1980 Harley Shovelhead Rat Bob

Doug from Finger Lakes, United States made available these photographs of his 1980 Harley FLH Shovelhead which he calls the "Rat Bob" and which - as far as we are concerned - is a very clean Straight Bobber. And for sure she's a very nice Bar Hopper!

Doug: "This bike is a true Rat Bob, not a factory chromed out cookie cutter model. The motor is an 80 cubic inch (1340cc) shovelhead with S&S carb and 60's era tear drop air cleaner marked S&S Cycle. Kick and electric start. Solid lifters, flat-top pistons and a mild cam. I don't know the grind of the cam, but engine is great in town or on the road. Transmission is a Harley 4-speed with jockey shift and foot (suicide) clutch. There is a learning curve with a foot clutch but once you get it it is really easy."

Doug: "This bike is an absolute riot to ride and gets a lot of attention where ever I go. It is surprisingly comfortable to ride with both rear shocks and seat springs. I usually ride it around town but have taken rides of 200 mi. and it rode great."

1980 Harley FLH Shovelhead Bobber named the "Rat Bob" by Doug.

Doug: "There are a couple of small oil leaks but nothing major, typical Shovelhead stuff."

1980 FLH Bobber Front End

Those are Dunlop D-402 wide whitewall tires.

1980 FLH Bobber - The Rear End

That's a Bobber's Tale...

March 2010