Highlights From the Stunning H-D Heritage Collection

Best Collection

Even the Topper and the little Rapido sported 'sold' stickers. After being relocated due to pandemic restrictions, Mecum’s Annual Vintage & Antique Motorcycle Auction returned home to the Las Vegas South Point Hotel & Casino in January 2022. First to cross the docket was the Harley-Davidson Heritage Collection—a stunning selection of Milwaukee's best that is worth another look.

Photos courtesy of Mecum Auctions

Example Machines

Private offerings were the highlight at the 31st running of Mecum’s two-wheel-focused event. Thoroughness would be an understatement in describing the Harley-Davidson Heritage Collection. It consisted of over ninety machines in restored or rideable condition. The special collection boasted at least one example from each model year between 1910 and 1969, with a few bikes from the AMF years.

Named Offering

Singles populated the collection's early years, but Big Twins made up the bulk of the offerings. A 2008 105th Anniversary Road King was the newest motorcycle of the bunch. Unlike the auction's other listings, which notably included the Bob & Dolva Mitchell Collection, and a desirable five-bike offering from Dr. J. Craig Venter, the owner of the Heritage Collection was not named.

Complete Patina

Described as “catnip for collectors,” this rare, original-paint 1914 Model 10-F was quickly snapped up. With its two-speed epicyclic rear hub and 61 cubic-inch motor, the Model 10 is considered to be the Motor Company's first 'modern' V-Twin. It is described as “shockingly complete with correct components.” With a 100 years of patina, should it be restored or left alone?

Box Trim

On the short list of desirable American motorcycles, this restored 1924 JDCA gets immediate attention. In racing trim, it earned a respectable reputation on the board track circuit. The full-fender JDCA offered here is equipped with a 74 cubic-inch IOE V-twin, and a 3-speed gearbox with a foot clutch. It also features a tank-mounted toolbox and a one-year-only large box muffler.

Streamlined Performance

At the opposite end of the patina spectrum were examples like this meticulously-restored 1929 JD. Introduced in the mid-1910s, the J-series helped Harley-Davidson solidify its reputation and dominant market position, while forever capturing the spirit of American motorcycling. Finished in unique cream paint with maroon striping, this last of the J-series is an elegant balance of performance and 1920s streamlined styling.

Apex Name

Basted in the company colors, this 1968 Electra Glide would have been hard to turn down. Like most of the machines in the Harley-Davidson Heritage Collection, it has been expertly refinished. The Shovelhead-powered FLH delivered on an apex of development that had begun with the 1936 EL. As an archetypal motorcycle, its name plate is still in use today.

Custom Response

Among other rarities in the collection is this 1972 Super Glide Night Train. Designed by Willie G. Davidson, the boat tail-seat bike was a response to custom motorcycles of the day. A short video about the entire collection has been narrated by author and bike aficionado, Paul d’Orléans. It can be found on the Mecum Auctions YouTube page.

>>Join in the conversation about the H-D heritage collection right here in Harley-Davidson Forums.

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