biggest problem with them is finding a machine shop that is honest and puts in the effort that you pay them for when you need engine work done, Most if not all Harley shops will not work on anything that is 10 years old or older.
@@ironheadsally I have a 2020 softail standard and I can't get parts for it, Everything is on back order, I really don't know what is going through the COO's head at Harley anymore, All they want to do is produce new bikes, It seems like as far as producing parts they only make just enough to put them on new bikes.
The thing I see is not just the attitude of Bikers towards each other but there are few young guys see what went before as cool. My lad surprised me by wanting his own bike, it was a financial decision over the price of running a car but he loves it. However, it’s not his main passion. He spends way more time ripping apart computers and upgrading them. The ‘20 somethings’ don’t focus on just one thing like I did and still do. The chances of finding a’Young Biker’ that doesn’t want to be the fastest , highest tech, most gadgeted up is rare. Until recently my focus was on Almighty Horsepower and Race Leathers, etc, etc. I’ve had a change forced on me but it’s good. Reconnecting with my interest in custom and choppers I swooned over when I started Biker Rallying. Times change. Kids learn slow. I just hit 60 (ouch) the high tech bikes are outa my league but the engineering of how we got here still fascinates. My son is considered by his peers as Old for his age because he appreciates what came before and that was our hi tech. So are we going to see lots of young bikers starting out? Probably not. It‘s just how it is. But if you do see a flicker of interest from the younger generation, nurture it but don’t pressure them into being like us. They can’t be. That time is gone. Just be around ready to help when they finally decide they want it. Sorry for the length of this comment. I love all the workshop meanders. Keep doing what you’re doing. 1 life, Live it. ✌️
Good point, reminds me of that South Park episode with “bikers” and a F words 🤣 thats the narrative that was pushed for my generation more than the badasses of days of old! Lol
I am almost 50 yrs old when my daughter was born i had 97 Suzuki indruder lc 1500 had that for 15 yrs rode it alot now i am on 2012 street glide as long as i person is on 2 wheels its good yes true i have got a couple bikes that people tried to work on or just made it worse lol liked your video the topic you discussed in this video so true take care
@ironheadsally When she was a baby till 4 yrs old that was the only way I could get her to sleep wrap her up in a indian blanket hopped on the bike and rode around the block few times put her right to sleep then when I was working I had to spray her doll with my cologne and record the bike so she could sleep at night when I was out working
Hi that is a grait question What got me into bikes I started riding at 16 years old at first it was riding them but by 17 + I started fixing and changing the bike late teens at 5ft 5" I learnt to love triumphs and chopper's and then came customising I was hooked by the time I was 21 At 64 I have a 1999vw trike from new 1988 I got a 79 shovel and still have them to this day love your videos keep up the good work
I find it funny that out of all six bikes in my garage, my 76 ironhead sportster is the only one that hasn't left me on the side of the road... At least not yet. Lol
Better to always buy low. If you don't know the bike don't pay much $$ for it. Leave room for repairs. Calculate what the bike is worth in parts and your time and labor to disassemble it to sell the parts, this is what the true low value is until you determine its a decent machine. Theres lots of poorly maintained bikes out there that may or may not look good. Lots of red flags to look for when shopping for a Harley-Davidson. Bring someone knowledgeable with you even if you have to pay them. Don't emotionally decide on buying the bike. I would avoid financing any motorcycle too. If you shop right you should always have value. Don't think another deal won't come around as good as the bike your looking at, it prolly will eventually. Just buy low if you don't know the machine. Remember the old saying; "Theres an A-hole for every seat" Don't be that guy/gal ! Tons of fun to be had on a budget Harley-Davidson! They've been around for a long time so there's a bargain waiting for you someplace in various states of repair. Remember also there's honest, & dishonest also clueless people of ALL ages selling bikes. Don't give some old salt the benefit of the doubt just because he's older and ben around. Do your homework! Doesn't matter if you're 16 or 86 years old you can have a great time owning and riding a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. Try to stay out of the motorcycle dealerships if possible too. My $0.02 (Cheapskates strategy for never getting ripped off on a bike deal)
I like you folkes' channel, very spirited soulful young bike people + wheelin' dealin' truck driving sons a guns too! Can't go wrong with all that. Yeba-deba-dooo! @ironheadsally
Get ya some friends in Ireland. Back in the 90's anyway, they would have a container dropped off, pay cash on bikes to fill it, then they too us all out for drinks. Just a thought. It is concerning none the less.
Hey guys,I just did my solo from here in Ormond Beach up to my Hometown of Columbus Oh. I have this 14 Ultra ..yes it rides great and had 0 issues,But I'm trading her for a Heritage,Im getting older and I want a smaller Bike that will still get me down the road. I'm Leary of any deals these days but I guess I still have trust in the lifestyle. Keeping fingers crossed on my trade. lol
@@ironheadsally Hey I know you kids are in Colorado,But if you ever get to Ohio ,remember you have a place to lay your heads. We'll smoke some brisket ,talk bikes and do farm stuff until you leave. I truly love you and your Hubbys down to earth no BS way of living life.
Good look into the world of bikes. I agree with the sentiment that it’s about the ride, not the brand. I ride an ‘86 Goldwing and love it. Piss on the haters and the posers, just ride your own ride.
Yeah..... the kids today only want a computer, phone or other crap with a screen! I'am almost 69 years old and still riding since 1977, but the young are not even interested to learn to ride a motorcycle.
I'm canadian and I will only buy used. If I need to fix something I have mechanic manuals and TH-cam if my older friends aren't available to show me something. I have a virago 500 and a electraglide ultra classic. Not my first bikes but I love older bikes to work on. I always encourage people to buy used older bikes. I'm 50 and still lots to learn about working on bikes. Built my first harley at 19 years old.
Unfortunately people Lie . Every bike I buy I have to rebuild. But I have the knowledge and tools. I’m 58 now and it’s been the same shit my hole life lol .
Let's be honest. Mechanical aptitude is low these days. I'm in my 30s and most people would rather just want it to work than work on there own stuff. Keep it alive!
Absolutely!! it's our generation that needs to keep it going and if we can influence anyone younger to get into it!! the satisfaction from building something with your hands cannot be bought and sold! 🦅🏁😁💚 thanks for watching!!
Supply and demand. When the supply is greater than the demand, prices go down. Harley marketed to a fad. They over marketed to that fad. They sold every type bike a person could want. As long as it was a cruiser. You have to admit, to join the Harley crowd cost a lot of money. Peoples tastes change, Harley does not have a model that suits the tastes of younger riders. Buy a imported bike for less money, it is faster, handles better, and all you ever have to do to it is refill the gas tank. The economy does not allow many to make large expensive purchases of things that they really don't have to have.
Love your channel but I would never, ever recommend a new rider buy a vintage bike. Riders need to ride a reliable bike to learn the basic riding skills first. These old vintage bikes can get expensive very very quick.
In Australia old Harley's are so expensive and so hard to find, anything pre 2000 is rare. I can't buy a big twin for under $10k even with high mileage so I ride a honda shadow because it's cheap, I've been riding 30 years
I would rather ride a 883 across the country than have the key fob go bad for my techno bike. Hahaha 👍. When looking at say a basic 1200 sportster i always think about the old old old timers and the bikes they had and the riding they did and wonder what they would think of that sportster. Glad you got out of the truck business unscathed. What a ridiculous racket it is now.
Most bikes in general were bought for all the wrong reasons. There’s tons of people who watched a movie like Easy Rider or Sons if Anarchy and rushed to the local dealership and over paid over financed just to “ be free” and “ stick it to the man” when in reality they have just become a slave to the Motor Company and the in-house finance company. In reality that person is upside down on the bike and more miserabl now than before. I’ve been riding H D for several decades and don’t follow the norm. Hell I don’t even own a Harley shirt 😂 I also have a Victory Vision and a trusty 91 Klr 650 dual sport. It’s not the bike that makes the person it’s the person that makes the bike.
