This is an antique Harley-Davidson Model 9B that we saw at the Handbuilt Motorcycle Show. It has a 35 ci single-cylinder IOE engine. The “B” indicates a chain-drive (the Model 9A has a belt-drive). This Harley model originally sold for $235.
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Here’s some history of the one-lung Harley-Davidson “Peashooter” motorcycle. To start, in 1925, the AMA introduced a 21-cubic-inch (350cc) racing class.
And Indian and Excelsior already had 21-cubic-inch motorcycles, but Harley did not. HD’s focus was on their big-twin engines. But there was also a larger, less profitable market for smaller motorcycles. And this was definitely the case in Europe, Australia, and South Africa.
Back in the day, motorcycle racing and especially winning, was a great way to market motorcycles. Subsequently, Harley started working on creating a new 21 cubic-inch model.
In a short time, they introduced a 1926 model with a 21 cubic-inch engine. These had single-cylinder side-valve engines. The two road bike models were the A and B.
Then there was also a factory-built production racing version model – the SA. And it had OHV and some other engine upgrades. Also, there were other modifications to make these small Harleys lighter. So, it was fast.
Due to the popping sound of the racing version engine, it was dubbed the “Peashooter.” And this name caught on for both the street and racing models.
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Of course, you know Harley-Davidson, the company. But do you know who all the founders of Harley were and when they joined the company?
HD’s Founders from Left to Right: William Davidson, Walter Davidson, Arthur Davidson, and William Harley
In 1901, William Harley drew up designs for a 7.07 cu in (116 cc) small engine when he was only 20 years old. The engine was designed to fit in a bicycle frame.
He worked with his childhood friend, Arthur Davidson, on their motorized bicycle. Then, in 1903, Walter Davidson helped the two finish their motor-bicycle.
Unfortunately, the motorized bicycle’s engine did not have enough power to climb hills in Milwaukee without pedaling. Their first motorcycle was not a total failure, but more of a learning experience.
Next, the three started working on a 24.74 cu in (405 cc). It used a loop-frame design with a larger engine. And it was assembled in a shed in the Davidson backyard. This brought it from the realm of being a motor-bicycle to a motorcycle.
Then, with the help of William Davidson, the motorcycle was finished in September of 1904.
This design was a lot faster; it took fourth place in the Milwaukee State Fair race. In 1906, the Chestnut Street (later Juneau Avenue) was built as the first Harley-Davidson factory. And from there, four young men started the legendary brand.
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