old photos

[jurassic]

i find that my computer gets cluttered with old pics and scans.i thought i'd dump some here.thank god cameras were so popular in the motorcycles heyday.i know there are some other great pics out there .

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[Ohio-Rider]

Jim

[Ohio-Rider]

Fran

[23JDCA 808]

from a South American postcard.

[exeric]

I'm going to say that's a 1917 J.

[jurassic]

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[Tom Lovejoy]

Great photo's thanks for sharing, I sure like that rally one - look at all those machines. I wonder if a single one of them as survived to this day? Neat stuff.

[exeric]

Jurrasic, thanks for the great photo's and the rally picture in particular. Just an observation, but in many group pictures of early motorcycles, I notice that Indian and Excelsior seem to be the dominant makes. I see one obvious H-D in this picture but as I said, most of the time Indian and Ex are the most popular bikes.

[pete reeves]

Eric.
You will go blind if you keep staring at pictures like that.

Pete,

[exeric]

Funny you should say that Pete. That picture did make me bug eyed.

[jurassic]

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[Chuck#1848]

All The photos are fantastic but my vote goes to the Rally photo I gotta believe that a few did survive to this day

[rbc]

Thanks Jurassic -- these are great!

[servicardenise]

Wow, what a nice selection of pictures. I like the hill-climber. It makes me think... what a rush. Could it be the thrill of the victory or maybe it is those guys defying gravity that makes it so darn wild. It still keeps us watching that sport to this day.
Denise

[JohnR]

The merkel light. What is that container/tank just ahead of the front cylinder.

A Nitrous bottle?

Acetylene generator?

Thanks

John

[jurassic]

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[JohnR]

Some really good pics being shared here.

[schmittm]

Thought I'd throw this one out here just for fun. What exactly is Barney riding??

[exeric]

My guess is a 1926-27 JD.

[Old - Rust]

Just a old picture

[Old - Rust]

Old Flathead Pic

[rousseau]

This is my uncle george on his 38EL. the other in back was my uncle johns'. a47FL (as told to me by my late father)

[jurassic]

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[miker]

Great thread. Thanks for your time...

Miker

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[AdminGuy]

These are all really incredible images. I'm really thankful your putting them up. Warms my heart on a cold rainy night to look at these. So much thanks!

Also personal family shots are great to see also. Nice when one can add some insight into the photo.

This exposure on a silver plate glass negative (4x5?)would have been so cool to see in color. You can just see the flying Merk crest on tank. Would have been nice to see the pennant on handle bars also. They must have just taken that sign (copper pressed) from inside the shop and hung it on the bike. If you look carefully in the reflection of the storefront glass you see the photographer, the street scape with no people. The dead pan expression on the guys face is great also. Yup- that bike has seen some serious action. It's a beautiful shot. Truly has captured a moment in time. looks like the neg plate must have cracked and was re printed from that as you can see a black line -door handle.

He prob rode it out from the east coast. Got into town- got a room, got cleaned up, and they had him pose for an advert shot the next morning. THe hats not his cause it doesn't fit. Well, that's my guess. I should have been a cop....

Is his speedo drive gear attached to anything?

[Ken Lee]

Is his speedo drive gear attached to anything? [/B][/QUOTE]

there's a belt drive from the speedo to a front wheel pulley
Great load of pics , keep them coming , Ken

[c.o.]

Wow Admin-Dude........you should'a been a detective. Your analysis did make me re-look the picture. Sharp eye indeed.......:D But did you notice that the Emblem looked almost brand spankin' new???

[jurassic]

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[Ken Lee]

Anyone from Waukesha ? watch out for this police bike

[Ken Lee]

how about something different , I've had two of these and they're great fun to ride but sadly had to go to make room for something else

[Ken Lee]

be nice to run into these two lovelies !!!! or should that be three ??

[Ken Lee]

Home James !!!! damn cold in this thing , hope the Bentley is fixed soon !!!!!!

[c.o.]

Right on!! I hope this thread never ends!!! Pure entertainment............:D

[schmittm]

here I am in Arkansas looking at a picture that was taken 40 years before I was born in a city very close to where I grew up, and the picture came from a guy in Great Britain. Isn't the internet a wonderful thing??!!

Thanks for posting that Ken, my brother still works for the Water Department in Waukesha Wisconsin. About the time that photo was taken Waukesha was famous for its artesian well spring water, it was probably one of the first bottled waters.

mike

[Ken Lee]

So pleased they are appreciated , I found about 16 pics at an auto jumble here and have them dotted around the house , anyone know if S.F, Jones still exists ? there must ne lots more out there and I agree with c.o. hope this thread never ends ,
Ken (England)

[miker]

These are great, truely appreciated. Thank you for your time...