10:20 They do not want folks that are capable of critical thinking, they want obedient workers, people just smart enough to run the machines and just dumb enough to passively accept their situation.
i was riding Harley's back when Harley's wasn't cool, i bought a wide glide new in 84, last year 4 the shovel, y'aa i wish i had it back,, Harley out priced there self with me back about 95,, I can't afford one any more, im 65 years old and still ride a chopper that i built myself, i have a heritage as well as 5 more bikes but now im just an ol chopper man and most of my riding is over now and no i will never own a trike, it just ain't the same...
yeah im commenting a lot, waiting for it to stop storming so watching TH-cam lol. I feel bad for people who have to have the newest new bikes or take their bikes to the tech for every little thing. You can't bond with your bike until your hands have put it back together yourself, even just something small as an oil change or changing out a light bulb
That is a great point about BONDING with your bike. If you just signed some papers and never went thru anything crazy, it's maybe not as meaningful of a connection that some of us have! these old bikes are cantankerous stubborn motorcycles, but so are the nuts riding em 😂😂
To be honest, older dudes are selling their used HDs for top dollar and younger guys can't afford it. 5 - 12k for a used HD that's been sitting is way too expensive most of the time. Especially when they can get a metric with more power and liquid cooked for 2k. I love my Harleys but younger guys don't want to do carb work and wrench. Lower the cost and the younger generation would to ride Harley, but older dudes are trying to get top dollar for their bike that's been sitting for 5 years.
Concerning older bikes: there is a kernel of truth to the statement " you better get a manual and learn how to fix it". The older bikes need more adjusting and maintenance just by their nature. And you will most likely have to face some repairs that were done by prior owners ( or their best friends) that weren't done right. I know you watch Gary at Ironhead cycles- he spends a considerable amount of time un-fucking somebody else's hack job, in addition to normal wear and tear. Poorly performed prior repairs is where the "old unreliable Harley junk" attitude originates.
I had to sell my Dyna to cover some medical expenses, made the deal with the guy, he came for the bike and because the title said "mileage exempt" he told me that he needed me to come down 400 dollars because he wasn't going to be able to use the bike for his rental business. I dropped the 400 because I needed my heart meds...not even a week later I see my bike on his rental site, he lied to me. I got my insurance situation squared away and had the money to ask him to sell her back to me, I even offered to pay him what I offered it to him for originally with the extra 400 added...he said it would be an extra grand because of what blue book value was....I drove two hours to his business and was about to go inside to "talk" to him and just decided jail wasn't worth it lol so many fkn snakes in this world
It's not just Ironhead's you need to buy a manual for and learn how to work on it's any bike. My Harley is only 24 years old but good luck finding a dealership that will still work on it. I'm sure there is some examples but for the most part they won't touch it. Luckily the twin cams are still pretty simple. But what happens twenty years from now when you take your M8 to the dealership and they won't work on it? Better have a great understanding of electrical engineering with all the crap on these new bikes. Electronic Fuel Injection is great when it's working but can you work on it?
Absolutely true!!! Hard to find people to work on anything older than M8 now! They want less people working on em and just replace it with the new models. Thanks for watching! We’re down in montrose if u ever need a hand, my ol man is picking up more work and we always ask to make sure them cam chain tensioners are updated. The older bikes are easier but twin cam is the newest we would touch lol
I made a comment a few videos ago abevo softails being the most modern harleyyou can buy and get a taste of that old harleyfeelimg you guys are talking about. A person can buy a 1999 evo softail in good condition with reasonable miles and get the feeli.g you get from a good running shovelhead. No, it's not a shovel but, it more obtainable for a younger person
Everyone’s gotta start somewhere, but even evo’s are considered old! Shops arent working on them and less places stock any parts. Gotta love the evo platform tho for sure!
Sally I’m 68 yrs old and totally 💯 agree with what you and your husband are saying. But with parents teaching their kids they will be failures if they don’t go to college. The kids don’t develop any kind of mechanical skills and working with hand tools. Each generation gets softer and softer. I don’t even recognize this country anymore. 😎Dave H
I totally agree. I told both of my boys if you don't want to go to college, just don't go. Get a job, get some skills and take some classes later if you want to. Of course, some people think that's horrible, I think that's a longer term life plan. It's their life, I just want to give them their best opportunity to get ahead to make a sound decision. Just my 2 cents.
@@duanechapman-ft6ty Exactly, learn a trade, college is just a socialist brain washing exercise at this point...
I’m also 68. My son went and got a degree, and hated working in the lab with all the DEI whackos and insane brainwashed office rats. So he quit. He sold himself (so to speak) to a heating and A/C company that sent him to school. He’s now a commercial technician, works hard with his hands and back, and is very happy. That kid will never go hungry. Theres still hope.
Duane, my parents were the same as you. When I was young was always working on my bicycle and other mechanical things and helping my Dad. My parents never pushed me to go to college. I ended up going to Vo-Tech in high school. Got a job out of high school working on cars and retired 3yrs ago. College is not for everyone 😎Dave H
@RideaGoodRoad I totally 💯 agree with you. College is not for everyone. You can make a good living working in the trades or driving a truck etc. There is a shortage of skilled trades people because parents are pushing their kids to go to college.😎Dave H
1967, I was 15 years old. I started dating my neighbors cousin. I knew her dad had this beautiful black Harley. ( 1965 Panhead) one day he says," you want to go for a ride?" I had a smile from ear to ear. A year and a half later, i went to check out this 1951 Panhead. This little skinny guy pulled this bike out of the chicken house. It was dusty and beautiful black with leather saddlebags. Shifter was on the gas tank and the clutch was on the left foot. An hour or so later and $650, i was driving that machine home.
Bruce that is so awesome!!
I don't care about the "biker" life. I just like bike. My dad was military and had a Harley which he would take me to football practice on it. Since then I've wanted a bike. I've always been scared of them so I never bought one. I had a sportster for a very short time and that just fueled the Harley fire for me even more. I am now retiring from the military. I will be getting a Night Train as my retirement present and hopefully I'll get to travel with it.
Awesome! Cheers to u for getting back to it 💚🦅🏁😁 enjoy and ride free
Night Train.. heck yeah 👍
Ramble Tamble🎶
Thanks for your service ..👍😎👍
@@tieredlabsllc5728 nice bro have fun.
The motorcycle "scene" has changed to the extreme. New bike prices are obscene and the dealers are selling used bikes at about the price they were when they were new. I've never had a lot of money so I buy used cars to drive and used bikes to ride. I've never made fun or talked shit to anyone that wasn't riding a HD. I'm just glad they have the backbone to even ride two wheels in this crazy no driving drivers on the road! Whenever I've had to sell one of my bikes all I want to do is break even. And I know that the bike is better in every way than when I bought it. I'm not gonna hoo-doo anyone on a bike that I've owned. Loved the video and listening to you both on this subject. You two give a good name to motorcycling and there are lots more out there with the same attitude! Ride and stay safe! Peace!
Heck yeah sounds like honest business thats good bike karma that always comes back around 😁 cheers and thanks for watching
I'm 72 and wrenched my own rides since 1968 but admire the young folks who can write code, start businesses, speak publicly and do well in life without setting float height on a Linkert carb or shimming desmodromic valves. My family has young doctors and musicians who rarely even drive.
We all find our niches.
TRUE thanks for watching!
Proud dad moment my oldest just came home from tech school and said his senior project to graduate college is to convert an old broke down bike into an electric bike. Now I’m not one for the electric fad at all but knowing he’s bettering himself with real skills makes me happy. I was raised without any mechanical skills. So I’ve recently bought a 85 ironhead as my back to basics bike. I will learn and he will inherit it someday. In the meantime her and I ride one up and enjoy the reconnection with the ride.
