Harley Panheads were built and sold as 1948 through 1965 model years. The 1948 (like this one) was the last big twin Harley with a factory Springer front end, and the 1965 (first and last Panheads) was the first Harley Big Twin with an electric starter and 12 volt electrics.

Here is a mostly correct and original 1948 Panhead and quick explanation of how it works.

OK, here is a photo of my next project bike in basic “as bought” condition. I plan to use this rare ex-police 1965 Harley Panhead – rare because it came from the factory with 3 1/2 gallon tanks and handshifter set up.

Rare 1965 Harley Panhead Tank-Shifter

This was the last year for actual tankshifters, as the 1966 Shovelhead came with the handshifter mounted on the down tubes. This one has been repainted a few times and has had some parts swapped out since it came off service as a police motorcycle.

Subscribe to American Iron Magazine to follow a series or articles on this bike later in the year.

Nothing special, but I like this photo of the left side gas tank and handshifter of my 1948 Harley Panhead.

I had just ridden to the local gas station to fill up and the sun was going down, so I pulled over to take this photo with my cellphone camera.

1948 Harley Panhead in late day sun

Looks artsy, so thought we’d share it here. – Buzz Kanter