Lot details
Registration No: HD51DOC
Frame No: 1HD1BJY102Y019345
Engine No: BJY2019345
cc: 1450
MOT Expiry Date: None

The Softtail was originally introduced during 1988 and has become a fixture in the Harley Davidson catalogue. This family of machines all employ the large 1449cc vee twin engine producing approximately 67bhp and 81 ftlb of torque which is sufficient to propel the motorcycle to 110mph and give a quarter mile time of just over 14 seconds. The defining characteristic of the range is the design of rear suspension employed, which features a "hidden" suspension unit thereby creating the impression of a rigid rear end. In true Harley fashion a number of different variations, all based on the same basic machine, are offered which can be further customised using official aftermarket components.

The Heritage Classic Soft Tail, or FLSTC, featured leather saddle bags and chrome, laced wheels and was marketed as a "all out retro tourer". This particular example, in addition to the standard features, is one of 200 supplied world wide with the custom "flame" paintwork to the fuel tank. It was purchased in celebration of the vendor's (British zoologist, cryptozoologist, and author Dr Karl Shuker) success on the TV quiz show "Who wants to be a millionaire" and subsequently registered with the personal registration number HD51 DOC, which is included with the machine. In addition to the saddlebags and custom paintwork the motorcycle is equipped with a set of front and rear crashbars. The total cost of the motorcycle when new was £17,000. Described as being in excellent, fully working condition in all respects, the motorcycle has seen only limited use since its purchase due ill health with only 226 miles being recorded on the odometer. It has been housed in a brick built garage and connected to an "Optimate" trickle charger when not in use and is currently on SORN.