1978 HARLEY-DAVIDSON FXS LOW RIDER – 8,357 ORIGINAL MILES – $16,900 PROFESSIONAL RESTORATION – ORIGINAL SHOVELHEAD – FAMILY-OWNED CLASSIC!

A SPECTACULAR, LOW-MILEAGE AMF-ERA HARLEY-DAVIDSON SHOVELHEAD – PROFESSIONALLY RESTORED BY KAPLAN CYCLES!

ONLY 8,357 ORIGINAL MILES | ORIGINAL ENGINE | ORIGINAL FACTORY MAG WHEELS | ORIGINAL GOODYEAR TIRES | NEARLY 100 HOURS OF RESTORATION LABOR!

Feast your eyes on this absolutely stunning 1978 Harley-Davidson FXS Low Rider, a beautifully preserved and meticulously restored American classic with an incredible history, remarkable originality, and just 8,357 original miles!

This is the real deal, folks. A genuine late-1970s Harley-Davidson Shovelhead Low Rider, complete with its original rigid-mounted V-twin engine, distinctive narrow front end, factory cast-aluminum mag wheels, original Fat Bob fuel tanks, and timeless blacked-out styling.

The FXS Low Rider was one of Harley-Davidson's most iconic motorcycles of the AMF era. Its aggressive stance, low-slung riding position, muscular Shovelhead engine, and stripped-down factory-custom appearance made it an instant classic.

This particular example represents everything collectors love about these motorcycles: exceptionally low original mileage, decades of family ownership, original major components, documented professional restoration, and unmistakable Harley-Davidson character.

Best of all, the original engine has never been opened up. It retains its original top-end seals, runs exceptionally quietly, and remarkably exhibits no noticeable oil leaks!

When we first fired this machine up after approximately 25 years of storage, we were amazed at how mechanically quiet and healthy the engine sounded. The pushrods were remarkably quiet, with none of the excessive ticking commonly associated with older Shovelheads.

And after the comprehensive restoration, it runs and rides absolutely spectacularly.

AN INCREDIBLE FAMILY-OWNERSHIP STORY

The previous owner's father purchased this Harley-Davidson in 1979 and kept it in the family for decades.

Unlike so many Shovelheads of this era that were chopped, heavily modified, raced, neglected, or simply ridden into the ground, this machine was carefully preserved.

Eventually, as its original caretaker grew older, the motorcycle was parked in the family garage, where it remained unused for approximately 25 years.

When his son brought the motorcycle to Kaplan Cycles, it arrived in the back of a van, still wearing its original factory components and showing just 8,357 miles.

He wanted to see his father's motorcycle brought back to its former glory and initially asked us to prepare an estimate for a complete restoration.

We estimated approximately 70–100 hours of professional restoration labor, plus parts and materials.

The final restoration ultimately involved 97.5 hours of shop labor, $2,192 in replacement parts, and a total restoration invoice of approximately $16,900.

Faced with the substantial cost of restoring the motorcycle, the owner elected to sell it to us instead.

We purchased the bike and undertook the restoration ourselves, building it to the exact standard we would want for a motorcycle displayed in the New England Motorcycle Museum.

Our goal was simple: preserve as much of the original motorcycle as possible while making it mechanically sound, cosmetically stunning, and faithful to its original 1978 appearance.

The result is one of the most beautiful and authentic FXS Low Riders we've had the privilege of restoring.

$16,900 PROFESSIONAL RESTORATION – 97.5 HOURS OF LABOR

This was not a quick cosmetic makeover or a simple paint job.

This was an extensive, professional, top-to-bottom restoration carried out by the experienced team at Kaplan Cycles.

The motorcycle was extensively disassembled, inspected, cleaned, refinished, mechanically serviced, and carefully reassembled.

The original fuel tanks, front and rear fenders, wheels, seat, handlebars, rear shocks, oil tank, and numerous other components were removed to facilitate the restoration.

