Hello. I am new to this board and I'm sorry to take up your time with this question. I've been searching and searching and I just can't seem to find a good answer.
Bikes I've rode are various sportbikes in 600/900 range and Harley Sportster. Id like to start a project to build a bike. I'm 6'5, 220 lbs and would like to build it to suit my larger frame. I'm no stranger to tools, and metalworking but I'd like to purchase the frame and tanks already built being that it's my first build.
With my height in mind, what would you recommend for a frame, rigid style. Looking to go the bobber route.
Could someone point me in the direction of a website where I can research different Harley engines. I'm not looking for a custom huge horsepower motor and tranny. Something that I can afford and get to run. That's about it. Speed is of no concern.
Once again, I'd like to say hello to everyone on here. I've been lurking and decided to say hello. I hope you can put up with me while I'm still new to the world of Harleys. Thanks.
welcome...
lots of questions (but that's a good thing around here) and each would take up a lot of room. how about i start with the reader's digest version.....
start with sitting on a stock fxst. that will give you the basic feel for a rigid framed bobber using stock frame geometry and seat placement. frames are usually stretched in two dimensions- the backbone (moves the top of the neck forward) and downtubes (raises the mounting point of the neck). these two dimensions are usually changed along with a neck rake to keep the frame sitting level after radical rake changes. talk to the frame manufacturer and they can make recommendations. i am partial to atlas frames, but they are not cheap. if on a budget look at the santee or paughco frames. there are dozens out there- do some homework.
if you are building a bobber you might look at using a springer. if you stick with a stock lenght springer (31") you can increase the rake 1-2 degrees and usually not have to change downtubes or backbone. this is imho the best way to go.
the best way to accomodate long legs or long arms (again imho) on a bobber is to keep the frame geometry close to sotck, but then play with seat placement and handlebar placement. if you go with a spring solo seat you can move the front pivot anywhere you want to aloing the backbone. usually it ends up somewhre around where the rails split out and go back, but you can tack it up and try it then move it one way or the other.
stick with an evo based platform. these are the most common and are the easiest to build for a beginner. engines run the entire range as far as cost, reliability, and hp. ultima, rev tech, and even a stock 80-inch evo from the moco will get you started on abudget. if money os no object, look at the higher quality s&s offerings. there are more out there, but beware of getting an engine from fast freddy's engine palace or some such fly by night outfit.
buy a factory manual for an early 90's fxst. even though you are buiulding a rigid most of the work is the same.
let us know-
j
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