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
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 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!! 🏁🦅💚😁
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
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.
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 .
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.
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!!
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.
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😊
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
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!
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!
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 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.
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'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.
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
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.
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
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 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!!
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.
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 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
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.
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.
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. 😜)
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 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 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
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.
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.
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.
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 😂😂
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!
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 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!? ❤️🔥
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
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! 💚🦅🏁😁
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 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
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.
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!
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
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
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?
I'm canadian and I will only buy used. If I need to fix something I have mechanic manuals and CZcams 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.
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.
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.
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 💚🦅🏁😁
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.
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.
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 .
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 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 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
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!!
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.
yeah im commenting a lot, waiting for it to stop storming so watching CZcams 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 😂😂
Every time I watch one of your videos I’m like damn y’all are cut from the same cloth. Wrenching and riding old motorcycles then teaching and instilling this in young bloods. Some times it sticks and sometimes you have wasted your time but put forth the effort.
Thank you! we really appreciate that! Sometimes the young bloods pick it up and drop it as quickly as they tried, but seeing anyone keep riding and enjoying life, that's the ticket right there! thanks for watching and ride freeeee 🦅🏁💚😁
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.
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.
I started getting into motorcycles at a young age. We would 3 framed bikes of the same mold an make one bike. I have never been the one to judge someone who rides a different model than me. I'm happy they are riding. Now if you are slower than me I might give you shit but how do we make your bike faster and safer.
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...
Preach Sister I am in a 100 percent agreement with you on everything you are saying, unfortunately most of these people selling these bikes live by the moto, if you have a friend that's true and blue F_ck them before they F_ck you. And to answer the question of how I got into bikes, I got out of the military in 1993 and bought a used 1987 Yamaha FZX 700 Fazer and left San Diego and rode to Washington State the long way, through Las Vegas into Idaho, Oregon and on to Seattle Washington. And guess what zero cell phone, no side bags, no windshield, no GPS, no fancy rain gear just a gas station map and my sea bag strapped to the rear of the seat. When your husband asked that question it took me back 31 years ago on how much fun that trip was and how it started my biker culture, Brother!! LOL Keep Your Stream Strong!!!
Sounds like a hell of a trip! No extra nothing, a map, bike, and a taking the long way around!!! 🦅🏁💚😁 thank you for your service Buck! Appreciate ya watching man cheers!
As soon as motorcycle manufacturers started fitting computers and fuel injection they started selling shiny expensive toys that are designed to be uneconomic to repair just like automobiles. I wouldn't buy any Harley manufactured after the Evo. If you plan to ride for life buy something you can use tools on and a manual not a computer. Every bike I bought in my youth (1970's) was worn out (1950's bikes) and needed rebuilding. The difference was the bikes were built and designed with simplicity and maintenance in mind. Parts were easy to find and so were bikers who were doing there own maintenance. The youth now are going into the workplace already saddled with debt from their education. Bikes were common as ride to work tools but now they are aspirational leasure toys for the wealthy. The Harleys sold today will be unsaleable in 20 years and Harley stealerships will be selling electric plastic junk.
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!
