From

Classic Motorcycle Mecca

Name/Title

1928 Harley Davidson Peashooter

About this object

In 1926, a new racing class was established in the US for motorcycles of up to 21.35ci (350cc) and Harley Davidson was able to use components from its production 21.1ci (346cc) Model A and B singles to develop the overhead-valve engine for the “Peashooter”, which was given that name because of the staccato “pop-pop-pop” sound that the single-cylinder engine made. Gussets were added to the crankcases to increase strength and durability, and a dual-port cylinder head was developed to improve breathing. It featured a three-speed, hand-change gearbox and ignition was by a new, compact Bosch magneto. A rigid racing front fork was an option and is fitted to this 1928 example.

At the time, board track racing was losing support because the tracks were expensive to maintain and there had been a series of horrific crashes and splinter injuries, and the focus of US motorcycle racing was shifting more towards flat track racing, which had begun on horse racing courses during the early 1900s and was referred to as ‘dirt track’ racing because of the loose surfaces. The Peashooter racer made its debut at a race meeting in Milwaukee in August, 1925. It weighed only 215lb (98kg), giving it a competitive power-to-weight ratio and its good handling enabled successful racing both in the USA and abroad.

This example underwent full restoration by Mike Smith’s antique Motorcycle Works in Oregon City, Oregon, and was acquired for the NZ Classic Motorcycles collection via a US auction house in January, 2009. It was acquired by Transport World in May 2016.

Maker

Harley-Davidson

Maker Role

Manufacturer

Date Made

1928

Place Made

USA, Wisconsin, Milwaukee

Object number

CMM187

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