Harley-Davidson motorcycles made during the years 1969 to 1981 are often associated with the AMF (American Machine and Foundry) era. During this period, Harley-Davidson was owned by AMF, a different company. Here are a few ways to identify if a Harley-Davidson motorcycle is from the AMF era or a later HD era:
VIN Number: The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) can provide valuable information about the bike's manufacturing year. The 10th digit of the VIN corresponds to the year of manufacture. For AMF-era bikes, the 10th digit will be a letter "A" through "K" excluding "I." However, it's important to note that the VIN is not the only indicator, and some late AMF models might have VINs that indicate a later year.
Decals and Badges: AMF-era Harleys often had distinctive badges and decals. Look for any badges or logos that specifically mention "AMF" or feature the AMF logo. These can be found on the gas tank, side covers, or other parts of the bike.
Styling Cues: AMF-era Harleys may have specific styling cues that differ from later HD models. These cues can include things like "snowflake" wheels, different exhaust designs, or unique paint schemes. Researching the specific model and year of the bike can help you identify these distinguishing features.
Production Years: Familiarize yourself with the production years associated with the AMF era (1969-1981) and the subsequent HD era. By knowing the general timeline of when Harley-Davidson was under AMF ownership, you can get an idea of whether a particular model falls within that period.
It's worth noting that the AMF era is considered by some to have been a challenging time for Harley-Davidson in terms of quality and reputation. However, the company underwent significant changes and improvements after the AMF ownership period, resulting in the Harley-Davidson motorcycles we know today.