Our restoration philosophy was to retain original Harley-Davidson components wherever practical rather than replace them with inferior aftermarket parts.

The original engine, transmission, frame, fuel tanks, fenders, wheels, seat, handlebars, fork assembly, and numerous original chrome components were all retained.

Even the original factory decals and frame markings were preserved wherever possible.

ENGINE & FUEL SYSTEM RESTORATION

The heart of this motorcycle is its original Harley-Davidson Shovelhead V-twin.

Remarkably, despite its age, the engine did not require a major internal rebuild.

The engine has never been opened up, and its original top-end seals remain intact.

After sitting for approximately 25 years, it was recommissioned with extensive servicing and fresh components.

Work performed included:

• Complete fuel tank cleaning and fuel system recommissioning

• New fuel petcock and fuel lines

• Carburetor professionally cleaned and rebuilt

• New carburetor rebuild components

• New intake manifold seals and gaskets

• New fuel inlet elbow

• New air cleaner assembly and chrome cover

• Fresh 50-weight engine oil

• New oil filter

• New spark plugs and plug wires

• New exhaust gaskets

• New rocker shaft nuts and oil pump plug

• New throttle cable

• New battery

• Brand-new electric starter

• Refinished engine cylinders and cylinder heads

• Original rocker-box finishes carefully cleaned and preserved

• Factory Harley-Davidson oil cooler retained

The original aluminum rocker boxes still retain their factory finish. Rather than strip and refinish them, we carefully cleaned them to preserve their original appearance and character.

The engine starts, runs, and sounds absolutely phenomenal.

It's an exceptionally quiet-running Shovelhead with strong performance, excellent throttle response, and the deep, unmistakable exhaust note that made these motorcycles legendary.

ORIGINAL TINS – PROFESSIONALLY RESTORED FACTORY BLACK PAINT

All of the major painted bodywork is original Harley-Davidson equipment.

The original Fat Bob fuel tanks and front and rear fenders were removed and professionally refinished.

The process included stripping the tanks and fenders down to bare metal, properly preparing and priming the surfaces, and refinishing them in the original-style Harley-Davidson gloss black.

New period-correct AMF Harley-Davidson tank graphics were installed to recreate the motorcycle's original factory appearance.

The results are breathtaking.

The beautiful deep-black finish contrasts perfectly with the restored factory mag wheels, original aluminum engine components, and vintage chrome.

The original seat was carefully cleaned and preserved rather than replaced.

ORIGINAL FACTORY MAG WHEELS – METICULOUSLY RESTORED

The original cast-aluminum wheels are among the standout features of this motorcycle.

Both wheels were removed and professionally restored through an extremely labor-intensive process.

The wheels were vapor-honed to remove decades of oxidation and contamination while preserving their original character.

The black sections were carefully masked and refinished, and the exposed aluminum sections were cleaned and polished without excessively altering the original factory appearance.

The individual wheel-spoke surfaces and hub areas were refinished as appropriate to recreate their original look.

The original front brake rotors were retained, cleaned, and vapor-honed.

This was an extraordinarily time-consuming restoration process, but the final result speaks for itself.

These are the genuine original factory mag wheels, not aftermarket replacements.

ORIGINAL DATE-CODED GOODYEAR TIRES – REMARKABLE SURVIVOR DETAIL

One of the most extraordinary features of this Low Rider is that it still wears its original period Goodyear tires.

These vintage Goodyear tires are virtually impossible to find today, especially in this remarkable state of preservation.

The original tires are an important part of this motorcycle's history and provide compelling physical evidence consistent with its exceptionally low mileage and careful indoor storage.

The rear tire, in particular, illustrates just how gently this machine was treated during its early life.

After nearly five decades, the tire still retains an impressive amount of its original tread.

It is apparent this Harley-Davidson was not subjected to years of burnouts, abuse, or hard riding.

We deliberately retained these original tires for their historical and collector significance.