Mike

[c.o.]

I know this isn't near as old, but I figured that maybe Perry and Admin-Guy would appreciate it.......

[c.o.]

Looks a little short to operate it safely.....

[c.o.]

Oakley Frogs........

[c.o.]

Happy Excelsior owners.........

[c.o.]

See.........Harley and Indian riders can get along...........:D

[c.o.]

This may have been posted before, but I couldn't resist.......:D

[23JDCA 808]

Question about the crossbar on the handle bars. Was this specific to certain makes or models, say a police bike? ...bill

[c.o.]

I always thought a crossbar was added for strength when using a sidecar............

[schmittm]

I'm not sure it added all that much extra strength but it sure was a convenient place to mount stuff. Where else would they have put that acytelene tank, or auxilliary lights?

Didn't they also call those "Hollywood" bars?, I think it was because they had all the glitzy stuff bolted to them......

mike

[pete reeves]

Im not sure what the bike is in the photo, it could be an ACE which was Built by Henderson who was the founder of the First Henderson Company. On the first Hendersons It was intended that the passenger sat in front of the Driver.Hand grips were fitted to the cross bar for the passenger to hold on too. It’s possible that they just carried on fitting the cross bar because they had always done it like that ?The must likely reason is the length of each bar was over 2 foot 6 inches, the cross bar was fitted for strength. Just think how much leverage there would have been at the point where the bar entered the centre casting.

Pete

[Ken Lee]

I recon it's about an '18 or '19 Henderson , see the tool box on top of the tank , I think the cross bar was purely for strength , Excelsior also used a cross bar as did Ace and many others , Ken

[pete reeves]

Ken . I did not see the tool box It looks like there are head light mount castings on the front of the handle bar centre casting which made me think Ace But if that is a tool box that could make it a henderson K .
Pete

[Ken Lee]

Hi Pete , just been going through lots of pics of Ace's and Hendersons as well as Excelsiors and others , looks as though you could be right with those headlamp lug positions but the tank and 'tool box' do not look Ace , I suppose someone could have put an extra tool box on the tank or perhaps it's a sandwich box , pity the picture isn't showing more of the bike but good picture anyway , hope they keep coming and hope people make comments on them too , Ken

[exeric]

I believe it's a post 1920 Henderson because 19 and earlier had a bellcrank that exited the handlebar as part of the control assembly. I think cross bars were commonly used on many early motorcycles because handlebars were made long for rider control and leverage on rough roads. Long bars tend to flex if they are not braced. Handlebars on early Harleys are not braced but I don't think they needed it. H-D bars are the most rugged and well made handlebars I have ever seen on an early motorcycle. The most interesting thing about H-D bars of that vintage is, they are formed from one piece of flat sheet steel. How they were made would be a noodle scratcher for any engineer today. I love the picture that c.o. submitted of the two girls by the '33 H-D. If you look at the Enthusiast magazine of 1933 you will see those girls posing more innocently. This picture is a bit more provocative and opens a window of speculation. Thanks for posting these great pictures !

[D.Mac]

Hey guys,
You wanna see some old pics, check this site! www.geocities.com/crhighperf/flattrack.html www.geocities.com/crhighperf/flattrack.html (http://) (hope I did this right to make a hot link) These are a bunch of shots from San Jose and the Bay Area, late '40s. Although these pre-date my era by a few years, a lot of these guys were still around when I stated riding in the mid/late sixties. Sam Arena was our local HD dealer in San Jose, and we bought 45WR parts from Tom Sifton, others had small "garage buisnesses". Have to say I wish I'd spent more time just talking to these "old guys", but what do you know when you're a punk kid? If you go to the bottom of that page and click on "home", it will take you to a page where you can go to some more great pics of hillclimbers, Daytona 200, and various early shops. Enjoy!
Doug.

[Ohio-Rider]

Thanks Doug,
I can't get enough old hill climber photo's. Hill climbing was one of my biggest passions 40yrs ago. All us 4 stokers trying to complete and win against all those fancy, smancy 2 stokers. good times for sure.

How come I'm not seeing any old ice racing photo's.? I can remember my uncles from Detroit racing their sportster with the nails in the tires on the Detroit river. As I grew older I never had the guts to try that, so I did the next best thing. Hill-Climbing!

[c.o.]

Couldn't find any ice racers per say........but this looks like fun!!! I'd really like to try one of those big tobaggon's that had the Scout motor for a powerplant........:D

[c.o.]

