The FXB Sturgis is probably best known as a limited production model built to honor the legendary annual rally, but it may actually be notable for another reason – the “B” in FXB. That denoted the use of a belt drive, as this was Harley’s first application of the technology. The other letters of FX tell you that this was a Low Rider chassis/motor and your eyeballs will tell you that this is adorned with a black/orange paint job inspired by the traditional colors of H-D.
The implementation of the belt was a bold choice, because at the time riders were skeptical about how durable the belts were and how catastrophic a failure might be. Hindsight has shown that using the Gates-developed Aramid nylon fiber belt was a good decision, especially as the belts had longer-than-expected lifespan. MSRP of the limited Sturgis model was $5,687, and that bought you the exclusive paint scheme and standard 80 ci engine of the time which yielded 65 horsepower. Produced for just two years, this model was one of 1,470 built in 1980 (production was slightly bumped up in the 2nd year).
This example has 24,900 miles and it’s said to be in highly original condition. Exceptions include an exhaust that the seller claims was a factory accessory, a ’76 Keihin carb, and 150mph gauges (original carb and gauges included). Recent replacement parts include the headlight bulb, Harley-Davidson/Dunlop tires, pushrod and rocker shaft seals, rear brake line and caliper, and new belts/pulleys. As a bonus, the seller is including all “original engine parts that were replaced in the rebuild” and the “the last factory twin belt drive decal available in the U.S. that was at a dealer in N.Y. for the chain guard.”
Find this Sturgis FXB for sale in Hull, Georgia with bidding up to $5,000 and the reserve not yet met