It wasn’t just Harley’s at the Wheels Through Time; other marques were represented also. Some known like Indian and others lesser known such as the Traub. An interesting selection.
A brace of Excelsior Autocycles from 19-teens, the Model X; these were the first ‘ton’ bikes, fast indeed for the time. Bought by Schwinn which folded in Hendesron later; these would become Excelsior “X” Henderson.
Thor Motorcycle from the ‘teens. A board racing machine set up for rapid laps of the racing boards. From Aurora Illinois. With the huge number of bicycle manufacturers around Chicago it was a natural step to motorcycles at the turn of the century.
JAP Single: JA Prestwich motor from the UK used for grasstrack and speedway racing.
ELK: more about this unique cycle from Dale Walksler, owner of the museum.
Traub, a one-off bike with a very interesting story with unknown origins. Rediscovered 40 years ago in a bricked up wall in Chicago.
http://motorcycling.speedtv.com/article/history-the-mystery-of-the-traub/
Finishing on a couple of Indians. Only true major compeition to HD, based in Springfield MA from 1901-1953. Representing this important maker is a Powerplus (above) and Deluxe Sport 4 (below)
geordiebiker.com 