I wish I could get into that boxcar for a look around!!!

[Ken Lee]

For you hill climb enthusiasts , here's Red Wolverton in flight on an Ace
if you look on the attached site you'll find some more Ace pics

http://www.geocities.com/acemotorcorp/Photo_Gallery.html

and I am now sure the pic of the outfit with girl on bike is an Ace , the only machine I can find with headlight lugs in that position is Ace , Henderson and Excelsior are outboard of the center casting !
but aint they all nice pics , Ken

[Ohio-Rider]

Look at the tension[lack-of] on that chain. He is in absolute control at that point.

[c.o.]

Great web-site recommendation Ken!!!!!!!!! Awesome pics!!

[INLINE4NUT]

Well Ken you and the rest have me coming back for more !!! Nice job and thanks everyone !

[jurassic]

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[Tom Lovejoy]

Great photo's guys thanks, really quite cool.

[Perry Ruiter]

Check out the crash bar on the bike on the right ... Perry

[c.o.]

That's hilarious.........:D Do you think it just worked out that way or is it tweaked???????...........:D

[Ken Lee]

Yeah , tweaked to match the tilt of his hat !!!! Ken
great pics keep em coming

[23JDCA 808]

MP's. Signal Corps photo. Look at the tire tread on the right front bike. White gloves mean dignitaries. Maybe post-WWII in Germany? ...bill

[jurassic]

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[portagepan]

Here is a nice picture out of a little paperback I picked up a while ago. The book is called Motorcyclist's Album, by Ivan J. Stretten. It appears to be from the 40's. It has 200 photos in it, of varying quality. Both American and European bikes. It includes several pictures of the author, on various bikes. He appears to be Canadian? Quite a few photos from the Jack Pine. Even has a picture of Dot Robinson pushing her bike with sidecar, through a Jack Pine swamp. It says he was going to try to publish one of these a year. Anybody know about this man?

[portagepan]

Here is a nice picture out of a little paperback I picked up a while ago. The book is called Motorcyclist's Album, by Ivan J. Stretten. It appears to be from the 40's. It has 200 photos in it, of varying quality. Both American and European bikes. It includes several pictures of the author, on various bikes. He appears to be Canadian? Quite a few photos from the Jack Pine. Even has a picture of Dot Robinson pushing her bike with sidecar, through a Jack Pine swamp. It says he was going to try to publish one of these a year. Anybody know about this man?

[jurassic]

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[c.o.]

Some pics just invoke deep thought, don't they??

[Ken Lee]

Two wheels is dangerous , gi' me five !!!! Looks about a '15 Harley ! I wonder what those kids were thinking ?? Ken

[pem]

Here's a little color. I know it's not a photo but here's a little test. What is it? Clue, it's not a post card. Sorry for the scan quality.

[exeric]

I believe it's an ink blotter which was handy in it's day because of the use of fountain pens. I think the bike on the blotter is a 1923 Big Chief because that front fender was only used in '22 and 23.

[pem]

You are correct! I came across this a number of years ago and just thought the color was outstanding.

[Old - Rust]

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p165/OHV55FLE/OldPictures1025.jpg

[Old - Rust]

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p165/OHV55FLE/OldPictures804.jpg

[Old - Rust]

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p165/OHV55FLE/OldPictures1068.jpg

[20scout]

Let's see if this works.

[schmittm]

newer photo, old toy!

Happy Holidays everyone!

mike

http://hometown.aol.com/FlatHeadSix/Santa1.jpg

[bmh]

This is the first I had a chance to look at this..... all I can say is THANKS. This sure did brighten up a dreary, icy, pennsylvania evening.
Brian

[Barry Brown]

How many bikes can you identify? The Indian and Yale are pretty easy! Do the "Wilds of Manhatten" still exist? Where is Fort George? Cover of Feb 1906 Motorcycle Illustrated
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2151/2109909266_b34e0f5e51_o.jpg

[23JDCA 808]

Google the names Ft. George and New York. Has a long and storied history. In Georgetown now. The Wilds may just refer to the county or countryside. ...bill

[jke]

Ice race fan!

[Duke]

1930 VL 74

[Hrdly-Dangrs]

Hey Old Rust..is that a New Jersey plate on that bike?? Hrdly
Originally posted by Old - Rust
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p165/OHV55FLE/OldPictures804.jpg

[Hrdly-Dangrs]

Newark, New Jersey Taxi. How cool would this be to ride around on.

The interesting thing about this photo (besides the fact that it is a motorcycle 'Taxi' ) is that even though this is a motorcycle, the bike actually has an automobile license plate on it.