If you buy an older bike not under warranty be prepared to work on it yourself or you better have a lot of extra money to pay someone else to work on it. It has always been like that for the older Harleys.... or any brand for that matter. Many young people never started a lawn mower let alone a motorcycle...lol... get educated go to a mechanics school but only expect the basics. Young people do not do any mechanical work anymore. It is a throw away society..... ( I was that mechanic working at the Harley dealership on every old model bike )
Thats exactly the issue. Younger people are doing less and less mechanicin…everything about our society has led to this lack of mech skill, my generation is a product of the decline as a whole, thats the issue, my classes in school didnt have any real wrenching, cant learn this reading books! lol
In my little emoji or waterever is an extremely rare Harley. An 84 FXRS disc glide. Only 863 of them made one year only. Almost nobody cares...or thinks it important. It's appraised at 15 grand canadian...and you would be lucky to get 7 out of it. So basically I built it for myself and it ain't for sale. It's a different world out there now,and classic cars have been affected too. I also got a 90 C4 vette in nice shape. Worthless.😑
I have a 95 1200xl sportster i stripped it down chopping it out my first harley i put points in it no electric stuff i love it but im having trouble timing it could u help me and ironheads are awesome i would never want a newer one
@@bennygregory2629 www.xlforum.net Whenever i google a problem, it’ll take me to links from this xl forum, or there are also lots of Harley forums, and im sure some detailed youtube videos on that timing too 😊
Keep up the good work Sal ... I dont care for bikes that always need repair and rattle themselves apart , but i sure respect your commitment to those old bikes , somebody got to keep the old girls goin ... I am in the same position with my old hondas as you are , though they need far less repair than those bikes that you are fond of ... Either way , I love your videos , your rants , the complaining ... lol Love it ... I consider myself a old school rider and i always get along with the old school Harley riders but the new breed posers are pure dickheads . I once when on a group ride with a bunch of harley bagger guys and all they did was comment on my older bike and how great theirs was and blah blah blah ... they never spoke of cool roads or places they have ridden too .. Just fuckin lame and they werent very good riders either Need less to say , i dont ride with groups anymore ...
I understand what you guys are saying about the gatekeeping and having Deep Pockets but basically it's Society is the complaint. People are not nice to each other anymore everyone treats people they don't know like crap or if you're not in this little clique order that little clique then you don't belong. People have forgotten chivalry and camaraderie nobody says please or thank you anymore or you're welcome. And yeah it is a shame that all the old knowledge people that can teach us about the older Motors and bikes are becoming a thing of the past . It is very difficult To find someone To teach you how to work on an older bike it's almost easier to hit the lotto and that is a shame I agree. I also agree with everyone should buy a manual for their bike but some things you just can't learn from a repair manual. The biggest Stigmata that I've came across is the Sportsters are girls bikes and that takes us right back to the original issue society and the way we treat others. So that being said I agree it doesn't matter what you ride as long as you ride. I have two Sportsters I have an old 71 right side shift kick only rigid frame Chopper and I've ridden that girl all over the place but I also have a brand new 2023 1250s definitely one of the baddest bikes I've ever ridden ungodly fast and I love it. My brother who I ride with frequently has a European bike and I get just as much enjoyment riding alongside my brother on his European bike then I do riding next to anyone or with anyone so it doesn't matter what you ride whether it's a Sportster, a European bike, a Jap bike, a bagger or whatever an asshole can own and ride any of those just as a cool person. So Sally if you and your husband choose buy and fix and work on older bikes awesome I also have one then that's your choice. But please don't rip on people that choose to ride and own newer bikes that have key fobs because the old bikes break down just like the new bikes and I will get my new bike fixed just like I will get my old bike fixed and I will continue to ride and be kind and considerate and cool with anyone I meet in life whether they are riding or not. Because I believe you lead through example and maybe one day when I'm out on one of my bikes I will be approached by someone interested in riding and I can share and encourage my enthusiasm into the world of motorcycles and show that person that not all bikers are dicks ride safe and treat others the way you want to be treated just a few thoughts from an old Ironhead from Michigan
Harley's are pretty rugged machines and can run even when things are sub optimal. It's the same with old cars, people don't want to spend the money or time and just drive it into the ground. I've only ever had used bikes and every single one needed tires, all fluids changed, brake pads, new chains and sprockets and usually electrical work. I'm firmly convinced that all bike owners (including myself) are dumb asses. I say this because every single time I get a new to me bike and look under the seat and tank for the first time I always say the same thing, "What kind of dumb ass did this?".
You are way overcomplicating the issue. If the flywheels are within tolerance, the rest of it, is a V-Twin tractor motor. If it wasn't for "Sportsters".... we may never have had a "Shovelhead". Checking valve lift, ignition timing, fuel issues, and wiring is not brain surgery. I'm over twice your age.....if I can help, feel free to ask......quit blaming it on the bike....it's not a computer.....it's a simple internal combustion engine. Too much whining and not enough problem solving.
