Very collectible circa-1927 Harley-Davidson factory racer with ‘no reserve’
Exceptionally rare factory FHA 8-valve racer – one of a handful of surviving examples
One of the world’s rarest Harley-Davidson motorcycles will now be offered with ‘no reserve’ at Shannons Melbourne Spring Auction on September 21, exciting enormous interest from collectors around the world.
The circa-1927 FHA 8-Valve V-Twin racer with a scramble-type sidecar attached is reputedly one of fewer than 50 examples built by the America manufacturer – some say considerably less – from 1916-1928.
Reportedly delivered new through Milledge Brothers of Melbourne, the circa-1927 example being auctioned by Shannons is one of the last of the 8-valve racers built, making it highly sought-after by collectors.
It is a real ‘barnfind’, having been locked away in dry storage for much of the past 80 years and is believed to be one of only a handful of 8-valve Harley-Davidson racers worldwide to survive – especially in its condition and patina.
These powerful bikes were deliberately priced out of the reach of private enthusiasts during their 12-year production lifetime and were only offered to up and coming racers of the times. They cost a whopping US$1,500 new at a time when even the most expensive bikes usually sold for no more than US$350.
A large part of 8-valve’s desirability was their exceptional performance for the era. American historian/writer/publisher Floyd Clymer in July 1916 set two world dirt track records for one hour (83.71 miles) and 100 miles (one hour, 11 minutes, 45 seconds) and was one of the favoured few that were given access to the legendary 8-valve bikes.
According to research by an early Harley expert, the bike being auctioned was last raced some time in the 1930s and competed in Victorian dirt track events before reportedly being put away afterwards.
Its last resting place saw the bike untouched in a dry storage facility for over 40 years, ensuring it remained virtually untouched and unmodified from the end its racing days.
Shannons National Auction Manager Christophe Boribon said it is rare to find such an important early racing motorcycle in such a collectible, unrestored condition.
“Motorcycles of this calibre have been under-valued on the world market for some years,” he said. “This is truly a rare find.”
Because of its historic significance and unrestored condition, Shannons expect the 8-vale racer to sell with ‘no reserve’ for a substantial six-figure sum.
“Based on the enormous International interest already shown in this exceptional motorcycle, we believe its price could easily exceed our expectation,“ Boribon said.
To register for Shannons Melbourne Spring Classic Auction on September 21, visit www.shannons.com.au and follow the current auction links.
