Harley-Davidson Serial Number One

This is Harley-Davidson Serial Number One. The very first production Harley-Davidson motorcycle. It's framed by an outline along the floor that is 10 feet by 15 feet - the dimensions of the wooden shed it was built in during 1903.

This bike was being restored in the 1990's when it was noticed that various components were stamped "1". A freak-out ensues and the legend begins.

The frame on this motorcycle is not original to the bike and dates to 1905. This is a conversation starter with any Harley-Davidson enthusiast.

The lack of fenders suggests that it was used in competition. Perhaps the original frame was replaced after a crash in a race. My theory is as good as the next, right?

The term "Silent Grey Fellows" is used to describe early Harley-Davidsons and refers to the mandatory paint scheme from 1910-1916. Don't be fooled though, their earliest motorcycles were black.

A feature of any motorcycle is a frame designed to accept an engine whose beauty is evident here. It was clearly not an afterthought.

The atmospheric-valve single engine was used from 1903 to 1912. It is the earliest Harley-Davidson engine in the long lineage. It also has one of the more graceful exhaust pipes I've ever seen.