Photo: Classic & Classy Motorcycles Ltd · Owned by Classic & Classy Motorcycles Ltd
Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead
74/100 Overall
58 On the road90 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead vs MV Agusta 750S
Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead scores 74/100 overall against MV Agusta 750S on 83/100. On the road: 58–65. As classics: 90–100. Overall result: MV Agusta 750S.
MV Agusta 750S
83/100 Overall
65 On the road100 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Harley-Davidson FLH | MV Agusta 750S | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 5 | 9 | MV Agusta 750S |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 4 | 8 | MV Agusta 750S |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 4 | 8 | MV Agusta 750S |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 5 | 6 | MV Agusta 750S |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 3 | 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 | MV Agusta 750S |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 10 | MV Agusta 750S |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 8 | 10 | MV Agusta 750S |
| 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 MV Agusta 750S if…
you want exotic Grand Prix-derived engineering, magnificent sound and one of Italy's most prestigious road motorcycles.
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.
MV Agusta 750S
The MV Agusta 750S was produced from 1969–1975 and used a 743cc air-cooled DOHC inline four. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, historic importance, collector appeal. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
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.
MV Agusta 750S
- Its production span in this library runs from 1969 to 1975.
- The recorded engine description is: 743cc air-cooled DOHC inline four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, historic importance, collector appeal.
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.
MV Agusta 750S
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the MV Agusta 750S. Its library score for styling 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.
MV Agusta 750S
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check carburettor balance, charging output and exhaust condition across all cylinders.
- 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 MV Agusta 750S
Final result
The verdict
MV Agusta 750S wins the direct on-the-road comparison. MV Agusta 750S wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. MV Agusta 750S takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.