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The 1962 MV Agusta 600 Four and 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead are both iconic 1960s tourings that defined their respective markets.
The 1962 MV Agusta 600 Four from Italy was powered by a 591cc DOHC inline-4 producing 52hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 195.0kg (430 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1207cc of OHV V-twin Shovelhead power, delivering 60hp at 5400rpm. Tipping the scales at 320.0kg (705 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1960s motorcycles capture the era of cultural revolution and racing heritage. Iconic models from this decade are among the most desirable classics.
The 1962 MV Agusta 600 Four from Italy was powered by a 591cc DOHC inline-4 producing 52hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 195.0kg (430 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1207cc of OHV V-twin Shovelhead power, delivering 60hp at 5400rpm. Tipping the scales at 320.0kg (705 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1960s motorcycles capture the era of cultural revolution and racing heritage. Iconic models from this decade are among the most desirable classics.
Specifications Comparison
| 1962 MV Agusta 600 Four | 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 591 cc | 1207 cc |
| Power | 52 hp | 60 hp |
| Torque | 46.0 Nm | 95.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 155 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 320.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 210.0 kg | 345.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 690 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1440 mm | 1550 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.0 L | 19.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure touring performance, the 1962 MV Agusta 600 Four has the edge thanks to a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead, however, excels when long-distance touring with passenger comfort is the priority. Parts availability is very difficult for the 1962 MV Agusta 600 Four and good for the 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1962 MV Agusta 600 Four
MV Agusta released the 1962 MV Agusta 600 Four in 1962 with a 591cc DOHC inline-4 powerplant making 52hp — a definitive touring motorcycle.
Full 1962 MV Agusta 600 Four Profile →About the 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead
The 1966 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead is a 1207cc twin-cylinder touring motorcycle that became one of Harley-Davidson's most memorable motorcycles of the 1960s.
Full 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead Profile →