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This gorgeous black-over-red 1957 FLH Panhead is the last of its kind, as the rigid frame (or hardtail) big twin reached its final year with this model. Harley-Davidson had built only motorcycles with a solid rear end since 1904, with the sole exception being the XA military motorcycle built in World War II in extremely limited numbers. Barring that order from the US Army for a desert combat bike, every Harley-Davidson had a solidly mounted rear wheel and a fixed rear axle. The inevitable road shocks arising from the poorly paved roads of the day on a rigid frame were mitigated by a combination of a long wheelbase, which stretches the interval between bumps hitting the front and rear wheel, and a deeply sprung saddle, which reached a zenith with the “Full Floteing” saddle pillar introduced in the 1930s with 6 inches of travel. The need for some form of hydraulic suspension was understood, and the new Hydra-Glide hydraulically damped telescopic fork was introduced back in 1949. It took another nine years for the factory to match that soft springing at the rear, with the Duo-Glide model of 1958, but some riders still preferred the “feel the road” sensation of a rigid rear end. This 1957 Harley-Davidson FLH was the last opportunity to buy that feeling new from the factory, as all models featured rear suspension the very next model year—and forever after. For a last-year rigid bike, this 1957 Harley-Davidson FLH Panhead is a beautiful advertisement for the clean, clear lines offered by a solid rear axle. The frame tubes make a clear diagonal from the steering head to the rear hub, and when combined with a mostly black paint scheme, like seen here, it gives the impression of lightness and elegance. This machine was restored to meticulous standards by a Harley-Davidson marque expert, whose work speaks for itself in its correctness, accuracy and ultimate appeal as a truly desirable motorcycle. BrochuresInformation found on the website is presented as advance information for the auction lot. Photos, materials for videos, descriptions and other information are provided by the consignor/seller and is deemed reliable, but Mecum Auction does not verify, warrant or guarantee this information. The lot and information presented at auction on the auction block supersedes any previous descriptions or information. Mecum is not responsible for information that may be changed or updated prior to the auction. The decision to purchase should be based solely on the buyers personal inspection of the lot at the auction site prior to the auction. How much is a Panhead motorcycle worth?Classic driver records the average cost of a restored 1948 Harley Davidson Panhead between $19,000 and $25,000, while some alternative market estimates put the average price at $26,525. The top and lowest sales are $9,000 and $52,250 respectively.
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