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Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead
74/100 Overall
58 On the road90 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead vs Yamaha RD500LC
Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead scores 74/100 overall against Yamaha RD500LC on 84/100. On the road: 58–68. As classics: 90–100. Overall result: Yamaha RD500LC.
Yamaha RD500LC
84/100 Overall
68 On the road100 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Harley-Davidson FLH | Yamaha RD500LC | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 5 | 9 | Yamaha RD500LC |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 4 | 8 | Yamaha RD500LC |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 4 | 7 | Yamaha RD500LC |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 5 | 6 | Yamaha RD500LC |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 6 | Harley-Davidson FLH |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 9 | 5 | Harley-Davidson FLH |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 10 | Yamaha RD500LC |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 10 | Yamaha RD500LC |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 8 | 10 | Yamaha RD500LC |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
Choose the Harley-Davidson FLH if…
you want relaxed long-distance presence, unmistakable American V-twin character and traditional Harley styling.
Choose the Yamaha RD500LC if…
you want genuine Grand Prix-inspired engineering, explosive two-stroke performance and one of Yamaha's most memorable road-going race replicas.
Background
History
Harley-Davidson FLH
The Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead was produced from 1966–1984 and used a Air-cooled 45-degree Shovelhead V-twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, styling, historic importance. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Yamaha RD500LC
The Yamaha RD500LC was produced from 1984–1986 and used a 499cc liquid-cooled two-stroke V4. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, collector appeal and historic importance. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Harley-Davidson FLH
- Its production span in this library runs from 1966 to 1984.
- The recorded engine description is: Air-cooled 45-degree Shovelhead V-twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, styling, historic importance.
Yamaha RD500LC
- Its production span in this library runs from 1984 to 1986.
- The recorded engine description is: 499cc liquid-cooled two-stroke V4.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, collector appeal and historic importance.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Harley-Davidson FLH
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead. Its library score for character is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Yamaha RD500LC
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha RD500LC. Its library score for character is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Harley-Davidson FLH
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check primary drive, charging system, engine mounts and evidence of non-standard modifications.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Yamaha RD500LC
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection system, crank seals, cooling system and exhaust condition carefully.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Harley-Davidson FLH
Rivals to the Yamaha RD500LC
Final result
The verdict
Yamaha RD500LC wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Yamaha RD500LC wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Yamaha RD500LC takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.