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1919-23 Harley-Davidson, model W Sport.

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cyclingday

I'm the Wiz, and nobody beats me!
I was just scrolling eBay, and I came across this interesting patent application.
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I hadn’t seen this concept before.
It shows a lot of similarities to the 1919-23 model W Sport.
It looks like they were toying with the idea of a pressed steel frame similar to what BMW would use a few years later.
 
This is what the realized production model looked like.
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Definitely one of the more unusual motorcycles built by H-D.
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The engine is reminiscent of the British transverse, Douglas, fore/aft twin.
The front fork is similar, if not an actual Merkel design.
My guess is, that it was a pretty rugged and nimble bike to ride.
Odd looking, but I like it!
It would’ve been neat to see what it would’ve looked like in that original concept form.
 
Years ago, my dad got a 1923 Model W out of New Zealand.
At that time, it seemed to be a favorable import/export market.
Something about tariff/displacement ratios.
 
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