HowStuffWorks Newsletter
The 1900-1920s Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Channel features some of the earliest models around. Check out vintage Harleys at HowStuffWorks.
The 1905 Harley-Davidson appeared two years after the first Harley-Davidson made its appearance. Only 16 of the 1905 model were ever built. To start the motor, riders would pedal the motorcycle up to speed like a bike. Read about this rare cycle.
The 1918 Harley-Davidson 18-J was Harley's most powerful motorcycle for the year. The matching sidecar gave its occupants far more luxury and weather protection than the motorcycle's rider enjoyed. Read about this 1918 Harley-Davidson motorcycle.
The 1920 Harley-Davidson 20-J sported the olive paint that first came in 1917. Styling changes were few during those years. The most notable came in 1920 when the headlight and horn switched places. V-twins still displaced the same 61 cubic inches.
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The 1912 Harley-Davidson X8A featured a 30-cubic-inch single-cylinder, a powerful engine for its time. By 1912, public demand for more power was answered with the X8A, which produced 4.3 horsepower. See pictures and learn about the Harley X8A.
The 1915 Harley-Davidson 11F motorcycle had an advanced-for-its day 11-horse F-head V-twin engine. A proper three-speed transmission was offered along with a magneto and electric lighting system incorporating a taillight. Read about this historic Harley.
The 1916 Harley-Davidson J motorcycle was a leap forward in style with a longer lower appearance. Other than the kickstarter, however, there were few mechanical changes of note for this year. See pictures and learn about the 1916 Harley J.
The 1925 Harley-Davidson JD motorcycle introduced Harley's familiar tear-drop-shaped fuel tank. Sidecars were popular accessories of the day as these vehicles often served as a family's primary form of motorized transportation. Read about the Harley JD.
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The 1927 Harley-Davidson BA was a single-cylinder motorcycle that was economical but sold poorly. Two versions of the single were offered: a flat-head with eight horsepower and an overhead-valve variant producing twelve horsepower. Read about the Harley BA.