Harley-Davidson Panhead

james kelly 04
james kelly 01
james kelly 02
james kelly 03

What was your intended objective when you started the build?

Build a cool rider

What motivated you to start your project?

A friend told me about a pair of ’53 heads available.

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

Nothing stands out as unique. I built the motor with STD generator cases and a shovelhead sprocket shaft so I could align with a ’76 FX transmission I picked up at a swapmeet.

What are you most proud of?

That I did everything myself. When I ride it I feel a kinship to it because I know every single part.

What do other people say about your motorcycle?

I built it for me, but it’s nice to hear other people comment on it. People love it.

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Submitted by: James K

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Specifics

Make, Model & Year: Harley-Davidson Panhead
Fondly known as: The Pan
Time spent: 25 years
Motorcycle cost: built it from bare crankcases
Money spent: I don’t know anymore. Several thousand.
Engine: STD generator cases, S&S 4-1/2″ stroker flywheels, S&S rods, cast stroker pistons, Velva-Touch hydraulic lifters, Andrews J-grind cam, Harley-Davidson timer and idler gears, S&S breather, H-D panhead jugs bored .060″ over, V-Twin replica heads (53 heads got too worn for service).
Intake: S&S Super B carburetor
Exhaust: Paughco shotgun pipes for panhead, with baffles and shark mouth extensions
Transmission: Harley-Davidson 4-speed with ratchet top, FX first gear
Frame: Paughco wishbone rigid
Suspension: Rear: none. Front: 1982 FXWG front end with Progressive Suspension lowering kit (2″).
Wheels, tires and brakes: Rear: 16″ 40-spoke rim laced onto Harley-Davidson dual-flange hub. Front: 21″ 40-spoke rim laced onto Harley-Davidson dual-flange hub.
Finish – Paint: Frame powder coated black. Tanks and rear fender dark blue (painted by myself and a friend)
Accessories: Knucklehead-style taillight, handlebars with 6″ pull-back risers, GMA rear brake, BDL 3″ open belt primary, Cycle-Electric 12V generator/regulator

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