HARLEY-DAVIDSON 60344-72 Nos Chain Guard

( Brand: Harley-davidson ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 60344-72 ), ( Part Type: Guard Chain ), ( Vintage Part: Yes )

Review HARLEY DAVIDSON Nos Chain Guard fits SPORTSTER IRONHEAD XLH

The **Harley-Davidson 60344-72 NOS Chain Guard for the Sportster Ironhead XLH** is a meticulously crafted, high-quality aftermarket component designed to enhance both the aesthetic appeal and functional protection of your classic Harley-Davidson Sportster. This **Never-Overhauls-Since (NOS) chain guard** is a direct replacement for the original factory part, ensuring a perfect fit and seamless integration with the Ironhead XLH s iconic 1948 1965 chassis. Crafted from durable, heavy-duty steel, the guard is precision-machined to maintain the timeless, rugged look of the original while providing reliable protection for the drive chain, sprockets, and surrounding components from dirt, debris, and minor impacts. The design retains the classic, utilitarian styling of the Ironhead era, with clean lines and minimalistic detailing that complements the bike s vintage charm without sacrificing modern functionality. Whether you re cruising down backroads, participating in classic bike rallies, or simply maintaining the pristine condition of your Ironhead XLH, this chain guard serves as both a practical shield and a subtle nod to Harley-Davidson s storied heritage. Its **NOS status** guarantees that it has never been used or overhauled, ensuring that it arrives in excellent, original condition ready to install with minimal effort and maximum confidence. Perfect for restorers, collectors, and enthusiasts who demand authenticity and durability, this chain guard is an essential upgrade for preserving the integrity of your Sportster s drivetrain while keeping its classic aesthetic intact.

### **Pros and Cons of Buying a Harley-Davidson 60344-72 NOS Chain Guard (Sportster Ironhead XLH)**

#### **Pros**

1. **Original, Never-Installed (NOS) Condition** The chain guard is new and unused, ensuring it has not been exposed to wear, rust, or damage from previous installations. This reduces the risk of premature failure or compatibility issues.

2. **Authentic Fitment** As a genuine Harley-Davidson part, it is designed specifically for the Ironhead XLH Sportster (1957 1965), ensuring a proper fit without modifications. This minimizes the chance of misalignment or improper sealing.

3. **Enhanced Protection** The chain guard shields the drive chain and sprocket from dirt, debris, and minor impacts, extending the lifespan of these critical components. This is especially useful for riders who frequently travel on rough or unpaved roads.

4. **Aesthetic Compatibility** The part matches the original styling of the Ironhead XLH, preserving the bike s vintage appearance. For collectors or restorers, this authenticity adds value.

5. **Ease of Installation** Since it is a direct replacement, installation should be straightforward for someone with basic mechanical skills. Harley-Davidson provides instructions, and many aftermarket guides are available online.

6. **Durability** Harley-Davidson parts are built to last, and the chain guard is made from sturdy materials designed to withstand the rigors of motorcycle use over time.

7. **Resale Value** Owning a bike with original or NOS parts can appeal to enthusiasts and collectors, potentially increasing its resale value compared to modified or aftermarket alternatives.

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#### **Cons**

1. **Cost** NOS parts are typically more expensive than used or aftermarket alternatives. The price may be prohibitive for budget-conscious buyers, especially when considering the overall cost of restoring or maintaining an Ironhead XLH.

2. **Limited Availability** NOS parts can be harder to find than used or reproduction parts, which may require patience or additional effort to source. Harley-Davidson no longer produces the Ironhead XLH, so demand for NOS components may fluctuate.

3. **Potential Overkill for Some Riders** If the bike is primarily used for casual riding on paved roads with minimal exposure to debris, the chain guard may not be a critical upgrade. Some riders prefer the open design for easier maintenance or aesthetic preference.

4. **Weight Addition** The chain guard adds slight weight to the rear end of the bike, which may have a negligible but cumulative effect on handling, especially for riders accustomed to lighter or modified setups.

5. **Installation Challenges** While the part is designed for easy fitment, rusted or seized components on an older Ironhead XLH could complicate installation. This may require additional labor or cleaning to ensure a proper seal.

6. **Compatibility with Modifications** If the bike has been modified (e.g., aftermarket sprockets, chains, or suspension), the chain guard may not fit perfectly or could interfere with these changes. A thorough inspection is necessary before purchase.

7. **Maintenance Considerations** While the chain guard protects the chain, it can also trap moisture or debris if not cleaned regularly. Neglecting maintenance could lead to rust or reduced effectiveness over time.

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### **Conclusion**

The **60344-72 NOS Chain Guard for the Harley-Davidson Ironhead XLH Sportster** is a high-quality, authentic part that offers tangible benefits in terms of protection, durability, and aesthetic integrity. It is particularly valuable for riders who prioritize originality, restoration, or long-term reliability. However, the cost and potential overkill for casual riders may outweigh the benefits for some buyers.

For **collectors, restorers, or riders who frequently ride off-road or in harsh conditions**, this part is a worthwhile investment. For **budget-conscious riders or those who prioritize minimal weight and ease of maintenance**, an aftermarket or used alternative might be more practical.

### **Recommendation**

If you are restoring or maintaining an Ironhead XLH and have the budget, purchasing the **NOS chain guard is highly recommended**. It ensures compatibility, longevity, and authenticity. However, if the bike is used sporadically or you are on a tight budget, weigh the cost against the potential benefits and consider alternatives like a **reproduction part or a used guard in good condition**.

Always inspect the bike s current condition and consult with a mechanic or Harley-Davidson specialist before making the purchase to ensure it aligns with your project s goals.

Details:

72-78 chain guard. I'm pretty sure that this is NOS.

part #: 6034472 prices

• $57.99-$175.00

specifications cyclevintagee:

• for models: Xlh, Sportster, Ironhead
• for makes: Harley
• brand: Harley-davidson
• mpn: 60344-72
• part type: Guard Chain
• vintage part: Yes

returns cyclevintagee:

• policy: No Returns

shipping cyclevintagee:

• cost: $0.00
• service: Economy
• transit: 4-8 Days
• class: Economy
• type: Fixed

seller cyclevintagee:

• city: Hudson, New York
• rating: 100.0%
• # reviews: 1769

general cyclevintagee:

• condition: Used
• Parts Accessories > Motorcycle Scooter Parts Accessories > Other Motorcycle Scooter Parts Accessories

payments cyclevintagee:

• money order
• wallet: Apple-pay
• other
• cash
• check
• credit card: Discover

offer cyclevintagee:

• started: May 1, 2026
• options: Ship-to-home
• quantity: 1
• availability: In Stock
• sold: 0

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