Imagine you are a custom builder who has been given a 1970 Harley Davidson FLH , now what type of custom motorcycle would you build?
In most cases I imagine you would use it to build a chopper or bobber! But that’s not the case for southern New Hampshire workshop owner Walt Siegl, he takes the 1970 Shovelhead engine and builds a charismatic FX Roadster which takes you right back to the 70s.
The FX Roadster started out as a 1970 Harley Davidson FLH. The Shovelhead is an air-cooled, 45-degree, V-twin motorcycle engine manufactured from 1966 to 1984, for the engine work Walt commissioned Andrew Rosa at Rosa’s Cycle in Huntington, NY.
The Shovelhead engine is 84-inch stroked with all lightweight internals, ported heads and a high performance cam. The transmission was upgraded with FX first and second gear ratio and third and fourth FLH ratio, which all adds up to better acceleration – “Simply amazing work by Rosa’s Cycle” says Walt. Tech Cycle primary components were used with diaphragm clutch and Tech Cycle starter.
The Harley frame was adjusted by two degrees and the frame loop was added to the new swingarm. Walt’s FX Roadster features Progressive suspension components, 39mm Showa fork and Works Performance shocks.
My personal favorite is the heavily modified Benelli tank, another killer craftsmanship effort by Walt. For a more classic look Walt has added British style front and rear fender with a custom taillight. FX Roadster rolls on Excel high shoulder rims with Buchanan stainless spokes fitted with Rear Brembo brake and HD front brake on semi-floating rotors. The bench seat was upholstered by Vivian Smith and last but not least the beautiful paint job was done by Dave Goddard.
FX Roadster is a milestone in the modern custom motorbike world, a classic transformation of a beast. The details on Walt’s FX Roadster are a feast for your eyes. Finished here? then check out this Ducati Riviera by Walt Siegl from a previous feature!