IMPORTANT: These are vintage original tires retained for preservation and display. Due to their age, replacement with modern tires is strongly recommended before regular road use, regardless of their visual appearance.

For the collector who values originality, having these rare factory-period Goodyears preserved with the motorcycle is a tremendous bonus.

FRONT END & BRAKING SYSTEM

The original narrow front fork assembly remains intact, giving the FXS Low Rider its distinctive, aggressive factory-custom appearance.

Unlike larger Harley-Davidson models with bulkier front ends, the narrow front-end configuration gives this motorcycle a leaner, sportier profile.

The original forks were cleaned and preserved.

There is some light age-related pitting and patina on the original fork components. We deliberately chose not to erase every trace of the motorcycle's history.

The original headlight, headlight visor, turn signals, and original Low Rider identification decal were retained.

The braking system received extensive professional attention, including:

• Front brake caliper rebuilt

• New front brake pads

• Front master cylinder rebuilt

• New front brake line

• Fresh brake fluid

• Rear brake caliper rebuilt

• New rear caliper piston and seals

• New rear brake pads

• Brand-new rear brake rotor

• New rear rotor mounting hardware

Both front and rear braking systems were thoroughly serviced as part of the restoration.

PRIMARY DRIVE, CLUTCH & CONTROLS

The original primary drive assembly was disassembled and serviced.

The factory fiber clutch plates were replaced with brand-new friction plates.

The primary was cleaned, resealed, and reassembled using fresh gaskets and seals.

Additional improvements include:

• New primary gaskets and seals

• New clutch friction plates

• New primary hardware

• Original Harley-Davidson primary cover retained

• Original aluminum finish carefully preserved

• New handlebar riser bushings/dampers

• Original factory handlebars retained

• New factory-style rider foot pegs

• New highway peg rubbers and mounting components

• Original highway peg mounting hardware retained where applicable

• Original shifter with new rubber shifter tip

• Original kickstand retained

• New horn and chrome horn cover

• New speedometer cable

The original hand controls, brake levers, and much of the original switchgear remain intact.

Even the grips appear consistent with the original components installed decades ago.

REAR SUSPENSION, FINAL DRIVE & CHASSIS

The rear of the motorcycle was comprehensively disassembled and restored.

The rear shocks, wheel, fender, chain guard, and associated components were removed.

The swingarm was refinished, and various frame areas were carefully touched up as needed.

Importantly, much of the original factory frame paint was preserved, including an original Harley-Davidson frame decal.

It's a fantastic historical detail that many restorers would have removed during a complete repaint.

Mechanical restoration and refinishing included:

• Rear swingarm refinished

• Rear shocks removed and serviced cosmetically

• Original rear wheel professionally restored

• New rear axle and chrome axle components

• New rear axle adjusters

• Brand-new chrome rear sprocket

• New sprocket mounting hardware

• Brand-new 530 final-drive chain

• New chrome chain guard

• New rear brake rotor and mounting hardware

• Rebuilt rear brake caliper

• Original rear fender refinished

• Original rear fender struts cleaned and polished

• New passenger foot pegs

• New license plate mounting hardware

• Original rear taillight preserved

• Original rear turn signals preserved

• Original chrome trim polished and retained

The complete final-drive system was renewed, providing a beautiful finishing touch to the restored rear wheel and swingarm assembly.

NEW CHROME DRAG PIPES – THE CLASSIC SHOVELHEAD SOUND

One of the few intentional departures from absolute factory specification is the beautiful set of new chrome drag pipes.

These pipes deliver the deep, raw, unmistakable Harley-Davidson Shovelhead exhaust note that enthusiasts have loved for generations.

The original-style black paint, factory mag wheels, and glistening chrome pipes combine to give this motorcycle the perfect vintage custom-Harley appearance.

The bike also wears a chrome aftermarket air cleaner, another period-style modification.

