1973 XLH Sportster Frame Details
On 16 April 2008 L&T started to strip their Harley XLH Ironhead Sportster. Once the fuel tank, oil tank, saddle and rear fender had been removed, some interesting Harley frame construction details were exposed.
1973 Sportster, or is it a 1972?
It should be noted that although the official registration of LnT's Sporster says it is a 1973 XLH, it is very likely that this is a Harley 1972 model that was sold and registered by the dealer in the year 1973.
1973 Sportster Frame - Steering Head
In the picture below you can see that the steering head of their 1973 XLH frame is a steel casting in which the steel frame tubes have been fixed.
1973 Sportster Frame - Rear End
Just like the steering head shown in the picture above, the rear frame node is also a steel casting:
This photo shows the upper rear end of LnT's 1973 Ironhead Sportster frame.
Another view of the cast node underneath the saddle.
For their Oldschool Bobber project L&T replaced the rear end of this frame with a bolt on hardtail section. The rear extensions of the cast node (that used to hold the rear fender struts) have to go - note the cut lines.
Some serious cutting going on! For more info on LnT's Bobber conversion and the hardtailing of this Ironhead frame click HERE.
For more general information on the conversion of this 1973 Harley XLH Sportster motorcycle into an Oldschool Bobber check out:
www.Harley-Oldschool-Bobber.com(May 2008)
MORE Ironhead Frames Photo Albums:
MORE Ironhead Classic Sportsters Photo Albums:
Clymer Service and Repair Manuals
Even if you have no intent to get your hands dirty - these books are a joy for every Harley Davidson fan!
