Description
Harley Davidson 1915 “11F” 989 cc IOE V-twin frame # AL 4179 engine # 9517K
The year 1915 was unique in the history of Harley-Davidson. For the first time a three speed countershaft gearbox was fitted and the engine power output grew from 9 HP @ 2400 rpm to 11HP @ 3000 rpm.
To accommodate the larger dimensions of the new adjustable valves the engineers had to cut notches in the lower edge of the fuel tank, an identifying feature displayed on the Model 11 we can offer here.
The 1915 Harley-Davidson was, thanks to the new transmission, edging towards a completely modern state of development yet this was the final year of the antique flat tank design before the introduction of the new streamlined appearance for the 1916 model year.
The finish was still their familiar Renault Gray with broad dark gray striping and name Harley-Davidson in red with gold lining.
This interesting motorcycle has formed part of a private collection for a number of years and was displayed in the Stanford Hall museum in the UK.
A very informative description and road test of this Harley written by “Titch” Allen was published in “The Second Vintage Roadtest Journal” on pages 28-31.