Aside from the exhaust and air cleaner, the motorcycle retains a remarkably authentic factory appearance with extensive original Harley-Davidson equipment throughout.

The pipes sound spectacular, especially when paired with this exceptionally smooth-running original Shovelhead engine.

PRESERVED ORIGINALITY – WHAT MAKES THIS BIKE SPECIAL

Many surviving 1970s Harley-Davidsons have been heavily modified or rebuilt multiple times.

Finding an example with this degree of originality is increasingly difficult.

This motorcycle retains an outstanding collection of genuine factory components, including the original engine, original frame, original fuel tanks and fenders, original cast wheels, original saddle, original fork assembly, original handlebars, original headlight and visor, original turn signals, original taillight, original primary cover, original oil cooler, and many original chrome components.

Most impressively, the original engine has never required a top-end rebuild.

The factory-style black paint and AMF graphics have been beautifully recreated, while the mechanical components have received the attention necessary to bring the motorcycle back to life after decades in storage.

This isn't an over-restored showpiece stripped of its history.

It's a thoughtful, museum-quality restoration that celebrates the originality and heritage of the machine.

Some age-related patina remains on original chrome and fork components, consistent with our preservation approach.

The motorcycle was represented to us as never having been dropped or crashed.

RESTORATION INVESTMENT & DOCUMENTATION

Total restoration investment: approximately $16,900

Professional shop labor: 97.5 hours

Replacement parts: approximately $2,192

This restoration represents an extraordinary amount of professional labor, specialized equipment, mechanical knowledge, and attention to detail.

From the intricate wheel refinishing to the rebuilt brake systems, fresh drivetrain components, restored paintwork, and engine recommissioning, no reasonable effort was spared in bringing this important American classic back to life.

Our restoration team at Kaplan Cycles spent months carefully working through the motorcycle, preserving its irreplaceable original components and returning it to exceptional operating and cosmetic condition.

A detailed restoration work order documents the extensive work performed.

We have also documented this motorcycle through our video production and riding demonstrations so future caretakers can understand the restoration process and the history of the machine.

HOW DOES IT RUN AND RIDE?

Absolutely spectacularly!

I've personally ridden this Harley-Davidson multiple times during the restoration and recommissioning process.

The original Shovelhead engine is exceptionally quiet mechanically, yet delivers that unmistakable Harley-Davidson sound through the new chrome drag pipes.

The riding position is comfortable, the factory narrow front end gives the motorcycle a distinctly sporty appearance, and the overall feel is exactly what you'd hope to experience from an authentic late-1970s Harley-Davidson.

Everywhere this machine goes, it turns heads.

It's got the sound, the style, the mechanical character, and the presence that made the Shovelhead era so memorable.

This is an American motorcycle that looks, sounds, and feels like a genuine piece of Harley-Davidson history.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

• 1978 Harley-Davidson FXS Low Rider

• 8,357 original miles

• Original Harley-Davidson Shovelhead V-twin

• Original engine with unopened top end

• Approximately 25 years of indoor storage before restoration

• Purchased by previous owner's father in 1979

• Long-term family ownership

• Extensive professional restoration by Kaplan Cycles

• 97.5 hours of restoration labor

• Approximately $16,900 restoration invoice

• Original factory cast-aluminum mag wheels, professionally restored

• Original date-coded vintage Goodyear tires retained

• Original Fat Bob tanks and factory fenders

• Fresh factory-style gloss-black paint and AMF graphics

• Original seat, handlebars, headlight, and numerous chrome components

• Rebuilt front and rear braking systems

• New rear rotor, sprocket, final-drive chain, and rear axle

• New clutch friction plates and resealed primary

• Professionally serviced fuel and carburetor systems

• New electric starter, battery, spark plugs, and fluids

• Brand-new chrome drag pipes

• Beautifully preserved original factory frame details

• Documented restoration and riding videos

• Outstanding museum-quality classic Harley-Davidson

A RARE OPPORTUNITY TO OWN A PIECE OF AMERICAN MOTORCYCLING HISTORY

There's something special about a 1970s Shovelhead Harley-Davidson.

