I need massive help!

[mmbajakid]

Ok. So i have 1957 Sportster, XLCH. Or so I think. I read an article that the XLCH actually came out in 58, my title says 57, and its a kickstart only. XLCH is the kickstart only model. Or maybe I am just confused. I have taken pictures of all the casting numbers from the bike. All the parts that I took pictures are of ORIGIONAL parts. So anyone know how I would go about getting these numbers researched?
I do know that back then Harley was piecing together bikes to experiment with production models. Trying to get things together to make a model for the public.

Any info on how to research these numbers would be great. Have a good on.

[michael ( D-rod ) dennis]

Just some facts , 1957 was the first XL Sportster, 1958 the XL remained the standard -issue model , while the XLH featured higher compression and the XLCH was offered as a scrambler and 1960 the XLH , if I can remember right I almost bought a 1955KH when I was 19 years old and a few of my big Brothers had me buy a pan because parts were not as hard to get. Hope this is some help , R-Dod.

[michael ( D-rod ) dennis]

One more thing , the electric starter didn't come out until 1967! D-Rod .

[chopper1usa]

what do you want to know about the numbers? If you have some numbers I can look them up on michro-fiche to verify correct year. Most of H-D parts have the number cast or printed on them. although they are not always correct and in some cases don't even exist.

[cabinetmartel]

Originally Posted by mmbajakid

Ok. So i have 1957 Sportster, XLCH. Or so I think. I read an article that the XLCH actually came out in 58, my title says 57, and its a kickstart only. XLCH is the kickstart only model. Or maybe I am just confused. I have taken pictures of all the casting numbers from the bike. All the parts that I took pictures are of ORIGIONAL parts. So anyone know how I would go about getting these numbers researched?
I do know that back then Harley was piecing together bikes to experiment with production models. Trying to get things together to make a model for the public.

Any info on how to research these numbers would be great. Have a good on.

Hi:

For a pre-1969 SPORTSTER, I believe you can look for 3 numbers:

1. The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is the engine number that should be stamped on the right engine half, close to base of the "V" made by the 2 cylinders.

2. Another number (different from the VIN) should be stamped 2 times, one time on each underside of the 2 engine halves.

3. The last number (different from the others) should be cast close to the frame neck.

Ride safe!

Pierre MARTEL, cabinetmartel@aol.com.