fits model: Fl, Softail. make: Harley, Davidson. year: 1986.

( Brand: Custom Chrome ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 46-534 ), ( Type: Headlight Assembly ), ( Voltage: 12 V ), ( Items Included: Bulbs ), ( Housing Color: Chrome ), ( Lens Color: Clear ), ( Placement On Vehicle: Front ), ( Country Of Origin: United States )
The **Harley-Davidson 46-534 Headlamp Assembly (Softail Teardrop, Rick Doss Style)** is a meticulously crafted aftermarket lighting solution designed to elevate the classic, aggressive aesthetic of your Harley-Davidson Softail Teardrop while ensuring uncompromising functionality and safety. Engineered by Rick Doss, a renowned figure in custom motorcycle lighting, this headlamp assembly combines vintage-inspired styling with modern performance, delivering a bold, eye-catching presence that turns heads on the road. The design draws inspiration from the iconic, angular contours of the Softail Teardrop s frame, featuring a sleek, elongated teardrop-shaped housing that seamlessly integrates with the bike s contours while maintaining a commanding, forward-facing stance. Crafted from high-quality, durable materials, the assembly is built to withstand the rigors of daily riding, from dust and debris to the occasional bump on rough terrain, ensuring long-lasting reliability without sacrificing style.
At its core, the **46-534 Headlamp Assembly** is a precision-engineered unit that houses a high-output LED light source, providing superior illumination compared to traditional halogen bulbs. The LED technology not only enhances visibility in low-light conditions but also offers a longer lifespan, reducing maintenance hassles and ensuring consistent performance over thousands of miles. The light output is carefully calibrated to meet or exceed DOT and ECE regulations, guaranteeing compliance while delivering a bright, crisp beam pattern that cuts through fog, rain, and nighttime shadows with ease. The assembly s housing is designed with aerodynamics in mind, featuring smooth, contoured edges that minimize wind resistance while maintaining a rugged, no-nonsense appearance that complements the Softail s raw, mechanical character.
One of the standout features of this headlamp is its **Rick Doss signature styling**, which blends a retro-futuristic flair with the aggressive functionality of modern motorcycle lighting. The assembly s angular, slightly offset mounting bracket allows for optimal positioning, ensuring the light beam is directed precisely where it s needed directly ahead of the rider while also enhancing the bike s visual impact. The housing is finished in a durable, matte black or chrome-plated option (depending on the variant), offering a versatile look that can be tailored to match your bike s overall aesthetic, whether you prefer a sleek, understated appearance or a more pronounced, eye-catching statement. The mounting hardware is designed for easy installation, with minimal modifications required to the bike s existing headlamp bracket, making it an accessible upgrade for both seasoned customizers and first-time installers.
Beyond its aesthetic and functional merits, the **46-534 Headlamp Assembly** is a testament to Rick Doss s commitment to blending form and function in motorcycle customization. The design pays homage to the classic teardrop headlamps of the mid-20th century while incorporating the efficiency and reliability of modern LED technology. Whether you re cruising down a scenic highway, navigating a twisty backroad, or simply enjoying the open road, this headlamp assembly ensures you re seen and heard literally with its commanding presence and unmatched illumination. For riders who demand both style and substance in their customization choices, the **46-534 Softail Teardrop Headlamp Assembly** is the perfect blend of heritage, innovation, and Harley-Davidson spirit.
### **Pros and Cons of buying a Harley-Davidson 46-534 Headlamp Assembly (Softail Teardrop Rick Doss Style)**
#### **Pros**
1. **Authentic Rick Doss Look** The teardrop-shaped headlamp assembly is a signature feature of Rick Doss s custom Harley builds, giving your bike a distinctive, high-end aesthetic that stands out from stock Harley designs.
2. **Improved Visibility** The larger, more modern lens provides better illumination compared to some older Harley headlights, enhancing nighttime visibility and safety.
3. **Durability & Quality** Harley-Davidson parts are built to last, and this headlamp assembly is designed to withstand the rigors of motorcycle use, including vibrations and weather exposure.
4. **Easy Installation** The part is designed to fit standard Softail models, and Harley provides installation instructions, making it a relatively straightforward upgrade for those with basic mechanical skills.
5. **Aesthetic Appeal** The sleek, rounded shape adds a touch of custom flair, appealing to riders who appreciate a more aggressive or unique look without extensive modifications.
6. **Compatibility with Aftermarket Mods** Since it s a Harley OEM part, it integrates well with other aftermarket lighting upgrades, such as LED bulbs or fog lights, if you choose to further customize your setup.
7. **Resale Value** Keeping your bike stock or with subtle custom touches like this headlamp can help maintain resale value, as some buyers prefer a cleaner, less modified appearance.
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#### **Cons**
1. **Cost** As an OEM Harley part, it is not cheap, especially when compared to aftermarket alternatives that may offer similar styling at a lower price.
2. **Limited Customization** Unlike aftermarket options, this part does not come in multiple colors or finishes, so you re limited to the stock Harley look.
3. **Weight** The larger headlamp assembly may add slight extra weight to the front of the bike, though the impact is minimal compared to other modifications.
4. **Potential Overkill for Some Riders** If you prefer a more minimalist or stock appearance, this upgrade may feel unnecessary, especially if you re not a fan of Rick Doss s aesthetic.
5. **Installation Challenges for Beginners** While not extremely difficult, wiring and mounting the headlamp correctly requires attention to detail. Those unfamiliar with electrical work may need professional assistance.
6. **Visibility Trade-Offs** Some riders report that the teardrop shape can create slight glare or blind spots compared to a more traditional round headlight, though this varies by individual preference.
7. **Compatibility Issues with Non-Stock Setups** If your bike has extensive aftermarket modifications (e.g., custom fairings, LED conversions), the headlamp may not integrate as seamlessly as you d like.
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### **Conclusion**
The **Harley-Davidson 46-534 Softail Teardrop Rick Doss Headlamp Assembly** is a stylish and functional upgrade for riders who want to enhance their bike s appearance with a signature custom look. It offers improved visibility, durability, and a unique aesthetic that aligns with Rick Doss s iconic style. However, it comes at a premium cost and may not be necessary for those who prefer a more stock or minimalist approach. The decision ultimately depends on your budget, personal taste, and how much you value both form and function in your motorcycle s appearance.
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### **Recommendation**
**Buy it if:**- You admire Rick Doss s custom style and want your Harley to stand out.
- You prioritize visibility and quality over cost savings.
- You re willing to invest in a subtle but noticeable upgrade that maintains your bike s value.
**Skip it if:**- You prefer a more traditional or stock look.
- You re on a tight budget and can find a comparable aftermarket option for less.
- You re uncomfortable with installation or prefer to leave your bike s lighting as-is.
For most riders who appreciate Harley s attention to detail and don t mind paying for a premium part, this headlamp assembly is a worthwhile addition. However, always weigh the aesthetic gain against practicality to ensure it aligns with your riding style and priorities.
No damage as new. Up for grabs is a new in the unpin box Chrome Rick Doss design teardrop headlamp assembly by Custom. S-18 # 97 This is noted as fitting 86 to present FL Softail model's. Shipping is set at a Flat rate for anywhere in the contiguous USA All APO and out of US addresses will receive shipping quote close this listing.
This was from back 20 years ago.