1973 HARLEY DAVIDSON SPORTSTER XLCH; AMERICAN EDITION!

1973 Harley-Davidson XLCH “Sparkling America” – Competition Hot 1000 | Frame-Off Restored | Matching Numbers
Guys, feast your eyes on this absolute hot-rod icon — a 1973 Harley-Davidson XLCH Competition Hot 1000.
The CH stands for Competition Hot, and in its day this was the superbike of the V-twin world.
Back in the early ’70s, Harley claimed 13.68 seconds in the quarter mile and a 118 mph top speed — numbers that made this the fastest V-twin you could buy from the Motor Company. This bike didn’t just look the part… it ran with anything on the street.
Finished in the unforgettable red, white, and blue “Sparkling America” livery, this bike is a tribute to one of the most iconic eras in Harley-Davidson history.
⭐ Sparkling America Tribute – John Lucas Collection
This motorcycle comes from the legendary John Lucas private collection. If you follow the channel, you know John — he owned five stunning Ironhead Sportsters and three sidecar rigs, all displayed in his personal museum.
While the original Sparkling America edition debuted in 1971, John loved it so much that he tastefully recreated the look on this 1973 XLCH, which is essentially the same motorcycle — but with one major upgrade:
✅ Electric start (while retaining the kickstarter)
So you get the look, the attitude, and the convenience — push the button when you want, kick it when you want to impress your buddies.
This very style was famously featured in Super Cycle Magazine, celebrating the rebirth of the Sportster image and cementing its status as one of the most charismatic motorcycles ever built.
🔧 Mechanical Condition & Restoration
This bike was frame-off restored in John’s care years ago and has since lived a pampered life. Recently, Jimmy Lorinitis — one of our lead technicians — spent roughly 50 hours going through the bike top to bottom to ensure it is fully sorted and road-ready.
Highlights include:
Frame repainted
Freshly serviced and sealed engine & primary
Main engine seal replaced (previous minor leak resolved)
Complete primary service: clutch, seals, inspection
Brand-new starter
Brand-new battery
Brake system fully rebuilt (master cylinder + caliper)
New brake light switch installed
Wiring inspected and refreshed
New drag pipes installed
S&S Super E Shorty carb with chrome teardrop cover
New plugs and plug wires
Tires with 90–95% tread remaining
Chain and sprockets in excellent condition
No oil leaks — which is nothing short of a Christmas miracle on a 50+ year-old Harley.
🧾 Details & Authenticity
Matching numbers engine and frame
Odometer shows 31,600 miles
Less than 1,000 miles since restoration
Original factory saddle in spectacular condition
Original XLCH badging and Competition Hot details
Right-side shift (one of the last years)
Drilled front rotor with original Harley logo
Chrome hubs and spokes front and rear
Fork chrome and lowers in excellent condition
Controls, switches, and lettering remain crisp and readable
Bottom of engine and frame rails are exceptionally clean
Even the small details shine — from the bell-style horn housing to the Harley-branded pegs and pristine pushrod tubes.
🔥 Collectibility
Ironhead Sportsters are becoming increasingly collectible, with:
XLCRs bringing $20k+
Restored XLCHs regularly selling in the mid-to-high teens
Of the five Sportsters in John’s collection, this one is my personal favorite — the bold color scheme, the Merle Lawwill AMA #1 tribute plate, and the overall presentation make it an absolute standout.
This is a turn-key, dialed-in, museum-quality Ironhead that you can ride, show, or proudly display.
📦 Shipping, Financing & Trades
✔️ White-glove shipping available (roll-on / roll-off, right into your garage)
✔️ Financing available through FreedomRoad Financial
✔️ Trades considered
📞 Contact
Have questions? Want a walk-around video or more photos?
📞 Call us directly: 860-454-7024
This bike was only sold because John and his wife downsized from their large Chicago-area home to a condo. He knew this machine was going to the right place — and our mission is simple: find it a forever home.
Thanks for looking,
God Bless America

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Filmed + Edit by Tyler Merullo

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