A Restored Sportster and Ripper With That Big Single

Readers' letters about a BSA 441 Shooting Star and a 1959 XLH.

By The Motorcycle Classics Readers
Published on March 31, 2022
article image
by Patrick Cristofaro

Restored Sportster

Reader Patrick Cristofaro shares the story of his 1959 Harley-Davidson XLH restoration with us. Thanks Patrick! — Ed.

silver dash of a blue motorcycle

Here is my story about my 1959 XLH. I live about 30 minutes from Zurich, Switzerland. I own a number of Sportsters, including a 1975 XLH, a 1975 XLCH, this 1959 XLH, a 1969 XLH (Sparkling Gold), and a Swiss Army Condor 580 from 1949.

This 1959 XLH was imported into Switzerland in 2013 from Lenhartsville, Pennsylvania. It has now been completely restored and outfitted with many new old stock parts. The spokes were sent to the U.S. for cadmium plating, and the engine cases were water jet cleaned. Thanks to the K model page, I was able to implement a lot of information and tips on restoration.

The original color sample Skyline blue was sent to me by John Pierce. After that, we were able to mix the exact color and chase the individual parts. Only CP bolts were used according to OEM. I was also able to organize the nacelle. The hardest of all was to find was the KPH speedometer. This great bike was brought to life with a lot of love. A special thank you goes to the memory of Jim Black who has actively supported me over the years. My friend passed away before the end of the project. Greetings from Switzerland.

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