1914 Harley-Davidson is one of the Rarest Bikes in the World

Rare Engine

This model houses one of the rarest Harley-Davidson engines in the world. There were only four or five of these A series powerplants ever made, and this is one of them. 

Photos courtesy of Mecum

Strong Powerplant

This machine is 105 years old but a lot of thought went into making its engine as strong as possible. This highly tuned powerplant has open breather ports in the cylinders and a flat-out racing Schebler carb.

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All Legitimate

This motorcycle's most impressive aspect is its rarity, so it's important to know that everything checks out. It has matching engine cases, the correct A series ported cylinders, hand-made steel oil baffling, and Schrader inner-tube valves. 

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First Racer

Although Harley-Davidson machines had been racing since 1904, this model, the Model 11-K was their first ever factory race machine. To own this would be to own a piece of history.

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Bill Ottoway

Bill Ottoway was recruited from rival manufacturer Thor. He was tasked with designing a new factory racing machine: this was his creation. In 1915, Ottoway also put together Harley-Davidson's first factory racing team.

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The Basics

This motorcycle was made to go fast and, as a result, was extremely basic apart from its highly-tuned engine. The bike didn't have any gears, brakes, or suspension components. 

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Price

If you were a privateer broad track racer back in 1914 and looking for a bike, this model would have set you back around $300.

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Prized Motorcycle

A bike this rare, in such pristine condition is bound to have picked up some accolades over the years. It won the 2017 Greenwich Concours d'Elegance for Most Outstanding Motorcycle, and it also has a certificate from the Wheels Through Time Museum.

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Jean Davidson

Apart from this bike's rarity, the feature that stands out the most is Jean Davidson's signature on the tank. Jean is the granddaughter of Walter Davidson, Harley-Davidson's first president.

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For help with routine maintenance and repairs, visit the HD Forums How-To section.