1926 Harley Davidson Model A 350 Lot n° 12

Beautiful patina Exceptional file In the same family since the beginning French registration title Engine n° A2834 Influenced by its competitor Indian, who launched the Prince with a 350cc singlecylinder engine in 1925, Harley-Davidson decided to return to this segment in 1926. The Milwaukee-based brand thus targeted the European market where small-displacement motorbikes were more easily sold. The 350cc was an interesting entry-level model. Two versions with 350cc engines will be offered, one with side valves and one with overhead valves. The designation of the side-valve models was ‘A’ for a bike with a magneto and ‘B’ for a bike with a battery. In contrast, overhead valve motorbikes were called ‘AA’ and ‘BA’. The range was completed in 1930 with the C model with a 500cc single cylinder. The motorbike we present is a Harley-Davidson from 1926. It is a 350cc Model A with side valves. It was bought on 26 March 1926 by Mr Ménétrier, a cycle and motorbike dealer in the rue Mercière in Lyon for the sum of 5,320 Francs. Ordered directly from Goode & Cie, the brand’s exclusive general agent for France, it was not sold until 10 years later to the current owner’s uncle. He bought the bike on 30 June 1936. The document of the time in our possession says that the motorbike was sold in new condition but without warranty for the sum of 2,000 francs.  Since that date the motorbike has remained in the same family and has never left the Lyon region. Extremely rare, it is accompanied by a touching file retracing its entire history. Numerous documents from the period testify to the various administrative steps taken to register it 10 years after its arrival in France. This superb motorbike is today in very good condition, it has a magnificent patina which gives it a great charm. It is worth noting that the mechanics have been restarted a few months ago by a specialist of the brand. With its beautiful history and inimitable patina, this bike deserves the attention of the most discerning collectors!