1948 HARLEY-DAVIDSON PANHEAD

1948 Harley-Davidson Panhead. 1948 HARLEY DAVIDSON 61″ EL PANHEAD For sale is a 1948 Harley Davidson 61″ EL Panhead that was restored mechanically front to back by Steve Schackman of Antique Motorcycle Supply in St. Louis, Missouri. Steve acquired this bike in the ’70s and stored it for nearly 40 years. Cosmetically, the bike was maintained as purchased. Mechanically, each component was completely disassembled, inspected, restored and reassembled. The motorcycle has been ridden approximately 1,000 miles since its completion. Most of the major components on this motorcycle are correct and original to the bike, including the engine (with matching cases), transmission, XE-35F wishbone frame, springer front end with neck lock and correct springer fork (forging die 18), rocker assemblies, gas tanks, gas tank emblems, fenders, speedometer, dash assembly, Linkert M35TP carb, air cleaner, tail light, wheel and brake assemblies, Delco-Remy horn, 32E generator, engine guards, etc. Typical wear parts (tires, brakes, wiring, bushings, bearings, etc.) were replaced during the bike’s restoration. Although the paint is old, it is not original – it was likely repainted in the ’50s or ’60s. The genuine Bucco saddlebags are attached with Red Fox jeweled fasteners. They bags are rare, but they’re old and could use some repair. Likewise, the buddy seat has some small cracks on the sides as seen in the photos. In addition to all the original components listed above, the bike is also covered in genuine, period-correct accessories, including Superior dual exhaust, a Superior rear chain enclosure, a Superior sealed beam headlight, Flanders handlebars and risers, fender rails, a front hub cap, a rare lighted rear fender tip (works), rear marker lights (work), etc. A word about the builder – Many antique motorcycle collectors are aware of Schackman’s engine and transmission work and I cannot overstate the value of his involvement in this bike’s restoration. Steve is a highly-experienced, world-class engine machinist and craftsman. His dedication to by-the-book precision and workmanship sets him apart from most others in the field. As a testament to his ability, Steve built a Knucklehead engine that has transported me 80,000 trouble-free miles, including two trips all the way to the Arctic Ocean in Alaska and Canada as well as to the four most distant corners of the continental United States. Steve is not your average engine builder and the chance to purchase a bike built by him is uncommon. There’s no shortage of cookie-cutter Panheads for sale that look nice on display. However, if you plan to actually ride and if original, old-school character appeals to you, then I encourage you not to snooze on this opportunity. I’m listing this bike for a friend, but it is physically in my shop and you are welcome to call me anytime with questions at: 214-876-5038 Note: In the coming weeks, I’ll be selling several high-end motorcycles for this same friend (he’s downsizing), including several Indian Fours – a ’36, two ’38s, a ’41 (currently listed) and possibly others, so please check back. Thanks! Aaron