1978 Harley Davidson XLCH 1000 AMF Motorcycle
"In 1969, AMF stepped in to purchase Harley-Davidson, effectively becoming its new owner. AMF stands for American Machine and Foundry, an American manufacturing conglomerate known for producing everything from bowling equipment to recreational products. During the '70s, with the American economy in a recession, Japanese bikes like Yamaha and Honda were proving to be very popular with consumers. This created significant tension within the company, which led to the company coming back to its original owners in the 1980's. AMF did keep the Harley name going through those lean years, though. Even though the sales competition from the foreign manufacturers was intense, Harley-Davidson remained as the top selling brand of heavyweight motorcycles." Lowbrowcustoms.com
For consignment, a 1978 Harley Davidson XLCH 1000 AMF speedster motorcycle showing 6,617 miles, but the true miles are unknown. According to our consignor, "this is the last of the classic kick start XLCH Sportsters. This motorcycle is exceptional and is probably one of the finest original condition XLCH's to be found anywhere". As with any bike out of storage, some TLC will be required before you take that first ride.
Exterior
With tall handlebars and a lean frame, the XLCH takes on a distinct profile and is fully dressed in black attire that begins with the gas tank and fenders, continuing with the battery box, darkened fins on the cylinder housing, and frame itself. Call outs included AMF Harley Davidson in some old school font in bright red on the gas tank, the Harley logo on the battery box, and SPEEDSTER broadcast on the gearbox. There's plenty of chrome and polished metals to contrast the black including the fork, shock coils, wire wheels, engine covers, and of course, exhaust. It's all in very nice condition with only the biscuit tufted black vinyl Cobra seat showing any patina at all, and it's minimal. We do note one area of chipping black paint on the frame.
Functionality
Billet housing is used for the thumb controls on the handlebars and the printed labeling for the switchgear is crisp and clear with twin configuration on the left and right, a single toggle with two push buttons below. The two gauge are split and individual with tach on the left and speedometer on the right while two indicator lights top the headlight housing. A rubber coated kick starter and footpegs share the bike's flanks with rectangle side reflectors while side mirrors ride high on the handlebars.
Drivetrain
Fitted into the frame is a 1000cc V-twin putting out 55 horsepower and fueled via a 1-barrel carburetor. A 4-speed manual gearbox sends power to the 18-inch wheel in back via chain drive. Drum brakes are utilized front and rear while the dual exhaust exits on the right side with shorty pipes. Suspension consists of a telescopic fork in front and double coil overs in back.
The original exhaust parts and seat accompany this classic bike so if you're a purist, you can return it to its stock state. This is a fantastic example of a bike that is now 47 years old, with conditions that belie its age. A wonderful, collectible bike that won't require a second mortgage to obtain, and a remnant of the company saving AMF years.
4A17948H8
4A-XLCH 1000
1798-Sequential Unit Number
H8-1978
Classic Auto Mall is home to more than 1,000 classic and collectible vehicles for sale via consignment in a climate controlled 336,000-square foot showroom (that's more than 8 acres!). The largest single location consignment dealer of classic and collectible vehicles in the country is located in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, just 1-hour west of Philadelphia off Exit 298 of the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. For more information visit www.classicautomall.com or call us at (888) 227-0914. Contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person. There is no guarantee of mileage. A $299 Dealer Administrative fee is not included in the advertised price.
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