- An essential model in the history of Harley-Davidson

- High-quality restoration by Michel Magnin

- Modern engineering for its time

- No reserve

Paul-Émile B bought this 1915 Harley-Davidson to take part in his fourth Cannonball Run with an even older motorbike than the Henderson he had used on the three previous occasions. He liked the idea of this additional challenge, but sadly a skiing accident left him unable to use a motorbike with a foot-operated clutch. In the meantime, the Harley-Davidson was restored to as-new condition by Michel Magnin and has since been little used.

The Model F introduced a truly modern approach and was one of the very first Harleys to be relatively easy to use. It was equipped with a 1000cc V-twin in a T-head layout, mated for the first time on a Harley to a three-speed gearbox controlled by a lever on the left and a clutch pedal on the right. It had a parallelogram fork and the rigid frame made a sprung saddle essential. The fuel tank still had its old, rather angular shape and a separate section for oil, while the wide running boards allowed the rider to find a relaxing position on the long straights of the American highways. The engine produced 11bhp, enabling the Model 11-F to reach close to 100kph, and it was one of the most expensive motorbikes on the American market.

The example in this collection, magnificently restored in its period colours, has electric lighting (which not all versions enjoyed) and attractive leather panniers attached to the luggage carrier. This model truly established Harley-Davidson as a manufacturer to be reckoned with, and this bike is undoubtedly a credit to it. Survivors are particularly rare, making this a precious opportunity for buyers.

Photos © Alexis Ruben