Harley powder coat frames?

[Rob S.]

I don't for sure it's truly powder coated, but I'm glad for whatever HD has done to my frame (and I have the cheapest of the cheap Harleys - 883 Sportster).

My XL883L "Superlow" is so low I've grounded it more than once and there are flat spots on the two frame down tubes. But not a spec of finishing has flaked off, and the flattened spots are as shiny as the rest.

I'm guessing it's powder coated. Anybody know?

[salty_monk]

As far as I know Harley use powder... It could be an E-coat I suppose but I don't think so. I believe Harley even powder clearcoat some of their parts.

[Rob S.]

You can't not love the paint on a Harley. But I still notice every imperfection. When I ditched their "solo" seat and installed the best leather two-up seat in their catalog, a small crack developed near the rear attachment point. Later a little black spot developed, also on the rear fender.

And the front fender? There's a hole center bottom where it's obviously intended to install a mud flap. But I don't want a mud flap - or any other "accessories."

I care for the paint and chrome. When I used an official Harley polishing rag on a hot exhaust heat shield and ruined the chrome finish, I quickly replaced the part (did the work myself!).

But when I'm riding, all that takes a back seat. At 85 and above (miles, not kilometers per hour), I lay down on the tank. I think about the big zipper on my leather riding jacket contacting the beautiful two-tone tank paint, but I think, "F*ck it. This why I've been in love with the Sportster for more than 40 years."

And I have no plans on selling it. Ever. (Suzi too).