Ella Walter
The 1957 Harley-Davidson FLH Panhead is a classic motorcycle model that has gained recognition among collectors and enthusiasts. Introduced in 1948, the Panhead engine earned its nickname from the distinctive shape of its rocker covers, resembling a pair of pie pans. The 1957 model holds a Land Speed Record at Bonneville Salt Flatts and is one of the last Harley-Davidson motorcycles to feature a rigid frame before the introduction of rear suspension in 1958. With its iconic engine, unique features, and long-standing reputation, the 1957 Harley Panhead has become a sought-after collectible item in the motorcycle world.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Year | 1957 |
| Model | FL, FLF, FLH, FLHF |
| Engine | 61 and 74 cubic-inch displacements |
| Frame | Rigid |
| Seat | Spring style |
| Tank emblem | Round Lucite |
| Fender tip | Plastic |
| Valve guides | Steel alloy |
| Push rods | Shorter with longer adjusters |
| Valve springs | Stronger |
| Saddlebags | Big Bertha (optional) |
| Forks | Springer |
| Carburetor | M74 B Carb |
| Tires | Avon |
| Wheels | Star hub |
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What You'll Learn
The 1957 Harley-Davidson FLH Pan Head Motor
The FLH Pan Head Motor is a powerful and iconic motorcycle. It has a 61 or 74 cubic-inch displacement engine, and in 1957, featured a new round Lucite tank emblem, the first time Harley-Davidson used plastic for emblems. This model also introduced threaded exhaust guides to trap oil, shorter push rods with longer adjusters, and stronger valve springs. The "Panhead" engine gained even more fame for powering the "Captain America" chopper and "Billy Bike" in the movie Easy Rider.
The 1957 FLH Pan Head Motor is a true classic, and its value reflects that. A restored model with a rolling chassis was advertised for sale at $22,500, showcasing the high demand and value of this motorcycle. This particular bike had been rebuilt by Paul Faber and held the "Land Speed Record" at Bonneville Salt Flats.
The Pan Head Motor is not just a collectible item; it is also a functional motorcycle that can be enjoyed on the open road. Classic Harley-Davidson has been working to get one of their 1957 Pan Head Motors up and running for the 2023 spring riding season. Their master technician, Steve, has been diligently working to restore the bike, including cleaning the carburetor and air cleaner and replacing the rear tire. With its spring-style seat for added comfort, the 1957 FLH Pan Head Motor provides a unique riding experience, combining vintage style with the open road.
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The 1957 Panhead's engine
The 1957 Panhead engine was produced by Harley-Davidson from 1948–1965. The name "Panhead" refers to the shape of the pressed aluminium valve covers, which resemble a pair of pie pans. The engine is best known for powering the "Captain America" chopper and "Billy Bike" in Easy Rider. The 1957 FLH Panhead was one of the last models to have a rigid frame. To compensate for the rough ride, Harley-Davidson offered a spring-style seat for rider comfort.
The 1957 Panhead engine featured several changes from the previous year's model. These included steel alloy valve guides replacing the bronze, exhaust guides threaded to trap oil, shorter push rods with longer adjusters, and stronger valve springs. Big Bertha saddlebags were also offered as an option for this model year only. The 1957 Panhead models also featured a new round Lucite tank emblem and a new fender tip, marking Harley-Davidson's first use of plastic for emblems.
The 1957 Panhead engine was available in 61 and 74 cubic-inch displacements. The chassis of the 1957 Panhead was similar to the double down-tube version that came with the original "Knucklehead", although the down-tubes were bowed or "wish-boned". The 1957 model was still a rigid frame and used a strong springer fork. Harley-Davidson engineers were constantly working to improve the engine, and in 1948, for the first time in many years, the heads were cast from aluminium, the lifters were switched to hydraulic, and lubrication, induction, and combustion were all improved.
The 1957 Panhead engine has a dedicated following, with enthusiasts working to restore and revive these classic motorcycles. The process of restoring a 1957 Panhead engine can be time-consuming and challenging, requiring expertise in motorcycle mechanics and access to specialised parts. However, the unique design and performance of the 1957 Panhead engine make it a sought-after collector's item for many motorcycle enthusiasts.
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The 1957 Panhead's value and collectability
The 1957 Harley-Davidson FLH Panhead is a highly sought-after classic motorcycle. With its iconic engine and distinctive style, it's no wonder that the 1957 Panhead has become a coveted collector's item. This bike is known for its powerful performance and unique design, making it a favourite among motorcycle enthusiasts and collectors alike.
The Harley-Davidson "Panhead" engine was produced from 1948 to 1965, and the 1957 model was one of the last to feature a rigid frame before the introduction of the Duo-Glide in 1958. The term "Panhead" refers to the shape of the pressed aluminium valve covers, which resemble a pair of pie pans. The 1957 Panhead is equipped with a 61 or 74 cubic-inch engine, providing a strong and steady pulse of power that has become synonymous with the Harley-Davidson brand.