Seems to be the case...😂😂 it's so easy to say "these kids don't want to learn nothing" ...for much of us 30somethings, our shop and mechanic classes in school didn't even let us touch a wrench, you can't learn this stuff from a book alone! We had to do it ourselves and seek it out. LOL thanks for watching!
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
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 ..👍😎👍
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 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!! 🏁🦅💚😁
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
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!
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!
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!!
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 🦅🏁
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
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😊
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!!! 🛠️🦅🏁💚
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!!!
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!
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 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!
Hey guys don’t listen to the hater’s you’re doing great job
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'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
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
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!
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
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 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.
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!
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.
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 💚😁🦅🏁
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!
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!! 💚🦅🏁
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. 😜)
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 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 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 😁🦅🏁💚
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
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!!
Spot on. There is a special feeling riding old analog mechanical iron. Another great vid 👍
Thanks for watching!!
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!! 💚🦅😁
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 😂😂
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!!!
U guys are great 👍
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 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 😁💚🦅🏁
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!!! 💚🏁🦅😁
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! 💚🦅🏁😁
Sure enjoy your channel, and this rap session was great!
🦅💚😁💯 appreciate it Mitch!!
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 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
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!!!
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.
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!
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
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
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
I'm canadian and I will only buy used. If I need to fix something I have mechanic manuals and CZcams 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 😁🦅🏁💚
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 💚🦅🏁😁
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.
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 💚🦅🏁😁
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
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.
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
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! 😂
It's a shame you guys are so far away from South Carolina.
So many truths in this video.
Thanks Buck!!!
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 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!
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!!
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!!! 😂😂💚🦅
yeah im commenting a lot, waiting for it to stop storming so watching CZcams 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 😂😂
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 💚🦅😁🏁
Every time I watch one of your videos I’m like damn y’all are cut from the same cloth. Wrenching and riding old motorcycles then teaching and instilling this in young bloods. Some times it sticks and sometimes you have wasted your time but put forth the effort.
Thank you! we really appreciate that! Sometimes the young bloods pick it up and drop it as quickly as they tried, but seeing anyone keep riding and enjoying life, that's the ticket right there! thanks for watching and ride freeeee 🦅🏁💚😁
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 🤣
❤❤❤❤
What do you have for sale right now I just want old bike....would love to find a 98 softail custom..if you know where one is hint hint.. lol
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
I've had a Evo sportster, I think I want to try a iron head sportster.
Wooot! They are super fun! 🤩
I started getting into motorcycles at a young age. We would 3 framed bikes of the same mold an make one bike. I have never been the one to judge someone who rides a different model than me. I'm happy they are riding. Now if you are slower than me I might give you shit but how do we make your bike faster and safer.
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 😁
Preach Sister
I am in a 100 percent agreement with you on everything you are saying, unfortunately most of these people selling these bikes live by the moto, if you have a friend that's true and blue F_ck them before they F_ck you.
And to answer the question of how I got into bikes, I got out of the military in 1993 and bought a used 1987 Yamaha FZX 700 Fazer and left San Diego and rode to Washington State the long way, through Las Vegas into Idaho, Oregon and on to Seattle Washington. And guess what zero cell phone, no side bags, no windshield, no GPS, no fancy rain gear just a gas station map and my sea bag strapped to the rear of the seat. When your husband asked that question it took me back 31 years ago on how much fun that trip was and how it started my biker culture, Brother!! LOL
Keep Your Stream Strong!!!
Sounds like a hell of a trip! No extra nothing, a map, bike, and a taking the long way around!!! 🦅🏁💚😁 thank you for your service Buck! Appreciate ya watching man cheers!
As soon as motorcycle manufacturers started fitting computers and fuel injection they started selling shiny expensive toys that are designed to be uneconomic to repair just like automobiles. I wouldn't buy any Harley manufactured after the Evo. If you plan to ride for life buy something you can use tools on and a manual not a computer.
