Looking at a 74 ironhead this week

[Baggot]

as above. what things should i look for? are these bikes notorious for anything? Its cheap and runs (in theory I haven't seen it yet but want to ask the right questions and look at the important things while Im there its so cheap that I don't want to let it go if it runs. But also dont want a lemon.

Thanks

[vlade]

The biggest drawback would be that it is an AMF era bike. Not likely to sell easily. The quality in general was problematic during that time
Even if it's a great bike. People hear "74" and go "ahhhh cool". Steppin back in aprehension.

[Dave63]

Originally Posted by Baggot

as above. what things should i look for? are these bikes notorious for anything? Its cheap and runs (in theory I haven't seen it yet but want to ask the right questions and look at the important things while Im there its so cheap that I don't want to let it go if it runs. But also dont want a lemon.

Thanks

Keep in mind, a 74 Sporty shifts and brakes (rear) on the oppossite sides as todays modern bikes.

There's a thread that was done already regarding what to look for when buying a bike. Search a little and see if it's around, if not, PM me and I'll make a list....

[ironhead bobber]

74 ironhead, Right On!!!

[Badassbrutus]

AMF , people scared to wrench there own bikes I never had any problems with anyones or my Amfs they all need to be worked on no matter what its called maintinace.Most of the problems people have with em is because they dont maintain em just ride the crap outta them.

[harleytard]

Originally Posted by Badassbrutus

AMF , people scared to wrench there own bikes I never had any problems with anyones or my Amfs they all need to be worked on no matter what its called maintinace.Most of the problems people have with em is because they dont maintain em just ride the crap outta them.

I agree, look for what you look for on any other bike. As long is it's not a wore out bodged of pos bitsa bike go fo it. My first bike was a wore out bodged up pos bitsa 79 & 1/2 AMF Sporty & I gained much valuable experience and am a better man today for it. Biggest thing I remember was instead of paying $50 for a voltage regulator from the Harley shop smoe kind of $3 volksawgon regulator would work. And when the $100 cam sensor crapped a $5 set of points fixed that but that's irrevelant to a 74.