The 1957 Panhead is known for its comfortable ride, despite the rigid frame. To compensate for the lack of rear suspension, Harley-Davidson offered a spring-style seat, ensuring a smoother journey for the rider. This model also featured a range of upgrades and improvements, including new round Lucite tank emblems, fender tips, and steel alloy valve guides. These enhancements not only boosted the aesthetics but also the functionality of the motorcycle.
Today, the 1957 Panhead remains a valuable and collectible item. Well-maintained and original models can fetch high prices, with some sellers offering them for as much as $22,500. The bike's rich history and cultural significance contribute to its desirability, making it a true classic in the world of motorcycles.
Restoring a 1957 Panhead is a labour of love for many enthusiasts. It requires dedication and expertise to source the necessary parts and ensure the motorcycle is in optimal condition. For those passionate about vintage motorcycles, the 1957 Panhead is a timeless choice, offering a blend of power, style, and a glimpse into the golden age of motorcycling.
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Restoration of the 1957 Panhead
The 1957 Panhead is a classic Harley-Davidson model, and its restoration can be a rewarding project for enthusiasts. Here is a step-by-step guide to restoring this iconic motorcycle to its former glory:
Engine and Mechanical Restoration:
Start by disassembling the engine and inspecting all the components. Clean or replace the carburetor, air cleaner, and drive train. Upgrade the cycle electric generator to a 12-volt system for improved performance. Replace the fork oil, a process that requires two funnels at the top of the forks and overnight dripping through a pinhole.
Refurbishing the Exterior:
The exterior of a 1957 Panhead is just as important as its mechanicals. Strip the bike down to the frame, which was available in colours such as black, pepper red, skyline blue, birch white, police white, police silver, and metallic midnight blue. Prepare the frame for repainting by sandblasting and recoating it. Repaint the tins and tank, matching the original paint codes: Skyline Blue and Birch White.
Authenticity and Accessories:
The 1957 Panhead featured a new round Lucite tank emblem, Harley's first use of plastic, and a new fender tip. Steel alloy valve guides replaced the bronze, and exhaust guides were threaded to trap oil. Other changes included shorter push rods with longer adjusters and stronger valve springs. Big Bertha saddlebags were an optional accessory in 1957 only.
Final Touches:
As you reassemble the motorcycle, pay attention to the details. The 1957 Panhead was one of the last models with a rigid frame, so the rear tire change requires folding the rear fender. The spring-style seat was offered to compensate for the rigid frame's rough ride. Indicator lamps, visors, floorboards, mats, and a kicker arm assembly are some of the accessories that can enhance the functionality and aesthetics of the bike.
Restoring a 1957 Panhead is a complex process that requires mechanical and restoration expertise. It is important to refer to detailed guides and, if necessary, consult specialists in vintage motorcycle restoration.
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The 1957 Panhead's impact on future models
The 1957 Harley-Davidson FLH Panhead model is notable for being one of the last to feature a rigid frame, with Harley-Davidson introducing a new frame with rear suspension in the following year's Duo-Glide model. The 1957 Panhead's rigid frame meant that the only way to get the rear tire off was to fold the rear fender up, a design feature unique to this model.
The 1957 Panhead also introduced a new round Lucite tank emblem, which, along with a new fender tip, was Harley-Davidson's first use of plastic for emblems. Other engine changes included steel alloy valve guides replacing the bronze, threaded exhaust guides to trap oil, shorter push rods with longer adjusters, and stronger valve springs.
The 1957 model was also the last year that Big Bertha saddlebags were offered as an option, and it was one of the first models to not have the "F" denoting foot shift stamped in the serial number. The 1957 Panhead was available in a range of colours, including black, pepper red, skyline blue, birch white, police white, police silver, and metallic midnight blue.
The "Panhead" engine, so-called because the shape of its pressed aluminium valve covers resembled a pan, was produced from 1948 to 1965. The 1957 model, with its various innovations and unique features, is therefore an important link in the evolution of Harley-Davidson's Panhead models, bridging the gap between the earliest models and the more modern Duo-Glide that would follow.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, 1957 Harley Panheads are considered collectibles. The Harley-Davidson "Panhead" engine was produced from 1948-1965, and the 1957 FLH Panhead was one of the last models to have the rigid frame.
The 1957 Harley Panhead featured a new round Lucite tank emblem, a new fender tip, steel alloy valve guides, shorter push rods with longer adjusters, stronger valve springs, and optional big Bertha saddlebags.
The "Panhead" engine earned its nickname for the signature rocker covers, which resemble a pair of pie pans. The engine was available in 61 and 74 cubic-inch displacements and is best known for powering the "Captain America" chopper and "Billy Bike" in Easy Rider.
