Vehicle Description
1926 Harley Davidson JD Motorcycle � Harley introduced the first of
its Model J, F-head, V-twin motorcycles in 1915. The first model
had a 61 cubic inch, two-cylinder engine, a three-speed
transmission and electric lighting. The Harley Model Js proved to
be quite successful and the company continued production through
1929, continuously making refinements and improvements along the
way. For the 1926 model year, Harley offered four models in the J
series: the 61 cubic inch J Solo & JS Sidecar which retailed at
$315, and the larger and more expensive 74 cubic inch JD Solo and
JDS Sidecar which sold for $335. 3,749 of the smaller J motorcycles
were sold and 9,544 of larger and more expensive JDs were built and
sold this year. 1926 was the first year Harley offered a muffler
cutout to deflect the exhaust gasses away from the rider. These
models also featured a handlebar mounted switch panel with a key
lock and control levers. This barn find Model JD dates from 1926.
By 1926, the JD had become quite advanced compared to its
predecessors and offered the latest refinements, which would be
carried through into the final production year of 1929. Having just
been removed from long-term storage, this desirable JD is in
completely unrestored condition. The key mechanical components such
as the frame, front fork, engine, transmission and driveline appear
to be mostly complete and in restorable condition. These components
still retain lots of original paint and appear to be in good, solid
condition, although certainly in need of mechanical and cosmetic
restoration. On the crankcase, the engine is clearly stamped with
the numbers 26JD12964, which indicates that it is indeed a
desirable JD model from 1926. The original 74 cubic inch, V-twin
engine has been frozen from sitting for many years but appears to
be mostly complete with the exception of some minor ancillary
items. The three-speed transmission and shifter assembly are intact
as is the chain drive assembly. Both wheels also appear to be
correct for a 1926 model and look to be in solid, restorable
condition. The frame assembly still wears some of its original
paint, which is certainly well-worn but has a charming look about
it. The gas tank has its fair share to dents and dings as do both
fenders. It appears that some of the parts were removed at some
point and re-attached to the frame using modern hardware. The seat
assembly appears to be correct and original with remains of what is
likely to be the original leather covering. The front fork assembly
appears intact. On the top of the handlebars is the original dash
panel with its two push button controls and the ammeter. The
headlamp assembly is missing as well as some of the throttle and
control linkages. This desirable 1926 Harley Davidson JD offers the
next owner a variety of options. Most likely, this motorcycle would
be a solid basis for a complete restoration. Another option would
be to restore the mechanical components and preserve the original
cosmetic surfaces. In todays marketplace, very few pre-WWII
motorcycles exist that have not been restored. This rare and
unrestored 1926 JD is certainly an exciting and worthwhile project
that will give its new owner future rewards.