Your comments are well spoken!! You are correct there is no winning!! The only win you need is the smile on your face when you're going down the road or wrenching!! Keep smiling kids!!
Absolutely true!! Thank you! More miles of smiles and riding to do 🦅🏁
@@ironheadsally Harley dropped the iron heads, and soon they plan to drop the evo, and the new models look like rice grinders! IMO Harley is dead! I got both an iron head and an evo and I'm done, ill never buy a newer Harley!
Its not just America, its the same all over Europe as well. Its now easier to sign a loan agreement for an brand new bike than scrape up the cash for a used one. The average age of a biker here is 50 plus! Im from Ireland and have bought and sold lots of bikes, but I ve given up, as a bike for sale can sit for months unsold even if its underpriced. no one seems to have any cash money anymore and are dependant on credit. You can walk into a dealership with no deposit and ride a brand new bike away for a relatively small monthly payment. The price of parts also makes it hard to justify riding an older bike when you can have a new bike with 3 year warranty. Harley and other dealers no longer sell anything that the working man can afford. Love the channel, you're a breath of fresh air among the the shills
Great comment, I can relate
Great video ,Sally and Hubby. I like near the end, the comment about riding it after your fingers were in it, you walked right into that one. Lol. Stay safe out there.
😂😂💚 I did walk directly into that!! lmao! cheers Ed!
I learned while i was in The Marine Corps at Marine Barracks 8th&I on a 1986 Honda Interceptor 500. After i left there i didn't ride again till 2013 when i met my ex who rode a Honda 919. I got hooked again and bought a 1998 Honda VFR had that and bought a 2006 Honda CBR1000. The CBR i bought with 19,000 miles on it and when i sold it it had 46.000 miles on it in 3 years! At the same time i had the CBR i bought a 2001 Goldwing, my friend owns a Honda dealership and gave me a cant walk away from deal. So i had both at the same time. I put 13,000 on the CBR and another 3.500 on the Goldwing in the same 8 month period that we can ride here in Ilinois. So i ride all local miles but i just get out and ride for the wind therapy. I love you guys im glad i found your channel. Id love to meet you one day to say thanks. And yes the hot blonde working on bikes is kinda hot. Hope your husband doesn't take offense to that. But thank you both.
Based Honda Enjoyer. I love my VTX1800.
Thank you for your service
@@RideaGoodRoad Thank you very much.
David, we really appreciate it! Glad u got back on 2 wheels, I couldn’t imagine my life without a bike now. Thank u for watching and thank u for your service 🇺🇸🦅💚 ride free!!
@@ironheadsally When you are on two wheels you are free. Nothing beats wind therapy. And thank you and thanks for your husbands service as well.
Newer to the channel and I just love your content. I'm an ex m.c guy who's road all my life and got my girlfriend into riding for her first time. She went from a 250 gs to a 1200 xrsportster and now has her new 22 streetbob 114 and I ride a 90 fxr that I built up from a POS to a nice machine. But we're in the same boat you guys are we don't have much money and zip ties are my favorite tool but we love the lifestyle and the bikes. Keep up the channel I really like seeing another version of myself and my girlfriend out there.
I had the poster from the movie Easy Rider in my room when I was in college. I said to myself that's what I want to do one day. To be Free! To where me and the bike can become one! I tried several times at the American dream, opening and closing businesses, to only realize I was just dreaming. I've owned many of Japanese bikes during that time, but never was able to afford a Harley. This year I bought a 97 Fatboy from I guy I knew who was moving overseas. It was the first Harley I ever owned. If Harley was a watch, it would be a Rolex, but even old Rolex's need maintenance. I started watching your channel, and Sally you were dead on in your video about why I ride motorcycles. I feel the exact same way. Both of you all have given me the inspiration, and the wrenching motivation I need to fulfill my dream of riding a vintage Harley across country. I'm 62 years young, and nothing comes close to roaring down the highway, and twisting the throttle of a big twin!
yaaaaassss!! this is too heartwarming to read! Thank you for your comment. Everything is going to give you issues and need some TLC, but the satisfaction when you're scooting down the open road, that's the best feeling!! Happy wrenching and ride free always!! 🏁🦅💚😁
Hi from uk great vid guys
My Dad really got me started he was a mechanic in the navy and always had a bike 90% of what I know I learned from him we would sit on the kitchen floor Dad would strip a carb then I would clean and put it back together next time I would dismantle and he would rebuild ride what he could afford working two jobs as Mam did to buy our house but we were happy we all rode stay free guys
Thats soo heartwarming! And thats what i’m talking bout, Amen!!! 🛠️🦅🏁💚
Saved up and bought my first brand new Sportster in the 70's. Just turned 67 and took my homebuilt kickstart Shovel out for a short blast yesterday, after changing and road testing the new rear tire on my Moto Guzzi ADV bike. Almost 50 years of motorcycling and still love anything with two wheels and a motor, particularly Harley choppers. Have spent the price of a new bike on magazines, blown up, broke down and fell over many times. Learned on my own, mostly the hard way, how to wrench and when to trust the pros. I ride alone, been hot, cool, sore, frozen, soaked and miserable. Slept on the ground, in shacks and nice motels. Have done all the 'must see' events and smaller rallies.
Over the years I've met very few people that wanted a motorcycle just because they love them and can't see a life without one. Luckily some were friends. And many that got into it for big money then moved on to something else. Some even had various brands but got that first Harley and immediately started drinking the kool-aid. The majority seem to be more interested in the status & lifestyle bullshit. The 'brotherhood' in motorcycling is a myth. I've always encouraged anyone to get the bike they wanted and learn to maintain, ride and enjoy it without any of the baggage.
All of this! 💚🦅 yes!!! Thank you! Couldnt agree more
Hi guys.....firstly really love your videos....im 68 now , my son, Spanner, has inherited my 76 ironhead chop i built, with help, when i was 24.....currently just finished a complete nut and bolt rebuild of an 84 ironhead, if i can fix the fork oil seals she's good to go. Over the years I've built up loads of spares, tools and manuals. You're on the money with people not wrenching on there bikes, my son however is learning all the time, happy to ride n fix. One thing you said about college rings true, i spent 3 yrs learning leatherwork, never made a mistake cos the tutor was always there, first week in the real world i made a lot, luckily, Bill, a real old timer fixed them and showed me how to fix things. Both my son and i talk to our rides n will always stop if a biker is stuck by the road.........anyhow enough of all that......thanks for the insights.....love from the UK......Snake
Wow now that is heartwarming! How freaking cool to be sharing all of that knowledge and making new memories with ur son!! 💚🦅🏁😁 love it!! ride free!
Just found your channel, love your topic and passion. I'm a 68 year old, 40 years riding a BMW airhead. I started on a Suzuki 380 out of High School, then a Kawasaki KZ750. A lot of what you talked about applies to us Beamers. I enjoy doing most of the repair work myself and love the older bike (1978 R100/7). I once helped a 20 year old neighbor kid work on what was his uncle's wrecked bike. He is now in his 30's, married and in the military and still rides and work on his bike when he can.
Teach 'em young, and get 'em on the road!
That is awesome!! Thank u, exactly what i was talking bout! Cheers and ride free
My first time seeing not one but two of my twinsouls on the interwebs... NEVER change!!! Greetings and big bikerhugs from Sweden!!
Woooot!! Cheers 💚😁🏁🦅 thanks for watching and ride free!
My neighbor two doors up the street when I was growing up in the mid 1980's inspired me to ride. He owned a bike shop and I would watch him leave on his Harley for work everyday and I knew that I would have one someday.
That is too cool!
Man, that's why i been trying to work on my twin cam. Just bought my wife a cool little evo sportster. Im gonna do as much of the work on these bikes as possible. Love google and youtube for these projects. You guys have my utmost respect for doing what ya'll do. It's why i subscribed to your channel.
