Harley-Davidson first marketed a successful V-Twin motorcycle in 1911, although it wasn't the Milwaukee's firm first attempt at such
configuration. Evidence in Harley's archives indicates the Motor Company experimented with V-Twin engines as early as 1907, and
introduced the first V-Twin for public consumption in 1909. The problem with the 1909 bike was that the V-Twin engine with its atmospheric
intake valves, did not perform to expectations and few were produced.
By 1911 Harley used mechanical valves to make a viable V-Twin that would remain in use for nearly twenty years. In 1912, Harley offered a
chain-drive option for an extra $10. Ten dollars was a lot of money in those days, but it was money well spent. Not only did the chain-drive
option eliminate the bothersome belt drive, but it also eliminated the bragging rights of H-D's Chief rival Indian. Indian unlike their 2014
models, had used chain-drives since it began manufacturing motorcycles in 1901.
1912 Harley-Davidson ®
Chain-Drive Twin
42 GraceRiderMag.com September/October 2015
