- ENGINE NO: 2799B
- CONDITION: Running and original
- HISTORY: Formerly of the Lee Roy Hartung Collection
Without question, this Harley-Davidson is among the best surviving 1912 Single examples in the world. Amazingly,
it runs perfectly and is entirely original, in time-warp, untouched condition. Purchased at the Lee Roy
Hartung Auction in Chicago, this early piece exists as one of the best-preserved early original Singles in the
world, still running and sounding like new. It sports Engine No. 2799B and even comes tagged as Registered Illinois
Motor Bicycle No. 182.
Harley-Davidson, Inc. needs no introduction as an iconic American Motorcycle
manufacturer headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. In 1901, William S. Harley, Arthur
Davidson, and brother Walter Davidson began work on their first Motorcycle engine.
Their first attempt may have been a failure, but they founded Harley-Davidson in 1903 and
became one of the largest Motorcycle manufacturers by 1920. They produced Motorcycles
for the United States used in both World War I & II and were one of only two major Motorcycle
manufacturers to survive the Great Depression. In fact, they’ve survived numerous changes
to ownership and restructuring, intense global competition, charges of restrictive practices, claims
of stock price manipulation, and a constantly evolving view of the company and bikers. Still,
they are widely known for their loyal following and now manufacture in Pennsylvania,
Wisconsin, Brazil, and Thailand. Their classic cruiser style, including high handlebars, low seats,
and chrome parts, is easily recognizable. They’re also noted for their customizability, giving
rise to the chopper style of Motorcycle, and for the distinct sound of HD’s powerful
engines.