Heck yeah man happy wrenching!!! 🛠️🦅💚🏁😁 ride free
I’m 63 and I believe that my generation had a definite advantage when it came to working on our own Harleys. We still drove cars that were made in the 1960s and we didn’t have a lot of money because we were in school and playing sports or whatever so we didn’t have full time jobs. That being the case we learned to work on our cars. We learned to rebuild engines and do brake jobs and all sorts of things to keep our cars on the road, make them fast, etc. The same thing plied when I got my first Harley ( 1979 Low Rider purchased in 1984 when I was 22 years old) and every Harley I have owned since then (ten so far). I now own 2 Twin Cams and I continue to do the work and customization on those. Sure, some things are beyond me. I am not a machinist so some work will eventually have to be done out of house and at a shop. Still, I have never had a problem so far in the past 40 years that I wasn’t able to take care of on my own with some research and maybe the purchase of a special tool or two. I currently own two Twin Cams, a 2010 FLHTK and a 2016 FLSTC both injected with computer brains, so that could make things a bit more difficult if something goes wrong. Looking to find and an old Shovel Head that I can really enjoy tinkering on or rebuilding. It’s nice to know that if you have compression, spark, fuel, air and proper timing you can make that old engine run.
Absolutely agree!!!
I'm 50. Grew up on the front and back of my dads bike, flipping through his Easyriders magazines and going to the flea market swaps in the early 80s... Daytona Bikeweek back then, went through the chopper craze...Ebay. Again, it started as a kid, like you, I grew up, my whole life in the culture. Keep doing what you two are doing.
Awesome!! 😁🦅💚🏁 ride free
I agree with what you are talking about. Been working on bikes for many many years and have set up my channel just to help others out there and pass on what I have learned to keep them going for many years after I'm gone. I'm no expert but I hope I can help and encourage others to keep these old bikes going. Great talk. Keep at it as these old bikes need people like you to to keep them going for the future.
Absolutely priceless to keep it going and show people!! 😁💚🦅🏁 cheers to u!
@@ironheadsally I agree. Thanks!
Im almost 60. I bought my first bike, an old 67 sportster, a neighbor had it his garage. I cut all the grass in the neighborhood. He helped me getting it running. I spent as much time as i could at the harley shop. Back then people were helpful. The older bikers taught me many lessons i still remember. Harley shops are nothing like that now, sadly. I tried to help young people around where i live. They dont want an older bike. Something has changed. I grew up reading easyriders. I always wanted to build bikes, make them better. Hell, i always thought an older bike was better. There are a few people that still value the older bikes, most people i see now, they just want a new bike. The shop will do the work im told. Something bad has happened. Thanks for the videos. Yall are real people.
I think it changed when electronics moved into bikes. Used to be able to manually find TDC, set points, etc. Now you just get left on the side of the road waiting for the trailer to come and the bill from some HD store with all the reboot computer BS tools. I’m not good with new bikes. My newest HD is a beautiful ’08 King- 15 years old and it’s for sale because of computer settings BS. I’m done.
Appreciate it Lauren! I couldn't imagine where we would be if I started earlier in life. Better late than never, but definitely a shift in thinking overall so people don't want these older bikes! thanks for watching!
aint that the truth!!!
Very well said. I started at 9 years old on a Honda 70 step thru. That sowed the seed for me. Then Came Bronson sowed the seed for me to own a Harley. I'm nudging 72 now and have three Harleys in the shed among other bikes. You have great intentions but unfortunately you can't change the course of the mighty human machine. It will move on regardless of us. For me I just power on regardless and to heck with anyone who chucks of at my efforts. Stay safe. Cheers from down under 🇦🇺 Stan.
Appreciate it Stan!! Thats awesome, i can only imagine how things would have been if i had the opportunity to start earlier lol if we can influence atleast one young rider than its worth it 😁😁 just like you and the grand kiddo, will remember that for life 💚 cheers Stan!
I'm looking for a Bronson Rock, my Sporty needs maintenance
@@martincvitkovich724 Yes the infamous Bronson rock. You might find one similar. Make sure it has plenty of iorn in it.
My wife has a shirt that says- buying and riding a new bike is a hobby, keeping an old bike running is a passion.
She rides a 97 Springer and I have a 96 Fatboy.
I do as much work as I can, clutches, cams, wiring or anythin that doesn't need a lathe or a press.
I love the Evo and have had one since 2002.
Totally agree with the cost and the attitude that comes with "money" people. Not all, but most.
Just talked to a guy, while my 9 year old and I were out for a ride, and he said it cost him $3000 to put new handlebars on!
I can't imagine!
I love your channel!
Thanks for being real
$3k??? That is just bonkers lol appreciate ya watching! Ride free
I truly love the real world you two put out here! I have been riding since 1977. My Dad had a bike shop, I was a little fella, he had a Honda qa 50 in a crate, he told me if I could put it together and it ran, it was mine! I did it and have been hooked ever since!
Wow that is soo awesome!! Thanks for watching!!
I enjoyed listening to this. I am 40 years old and have been around bikes my entire life and always looked up to the gray beards in the biker community. The guys with all the knowledge and willing to take you under your wing. I can’t stand what the biker community has become. All these yuppies and their $35,000 Street Glides being towed behind their campers to the bike rallies. The whole thing has become a joke.
Absolutely agree! Those old timers that knew their scoots inside and out, they have all my respect and I'll listen to any advice they give...some RUB that signed a big ol loan payment is only showing that he can spend money, that doesn't take as much skill 😂😂
Hats off too you both for bringing what's going on in the OG Iron life. I'm just burnt on seeing blackout RGs and Street Glides with riders that barely know how to tie their shoe or even how they got on their in the first place.
Absolutely agree! 💯🦅🏁💚 ride free!
On my 2006 5 speed twin cam, you need to check the transmission oil with the bike upright and level, not on its side stand. Now, the oil needs to be checked on the side stand
I got back into bikes in 2020. I bought an '09 WR450F - street legal. I started toying with the idea of SM wheels. They were expensive. I found a 2000 Bandit 1200 close by for $400. It was in totes. Crankshaft in hand. I put a lot of time and money into putting that bike back together. It has a stage II Dale Walker kit, it's fast as fk.
Now, I have 6 bikes and a Kawi ZR-7 I'm returning to service for a new rider. My newest bike is an '06 Road King that was crashed and Bubba'ed-up. I've a lot of work to go, but it ran and drove when I bought it. Harley's mostly seem simple but heavy.
Interesting channel/perspective. I've never put a car or bike "in the shop." My grandpa Edwards was a machinist and a farmer. There was a lot of "gear headedness" handed down through the Edwards family.
👍 Subscribed
Wow thats awesome, sounds like a sweet stable of scoots! Definitely great seeing more of the gear head traits being passed down thru family. Thanks for watching!!
I got a 2002 fatboy with 32,000 miles for 1500 bucks! Wow ! seller said the bottom end was bad it was knocking. Turned out when I got it home and started troubleshooting, it was the compensator sprocket bolt was loose. Checked the cam chain tensioners and they look to have been replaced at some point. Was going to flip it and make 3 or 4 grand but i Gave the bike to my son for his 21st birthday. Now he won't bug me to ride my bikes.
Wow, what a relief to find that!! And yes so much yes! So great to pass the torch, and get him off ur bikes too eh? 😂 ride free!! 💚🦅🏁
Thanks for being real. I'm 66 and been riding and turning wrenchs si ce I was 16. It's a way of life for me. Agree just ride what ever you can afford and enjoy. I ride Harleys now and have for a long time. Newest being a 1997 softtail. Oldest 58 ironh3ad chopper. Keep I real.
