Description
This is my 1912 model 8D Harley. I’ve had it many years, collecting missing parts and using reproduction until I could find originals.
The model 8D is extremely rare and I know of only one other. There are no images on the internet (that I can find) other than those in the Harley brochures.
It has the 50 cubic inch motor and 2” wide belt only available in late 1911 and early 1912. The 1911 had the rigid high frame with fixed saddle and VIN suffix A. The early 1912 had the original 50” motor with a new lower frame, a ful-floteing saddle and VIN suffix AB. When the chain drive model 8XE was introduced in mid 1912, the motor was enlarged, chain drive and clutch were added with the VIN suffix B. That is A>AB>B. The detail is in all the parts books.
The work done is exactly as you see. I had originally intended to build it for display, but the motor turns really well, mag sparks well and the gas tanks are Kreme sealed.
Most parts are original that came together. The frame and forks are Early Harley, perfect. The original frames do come up for sale but you have to be quick! The forks are easier to get. The left tank, rear rim, sheave, pedal arms, sprockets, are new items. You can see better from the video.
The sheave needs fitting to the wheel, the pedal arms need machining, chains, pedals fitting. The leather belt parts are there. The carb needs some work as do the fuel lines shaping. There are a few fasteners needed, oil lines making, but that’s about it.
I have loads of period accessories if the buyer is interested.
The bike is available for any inspection in Sheffield, England.
Open to offers. Any taxes and import duties are the responsibility of the buyer. Thanks for looking.
