1960 Pan-Shovel Magneto Kick Start

The 1960 Harley-Davidson Panhead equipped with a magneto and a kick start is a classic setup that combines two iconic features of early Harley engines. It fits a common style for custom Harley builds from that era, where mechanical simplicity was prized, and the magneto setup was often used for reliability.

The front suspension appears to be a Springer style, common on early Harleys and popular in the custom chopper scene. The frame is a rigid (hardtail) style, meaning there's no rear suspension. This was a common choice for choppers to give a sleek and simple look. The light green or seafoam color gives the bike a distinctive, vintage feel that aligns with custom Harley culture from that era. The twin exhaust pipes are chromed and positioned on the right side, contributing to the classic aesthetic of vintage Harleys. The bike has a solo seat, made of leather or a similar material, mounted high and giving it a minimalist, old-school look.

The Shovelhead engine started production in 1966, but it's common to see custom or modified bikes combining components from both Panhead and Shovelhead engines. The magneto ignition system is notable because it allows the bike to run without a battery, relying instead on a rotating magnet to generate the necessary spark. In the early 1960s, it was still somewhat common, especially on race and performance bikes, because of its simplicity and reliability. The kickstarter was standard on Harley-Davidsons of that era, and riders needed to kick the lever hard to generate enough power to turn over the engine. This adds to the vintage appeal and is often preferred by purists who enjoy the challenge and satisfaction of kick-starting.This video focuses on the vintage, custom, and hands-on appeal of classic Harley-Davidson motorcycles. The use of a kick starter and magneto would require a bit of effort and mechanical knowledge, which is a favorite aspect of these builds for riders and restorers who appreciate vintage authenticity.

A 1960 Pan-Shovel with a magneto and kick start is a prized piece of Harley-Davidson history, especially for those who enjoy vintage motorcycles with character and mechanical complexity. Watch the video below to see and hear this unique rare motorcycle. Share your impressions about this bike.