I was that guy who replaced everything on a bike, and the cause was just a loose battery terminal, my bike would sit in the garage a month with me trying to fix it by myself...but I think by starting out that way, is why I can now get her going on the side of the road in about 20 minutes and keep on rolling. Yep I still cuss and throw wrenches sometimes, but dude, theres no better feeling when you get something fixed and that bike comes back to life nothing better
Hell that's probably the most effective way to learn! the hard way lol I feel ya on that one. but too true!!! thanks for watching man ride freee 💚😁🦅🏁
Y'all would love my 92 fxrs low rider convertible. Stock, restored by me, preservation foremost, has all of it's original accessories, runs like a top, anti-dive front air even works. She's an honest runner and a blast to ride!!! I just loved restoring, preserving and riding her. Love your channel, your self reliant perseverance and honesty. Thanks...love what you do.
As an aside...I am in the midst of restoring/preserving the cutest lil 1950 mg td!!! Gotta love it. Vintage Rocks!!!!
Hell yeah sounds awesome!! FXRs for life 💚🦅🏁😁 happy wrenching! Keep these ol skoots on the road
I'm now 57, 3 yrs ago bought a 76 ironhead rolling basket case. Two yrs to get it riding, 3 months over last winter to fix oil leaks and fix top end. This bike is a blast to ride. Still figuring out the jetting for the CV carb. Working on this bike is extremely enjoyable to me. The amount of negativity I've gotten for having an old bike is crazy. I built and maintain the bike I love, if you can't understand that I can't help you understand. Buy, build what you want, the enjoyment in the long run is worth it .
Absolutely 💯 agree!! Cannot compare that experience to anything! Happy wrenching and ride free!
Just found your page great stuff I started on new harleys 10 years ago now I ride a 78 shovel and an 81 ironhead they require more love but i love them both I don't miss the modern bikes I used to have.
Metal heads riding old Harleys 🤘😝 hell yeah man! keeping em in the wind
i love you guys and all of your content .... definitely my kind of people every bike i have ever owned started out rusted and busted with a little love i made them my own . i ride because i love motorcycles in general . old ,new, rusted, shiny i respect them all to me its all about being in the wind
Absolutely!!! Cool bikes, knees in the breeze, and a big ol smile 😁🦅🏁💚
But there is still some old school riders and wrenchers that feel just the way you two do. Keep up the great videos that polish the point about old HDs being a jewel of a find and a life experience to own.
Thank youuu!!
As a ex hàrley mechanic in the 70s I got a good buy on a 2006 1200 custom the man told me the truth about it had it a year ever good motorcycle 5000 miles no problems😊
All of this!!! Buying my Ironhead was met with so much negativity. Especially since i traded a beautifully care for 99 VFR for it.
Doesn't matter what brand it is, theres always someone there to try and discourage you.
Starting this rebuild, just reignited my love of riding. Yes, it sucks being without a vehicle because someone was less than honest and sold me a lemon... But ill be damned if thats going to discourage me from getting the ol girl back up running on two wheels under her own power!
(Side note... I'm always cool with getting advice/knowledge on bikes... I.e. rebuilding an ironhead. 😜)
We need more people like you guys. I think the main problem is laziness and egos, people are too lazy to wrench and they think its a flex to ride home a $30,000 bike. I on the other hand just found an 88 fxr! I was able to ride it home but definitely needs some work. But im super excited about it. Keep being you, and if i ever see you on the road im going to buy you guys a beer!
OooooooOooo 88 FXR project 🤩 happy wrenching and ripping!!!
As it has been already stated you and your husbands dedication and expertise for older bikes is enjoyable to watch and hear. My Army mentor’s family gave me his old 1977 shovel head after he passed. I have been looking for someone that had the same old school passion that Dennis had and you guys are the perfect fit to show some respect to his legacy. Since “the rat” is beyond my expertise I would be honored if you would spare some of your time putting the spirit back into her
With respect, Rick
Oh wow Rick! We would honestly be honored! 💚😁🦅 email me and we can discuss this some more please: ironheadsally@yahoo.com
I am glad I stumbled upon this video. I live in CO as well and am looking for my first Harley. I appreciate the help here.
I have ridden motorcycles off and on for several years. I am not into cars at all, but I have always loved bikes. My first introduction were Honda dirt bikes that belonged to a friend. My first road bike was a used V Star 650. I sold that and bought a used Triumph Speed Triple. After being hit by a car, I have difficulty pulling the clutch now, but I don't ever want to stop. I want to experience a Harley for once, and I have heard the same bs from people about them. I believed a lot, if not all of it as well. One thing I have learned owning a Triumph... it's expensive to own one. Parts are not cheap and all my parts have had to be shipped from UK. I want to stay in this, keep loving bikes. I want to learn how to fix my own stuff, but I can't find anyone to teach me.
Thank you for watching!! and yes, this is why I post this stuff, it's hard to get into, and with less people wrenching in general, it's even harder for those of us that want to learn!! Honestly if you can find a reasonable used carburated Harley- like from the 90s that rides well, talk to the people you buy it from and see where that contact can take you! EVO sportster is probably the safest bet for starting out! rip it around and hopefully you won't need to do any major repairs for a while 😁🦅💚 ride free
Hey guys don’t listen to the hater’s you’re doing great job
I think you guys are maybe 40 years too late with your thoughts on motorcycling. I got into bikes in 1973, and everyone I knew couldn't even think of buying new. we always bought "Handyman" specials. There was always a ton of work the needed to done. And if you didn't know how to do something, someone else did, so you always could get back on the road for as cheap as possible. Fast forward 50 years later, nobody wants to fix anything. They just put blind faith in the dealer mechanic's, and show up with a fistfull of hundreds when they pick it up. No one owns tools, or wants to buy them. They feel their time is worth too much to fix things themselves. Buying a bike for little to no money down, with 84 month's to pay for it, is the way to go these days. Whats even funnier is people who buy a camera's and decide their gonna do "How To " videos. Seems like they don't know the correct names for tools or parts, and work on a dirt floor with flip flops on. Seems the only bikes that get real attention is Knuckles and Pans. Sportster's were cheap to buy in the old days, and the made millions of them so the mystique about them just isn't there. Keep doing what floats your boat and makes you happy . If you can find my facebook page, I have 2 pics on there,.
one is my first Harley, a '48 Pan, and the second is my current bike a '06 Road King Ex NYC Police bike. They both needed work when I bought them, I guess some things never change.,,
💯💯💯
Absolutely less people working on em
I made a point to get a Harley with an Evo or shovelhead engine. I would have loved a shovelhead, but my 1994 ElectraGlide found me. She has 126000 original miles. The engine has never been torn down. The bike does not leak oil. The bike makes good power and stops and rides well. I shall ride her until I die.
Wow 126K on the original stock motor! What a wonder that good maintenance and taking care of can lead to a really long lasting machine! Ride free 😁🦅💚🏁
I bought my 2004 Harley Sportster from some army dude for2,500 ive made it my own and has been a great journey learning how to take it apart i love my used Harley puts a smile on my face everyday!? ❤️🔥
That is sooo great! The evo sporty, such a great platform to customize and still be nice and reliable!! cheers and ride free 😁💚🦅🏁
I agree, people suck and I’ve gotten shit on by someone who was to fix my triumph. They tooo my money and time. I want to get into old Harley stuff, but unless you know someone or with deep pockets it’s hard.
It’s very admirable that you guys are teaching the younger generation. I wish you guys were closer to me
True!! Appreciate ya watching
Just got scammed on a WLA Harley
I started out on an 883 Sportster, & traded up to a Dyna because I thought I needed a bigger bike. After replacing 2 fuel pumps I went back to a carbureted Sportster, No regrets I think the next bike is going to be an Ironhead Sportster.
Good call! keep it simple 💚🦅🏁😁
I started on a Briggs & Staten hard tail mini bike. Then rode Kawasakis until my 1st HD a VROD. Yep I was a black sheep of the HOG group. I’m with you guys, I’d take an 883 and ride the hell out of it. There’s a reason they were around for 60yrs. I wish I had someone like you guys in central Alabama. You’re right about the bikes, everyone has to have a bagger with a stereo and GPS so they don’t get lost. I have a Heritage that I love. However if I was a mechanic I would love to have an EVO or Panhead. I’m too old to start now but I get everything you’re saying and I couldn’t agree more. Keep the videos coming.