These are the motorcycles that defined an era of American motorcycling, when chrome, black paint, the rumble of a big V-twin, and an open stretch of highway represented freedom in its purest form.

This FXS Low Rider captures that experience beautifully.

With its exceptionally low mileage, fascinating family history, original engine, original factory components, and nearly $17,000 professional restoration, it's an outstanding example of one of Harley-Davidson's most recognizable classic factory customs.

You could spend years searching for another example with this combination of preservation, originality, low mileage, and professionally documented restoration work.

This is not simply an old Harley-Davidson. It's an important survivor from the Shovelhead era that has been given a new lease on life.

Whether displayed in a serious Harley-Davidson collection, showcased in a private motorcycle museum, or carefully enjoyed on the open road after fitting roadworthy tires and completing appropriate safety checks, this machine is certain to make an impression.

ABOUT KAPLAN CYCLES & THE NEW ENGLAND MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM

This motorcycle was professionally restored by the experienced team at Kaplan Cycles in Rockville, Connecticut, home of the New England Motorcycle Museum.

We specialize in preserving, restoring, servicing, and documenting important motorcycles from throughout motorcycling history.

From iconic American V-twins to rare Japanese two-strokes and championship-winning racing machines, our passion has always been keeping these incredible motorcycles alive for future generations.

We take tremendous pride in the work performed on this machine, and we're honored to have played a part in preserving its history.

Visit KaplanCycles.com to learn more about our motorcycles, restoration services, and the New England Motorcycle Museum.

PLEASE NOTE: THIS PARTICULAR MOTORCYCLE HAS ALREADY BEEN SOLD TO ONE OF OUR LONGTIME CLIENTS. THIS DESCRIPTION IS PROVIDED AS A DOCUMENTATION RECORD OF ITS RESTORATION, SPECIFICATIONS, AND HISTORY.

Congratulations to its new caretaker on an absolutely spectacular 1978 Harley-Davidson FXS Low Rider!

GOD BLESS AMERICA!

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WHY SHOULD YOU BUY FROM KAPLAN? WHAT DO YOU GET?

“You are buying from the Kaplan Cycles Family. We are not just another big auction house. We are family-owned and operated and have been buying, servicing, and selling motorcycles since 1975. You will work directly with Ken Jr., Ken Sr., and/or one of the 30+ experts on our team. We provide museum-quality, white-glove concierge service from start to finish. Every motorcycle we sell is inspected, serviced, and supported by our team, and we stand behind it after the sale. You’re not on your own — we back what we build and what we sell.

With over 17,000 units sold and still 100% positive feedback, we are the best stress-free buying experience you can have. From the first call to delivery at your door, we will handle it all — because vintage motorcycles deserve support, and so do you.

With every bike we curate you get:
• museum-level inspection & preservation services
• every machine is professionally evaluated, serviced, & rotisserie detailed
• all critical systems are checked, adjusted, or renewed
• you get professional setup, tuning, and delivery prep
• done by the best experts in the industry — we ride and restore every day
• you get post-sale phone support
• you get white-glove, insured, always-enclosed shipping to your door anywhere in the country

You’re buying from Kaplan Cycles at the New England Motorcycle Museum, one of the largest vintage motorcycle collections in North America. Free museum tours and tickets are included with every bike sold. With every bike you purchase, a portion of the proceeds is used to support, continue, and improve the 501(c)(3) nonprofit New England Motorcycle Museum.

You don’t just win an auction — YOU are creating & helping to preserve motorcycle history, and you become part of our family, a Kaplan Cycles client for life.

We do not take new clients off the street.
We do not service bikes purchased elsewhere.
We only take new exclusive clients who purchase a motorcycle from us.

