Need advice on Harley Davidson SPORTSTER for birthday present?

[lovingclementine]

Hi guys!
I need some help. I am looking to purchase a HD Sportster for my boyfriend for his birthday. I have been looking on Craigslist and there are a TON of them from 1972-1995 in my price range.

This would be his first bike (he's 35) - he has very limited experience on a motorcycle - but really wants one.
He is about 5'7" tall and 220lbs. This will NOT be a daily driver but will be riden often with the gas prices!
I can spend up to $3500 and have cash.

Any obvious stuff I should look out for? I have head that the 883 is best. Others have said to make sure it's an "EVO".

My main questions are:

Is a sportster from the late 70's too old if it has been kept in good shape?
Do all Harley's leak oil?
I have two that I am seriously looking at - let me know if you think these are a good deal! Are either of these worth a go?



http://charlotte.craigslist.org/mcy/740769007.html

http://charlotte.craigslist.org/mcy/722181177.html
What is AMF???? How would I be able to tell if a bike is AMF?

[irepocars]

OK, here goes. A Sporty from the 70s has what's known as an Ironhead engine. As a matter of fact all Sportsters from 1957 through early 1985 are Ironheads. These are a lot of fun, however, you should take into consideration, that when buying an Ironhead, you should be prepared to do a complete engine rebuild. All the bushings, bearings, and gaskets, will need to be replaced. I could go on for a long time about why this is, but just take my word for it. The bottom line is, your buying a 30 year old motorcycle, and these things wear out. On the plus side, these are very reliable, and like I said, a LOT of fun!
The EVO Sportster was made from 1985 through 2000. The one's you want to stay away from here are late 1984 to 1990. The clutch on these were endless problems. Once Harley did away with the AC clutch, they built a great motorcycle. Keep oil in it, and it will run for a long time.
From the pictures, it looks like either of the 2 you're thinking about, should be pertty good. If either have matching engine and frame numbers, go for that one. Having an engine replaced on these things over the years is not uncommon.