Hi Jim. I have a couple Kings and an EVO Fatty, that I love best. I had to go to baggers because of my bad back-(3 lumbar disks). I still write my touring directions on the inside of my windshield with a grease pencil, and I NEVER get lost. A World War2 aviation-radio-operator/gunner B-24 aircrew guy taught me that trick. Then when i get there, i use my bandana and wipe it clean real easy. My friend did it in the 1950’s. Sadly he crossed over a few years back, but I am thankful to him for what he taught me. Those guys KNEW something. So That’s my GPS and i get made fun of. But I’ve been with folks using GPS and they get all turned around. A lot. 🤔 We gotta teach young people these tricks or they will be lost to history forever. I really like this Ironhead Sally site. I feel at home here.
Hell yeah Jim! Rock that heritage for miles and smiles! Cheers man 🦅🏁💚
Thats awesome! I heard an oldtimer talk about it before i started riding and now we use a dry erase marker to right down directions on my tank 😂 passin the torch and keeping it going, appreciate the support!
Spot on. There is a special feeling riding old analog mechanical iron. Another great vid 👍
Thanks for watching!!
Ah, the 'fun' of fixing. Another shoe string bike rider here. Bought my first bike for $400. when I got out of the army in 1972, on my 8th bike now at 76 yrs old,, I keep them awhile. Buying tools and manuals make it possible. I've had my Pan/FXE since 1998 and my current project, a 1978 XLCR with different tank and rear fender and heavily modified drag racing engine since 2016 that I found at an estate sale. It was under $1500 but with enough surprises that I probably should quit the impulse buying. The Sporty sat for several years before I bought it and another seven before I started on it. This one is a learning experience, example, rear disc caliper bleeder frozen, tried chemicals then the propane torch then oxy/acet torch with a #2 brazing tip and more chemicals. After 3 weeks part time on it, it came out without damaging the caliper (if you don't count catching the combustible padding around it to protect it in the vice on fire) just to find the brake pad backing plates missing. Missing small parts are harder to find I think.
I like your attitude about these and it helps to keep me going. I moved to middle Tennessee 19 yrs ago but haven't found like minded riders. So you two and a few other people with channels are keeping it alive, thanks.
Your experiences with buyers and sellers are what I see also, not alot of honesty left.
Ohh yes all the joys of the used market! Lol, an thanks we appreciate that! Theres still honest folk that just love bikes out there,we’re all busy fixing our stuff 🤣🤣 ride free and enjoy!
Best advice I can give for someone without a lot of money trying to get into this, get a shop manual for your bike with some tools. Learn how to rebuild and jet a carburetor. Learn how to time and engine. And learn how to read a spark plug. I can't count how much money I've saved by not having a bike payment or paying a shop to do the work
absolutely!!! 💚🏁🦅😁
I LOVE you guys. My project EVO is running like a top and it's time for another project. (While I can ride the Road King). The search is on for the "just right" FXR or Dyna. P.S. PBR is the best! 😉
Awesome!! Happy wrenching, ur building up quite a stable 😁🦅🏁
My first bike was a 1963 Sportster XLCH Ironhead. My current bike is a 2017 Sportster Superlow 1200T {Touring}. I am currently building a 1985 Sportser XLS 1000 Roadster chopper.
Awesome!! ride free and thanks for watching!! 💚🦅😁
So i got into motorcycles when I was little in the early 90's, I was always just fascinated with Harleys especially, how loud they are and the styling, unfortunately I was the only one in my family that even liked motorcycles, I had an aunt and uncle who lived in another state that had a Harely that I got to see maybe twice, they knew I loved Harleys though so every birthday and christmas they would send me Harley merchandise. I told myself when I got older I would have a harley someday! Either a fatboy or a dyna wide glide, those were the two models I was obsessed with. When I first got into bikes I was fairly young and ended up getting multiple sport bikes, Harley Davidson's were kinda put at the back of my head mainly because they were always so expensive. Fast forward many years, I am now retired Army and have lots of injuries, my sport bikes days are over, I went out searching for a 90's era fat boy or Wide glide, I got super lucky and found a 1 owner 1999 Wide Glide and I have been loving it ever since, I plan on riding to Sturgis next month, that's been a bucket list thing my whole life as well.
Thanks for all the great videos, Its so refreshing to see people like you in the Harley community, also fellow Coloradans, we live in a state that has beautiful riding areas!
-Patrick L
Hey Patrick that is soo awesome!! Cheers to you and ride free! Dyna Wide Glide such a fun model 🏁😁💚🤘🦅 enjoy Sturgis! Thanks for watching
Sure enjoy your channel, and this rap session was great!
🦅💚😁💯 appreciate it Mitch!!
I have a 73 Ironhead sportster had it for 38 years and my wife’s first date was on it we still together and we have a few more Harleys. Nothing is wrong with them
Awesome!!! Ride free
I currently have 3 old Harley's and 2 of them are in the shop. It's not that I can't do the work myself it's the problem of not having a garage to work on them in. I'm 46 myself and don't own a car so my bikes are my only transportation. But just some advice for anyone looking at buying a Evo. There were actually 2 different styles of Evo engines the 84-88 and then 89 and on. I have a 88 softail and this was a interesting lesson for me. I also have a 89 Sportster and a 99 low rider.
So, the '89 onwards are the better models? Or the other way around?
Eventually I will be looking for an evo, but considering their reputation it won't be long before they too are overpriced as well.
Appreciate the heads up though.
Owning only bikes and no car, that's living the dream and making it work! good point on the different evo engines, earlier case breathers and the newer head breather engines.
The earlier models engines are case breathers, so there is a crankcase vent line from the bottom of the engine, also the transmissions were upgraded to a better splined shaft transmission for the later models. I personally prefer the case breathers, seen lots of the new style engines get choked out from the head breather routing pushing oil directly into the air filters....gotta love the EPA! 😂
I just bought a 1993 Harley Davidson sportster it had been sitting for probably six years. Everyone said go buy a new one and I was like no I want to give it life. It’s been in the shop for about two months now and it’s almost done and like 10 days I have to save my favorite part has been looking for parts at different biker events or online
Thats the best!! Hopefully u’ll be scooting and in the wind in no time 😁😁🏁💚🦅 ride free
Thank you for your video. You seem like nice guys. The kind of workshop that can be trusted. There are too few of that kind around - everywhere. Back in 1978 I bought a Suzuki GT550 when I was a student for $850. I maintained it myself because it was the only way I could afford the bike. I went on a 2,500 mile camping trip through Europe with my girlfriend as passenger. All the way we saw Harleys parked at the roadside of the Autobahn. As you said "You cannot recreate that with any other brand". Maybe those bikes stayed in the garage for a reason.
I'm 66, retired, and still rides a motorcycle. I'm too busy to spend time rebuilding motorcycles. I just bought a used Suzuki SV650 from 2017 at a fraction of the price of a HD wreck. I just need to change the oil and check the brakes. What's not to like?
That does sound very freeing! lol
Mmm I think this is part of a change that came over the whole motorcycle sales world (all brands) awhile back. Dealerships stopped working on older bikes or providing parts/support for older bikes. My stepdad (long time Harley rider) noticed that the dealerships got rid of bike mechanics and started replacing them with technicians. The bike I ride the most (an older Kawi) is victim to the same problem. 2 years ago, I couldn't find anyone willing to work on a weird engine problem since the bike was more than 10 years old by then .. and I ended up changing the engine myself (that was fun!) after finally figuring out how bad its problems were. Anyway we do have one younger Harley rider in the family, his son-in-law who has a Sportster. We all work on our own bikes in the family.
