1962 Panhead: Ranking a Post-War Legend in the Eyes of Shovelhunter
By Shovelhunter.com
At Shovelhunter, we live and breathe old-school Harley iron—the grit, the noise, the lineage. And if there's one bike that keeps coming up in the conversations at the shop, it’s the 1962 Harley-Davidson Panhead. Not just because it's vintage, but because it marks a pivotal chapter in American motorcycle history. Here's why the '62 Panhead earns a high rank in our all-time favorites—and what makes it stand out in the Shovelhunter garage.
???? 1. Refined but Raw: The Best of Both Worlds
By 1962, Harley had nearly 15 years to fine-tune the Panhead since its 1948 debut. This model wasn’t just another iteration—it was a refined machine that still packed the raw, visceral feel every rider craves.
- 74ci (1212cc) Overhead Valve V-Twin
- 4-speed transmission
- Rigid style with the comfort of rear suspension (Duo-Glide frame)
- Electric-start was still years away—this beast is all about kick-start respect
The '62 is a sweet spot—modern enough to ride, old-school enough to wrench. And that balance makes it a favorite in our builds and restorations at Shovelhunter.
???? 2. A Builder’s Dream
Here’s the deal: we love a clean canvas, and the '62 Panhead offers that without sacrificing its soul. Whether you're looking to do a full bobber chop or just dial in some tasteful period-correct mods, this bike responds well to a creative eye and a dirty pair of hands.
At Shovelhunter, we’ve taken stock FLH frames from '62 and turned them into stripped-down choppers and show-stopping customs. These bikes wear patina well—but they also shine like chrome gods when restored right.
“You’re not just riding history—you’re adding to it.”
???? 3. One of the Last True Kings of the Open Road
Before electric start get more info and AMF-era changes, bikes like the '62 Panhead were the ones defining the road culture. This was the bike that rolled across state lines, down two-lane blacktops, and into outlaw club history.shovel heads for sale
Every Panhead has a story. A 1962 Panhead has more than a few.
If you find one in good shape—or better, one with battle scars—consider it a badge of honor. And if you're restoring one, we’ve got just the parts and know-how to keep it period correct (or wild as hell).
???? 4. Parts, Restoration & Culture — All at Shovelhunter
At Shovelhunter, we don’t just write about bikes like the 1962 Panhead—we build with them, we ride them, and we keep them alive. Whether you're looking for:
- OEM-style parts for a full resto
- Hardtail conversion kits for a chopper build
- Shovel-era merch, tools, or tech advice
We're your people. We know that Panhead owners are a rare breed—and we make sure the parts, the culture, and the community live on. shovel motorcycle
???? 5. Value & Collectibility: Going Up
If you're hunting a '62 Panhead, know this—prices are climbing. Clean, running examples can easily fetch $25,000–$35,000 depending on originality. Fully restored or tastefully customized ones? Even more.
As demand grows, so does respect. These bikes are rolling investment pieces—but more than that, they’re history you can hear coming from three blocks away.
Final Verdict from the Shovelhunter Crew
The 1962 Panhead ranks high on our list not just because of its mechanical legacy—but because it still feels right. It’s not just a museum piece. It’s a rider’s bike, a builder’s bike, a statement.
Own one, and you're part of a very exclusive club.
Build one, and you're a keeper of the flame.
Thinking about restoring or building a '62 Panhead?
???? Hit up the Shovelhunter Shop
We’ve got the parts, the plans, and the attitude to make your vision real.
Ride hard. Wrench smart. Stay loud.
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