Every bike I bought in my youth (1970's) was worn out (1950's bikes) and needed rebuilding. The difference was the bikes were built and designed with simplicity and maintenance in mind. Parts were easy to find and so were bikers who were doing there own maintenance. The youth now are going into the workplace already saddled with debt from their education. Bikes were common as ride to work tools but now they are aspirational leasure toys for the wealthy. The Harleys sold today will be unsaleable in 20 years and Harley stealerships will be selling electric plastic junk.
that is a great point! machines are no longer built to be serviced, but to be replaced!! thank you for watching! Ride free 🦅💚😁
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!
😎👍😎
Just got me a 1997 evo softail custom I’m going to make it look as chopperyas possible it’s my 3rd used Harley I’m 27
Hell yeah man that sounds sweet! Make it chopper-esk and totally your style! 🦅💚🏁😁 happy wrenching
If you buy an older bike not under warranty be prepared to work on it yourself or you better have a lot of extra money to pay someone else to work on it. It has always been like that for the older Harleys.... or any brand for that matter. Many young people never started a lawn mower let alone a motorcycle...lol... get educated go to a mechanics school but only expect the basics. Young people do not do any mechanical work anymore. It is a throw away society..... ( I was that mechanic working at the Harley dealership on every old model bike )
Thats exactly the issue. Younger people are doing less and less mechanicin…everything about our society has led to this lack of mech skill, my generation is a product of the decline as a whole, thats the issue, my classes in school didnt have any real wrenching, cant learn this reading books! lol
@@ironheadsally Truth...🙏
In my little emoji or waterever is an extremely rare Harley. An 84 FXRS disc glide. Only 863 of them made one year only. Almost nobody cares...or thinks it important. It's appraised at 15 grand canadian...and you would be lucky to get 7 out of it. So basically I built it for myself and it ain't for sale. It's a different world out there now,and classic cars have been affected too. I also got a 90 C4 vette in nice shape. Worthless.😑
Unfortunately the only FXRs going for 15k have the club style, big fairrings, and TC swap big bore motors LOL!! Worth more to u than the market
Open a shop
I have a 95 1200xl sportster i stripped it down chopping it out my first harley i put points in it no electric stuff i love it but im having trouble timing it could u help me and ironheads are awesome i would never want a newer one
nice, points, keep it simple! if you in town, we would be around to help you! there's some good info on XL forums for timing! happy wrenching 😁
@@ironheadsally how do I find xl forums
@@bennygregory2629 www.xlforum.net
Whenever i google a problem, it’ll take me to links from this xl forum, or there are also lots of Harley forums, and im sure some detailed youtube videos on that timing too 😊
@@ironheadsally ty
I would be ok working on the bike if i could get it for a decent price. I dont want the electronic crap.
Absolutely! Keep it simple and ride freee 🦅💚🏁😁
Keep up the good work Sal ... I dont care for bikes that always need repair and rattle themselves apart , but i sure respect your commitment to those old bikes , somebody got to keep the old girls goin ... I am in the same position with my old hondas as you are , though they need far less repair than those bikes that you are fond of ... Either way , I love your videos , your rants , the complaining ... lol Love it ... I consider myself a old school rider and i always get along with the old school Harley riders but the new breed posers are pure dickheads . I once when on a group ride with a bunch of harley bagger guys and all they did was comment on my older bike and how great theirs was and blah blah blah ... they never spoke of cool roads or places they have ridden too .. Just fuckin lame and they werent very good riders either Need less to say , i dont ride with groups anymore ...
Absolutely agree! We stay away from groups for the same reason! Ride free and enjoy life, thats what its all about, all the extra is bs lol 🦅🏁💚
If you guys were my neighbors you would hate me for shadowing you everyday
We would put you to work! 😂😂 hey bro, tear down this front end will ya? lol!!
Keep the old iron alive.
Absolutely!!!! Ride free and enjoy!
