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American Machine Foundry - Journey Into History

Three Bikes, One Historic Event

By Mark Masker, Photography by Mark Masker
  • Harley Davidson History Shovelhead Engine
    In addition to the powerplant (shovelhead), the biggest tipoff that this particular Heritage isn't a Softail is the oil tank and shock setup from thepre-Softail era.
    Harley Davidson History Shovelhead Engine
    In addition to the powerplant (shovelhead), the biggest tipoff that this particular Herita
  • Harley Davidson History Heritage Edition Fender
    Another unique feature of the Heritage Edition is the hand-painted writing on the front fender.
    Harley Davidson History Heritage Edition Fender
    Another unique feature of the Heritage Edition is the hand-painted writing on the front fe
  • Harley Davidson History Fxs Low Rider
    Finally, the main course. Think 784 is a tad low for a production run? Try 14. That's how many of these FXS Low Riders were made in 1981. One was built for John Davidson and each of the 13 executives who bought the company from AMF. This bike, number two in that run, was John Davidson's bike (Vaughn Beals received number one and Willie G. number three). The motorcycles were issued on June 16, 1981, and shortly thereafter the group rode the bikes from the Pennsylvania plant to the Juneau factory in Milwaukee, WI.
    Harley Davidson History Fxs Low Rider
    Finally, the main course. Think 784 is a tad low for a production run? Try 14. That's how
  • Harley Davidson History Gas Tank
    As you can see, both John and Willie G. Davidson signed the gas tanks on this bike. While the fate of Willie G.'s bike isn't general knowledge, we do know that Harley has number 14 on display at its museum.
    Harley Davidson History Gas Tank
    As you can see, both John and Willie G. Davidson signed the gas tanks on this bike. While
  • Harley Davidson History Motor Company Logo
    The tank logos are unique as well. Instead of the standard "Motor Cycles" seen on most bikes of that time, it says, "Motor Company."
    Harley Davidson History Motor Company Logo
    The tank logos are unique as well. Instead of the standard "Motor Cycles" seen on most bik
  • Harley Davidson History Vin
    If you don't believe us when we say this bike is rare, take a look at the VIN on the frame.
    Harley Davidson History Vin
    If you don't believe us when we say this bike is rare, take a look at the VIN on the frame
  • Harley Davidson History Tachometer
    As you can tell from the speedo, this bike still has the original 650 miles from the ride to Milwaukee. Although it doesn't see any more road time, it is kept in running condition.
    Harley Davidson History Tachometer
    As you can tell from the speedo, this bike still has the original 650 miles from the ride
  • Harley Davidson History Plaque
    After that 650-mile trip, the 14 bikes were put up for auction in Las Vegas, NV, with the proceeds going to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association. This one was purchased at the auction by Bob Conley, owner of Conley Harley-Davidson in Dallas, TX, for $21,180. It stayed in his collection until he passed away.
    Harley Davidson History Plaque
    After that 650-mile trip, the 14 bikes were put up for auction in Las Vegas, NV, with the
SOURCES
Bartels Harley-Davidson Harley-Davidson
By Mark Masker
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