Harley-Davidson Model F 1918 IOE valve V-twin Plate # TA314

It took the Harley-Davidson Co. about 12 years to develop their motorcycles from a single cylinder belt driven single 3 HP machine to the 45 degree V-twin with 3-speed countershaft gearbox that was marketed in 1915. This sturdy 989 cc (84x89mm) machine became a popular choice for motorcycle buyers all over the world, private enthusiasts as well as police forces, postal sevices and other government bodies.

The twin could be ordered with magneto ignition (“F”) or battery and coil ignition (“J”). The output was 15 HP @ 3,200 rpm giving a top speed of 100 km/hour. Compression ratio was relatively low at 3.75:1 and the unladen weight was 150 kgs. 1918 production amounted to 11.764 “F”models and 6571 “J”machines. This machine is fitted with unstamped cases and is executed in Brewster Green.