Lot details Registration No: Un-Reg Frame No: 27J7563 Engine No: 27J7563 cc: T.B.A. MOT Expiry Date: Exempt
Harley Davidson introduced their first F head, or inlet over exhaust engine in 1903 and would remain faithful to the concept until 1929 when the last F head twins left the factory to be replaced for the following season by side valve models. Although the company did employ other valve configurations in the period between 1903 and 1929, Harley's success in the first three decades of their existence was largely due to their faith in a valve configuration that had largely been abandoned by European manufacturers during the pioneer period. In part this adherence to what is often regarded as an obsolete valve configuration came about due to the designs suitability when applied to North American roads. Unlike Europe, where (comparatively) high revving medium displacement engines would run at constantly varying revs, the States long straight roads resulted in engines running at constant revs for sustained periods. Harley Davidson sought and attained reliability through capacity, their first 1000cc twin had been placed on the market in 1912, coupled to low revs and easy maintenance with continual development and refinement improving the product year on year. The first of the 60.3 cubic inch J series twins appeared in 1915, offering 60 mph performance and the luxury of electric lights. A comprehensive mechanical redesign occurred for the 1920 and was followed by the adoption of a new frame design for 1925 whilst styling and mechanical refinements appeared with each season launch. Changes to the 1926 and 1927 models were minimal, the most significant being the replacement of the distributor with an ignition system that resulted in both plugs sparking on every revolution for the 1927 season.
This delightful example dating from 1927 has formed part of private European collection and has benefitted from a comprehensive restoration that has seen the machine returned to, according to the owner, "as new" condition in every respect.
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