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 Suzuki GT185
Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead scores 74/100 overall against Suzuki GT185 on 74/100. On the road: 58–67. As classics: 90–80. Overall result: A draw.
Photo: globalsuzuki · Public domain
Suzuki GT185
74/100 Overall
67 On the road80 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Harley-Davidson FLH | Suzuki GT185 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 5 | 6 | Suzuki GT185 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 4 | 8 | Suzuki GT185 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 4 | 6 | Suzuki GT185 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 5 | 7 | Suzuki GT185 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 7 | Harley-Davidson FLH |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 9 | 6 | Harley-Davidson FLH |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 8 | Harley-Davidson FLH |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 7 | Harley-Davidson FLH |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 9 | Harley-Davidson FLH |
Choose the Harley-Davidson FLH if…
you want relaxed long-distance presence, unmistakable American V-twin character and traditional Harley styling.
Choose the Suzuki GT185 if…
you want a light two-stroke twin with distinctive Suzuki styling, useful performance and strong 1970s character.
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.
Suzuki GT185
The Suzuki GT185 was produced from 1973–1977 and used a 184cc air-cooled two-stroke parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, styling, handling. 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.
Suzuki GT185
- Its production span in this library runs from 1973 to 1977.
- The recorded engine description is: 184cc air-cooled two-stroke parallel twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, styling, handling.
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.
Suzuki GT185
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Suzuki GT185. Its library score for character is 9/10. 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.
Suzuki GT185
- 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 or premix arrangement, crank seals 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 Suzuki GT185
Final result
The verdict
Suzuki GT185 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Their evenly weighted overall scores are tied, so the better choice depends on whether the rider values road ability or classic appeal most.