1930 Harley-Davidson DL 750cc V-twin

Year: 1930                  cc: 750  

Documents: Swedish registration

Harley-Davidson introduced in 1929 their first sidevalve powered motorcycle in a 45ci displacement. Rather than create a new frame, they utilized the frames from the smaller 21ci OHV singles, but new engine cases were designed to mount the generator vertically alongside the front cylinder, giving the motorcycle the appearance of a three cylinder engine. The following year in 1930, many improvements were made to the 45 but sales thereafter were disappointing as domestic riders wanted a Big Twin and overseas, tariffs destroyed the export market for Harley.

This 1930 Harley-Davidson DL is in amazing condition with the Harley's rare optional maroon finish and golden striping. This DL is a late 1930 production model as only a cpouple of tausend units were produced. The vertical generator is unique as it has two independent field coils. During daylight running only one coil is energized, the second coming on when the lights are switched on. The dual headlights are separate low beam and high beam with a toggle switch on the right hand handlebar. New 1930 features included a new lower frame, drop forge I-beam forks and drop center rims. This mid-displacement motorcycle made 18.5 hp and would top out at 60-65 mph, with a happy cruising speed of 50 mph.
 

The Harley Davidson with all the original parts is a very attractive and rare collector piece with a good history and nice patina. It is in a nice patinated running condition.