Perhaps the plate was transfered from an earlier automobile Taxi or likely they (NJ State or the City of Newark) only made available commercial automoble plates for Taxi/Limousine services.
:cool: Hrdly

[Old - Rust]

Yes thats a New Jersey plate on that bike. here more from NJ

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p165/OHV55FLE/OldPictures811.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p165/OHV55FLE/OldPictures808.jpg

[Hrdly-Dangrs]

Hey Old Rust, How many vintage New Jersey motorcycle photos in your collection?

You may remember that I had a web-site called The New Jersey Historic Motorcycle Society a couple years ago. In it I had about 30 or so photos from my own personal collection and several that were contributed by other AMCA members.

I am in the process of ressurecting the NJHMCS Web Site. Could always use some more jpeg submitted pics and any specific background info about them if you'd care to.

Also could use any jpeg submitted pics of any original NJ related m/c items like racing brochures, pennants, medals, trophys, MC plates, Dealer literature etc, etc would be appreciated.

As always I credit any contributed items to their owners. You can reach my direct at my e'mail buddog1@ptd.net

Also anyone else out there who might have some original New Jersey M/C items they'ed care to jpeg a pic to me, I'd appreciate it.

Of course I am always looking to purchase such items direct if available.

Later :cool: Hrdly

[Hrdly-Dangrs]

Another interesting commercial motorcycle from Newark, NJ :cool: Hrdly

[c.o.]

Wow!!!!!!!! Those are simply remarkable machines..........:D Great picture. Thanks!!!

[bmh]

Aren't those Goulding Trucksters? Or something like that? I have some copies of sales lit for them burried in a box somewhere I think. I may have to go searching. That's the real problem with this web site.... It reminds me of all sorts of things and than I have more stuff I want to do.
Brian

[23JDCA 808]

Could be. Check out The Goulding album: James Goulding & his motorcycle sidecars, Claude Goulding, and Dot & Earl Robinson by Ronald L Rae (Unknown Binding - 1990) ...bill

[jke]

I believe they called that product The Gouldcar. Dale Walksler has a beautiful example built around a Knucklehead.
JKE

[jurassic]

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[c.o.]

Har...Harr.........:D Every Which Way But Loose, I believe. If one goes back and watches that movie, it can be disturbing. A couple of classics got munched. But I guess it was back in the days that nobody thought much about it I guess........ Otherwise it's a pretty funny flick......:D

[Hrdly-Dangrs]

Here's a great shot of an Earley NJ State trooper on his trusty stead.

Can anyone tell me what the purpose of the piggyback rear exhaust pipe portion was for? :cool: Hrdly

[aka HAWG]

I once had a 1930 harley 45 with the same exhaust, and to best of my reasoning - for a speedier look,. there were two pipes connecting the top and bottom but very little exhaust would flow through the upper chamber due to not enough back presure to force flow to the upper chamber

one more inclusion - the 1929 harleys had the same muffler system but had one on each side

aka HAWG

[Ken Lee]

Try this site , wonderful old photo's of the Lewis motorcycle works in Australia , Gives great insight to the workings of a pioneer manufacturer , great pics and story , Ken

Vivian Lewis Limited: Cars and motorycles from the Lewis Cycle and Motor Works, Adelaide, South Australia


http://users.senet.com.au/~mitchell/lewis/index.htm

[SPECIAL ED]

Here's a photo of my buddy Frank the California Mountain Man. He tells me this was around 1941. Funny thing, he's 88 years old and still kicks starts his 45EL to ride with my buddy on his 31V and I on my 42FL. This guy is my hero....

[SPECIAL ED]

This is a photo of my grampa Elmer Moore in 1958. This was his friends Harley that he let the man sit on for this photo. Gramps wanted his own scooter but Grams said NOPE...I purchased 4 Harleys so far, in his honor....

[Tom Lovejoy]

Right on special ed, 88 and still kicking his own ride - he would be a great guy to hang with, your lucky man, sorry there are not more of em around. Hats off to him, part of that greatest generation no doubt. I know a couple like em but not enough for sure.

[jurassic]

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[pem]

I have always liked the contrast. Old vs older. The man on the cycle is my dad and the man on the honey wagon is my grandpa.

Dick Werner

[pem]

Well I'll try it again.

[SPECIAL ED]

Dick,
Is that a late thirties or early forties Indian your Pop is on? It's a good photo...

