1983 Harley-Davidson FLHTC

What was your intended objective when you started the build?

To build a super clean FLH Shovelhead that resembled the look of a more modern Street Glide.

What motivated you to start your project?

I originally purchased & imported the bike from Tennessee to Sydney Australia as a beautiful original example of a FLHTC.

When the bike arrived, the bike looked as good as promised however it was riddles with a host of mechanical issues.

In attempt to locate the core of a poor oil circulation problem, the top end, rocker & shafts, cam, breather gear were replaced, along with a fresh hone & re-ring after discovering that the cam cover bush was incorrect for the side feed crankshaft installed.

Once rectified, the bike ran like a Swiss watch & was ridden for around 3 years…. until I high-sided it through a round-a-bout on a group ride, substantially damaging the fairing, side covers, bars, running boards, tank & panniers.

At that point, the bike would need to be repaired & repainted & would no longer be the nice original Shovelhead it was….so the Shovel Bagger was born!

What was the most unique and creative thing you did to the bike?

Simplifying, decluttering & modernising the bike.

What are you most proud of?

The overall cleanliness… and its smooth appearance without distracting from the Shovelhead engine.

What do other people say about your motorcycle?

Sorry, what year is it?
That’s not a new bike?

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Submitted by: Mark F

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Specifics

Make, Model & Year: Harley-Davidson FLHTC 1983

Fondly known as: The Shovel

Time spent: 150 hours

Motorcycle cost: US$6500

Money spent: AU$6,500

Engine: Standard reconditioned bottom end. Reconditioned top end – Ported & Polished, Crane springs, new rockers, shafts & seals. Andrews J Grind Cam. Jims Big Axle lifters Jims adjustable pushrods OLD STF Brass Oil Feed Lines S&S performance oil pump Crane ignition module

Intake: S&S Super E & S&S manifold

Exhaust: 36″ Extended cross-over fishtail drag pipes.

Transmission: H-D 5 Speed BDL Kevlar clutch Primary converted to an Evo style wet primary.

Frame: H-D (Stock)

Suspension: Stock swingarm Rebuilt & polished H-D fork legs

Wheels, tires and brakes: Avon Gangster

Finish – Paint: Paint is Gloss Onyx Black by a mate

Accessories: Fairing – H-D Batwing with a custom blackout 4″ screen. Headlight – Diamond Cut 7″ with custom surround Front indicators – Tinted Handlebars – 12″ x 1 1/4″ Bent Bagger Apes. Mirrors – Billet Grips – Billet Seat – Mustang Sport/Touring Running Board – Speedliner