This is a strange one. In this economy, suddenly Sportsters became the answer for wild years of partying on two wheels without any major expense. For a decade, it didn't make financial sense to customize or ever buy a Sportster. Big twins were moneymakers, whereas Sportsters cost the same to modify, but the resale price went down. The opposite was true of the big twin. Work on any Evo or Twin Cam and make money.
That was the word written in Chrome until the economic meltdown. Suddenly, lightweight, quick Sportsters looked damn good. Even now, when I checked the Lifestyles bikes for sale, Sportsters were easily half price compared to almost any Big Twin, with a 2002 offered for four grand, and a 2006 for $5,995. So, you can imagine the Craig's List prices, and prices for wrecked Sportsters. So, due to the economic crunch we decided to make 2009-10 the years of the Sportster, and we started to reach out to find cool-beans parts to make any Sportster a class act.
I started with a call to my pals at Paughco, Licks, Custom Chrome, and Bikers Choice. As it turns out J&P does a fine job of making Sporty components easy to find: http://www.jpcycles.com/sportster-parts. Although their parts are directed mostly at stock bikes and touring applications, like bags. I kept digging. My notion was to show a guy who wants to ride a bobber, chopper, café style sporty, can build something very cool for less than say, $8,000.
You could buy any wrecked Sporty for around four grand or less, buy an American made Paughco frame for a little over a grand, and go to work. Here are a couple of new Paughco frames for rubbermount or hard-mounted Sportsters:
Hell, I discovered that there is only one manufacturer of aftermarket Sportster Engines, and that's S&S. They build a killer performance engine, but it comes without a trans. Fortunately Baker builds at 6-speed XL trans. Here's the info on the transmissions.
Sportster Transmissions from Baker
The BAKER xl5/XL6
· 0ver a 500 rpm drop in top-gear cruising rpm at 75 mph
· Reduced vibration
· Improved fuel economy
· Reduced wear and tear on your engine
· Smoother shifting and improved neutral finding
XL6 Kits Include:
· 6061-t6 trap door
· Complete gearset including shafts and gears, less the 5th (maindrive) gear pair
· Gearset is assembled to the trap door including bearings, ball bearings, thrust washers, and retaining rings
· Shift drum and detent plate with optimized geometry. no flimsyretaining clip to hold the detent plate to the drum. ours is bolted on with a machine screw
· Low effort detent spring
· Three billet steel shift forks with roller pins and cotter pins.
· Steel template for accurate case modification
· ‘XL6’ engraved derby cover (p/ns 202 & 203)
· Available with optional 'S' ratio 1st and 2nd gear ratios
By using the 1995-2003 Harley HCR style maindrive gear pair, the following transmission ratios are realized:
The BAKER ™ XL6 is a six-speed overdrive ‘cartridge style’ gearsetthat converts any existing 1991-2003 sportster/buell to a BAKER ™six speed. 2nd through 5th gear ratios are effectively the same asstock, 6th gear is a true overdrive.
Paughco also makes lots of tanks, fenders, the finest springer front ends, etc. I also found some narrow gas tanks from Lowbrow:
New Narrow Gas Tanks for Your Homebuilt Chopper
Lowbrow Customs has received the first shipment of Cleveland Cyclewerks gas tanks that have been produced. These tanks are available no where else, the 2.1 gallon Narrow Alien Tank and the 2.5 gallon Sporty Tank are cool, affordable custom tanks that look killer on choppers of all types.
The Narrow Alien and Sporty Gas Tanks are an affordable $129. Secure ordering and world-wide shipping is available 24/7 from www.lowbrowcustoms.com
The Saddleman Sportster Offering
Saddleman offered their complete line of Sportster seats, and Anson Alexander wrote a tech on moving the late-model EFI units to allow these bikes to be bobbed with custom seats.
Here's saddleman seat types we offer for Sportsters running from 1979-2003.
Most are available in both our marine-grade vinyl or with leather seating panels, and many have studded and non-studded versions.
Following are brief run-downs of each design:
The Lick's Line-up
Then I dove into the Lick's web site and discovered a vast bunch of Sportster related components.
Chain Tensioner
Sweet Piece of Hardware — a must have item for the do it yourself fanatic!!
