1920 Harley-Davidson
Country: United States
Engine: Air-cooled V-twin overhead valve 4-stroke
Ignition: Bosch magneto
Displacement: 999cc
Valves: Overhead, pushrod activated. Four valves per cylinder
Fuel system: Schebler carburetor
Transmission: Single speed direct drive, no clutch
Suspension: Front spring fork with a Hartford damper, rigid rear
Brakes: None
Top speed: 120mph
This 8-valve board track racer is a magnificent example of arguably the most sophisticated experimental twin ever created in Harley-Davidson’s racing department. Believed to be one of only eight built, this machine was priced at $1,500, an astronomical sum at the time. The Harley factory did not expect any buyers at that price as their plan was to maintain total control over these machines, and they were campaigned exclusively by the Harley-Davidson factory race team. The team became known as “The Wrecking Crew” because of all its racing success and first-place wins.
See more classic motorcycles in the Barber Vintage Museum.