The Harley I've ridden the most is an 07 Dyna .. stepdad's spare bike .. he lets me borrow it sometimes when visiting.
Edit: He's got an old shovelhead that we're going to rebuild sometime once some other projects are out of the way.
Dang Suzy, that is a great point, more technicians and parts changers than mechanics now! Nothing like figuring it out on the fly and getting back into the wind!! Ride free and thanks for watching! 💚🦅🏁😁
The younger people can’t drive a car with 3 pedals. Because they don’t want to learn. I bought a new 09 FXSTC. Not because I wanted a NEW bike. I bought it so that when I retired it would be paid off and I might not have a place to work on it. And I didn’t know how healthy I would be. So now I have a bike that fits me and the only things I need to keep up with is oil, air, belt just general maintenance. Would I buy a new one now. Nope. Love mine. At 71 it’s the last one I’ll own. It’s still fun for me. Same for hot rods. I still own my 72 Dodge Demon I bought new. I like it. Younger kids buy cheap foreign little 4 cyl cars and cut the mufflers off. You two are doing good !! Thx for the videos.
I was one of the younger people that wanted to learn, had to buy my own stick shift and learn how to drive it that day! thats the issue, less of those vehicles around so less young people even have the chance to learn. Appreciate ya watching!! Ride free and enjoy 💚🦅🏁😁
I got a brand new softail, but I do want to get an older bike. To work on and give to one of my sons
The wonderful thing about Sportsters is their aftermarket support, You can literally build one from the catalog, Biggest problem with them is finding a machine shop that is honest and puts in the effort that you pay them for when you need engine work done, Most if not all Harley shops will not work on anything that is 10 years old or older.
Soo true!! 🦅🏁💚 we cant hardly find parts for evo’s on the road
@@ironheadsally I have a 2020 softail standard and I can't get parts for it, Everything is on back order, I really don't know what is going through the COO's head at Harley anymore, All they want to do is produce new bikes, It seems like as far as producing parts they only make just enough to put them on new bikes.
The thing I see is not just the attitude of Bikers towards each other but there are few young guys see what went before as cool.
My lad surprised me by wanting his own bike, it was a financial decision over the price of running a car but he loves it.
However, it’s not his main passion. He spends way more time ripping apart computers and upgrading them.
The ‘20 somethings’ don’t focus on just one thing like I did and still do. The chances of finding a’Young Biker’ that doesn’t want to be the fastest , highest tech, most gadgeted up is rare.
Until recently my focus was on Almighty Horsepower and Race Leathers, etc, etc. I’ve had a change forced on me but it’s good. Reconnecting with my interest in custom and choppers I swooned over when I started Biker Rallying.
Times change. Kids learn slow. I just hit 60 (ouch) the high tech bikes are outa my league but the engineering of how we got here still fascinates.
My son is considered by his peers as Old for his age because he appreciates what came before and that was our hi tech. So are we going to see lots of young bikers starting out? Probably not. It‘s just how it is. But if you do see a flicker of interest from the younger generation, nurture it but don’t pressure them into being like us. They can’t be. That time is gone. Just be around ready to help when they finally decide they want it.
Sorry for the length of this comment. I love all the workshop meanders. Keep doing what you’re doing. 1 life, Live it. ✌️
Good point, reminds me of that South Park episode with “bikers” and a F words 🤣 thats the narrative that was pushed for my generation more than the badasses of days of old! Lol
@@ironheadsally lol
I am almost 50 yrs old when my daughter was born i had 97 Suzuki indruder lc 1500 had that for 15 yrs rode it alot now i am on 2012 street glide as long as i person is on 2 wheels its good yes true i have got a couple bikes that people tried to work on or just made it worse lol liked your video the topic you discussed in this video so true take care
That is awesome! Hope your daughter learned some of the love of the road from you! 💚😁🦅🏁
@ironheadsally
When she was a baby till 4 yrs old that was the only way I could get her to sleep wrap her up in a indian blanket hopped on the bike and rode around the block few times put her right to sleep then when I was working I had to spray her doll with my cologne and record the bike so she could sleep at night when I was out working
Hi that is a grait question
What got me into bikes I started riding at 16 years old at first it was riding them but by 17 + I started fixing and changing the bike late teens at 5ft 5" I learnt to love triumphs and chopper's and then came customising
I was hooked by the time I was 21
At 64 I have a 1999vw trike from new
1988 I got a 79 shovel and still have them to this day love your videos keep up the good work
I find it funny that out of all six bikes in my garage, my 76 ironhead sportster is the only one that hasn't left me on the side of the road... At least not yet. Lol
Absolutely!!! Ironheads will run on pure stubborn ignorance, no compression, broken everything, they are like “i got this” 😅🤣
@@ironheadsally lol... Thats too funny and too true at the same time.
Better to always buy low.
If you don't know the bike don't pay much $$ for it.
Leave room for repairs.
Calculate what the bike is worth in parts and your time and labor to disassemble it to sell the parts, this is what the true low value is until you determine its a decent machine.
Theres lots of poorly maintained bikes out there that may or may not look good.
Lots of red flags to look for when shopping for a Harley-Davidson.
Bring someone knowledgeable with you even if you have to pay them.
Don't emotionally decide on buying the bike.
I would avoid financing any motorcycle too.
If you shop right you should always have value.
Don't think another deal won't come around as good as the bike your looking at, it prolly will eventually.
Just buy low if you don't know the machine.
Remember the old saying;
"Theres an A-hole for every seat"
Don't be that guy/gal !
Tons of fun to be had on a budget Harley-Davidson!
They've been around for a long time so there's a bargain waiting for you someplace in various states of repair.
Remember also there's honest, & dishonest also clueless people of ALL ages selling bikes.
Don't give some old salt the benefit of the doubt just because he's older and ben around.
Do your homework!
Doesn't matter if you're 16 or 86 years old you can have a great time owning and riding a Harley-Davidson motorcycle.
Try to stay out of the motorcycle dealerships if possible too.
My $0.02
(Cheapskates strategy for never getting ripped off on a bike deal)
All great great advice!!! My favorite is dont emotionally buy a motorcycle! So true!!
I like you folkes' channel, very spirited soulful young bike people + wheelin' dealin' truck driving sons a guns too! Can't go wrong with all that. Yeba-deba-dooo! @ironheadsally
Get ya some friends in Ireland. Back in the 90's anyway, they would have a container dropped off, pay cash on bikes to fill it, then they too us all out for drinks. Just a thought. It is concerning none the less.
So many truths in this video.
Thanks Buck!!!
Hey guys,I just did my solo from here in Ormond Beach up to my Hometown of Columbus Oh. I have this 14 Ultra ..yes it rides great and had 0 issues,But I'm trading her for a Heritage,Im getting older and I want a smaller Bike that will still get me down the road. I'm Leary of any deals these days but I guess I still have trust in the lifestyle. Keeping fingers crossed on my trade. lol
Awesome!!! Hope u find a gem of a bike and many more miles and adventures!!
@@ironheadsally Hey I know you kids are in Colorado,But if you ever get to Ohio ,remember you have a place to lay your heads. We'll smoke some brisket ,talk bikes and do farm stuff until you leave. I truly love you and your Hubbys down to earth no BS way of living life.
@@user-sx5cl8sv2f smoked brisket and talking bike stuff with bike loving folks!! I’ll definitely keep that in mind 😁💚 sounds like a great time
Good look into the world of bikes. I agree with the sentiment that it’s about the ride, not the brand. I ride an ‘86 Goldwing and love it. Piss on the haters and the posers, just ride your own ride.
Absolutely!! 💯 🦅🏁😁 ride free
Yeah..... the kids today only want a computer, phone or other crap with a screen! I'am almost 69 years old and still riding since 1977, but the young are not even interested to learn to ride a motorcycle.