NOTE TO ALL: Please keep the old photo's coming. My buddy is looking for old picks of a 31 V model Harley, needless to say that's his baby. I posted a photo of the 42FL I purchased a few months ago. It's noted on the PARKING LOT TALK forum under NEED TO FIND HISTORY ON A 42, or somthing of that sort....Yes the tanks are bigger than stock and many of the parts are aftermarket....I still LOVE that old bike and I ride the hell out of it.

[pem]

Hi Ed, to tell the truth I really don't know. I was hoping someone
would tell me.

[SPECIAL ED]

It looks like an Indian Chief on the tank but I'm prepped to get schooled from all the Indian owners out there. It's still an awesome photo. I'm going to head in my FINDING HISTORY FOR A 42 KNUCKLEHEAD thread and post a couple of photos.

[Ken Lee]

pem , I think the Chief is 1939 ,
I enclose a couple of pics (one at a time) from my previous post of the Lewis Cycle Works of Adelaid Australia , hope you enjoy , Ken

[Ken Lee]

another one from '06 showing cars as well as cycles

[Perry Ruiter]

Originally posted by SPECIAL ED
Dick,
Is that a late thirties or early forties Indian your Pop is on? It's a good photo...

Originally posted by pem
Hi Ed, to tell the truth I really don't know. I was hoping someone
would tell me.
The Indian is pre-38 since the horn is below the headlight and the speedo isn't enclosed by a dash. Hard to tell if there is a shifter mounted under the front of the tank. If so it's a 37 if not it's 36 or 35 (35 was the first year for that style fender). Looks like an ex-cop bike given the cut out in the rear fender for a siren ... Perry

[SPECIAL ED]

Hey Ken, note that sign hanging in the ceiling that states"CARS STORED AT OWNERS RISK". They must have had that theft issue like the South Side of Phoenix Arizona. Thanks for the photos from "Across the Pond".

[Pete Gagan]

Here's a good one.

[Pete Gagan]

PS to the above:
The Moxie soft drink co. used to promote their product by sending out their salesmen in "Moxie Horsemobiles", which were large touring cars with plaster horses in them from which the salesmen drove via a steering wheel through the horses mane. You needed a "lot of Moxie" to drive one. Obviously, there was at least one Moxie Horsemocycle.
Pete

[exeric]

Great picture Pete. I didn't know Moxie used motorcycles. I saw a restored Moxie Packard years ago and you're right, it would take some Moxie and a disconnected self preservation instinct to drive one of those contraptions. The motorcycle is a 1919 Henderson Z2. It's 1919 becuase it has the famous Excelsior double acting brake.

[Hrdly-Dangrs]

Pete, great photo of the Moxie. Always like seeing commercial use motorcycle rigs. Here's one from New Jersey. :cool: Hrdly

[23JDCA 808]

"Glenn Curtiss had an early interest in bicycles, and opened a bicycle shop in Hammondsport, New York. Not content to sell bicycles, he was soon building his own products, and designing new models. When small, one cylinder motors were put on bicycles, he left the world of bicycles and entered the world of engines and motorcycles. He designed his own lightweight engines, and the motorcycles they powered. In 1907 Curtiss drove a motorcycle with an air cooled V-8 engine to a speed of 136 miles an hour. The engine delivered 40 hp, and weighed 275 pounds. According to a Scientific American article of the day, the motorcycle experienced a broken universal joint at 90 mph, which buckled the frame. The record made him the fastest human on a motorcycle or car, until a car beat that speed 11 years later. A motorcycle would not beat that speed until 1930. Curtiss' speed was actually slower than an earlier Stanley Steamer that achieved 140- 150 mph, but that run was not an officially timed event." From http://patentpending.blogs.com/patent_pending_blog/historical_patents/index.html


http://www.galen-frysinger.org/united_states/erie868.jpg

Notice the handle bar cross-bracing to the front axle hub. Prevents wheel wobble at high speeds.

http://www.galen-frysinger.org/united_states/erie865.jpg

Want to get your pant’s leg caught in that rear bevel gear? More about the aircraft side of Glenn Curtis:
http://www.galenfrysinger.com/glenn_curtiss_hammondsport_ny.htm

[koanes]

I would love to hear the V8 Curtis run. Push start-no clutch? What a ride.

[schmittm]

I didn't notice any brakes either. Curtiss must have been a lot like Howard Hughes. All you needed back then was guts and gasoline!

mike

[SPECIAL ED]

You don't require brakes with this bike, you just drop the trottle back and those huge gears will slow you down. One gear, one brake...

[LouieMCman]

Just wondering if the V8 bike is the real thing or a repop?

