Lot details
Registration No: Un-Reg
Frame No: 61FLH1379
Engine No: 61FLH1379
cc: 1200

Harley Davidson had introduced a telescopic front fork to their Panhead range in 1949 with the arrival of the Hydra-Glide. However, it was not until Harley Davidson introduced the smaller capacity 45 cubic inch Sportster series K machines in 1952 that a Harley Davidson was offered with a pivoted fork rear suspension system. This was felt to be necessary to enable the smaller model to compete in its target market against its rivals from Britain, but it was not considered necessary for the 73.7 cubic inch models to adopt a similar system until 1958 and the introduction of the Duo-Glide. This was partly true from a comfort perspective, the sprung saddle post, telescopic forks and balloon tyres all contributed to rider comfort, however from a marketing perspective it left the Harley at a disadvantage when compared to its increasingly sophisticated rivals.The introduction of the Duo-Glide reflected the increased pressure being exerted on Harley Davidson's traditional market by the likes of BSA and Triumph. The British manufacturers had all introduced 650 cc variants of their overhead valve twins by the mid fifties, capable of exceeding the Harley's performance and offering the advantage of rear suspension, the Duo-Glide sought to redress the balance.
The styling of the new model followed that adopted by the Hydra -Glide and five variants were offered when the model was announced. The Sport Solo and the Super Sport were both offered with the option of either a hand operated or foot operated gearbox and accompanied by a single medium compression version available with only a hand gear-change, which only lasted for one season.
The example offered dates from 1961. It is presented in maroon with an abundance of chrome to a high standard and is equipped with a windscreen and has been regularly started whilst in the collection and is offered with Spanish papers.