The Chain Tensioner is a 15 Tooth “MADE IN USA” Idler sprocket (SEALED BEARING) and is manufactured for a 530 chain. It features a 5/8″ X 2 1/2″ bolt with lock washer/nut, 1/2″ SS spacer and a 1/8″ Counter bore for paint or powder coat clearance. 1 1/8″ of space is available between center of the sprocket and the center of frame rail — (for use on Left Side Drive).
THIS WORKS GREAT FOR FULL WRAP FENDER APPLICATIONS WHERE YOU CAN NOT MOVE THE WHEEL!
TECH NOTE — YOU MUST HAVE WELDING SKILLS TO INSTALL. THIS IS A WELD ON PIECE!!
Chopper Dave- Cast Retro Air Cleaner
Our friend Chopper Dave has hand cast this very cool underground air cleaner. No frills, No flash, No BS. Just a simple bare bones, hardcore air sucker for your ride. The 66X air cleaner features Chopper Dave’s signature flags and embossed 66 on the front. It’s composed of two cast aluminum halves with a center mount and utilizes a proprietary air cleaner element made by UNI filter. The element is washable as well as a great filter. This air cleaner measures 4″ across and is just over 2″ deep.
The 66x is hand cast, hand polished, and machined to order. These are not your run of the mill custom parts. They are cast one at a time by the master craftsman himself. The 66X is not commercially pressed, its difficult to get and is truly something that comes from the underground network of master builders. THERFORE LISTEN UP….. it will take at least 4-8 weeks to deliver this baby… so don't be surprised when you select next day air shipping and it doesn't show up on your doorstep.
If you are looking for a truly special piece for your bike, nothing compares to a hand crafted item made by someone who does it… not for the buck… not for the fame… but simply for the love of making cool shit…
3″ Mini Round Mirror- Black
Black mini mirrors are back IN STOCK & READY TO SHIP…they go quick so Get em while they last!
Need a mirror but don't really want one? This 3″ black powder finished round style mini is the way to go. This is the mirror that adorns most of our rides here at Licks. This bare bones mirror mounts in the stock lever mirror mount location. Its fully adjustable in height and side to side movement. This simple mini will compliment any hardcore ride without the clutter. NOT RECOMMENDED FOR BILLET BARGES!
Lick's Vented Fork Brace
Ole Skool design for an Ole fashion ride. Nuthin fancy here….just clean and simple is the rule. The VFB fork brace is vented for a sleek styling and lighter overall weight. If your not running a front fender and want to keep a tight look, the Vented Fork Brace is the perfect piece. Offered in show chrome for that polished look.
Important Tech Note:
Please be advised that if you are trying to run the fork brace with a 19″ front rim/tire combo, it is recommended that you swap stock tire out for the thinnest 19 available (like our 19 x 3.25 ribbed SpeedMaster). Swapping the tire will help give you the clearance needed in this particular application. We always recommend you do a visual check to make sure all clearance issues are addressed prior to riding.
The Fork Brace set up is intended for use on 21 x 2.5 with 80/90 or 90/90, but has been manufactured as a universal part and will accommodate or be adapted to a variety of custom applications. As such, in some cases the actual mounting holes may have to be opened up slightly for proper fit.
All necessary hardware and spacers included. Get Yours Today!!
Licks Harley Solo Bag-1982 to 2003 XL Sportster!!
Important Notice–Due to an incredibly heavy demand for the Licks Solo Bag–we are currently running no less than a two week delivery time. I say again…if you order a solo bag, it will not ship immediately. We appreciate your patience and will do out best to turn your orders around as soon as possible.!!
It was just a matter of time before the guys at licks came up with a cool solo bag for u Sportster junkies like the ones they already make for the big twin rigid and softail riders….geez…what took so long……well…..lets just say..well worth the wait…..same high end quality… fit and finish as our other bags….made in the USA……
Features the same:
* Very slick quick release buckles…
* Hand stitched piped flap edges….