I'm canadian and I will only buy used. If I need to fix something I have mechanic manuals and TH-cam if my older friends aren't available to show me something. I have a virago 500 and a electraglide ultra classic. Not my first bikes but I love older bikes to work on. I always encourage people to buy used older bikes. I'm 50 and still lots to learn about working on bikes. Built my first harley at 19 years old.
Thats soo great! Encouraging and fostering to keep this going 😁🦅🏁💚
Unfortunately people Lie . Every bike I buy I have to rebuild. But I have the knowledge and tools. I’m 58 now and it’s been the same shit my hole life lol .
Dang, so it’s always been like this huh! crazy world! Thanks for watching
Let's be honest. Mechanical aptitude is low these days. I'm in my 30s and most people would rather just want it to work than work on there own stuff. Keep it alive!
Absolutely!! it's our generation that needs to keep it going and if we can influence anyone younger to get into it!! the satisfaction from building something with your hands cannot be bought and sold! 🦅🏁😁💚 thanks for watching!!
I've had a Evo sportster, I think I want to try a iron head sportster.
Wooot! They are super fun! 🤩
Supply and demand. When the supply is greater than the demand, prices go down. Harley marketed to a fad. They over marketed to that fad. They sold every type bike a person could want. As long as it was a cruiser. You have to admit, to join the Harley crowd cost a lot of money. Peoples tastes change, Harley does not have a model that suits the tastes of younger riders.
Buy a imported bike for less money, it is faster, handles better, and all you ever have to do to it is refill the gas tank.
The economy does not allow many to make large expensive purchases of things that they really don't have to have.
I’m 76 wrench my own for over 50yrs riding for 66yrs every so called tech that’s ever touched my bike has screwed it up
Love your channel but I would never, ever recommend a new rider buy a vintage bike. Riders need to ride a reliable bike to learn the basic riding skills first. These old vintage bikes can get expensive very very quick.
In Australia old Harley's are so expensive and so hard to find, anything pre 2000 is rare. I can't buy a big twin for under $10k even with high mileage so I ride a honda shadow because it's cheap, I've been riding 30 years
Oooof, that is expensive! I totally get it, cheap and reliable
I would rather ride a 883 across the country than have the key fob go bad for my techno bike. Hahaha 👍. When looking at say a basic 1200 sportster i always think about the old old old timers and the bikes they had and the riding they did and wonder what they would think of that sportster. Glad you got out of the truck business unscathed. What a ridiculous racket it is now.
Absolutely agree! No one told those old timers it was a chic’s bike 🤣
I’ll call my 80 shovel Mary Jane 🥰there is nothin like old Harley’s …
Ahh the rumble of a Shovelhead...potato potato potato! nothing like it 💚🦅😁🏁
It's a shame you guys are so far away from South Carolina.
Most bikes in general were bought for all the wrong reasons. There’s tons of people who watched a movie like Easy Rider or Sons if Anarchy and rushed to the local dealership and over paid over financed just to “ be free” and “ stick it to the man” when in reality they have just become a slave to the Motor Company and the in-house finance company. In reality that person is upside down on the bike and more miserabl now than before. I’ve been riding H D for several decades and don’t follow the norm. Hell I don’t even own a Harley shirt 😂 I also have a Victory Vision and a trusty 91 Klr 650 dual sport. It’s not the bike that makes the person it’s the person that makes the bike.
LMAO!! TRUTH!!! 😂😂💚🦅
10:20
They do not want folks that are capable of critical thinking, they want obedient workers, people just smart enough to run the machines and just dumb enough to passively accept their situation.
Hmm truth!!
i was riding Harley's back when Harley's wasn't cool, i bought a wide glide new in 84, last year 4 the shovel, y'aa i wish i had it back,, Harley out priced there self with me back about 95,, I can't afford one any more, im 65 years old and still ride a chopper that i built myself, i have a heritage as well as 5 more bikes but now im just an ol chopper man and most of my riding is over now and no i will never own a trike, it just ain't the same...
Hell yeah man! Building and maintaining your own scoots, thats the best 😁
There's some boys over in Japan that dig the sh*t out of old American iron.
Ohh yes! I love seeing some of the videos of the Japan builders, they have such great style and build old choppers to RIDE!!!
Ride a Harley, a Yamaha, a old Honds...who cares...just make it your own!
U guys are great 👍
yeah im commenting a lot, waiting for it to stop storming so watching TH-cam lol. I feel bad for people who have to have the newest new bikes or take their bikes to the tech for every little thing. You can't bond with your bike until your hands have put it back together yourself, even just something small as an oil change or changing out a light bulb
That is a great point about BONDING with your bike. If you just signed some papers and never went thru anything crazy, it's maybe not as meaningful of a connection that some of us have! these old bikes are cantankerous stubborn motorcycles, but so are the nuts riding em 😂😂
To be honest, older dudes are selling their used HDs for top dollar and younger guys can't afford it. 5 - 12k for a used HD that's been sitting is way too expensive most of the time. Especially when they can get a metric with more power and liquid cooked for 2k. I love my Harleys but younger guys don't want to do carb work and wrench. Lower the cost and the younger generation would to ride Harley, but older dudes are trying to get top dollar for their bike that's been sitting for 5 years.
Oohhh that is so true! People trying to sell as if their sentimental value adds actual value to the bike LOL! Great point thanks
Concerning older bikes: there is a kernel of truth to the statement " you better get a manual and learn how to fix it". The older bikes need more adjusting and maintenance just by their nature. And you will most likely have to face some repairs that were done by prior owners ( or their best friends) that weren't done right. I know you watch Gary at Ironhead cycles- he spends a considerable amount of time un-fucking somebody else's hack job, in addition to normal wear and tear. Poorly performed prior repairs is where the "old unreliable Harley junk" attitude originates.
Absolutely agree! The bikes arent trashed by design, but by neglect and abuse 😂 thanks for watching
I had to sell my Dyna to cover some medical expenses, made the deal with the guy, he came for the bike and because the title said "mileage exempt" he told me that he needed me to come down 400 dollars because he wasn't going to be able to use the bike for his rental business. I dropped the 400 because I needed my heart meds...not even a week later I see my bike on his rental site, he lied to me. I got my insurance situation squared away and had the money to ask him to sell her back to me, I even offered to pay him what I offered it to him for originally with the extra 400 added...he said it would be an extra grand because of what blue book value was....I drove two hours to his business and was about to go inside to "talk" to him and just decided jail wasn't worth it lol so many fkn snakes in this world
Wow, what a fuking piece of work. sorry you went through that. Lots of snakes out here waiting to make a buck at someone else's expense!
It's not just Ironhead's you need to buy a manual for and learn how to work on it's any bike. My Harley is only 24 years old but good luck finding a dealership that will still work on it. I'm sure there is some examples but for the most part they won't touch it. Luckily the twin cams are still pretty simple. But what happens twenty years from now when you take your M8 to the dealership and they won't work on it? Better have a great understanding of electrical engineering with all the crap on these new bikes. Electronic Fuel Injection is great when it's working but can you work on it?
Absolutely true!!! Hard to find people to work on anything older than M8 now! They want less people working on em and just replace it with the new models. Thanks for watching! We’re down in montrose if u ever need a hand, my ol man is picking up more work and we always ask to make sure them cam chain tensioners are updated. The older bikes are easier but twin cam is the newest we would touch lol
I learned Harley by getting a manual and just doing it myself
Absolutely, a good manual is key!
I made a comment a few videos ago abevo softails being the most modern harleyyou can buy and get a taste of that old harleyfeelimg you guys are talking about. A person can buy a 1999 evo softail in good condition with reasonable miles and get the feeli.g you get from a good running shovelhead. No, it's not a shovel but, it more obtainable for a younger person
Everyone’s gotta start somewhere, but even evo’s are considered old! Shops arent working on them and less places stock any parts. Gotta love the evo platform tho for sure!
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