THE BACKWOODS COLLECTION The 1980 Harley-Davidson FXB Sturgis, like this brooding original-paint example from The Backwoods Collection, is a stylish and unique motorcycle from an essential chapter in the iconic American motorcycle brand’s history. Built to commemorate the legendary Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota, this limited-edition model also provided the Motor Company a platform to introduce new technology, a belt final drive that remains a staple of the brand today. Even during the tumultuous years of AMF ownership, the Motor Company never strayed far from its classic styling, largely thanks to Willie G. Davidson, grandson of co-founder William A. Davidson, who was made V.P. of styling in 1969. Willie G. promptly made waves with the legendary 1971 Super Glide, followed by the 1977 FXS Low Rider and the 1977 XLCR. The limited edition FXB Sturgis continued his campaign of less-is-more design and factory custom appeal in 1980. Still, his latest Super Glide baked in a bit of modern technology as well. When the storied Milwaukee-based manufacturer began producing motorcycles in 1903, power was delivered to the rear wheel by a belt drive made of leather. Once chain drive motorcycles became the fashion, proving themselves to be more effective and efficient than the crude, early belts, Harley-Davidson also made the transition. For 70 years, Harley-Davidson’s were all chain-driven until the FXB Sturgis debuted in 1980, featuring an all-new belt-drive design. The new belts were rubber instead of leather, reinforced with nylon fibers and produced by the Gates Rubber Company. Skeptical at first, customers soon learned just how superior the new belt drive was compared to chains. The belts were quieter and cleaner, needing no adjustment or lubrication, and boasted a lifespan far beyond the average chain. Though confident in the new technology, the Motor Company proceeded cautiously in 1980, only building 1,470 FXB Sturgis models, making this prime example exceedingly rare. Willie G. styled the FXB in classic Harley black and orange, with an 81.65 CI (1338cc) V-twin, an updated 4-speed gearbox, cast mag wheels, dual front disc brakes and a Showa fork. The FXB Sturgis proved to be another within Willie G. Davidson’s string of hits, and the model was continued in limited numbers through 1982. Its affiliation with both Sturgis and Willie G., along with its rarity and success as a proving ground for Harley’s new belt drive system, has made the FXB one of the most desirable and collectible of its era. NO RESERVE F231 1980 HARLEY-DAVIDSON FXB STURGIS