SoloBag Specs and Measures:
12″ wide
11″ tall
4″ deep/width
Fits all Sportsters 82-2003 right behind the battery over ignition module cover…..we're not into carrying big bags on our bikes….but sometimes u need something just to stash that little stuff u gotta take…and this is the bag….we sell the solo chopper bags for the big twins like crazy….and the request from u Sporty riders …lets just say…..was enough to get us off our arses…and come up with something just as cool….. well its here…ready to go…..
Either way u go…it's just KOOL……..
Custom Pinstriped Biltwell Helmets from Licks
If your interested in this awesome specimen..don't hesitate..its not going to last long, and there is only ONE!!!
Licks is hooked up with some of the hottest pinstripers in the industry. We showcase the newest, coolest tricked out custom line of Pinned Biltwell helmets on the planet!
If you have ever wanted to incorporate a hand crafted piece of hot rod nostalgia into your biker lifestyle… we have your FIX!!
Best of all Licks is able to bring this incredibly unique, one off product right to your doorstep. No two helmets are alike….. sorry we do not take “requests”…that being said, you will not be disappointed!
Lets face it… You cannot find a product of this quality anywhere on the net for a price like this. Order online today…these custom gems are made the old fashion way….hand-crafted, one at a time with the artist’s talent and passion poured into each one. Make your friends DROOL with envy………………
WARNING: This helmet is for novelty purposes only. It is not intended for use on- or off-road, or while operating motorized or non-motorized vehicles. Use of this helmet to operate any type of vehicle could result in serious injury or death.
Biltwell Helmet-Hand Pinstriped- 22110-G$249.00
Lick's Chromed Out Sportster Kit
Check out this chrome customizer kit for 1986-1990 XL models. Kit includes chrome primary cover with inspection covers, cam, rocker box, master cylinder and sprocket covers. To put the finishing touches on, the kit also includes a chrome brake pedal and shift lever!!!
This is the ultimate kit to dress up your stock bike!!
Licks Fork Boot Covers – fits 35mm to 39mm fork tubes
Looking to transform the front end of your bike, but can't part with a lot of cash? The Retro style fork gaiters are the perfect solution. The fork boot covers are made from high quality durable rubber that will last for years. They are collapsible and will conform to any size or look your after.
The Licks Fork Boot covers are adaptable to 35mm or 39mm down tubes and will accent the front end of your Sporty with class!
Phase 1 of the RSD Sportster
Then we discovered new products from Roland Sands Design specifically for Sportsters. We are currently working on a feature around this bike:
“Where others see trash we see treasure,” said Roland. “We wanted a cafe sporty on the cheap so we set about finding a crashed bike we could build as budget-minded as possible.”
The Big Dogs at Custom Chrome stepped up with just a taste of their Sportster Product line:
Chrome Forward Control Kits for Sportsters Models
Add that stretched-out look and extend your riding position on your Sportster. These controls feature integrated shift lever and brake lever on the footpeg shaft. Kits includes footpegs, instructions, and mounting hardware.
610470Fits all Sportster® models from 04-10$369.99
Santee Designer Series ‘Bonanza’ Handlebars–by Fred Kodlin
These are the latest new and improved design Bonanza Bars II from Fred Kodlin of Murdercycles. They are available in a ‘Flat’ ‘Medium’, ‘High’, and in a Touring version and are available in either a chrome-plated or black finish. Dimpled and drilled for internal wiring designed for use with 96-10 style handlebar controls.
