1969

I got my first Harley Davidson in 1986 for $2,000. It was a rough looking 1969 XLCH 900 Sportser.....the famed magneto ignitioned, leg-breaking, cantankerous satanic pile of iron that literally vibrated parts off while going down the road. It was a rolling basket-case. Mechanically speaking, it was very sound; however, it looked like it was painted with water colors by a 3-year old. No big deal, I completely ripped the bike down to a bare frame and commenced to build a decent street ride. I'd been on countless dirt bikes and one street bike up to this point and working on 2-wheelers was my hobby.

I learned fairly quickly that going to a dealership was not going to be a frequent experience. I was not at all impressed with the "modern" Harley Dealership. They had few parts for my bike and what they did have was way overpriced.

I learned from many experienced Harley owners via the 'ol barstool in the local watering hole the right places to go to get parts for an old 900. I also learned a few tricks on how to set up the frame, the correct tolerances for the engine (not even close to the factory manual) and basic tips on how not to break a leg while kicking this beast.