Present ownership since 1963, 1925 Harley-Davidson 1,000cc Model JE

• Extensive history file
• Engine rebuild by William Healing
• Recommissioning recommended following storage

Boyhood friends William S Harley and Arthur Davidson began experimenting with powered transport in the early 1900s, producing their first complete production motorcycle around 1903. Little more than a motorised bicycle, the first prototype Harley-Davidson had proved fragile, prompting a major redesign and the establishment of a reputation for ruggedness that endures to this day. Like many of their contemporaries, Harley-Davidson laid out their engine along De Dion lines. A single-cylinder four-stroke displacing 24.74ci (405cc), the latter remained in production essentially unchanged until superseded by a 30.16ci (494cc) version in 1909. Of greater significance was the appearance that same year of the firm's first v-twin, though this would turn out to be a failure and was dropped at the year's end. The twin returned for 1911 in redesigned form boasting mechanically operated inlet valves (replacing the 'atmospheric' type inherited from the single) and production really took off. Known by the sobriquet 'pocket valve', this 'F-head' (inlet-over-exhaust) engine - built in 61ci and 74ci capacities (1,000cc and 1,200cc respectively) - would remain in production for the next 20 years.

Purchased by our vendor in July 1963, when it was attached to a sidecar, this Harley-Davidson Model JE was restored in the early 1980s, the works including complete engine rebuild by William Healing; gearbox and clutch strip and rebuild; clutch sprocket re-toothed; nickel plating of all brightwork; brakes relined; and new tyres fitted. Following restoration, the Harley was ridden for 15 miles and then laid up in dry storage where it has remained ever since, in the dining room to begin with and then in a dry garage. Pre- and post-restoration photographs are on file and this well documented Harley also comes with numerous restoration invoices. Following a period of inactivity, the machine will require recommissioning to a greater or lesser extent and thus is sold strictly was viewed (the engine turns over). The owner is selling due to lack of use and advancing years.

The machine also comes with an old-style buff logbook issued in January 1948, which records a change of frame to the current '25F 8950' (as listed in the accompanying old-style V5). It should be noted that the engine number appears to show evidence of a double-stamped '5' and '9'. Accordingly, prospective purchasers should satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's authenticity and originality prior to bidding.