1959 sportster basket case

[tgarcia]

I know a guy here locally that has a 59 sportster that has been apart for for a while he wants to get rid of,it appears to be mostly there from what I can tell and he is asked 3000 for it. Is that a reasonable price as I don't know anything about sportster? I am just trying to save it from a different fate that it could end up being scrapped after his passing. I know it's always hard to say when it's not in front of you and no pictures but just trying to get a general consensus.

[Rubone]

If it is an XLH and has all the sheet metal it is hard to find. If it is an XLCH with good numbers and title jump on it quick. I wish it was near me!

[wallaman]

If it is an XLH and has all the sheet metal it is hard to find. If it is an XLCH with good numbers and title jump on it quick. I wish it was near me!

'59 XLCH is my FAVORITE Sportster. Mine's not an attempt at a 100 point AMCA bike, but a period correct rider. To me, as fun as they get. As long as the numbers are good, $3K whether it's an H (reasonably complete) or CH, go for it!

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[duffeycycles]

Worst part is usually the kick gears & repops suck.

[wallaman]

Duffy,
Did you mean "Sportster knee"!?? LOL!

[jug]

I do remember the Sportster knee!!!!!!!!

[tgarcia]

No I remember that all too well,one reason I don't care for them too much.

[duffeycycles]

V-Twin may have sourced better kick gears than the last one I worked on many years ago.

[billpedalino]

Has anyone tried the newer kicker gears. I'm ready to change mine out on a 1970 that I'm restoring to 'Period Modified'. Also, I seem to recall that there was a guy somewhere that is set up to back-cut both gears for better engagement. Does anyone have any information on him? Murph??
As for 'Sportster Knee', I've been dealing with mine all my life.... and I'm 74...

[59xlh]

Is this bike still available and where is it located? Thank you, Tom.

[otis71]

Generally a worn kicker gear isn’t the issue but the kicker bushing being worn and wallowed out. The least bit of play and the small teeth on the gear slip. Without looking I think they’re only supposed to have .002 clearance. I always replace the bushing on every early sportswriter pick up.