[23JDCA 808]

Originally posted by LouieMCman
Just wondering if the V8 bike is the real thing or a repop?
'replica of the motorcycle on which Glenn Curtiss became "the fastest man in the World"' from the link beneath the picture. ...bill

[indianut]

You can see the rear brake pedal in the top pic and the brake in the bottom pic. If you are ever in the Finger Lakes area of New York go to the Curtis Museum. I rode my 37 Chief up there from Florida on the way to Indian Day 2001. It was worth the trip.

[sveger]

Here is a pic that I have been given from relatives of the first owner of what is now mine Harley 1939 W 45".
http://img120.imageshack.us/img120/2800/05540001op9.th.jpg (http://img120.imageshack.us/my.php?image=05540001op9.jpg)
At this point the bike still have its original tank decals.

Sverre K. Gerber
Norway

[sveger]

This photo show my Harley on its way up the Norwegian mountain pass "Stalheim" , used to be one of the hardest mountain passes back then before there was tunnels trough all mountains.
The hotel in the background is still there.

http://img120.imageshack.us/img120/4931/05540013dm1.th.jpg (http://img120.imageshack.us/my.php?image=05540013dm1.jpg)

[sveger]

Somewhere in Norway in 1947, still my thrusty 45" with a heavy "back packing",
http://img252.imageshack.us/img252/4265/05540016ui1.th.jpg (http://img252.imageshack.us/my.php?image=05540016ui1.jpg)

[SPECIAL ED]

I took me a couple a days to figure out that there was a motorcyle in the photo.....

[20scout]

There is?!?!

[23JDCA 808]

Nice bike!!

[c.o.]

Here's a shot of Walt Healy with his 101 boardwall crash machine.

[c.o.]

I believe that this is Walt with Art Gavel at the entrance of Banff National Park.

[c.o.]

Here's Walt later on in life with his hot rod Scout at the O'Keefe Rally in Vernon, B.C.

[23JDCA 808]

...for us newer members of motorcycle appreciation:
HEALY, WALT 1913 - 2001
Calgary, Alberta native Walt Healy was actively involved in motorcycling for over 71 years and achieved a great deal. He was an accomplished competitor, and a long time motorcycle dealer. Walt’s’ lifelong involvement in motorcycling began when he had his own delivery service in 1929-30, using a Henderson four motorcycle with a sidecar attached. Needing to buy a better machine, he went to the local motorcycle dealer to order a new Indian 45 and sidecar. The dealer apparently said to Walt, “If you can afford to buy a new Indian and sidecar, why don’t you become the dealer yourself, I sure can’t afford it”! This was not something Walter had planned on, however as fate would have it, it proved to be his destiny. Walt took the man at his word, and went ahead and purchased the machine from the Indian Motor Company, and with that, in 1931 his dealership was basically established. Walt Healy Motorcycles is still in business today, and celebrating it’s 75th Anniversary in 2006.
Over the years, Walt Healy was either organizing, being actively involved in, and or contributed to many organizations connected with motorcycles; and in general being a great ambassador promoting motorcycling in western Canada. From the late 1930’s to the early 1950’s Walt competed very successfully in Hill Climbs and dirt tracks in western Canada, and the north western United States (in those days’ motorcycle hill climbing was very popular and drew huge crowds, the likes of which we would be more than happy to see today).
Walt had the distinction of being the first Albertan rider to earn an AMA number in both Hill Climbs and dirt track. Showing his skill and versatility in riding just about anything in any situation, Walt recorded a top ten finish on Daytona Beach, in the 1940’s, when it was run on the beach course. Regrettably, through an unfortunate chain of circumstances most of Walters’s records and archival materials have been lost, however, it is widely acknowledged that Walt Healy essentially dominated and “owned” the Hill Climbs and flat tracks in the west at that time usually winning the greater percentage of them.
Over time, at his dealership, the Indian brand gave way to the British machines and Walter went on to carry the Ariel, Matchless, Triumph, and BSA machines. In the 1960’s with the arrival of the Japanese motorcycles, (a direct link to the Deeley family) Walt was instrumental in founding the “Learn to Ride” programs and set up a riding school with the Calgary Safety Council--a program still operating today.
During the 1970’s Walter helped establish the Canadian Motorcycle Dealers Association or CMDA, and began lobbying the Alberta Apprenticeship Board to recognize motorcycle mechanics as a legitimate trade. In 1986, after 14 years of persistence, predominantly on Walters’ part, Alberta finally established the Motorcycle Mechanics Apprenticeship Program and fittingly, Walter was awarded the first Journeyman Certificate in that Province.
In later years Walt organized several “charity rides” a tradition which are carried on today at Walt Healy Motorcycles with their annual Toy Runs and the Kids Cancer Care Foundation “Ride For Life”.
Following his semi-retirement in 1985 Walt took to the road, and over the 17 years that followed, amassed over 1 million kilometres on a total of four Yamaha Ventures. He rode as far north in North America as the highways went, and as far south as Panama. He rode the Four Corners Rally – ‘The Rally in The Rockies”, and the Three Flags (Canada / USA / Mexico) Rally a total of seven times! He covered 49 States, all ten Provinces and the Canadian Territories. To celebrate his 75th birthday Walt shipped his bike to Australia and rode around the entire continent. He capped this off by riding the highway that runs through the centre of this massive country, from coast to coast. All this at age 75!
For all his accomplishments, as a competitor and rider, his success as a long time dealer and businessman, and friend to motorcycling in general, Walt Healy unquestionably earned the respect and admiration of the motorcycling community in Canada and beyond. He dedicated his life to his passion of motorcycling, he excelled at what he did, and gave back as much if not more than he took from it. The impact of his contributions will be felt for many years. Walt Healy will long be remembered for who he was, and what he did in and for motorcycling in Canada.
from the Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Fame
http://www.motorcyclehalloffame.ca/hall_of_fame/inductees/gl.html