You get a guided purchase experience with, and from, the experts who care about the bike as much as you do. If there’s a problem, you don’t get ghosted. You call us — you will have our cell phone numbers — we will answer your call on weekends, and we will help make it right.

Auction platforms = listing only. No support. No accountability.

Kaplan Cycles = we stand behind what we sell.

You are buying museum-curated provenance. That means:
• expert evaluation
• documented condition
• professional presentation
• long-term preservation mindset

You’re not just buying a motorcycle — you’re buying a curated piece of motorcycling history.

From the #1 family in this business — Kaplan Cycles & the New England Motorcycle Museum.

Sincerely,

Ken Kaplan Sr.
12/28/2025”

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AUCTION TERMS:

All motorcycles & vehicles are sold as-is where-is.

Kaplan Cycles guarantees all motorcycles are as-described. Please read the entire description and watch the entire video before bidding.

A non-refundable deposit is due immediately on purchase. PayPal or Credit Card is accepted for the deposit.

Cash (In-Person), Card (+3% fee), or Wire Transfer are our only accepted forms of final payment.

Full payment must be made within 7 days of auction close.

Your motorcycle must be picked up within 30 days of auction close. 

Exceptions are made only for international buyers OR buyers who have ALREADY made transport arrangements with a third party.

If a motorcycle is purchased and left here for longer than 30 days without written permission from Kaplan Cycles it will be resold. In the case of a re-sale, the owner will be entitled to a refund less storage fees ($25/ day beginning 30 days from auction close) ONLY if the motorcycle was paid in full on-time within the auction terms.

We always describe our motorcycles as accurately as possible.

You are purchasing a classic motorcycle. Even in cases where a bike may be in good running/ operating condition, new problems & idiosyncrasies can arise over-time from sitting or regular use.

If you have an issue with the motorcycle you’ve received, contact us within 24 hours of delivery and before leaving feedback so that we can address your concerns.

It is important you have at least a basic mechanical knowledge before purchasing and operating a classic motorcycle.

Due to our backlog, we cannot perform any additional service work or modifications on your motorcycle after the sale (ie; adding a light kit, different tires, etc.)

We respond quickly between the hours of 9am and 5pm EST, Monday - Friday

For our fastest service please call Ken Kaplan Jr directly at 860-471-0192

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We will not charge out-of-state buyers sales tax.
Out of state residents will pay sales tax with their DMV. 

We are not a registering dealership. You will receive only the documents required to register your vehicle in your state.

In our listings, title status is always listed directly below the main description.

In some cases we will sell motorcycles without title or registration. In these cases we guarantee all motorcycles sold are free and clear. We will always provide a route to obtaining title. Generally in these cases, the motorcycle will be sold at a discount to accommodate expenses involved.

Documents are mailed via USPS priority mail with a tracking number. Please allow up to 14 days after payment in full for your documents to be processed and mailed.

Keys will be shipped with the motorcycle.

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Warranty:

All Motorcycles sold "as is, where is" and Kaplan Cycles does not warranty any motorcycle sold. No express warranty and/or implied warranty are made by Kaplan Cycles. No statements by us give an implied warranty.

SHIPPING:

SEND US YOUR ZIP FOR A SHIPPING QUOTE!
WE WILL MAKE ALL ARRANGEMENTS!

We have the best shipping contacts in the nation who will provide the FASTEST transport times, have a perfect track record, and are always insured and ENCLOSED! All motorcycles are shipped WHOLE (roll-on, roll-off). We do not offer a pallet or crate service.

International shipping specialist contacts are available! They will assist in ground freight, customs clearance, and ocean freight to your country. International buyers will be required to work directly with our third party shipping contacts.

We strongly recommend you insure your motorcycle at the time of purchase.

PICKUP:

We require a 24 hour notice prior to pick-up. Please call us at 860-454-7024 during office hours Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm EST.

We will provide ramps, a dock for loading, and assistance to load for free.