While Harley-Davidson is famous for its heavyweight cruisers, the company has also built some surprisingly lightweight motorcycles.
Intro
Harley-Davidson is best known for its heavyweight cruisers, but throughout its history, the company has also produced a handful of remarkably lightweight motorcycles. These bikes, often designed for practicality and efficiency, stand in contrast to the brand’s reputation for large, rumbling machines. Many of Harley’s lightest models emerged in the mid-20th century, offering riders a more manageable alternative while still carrying the company’s signature styling. From early motorized bicycles to minimalist two-stroke machines, here are five of the lightest Harley-Davidson motorcycles ever built.
5. Scat (1961-1965): 220 Pounds
Introduced in 1961, the Harley-Davidson Scat was designed with a scrambler aesthetic. It featured a high-mounted exhaust running parallel to the rear fender and a spring-mounted seat. The Scat was powered by a 175cc, air-cooled, two-stroke engine, delivering nine horsepower and achieving a top speed of 60 mph. Depending on the source, the bike's weight was reported between 216 and 220 pounds, possibly due to variables like fuel weight in its 1.9-gallon tank.
4. Pacer BT (1962-1965): 216 Pounds
The Pacer BT, produced between 1962 and 1965, was a street-focused lightweight motorcycle. It featured a slim frame with ample open space, reducing unnecessary weight. Equipped with a 175cc, two-stroke, single-cylinder engine, the Pacer BT generated 10 horsepower and could reach speeds up to 60 mph. Its design and engine configuration resulted in a reported weight of 216 pounds.
3. Model No. 1 (1905): 185 Pounds
Harley-Davidson's inaugural motorcycle, the Model No. 1, debuted in 1905. Resembling a motorized bicycle, it featured a 405cc engine with a single-speed transmission. Due to its rudimentary design, riders often had to pedal to start the engine. The Model No. 1 weighed approximately 185 pounds, laying the foundation for the company's future developments.
2. Hummer (1955-1959): 170 Pounds
Launched in 1955, the Harley-Davidson Hummer continued the brand's exploration into lightweight motorcycles. Like the Model S-125, the Hummer drew design cues from the DKW RT-125, emphasizing simplicity and practicality. It housed a 125cc, air-cooled, two-stroke, single-cylinder engine, producing three horsepower and reaching speeds up to 50 mph. The Hummer's minimalist construction resulted in a dry weight of 170 pounds, making it one of the lightest motorcycles in Harley-Davidson's lineup.
1. Model S-125 (1948-1952): 170 Pounds
Introduced in 1948, the Model S-125 was Harley-Davidson's entry into the lightweight motorcycle segment. Drawing inspiration from the German DKW RT-125, this model featured a minimalist design focused on efficiency and maneuverability. It was powered by a 125cc, air-cooled, two-stroke, single-cylinder engine, delivering three horsepower and achieving a top speed of 45 mph. The Model S-125's utilitarian frame contributed to its lightweight build, tipping the scales at just 170 pounds dry.
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