[Ross]

Hey Co, I think you and I are travelling in the same lanes today. I met Walt Heally everytime he visited my good friend Bert Bentley in Winnipeg when he came to visit Bert. They both rode together in a Calgary motorcycle club in the 30's. Bert was a high ranking officer in WW2 and settled in Winnipeg with a good job as head of the emergency measures for the province. Walt would come for a visit with his friend in a sidecar outfit and was well up in years. In the early 90's my family and I drove to BC to the Cloverdale meet and to my good fortune Walt was the main attraction doing the burning wall trick with that old Indian. By the way he towed it there with the sidecar outfit and had removed the scout front wheel and then attached the Indian. What a guy. The wall was burning furiously and the field was sort of sand and he wiped out right in the middle of the flaming wall. He was rescued , stood up and waved without missing a beat. We had a nice chat after. I miss the old guys. Hey wait a minute ... Now I are one!!!

[23JDCA 808]

Two web links to old pictures of great riders:
Walt Healey
http://www.gregwilliams.ca/?page_id=193

and Nicholson Bros. Motorcycles
http://www.gregwilliams.ca/?page_id=75

[c.o.]

Hey Ross............I believe after the Cloverdale meet, Walt ended up at Don Doody's house. In the middle of the night the smoke alarm went off and Walt ended up with the impression that he was going to burn up twice in one day!!

I can recall him flying past me in a rainstorm on a trip over the Roger's Pass. He passed me and my old BSA chopper like we were standing still! When I ran into him the next day he said that he liked to set the cruise at 85 to make time. He was into his eighties by then!

[Ross]

Walt was well into his 80's the last time I talked to him. In that photo of Banff is a man in uniform with a pipe. If that uniform is an officer's it could very well be my friend Bert as he smoked a pipe and wore his mustache that way. Looks like him but I'm not sure. Apparently Bert was a bit of a hero to Walt as Bert was older and first won the Western Canadian hill climbing championship in Calgary (foothills) in 1931.These guys never let age getin their way I hope I can do the same.I'm still 21 with around 35 years experience.

[Ken Lee]

oh no!!!! where have all those lovely old photo's gone ? will they ever be put back on here ?? hope so , otherwise we'll just have to re-send them all !!!! happy riding everyone and don't forget to take some pics for this site for 50 years time !!! Ken

[Chuggi]

Looks like all the pictures didn't make the change over...

If you would like me to post pictures collected for our documentary series I will be happy to do so... otherwise check out our websites:

http://www.indianwreckingcrew.com

http://www.manandmotorcycles.com

Enjoy them and check back often... we keep updating the sites as we go along.

John

[Chuggi]

Looks like all the pictures didn't make the change over...

If you would like me to post pictures collected for our documentary series I will be happy to do so... otherwise check out our websites:

http://www.indianwreckingcrew.com

http://www.manandmotorcycles.com

Enjoy them and check back often... we keep updating the sites as we go along.

John
Here is a picture of Ernie Beckman of the Indian Wrecking Crew at Bay Meadows, CA

[Chris Haynes]

You will find tons of old photos at www.vintageamericanmotorcycles.com In fact i think some of these may have been escapee's from my site.

[Chuggi]

You will find tons of old photos at www.vintageamericanmotorcycles.com In fact i think some of these may have been escapee's from my site.