‘High’ Bonanza Bars II – Wide
36″ wide, 15″ rise, 12″ center, 5 ½” pullback
697160Chrome$129.99
697162Black$129.99
‘High’ Bonanza Bars II – Narrow
34″ wide, 15″ rise, 9″ center, 5 ½” pullback
697164Chrome$129.99
697166Black$129.99
‘Medium’ Bonanza Bars II – Wide
36″ wide, 13″ rise, 12″ center, 5 ½” pullback
697161Chrome$119.99
697163Black$119.99
‘Medium’ Bonanza Bars II – Narrow
34″ wide, 13″ rise, 9″ center, 5 ½” pullback
697165Chrome$119.99
697167Black$119.99
‘Flat’ Bonanza Bars
29″ wide, 1″ built-in riser, 5″ pullback
696371Chrome$124.99
696734Black$124.99
Jammer Rubber “Gator” Fork Boots
These are a “Mr Lucky” find… old school “gator” fork boots in 39mm, 41mm and now, 35mm & 49mm as well! Available in basic Black, or kick-ass Red… that look so sweet with our Red grips! The 41mm boots measure 9″ extended, approx. 4 1/2″ collapsed, 1-58″ upper I.D. (41mm) and 2 9/16″ lower I.D. (65mm). The 39mm fork boots measure 7″ extended, approx. 3 1/2″ collapsed, 1 1/2″ upper I.D. (39mm) and 2 9/16″ lower I.D. (65mm). The new 35mm fork boots measure 182mm X 35mm X 60mm and fit early XL’s and many others. The new 49mm- Short versions fit FXD Dyna Glides thru ’06. The new 49mm-Long versions fit FXDWG Dyna Wide Glides thru ‘06. A way cool look for that retro inspired scoot!
Note: Must remove fork tubes to install. From the crew at Kijima in Japan. Sold in Pairs.
150125Black Fork Boots-41mm$34.99
632043Black Fork Boots-39mm$34.99
632044Red Fork Boots-41mm$34.99
632045Red Fork Boots-39mm$34.99
632804Black Fork Boots-35mm$29.99
632805Red Fork Boots-35mm$29.99
632800Black Fork Boots-49mm Short.
Amendment & Declaration Exhaust SystemsDon’t let the drag pipe look fool you, these pipes are all about performance. Available in a Declaration (turn-out) or Amendment (side-slash) as well as in a chrome or ceramic black finish. Each system comes complete with massive 2.5” blue-proof heat shields, removable baffles and stainless hardware.
Amendment Chrome-plated Systems
689720Fits all Sportster models 04-10 $499.99
Ceramic-Black Systems
689722Fits all Sportster models 04-09$589.99
Declaration Chrome-plated Systems
689719Fits all Sportster models 04-09 $569.99models 08-10$569.99
Ceramic-Black Systems
689721Fits all Sportster models 04-09 $609.99
*2009 models will require the separate purchase of #689826 hardware kit
LePera Classics for Sportsters
LE PERA METAL FLAKE CHOPPER SEATS!
LePera has been custom crafting custom seating for Choppers, Bobbers and all shapes and sizes of custom machines since for going on four decades and today’s cushions represent the very finest quality styling and craftsmanship available. We’re talking old school here so take a look at the “rigid bike” section of their latest catalog and you will see new designs based on chopper/bobber styles from the late 60’s early 70’s.
Metal flake is the crème de’la cream of that era and nothing says “Chopper” like LePera’s, super cool, METAL FLAKE seats.
Give yourself a ride back to a time when Choppers were just that and Metal Flake was King. The rugged new material is available in just about any color, in smooth, or diamond pattern with or without piping.
As shown here the Solo Seat retails for $136.00 and the Pillion Pad is just $90.00. For those of you who demand LePera quality and unique materials in a custom seat designed for your specific machine, the company is now offering all of their seats covered in Metal Flake! You can check out the amazing line of LePera custom seating at www.lepera.com or call them direct at 818-767-5110.
LE PERA UNLEASHES NEW “VILLAIN”
Once again Le Pera has taken seat designing to another level with the introduction of the head turning “VILLAIN” for 04-10 XL’S. Bob Jr. designed this truly unique seat that will completely change the look of your bike. It was originally designed for touring bikes only, however, the demand was so high he added the Villain seat for 04-10 XL’S, Softails, and 06-10 DYNA’s.
Le Pera’s VILLAIN is like nothing you’ve seen before. If you demand the finest quality and unique styling you need look no further. Suggested retail starts @ $488.00.
Visit the complete Le Pera line up at www.lepera.com or contact your local dealer.
CONNECTIONS:
We tried to make it easy for you to reach any company mentioned in this mess. I believe every image links directly to the associated company. If not, we have posted all the players banners throughout or right here. If you have any questions, more Sportster resources, complaints, or bottles of whiskey laying around, drop me a line at: Bandit@bikernet.com
WAIT, THIS JUST IN FROM PAUGHCO
Damn, I forgot this cool billet sprocket cover from Joker Machine.
