1915 Harley-Davison 11F
From its highly polished acetylene tank to its interesting speedometer and shift mechanism, this beautifully restored Model 11F is a beauty! Several new features were offered in Harley V-twins for 1915, including a three-speed transmission with tank-mounted shifter and an automatic oiler that helped prevent under- or over-oiling the 62-cubic inch V-twin.
Electric lighting by generator was also available, but many riders had more faith in the old acetylene system. Suspension systems remained rather primitive, but riders of the day were easily pleased; they were happy to get this spring leather saddle. Pedals were still included, but floorboards had been added in 1914.
At the time, Harley-Davidson boasted it was the only manufacturer to guarantee power output. The factory guaranteed 11 horsepower on the twins, but also stated that dynamometer tests measured up to 16.7 horsepower. The power gain was produced by new cylinders with larger inlet ports mated with a Y-shaped inlet manifold and larger carburetor.
Connecting rod big ends rode on new four-row roller bearings (two rows for each rod). The roller bearing were the first of Harley-Davidson manufacture. The 1915 Harley-Davidson was fitted with the first Harley-Davidson automatic (engine driven) oil pump.
The bike weighed 325 pounds and could attain a speed of 60 mph.
Interesting facts: From 1903 to 1914, Harley-Davidson had a strict no-racing policy. All company effort was dedicated to refining the standard models and establishing a strong dealer network. Harley-Davidson began factory racing in 1914. At the time, only Indian and Excelsior had strong racing teams. Milwaukee’s first big wins were the 1915 Venice (California) 300-mile road race and the Dodge City 300-mile road race. Harley-Davidson didn’t simply win the 1915 Dodge City 300, they dominated it, finishing 1-2-4-5-6-7. The 1915 Dodge City 300 put Harley-Davidson in the the middle of the racing map.