I understand what you guys are saying about the gatekeeping and having Deep Pockets but basically it's Society is the complaint. People are not nice to each other anymore everyone treats people they don't know like crap or if you're not in this little clique order that little clique then you don't belong. People have forgotten chivalry and camaraderie nobody says please or thank you anymore or you're welcome. And yeah it is a shame that all the old knowledge people that can teach us about the older Motors and bikes are becoming a thing of the past . It is very difficult To find someone To teach you how to work on an older bike it's almost easier to hit the lotto and that is a shame I agree. I also agree with everyone should buy a manual for their bike but some things you just can't learn from a repair manual. The biggest Stigmata that I've came across is the Sportsters are girls bikes and that takes us right back to the original issue society and the way we treat others. So that being said I agree it doesn't matter what you ride as long as you ride. I have two Sportsters I have an old 71 right side shift kick only rigid frame Chopper and I've ridden that girl all over the place but I also have a brand new 2023 1250s definitely one of the baddest bikes I've ever ridden ungodly fast and I love it. My brother who I ride with frequently has a European bike and I get just as much enjoyment riding alongside my brother on his European bike then I do riding next to anyone or with anyone so it doesn't matter what you ride whether it's a Sportster, a European bike, a Jap bike, a bagger or whatever an asshole can own and ride any of those just as a cool person. So Sally if you and your husband choose buy and fix and work on older bikes awesome I also have one then that's your choice. But please don't rip on people that choose to ride and own newer bikes that have key fobs because the old bikes break down just like the new bikes and I will get my new bike fixed just like I will get my old bike fixed and I will continue to ride and be kind and considerate and cool with anyone I meet in life whether they are riding or not. Because I believe you lead through example and maybe one day when I'm out on one of my bikes I will be approached by someone interested in riding and I can share and encourage my enthusiasm into the world of motorcycles and show that person that not all bikers are dicks ride safe and treat others the way you want to be treated just a few thoughts from an old Ironhead from Michigan
All of this!! absolutely love it!! 🦅🏁💚😁 thanks for watching!
Let's see....... Parts are way over priced, made in China and Malaysia, assembled in Merica.
Smart kids not wasting their money.
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da feeeeling reminds me 0f b ing 5 yrs 0ld & getn t0 ride a bicycle 1st time, eeeeverytime!
😊
g0t my 1st bike(suzuki ds80) fur me burfday wen eye was 10!
IT IZ DA BESSSSSST!!!
😉👌
10 years old, just wanna scoot on our bikes! Hell yeah man! Do we ever grow out of that feeling? Dont think so 😜💚🏁🦅
@@ironheadsally
🤘😁🤘
cum c meeee
Harley's are pretty rugged machines and can run even when things are sub optimal. It's the same with old cars, people don't want to spend the money or time and just drive it into the ground. I've only ever had used bikes and every single one needed tires, all fluids changed, brake pads, new chains and sprockets and usually electrical work. I'm firmly convinced that all bike owners (including myself) are dumb asses. I say this because every single time I get a new to me bike and look under the seat and tank for the first time I always say the same thing, "What kind of dumb ass did this?".
😂😂💯 we are all a little messed up thats for sure!! lol
Then came bronson
You are way overcomplicating the issue. If the flywheels are within tolerance, the rest of it, is a V-Twin tractor motor. If it wasn't for "Sportsters".... we may never have had a "Shovelhead". Checking valve lift, ignition timing, fuel issues, and wiring is not brain surgery. I'm over twice your age.....if I can help, feel free to ask......quit blaming it on the bike....it's not a computer.....it's a simple internal combustion engine. Too much whining and not enough problem solving.
Mmmkay, not sure how this comment has anything to do with this video, but thanks?
It would appear you have struck a chord with the older demographic.
Seems to be the case...😂😂 it's so easy to say "these kids don't want to learn nothing" ...for much of us 30somethings, our shop and mechanic classes in school didn't even let us touch a wrench, you can't learn this stuff from a book alone! We had to do it ourselves and seek it out. LOL thanks for watching!
When you ride an older bike, you are riding a "MOTOR Cycle"
🦅💯💚😁 truth!
Because they realized the money pits their dads created? 😂
Two. Ioop de loops😅😅😂
ain't that crazy! ahhhh the things found on used bikes lol