Don't worry... none of your stuff is on either of my sites.

[Michael Wells]

<strike>Photos are finally back</strike>.

Some photos are back. That's all.

- Michael Wells

[23JDCA 808]

Yes, most of the photos are back. Thank you for your continued efforts. ...bill

[Old - Rust]

<a href="http://s128.photobucket.com/albums/p165/OHV55FLE/?action=view&current=OldPictures1497.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p165/OHV55FLE/OldPictures1497.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>

[Old - Rust]

<a href="http://s128.photobucket.com/albums/p165/OHV55FLE/?action=view&current=BobbieDadjpg.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p165/OHV55FLE/BobbieDadjpg.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>

[c.o.]

This what you do if your lacking a farm truck!

[rousseau]

This little girl was born in1947. Her name is being withheld for fear of my life. I can tell this is a flathead Harley. I'm thinking late 30 early 40 model. I have no idea about the car in the background. How about some help identifying this bike.(and car). I'm guessing she is about 4 years old in this pic so it would have been taken in early 50's.

[koanes]

Quick guess is 35 or 36 VL with plain air scoop.

[schmittm]

rousseau,
My guess is its a '34 VL, first year for the valanced fender and tail light cover. Last year for that air intake and MotoLamp headlight. 7 bolt heads.

neat picture!

mike

[pete reeves]

Its a VL it could be a 36 (last year for the VL) but its not new and as we all know with Harleys things get changed so it could be earlier.
The fenders are 1934 to 1936.
The air intake was introduced in 1936.
The rear stand looks to be tubular which was also introduced in 1936.
It has the large filler caps introduced on late 34 to 36
It looks like it may have 18 inch wheels which were an option in 1936.
Head lamp looks like a motor lamp the cycle ray would be correct for 36 but that may just be the angle that the picture was taken.

Pete

[T. Cotten]

Just wanted to bring this thread back to the top...

Attached are a couple of pics that an associate just found at a Chicagoland flea market.

Although it irks me when I see a footclutch locked out of engagement, the mud behind the primary in the left photo certainly explains why!

....Cotten

[jurassic]

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/3483/motordrome2xy3.jpg

[T. Cotten]

Jerry Weiland pointed out on another forum that there is something weird going on with the front brake assembly in the photo I recently posted.

Look familiar to anyone?

...Cotten

[Dave R]

Anybody else like old cycle shop photos? ... "the hallowed places of our youth...
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Bob Gibbs Indian, Charleston, Illinois Any of you guys end up with that neon sign? What's your date guess on this? 1950?

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa31/davrenn/old%20cycle%20shops/bobgibbsresize.jpg


Griffiths Harley Davidson, Mattoon, Illinois 1959 A little before the days of "corporate" HD,and their Dealer requirements.

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa31/davrenn/old%20cycle%20shops/Scan9resize.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa31/davrenn/old%20cycle%20shops/Griffithsexterior.jpg

Anybody else have any old shop photos from your local towns...?

[T. Cotten]

Dave!

I am thrilled with your contributions, as I have a wall dedicated to Illinois.
Alas, I have only one of a shop at this time: An Ottawa Ill. Indian dealer ca. 1912, scanned from a newspaper,is shown below.

....Cotten

[jurassic]

daves got a good idea ,store front and shop photos are pretty cool. http://img212.imageshack.us/img212/5003/zshopoi9.jpg

[c.o.]

Your right on that one jurassic...... this dealership shared it's building with a dentist!

[c.o.]

I've always liked this photo. Wished I had one of these crates!

[Hrdly-Dangrs]

located in downtown Paterson, NJ where I grew up. His nephew has a website with a lot of John's pictures. Hrdly


Your right on that one jurassic...... this dealership shared it's building with a dentist!

[Dave R]

Nice dealer photo from an Ebay listing many years ago.

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa31/davrenn/old%20cycle%20shops/46indianphotoresize.jpg

[c.o.]

located in downtown Paterson, NJ where I grew up. His nephew has a website with a lot of John's pictures. Hrdly

Wow.....pretty cool thanks for identifying it!

[Chris Haynes]

To Putt?? Could this have been from the Putt Mossman collection?

[exeric]

daves got a good idea ,store front and shop photos are pretty cool. http://img212.imageshack.us/img212/5003/zshopoi9.jpg

Jurassic, did you notice the Merkel on the table is a chain drive. I think it's a 1912 model but I thought all pre 1913 Merkels were belt drive. There's always something new to learn. I like the dog on the workbench too. Great picture.

[bmh]

Here are a few more, I don't think any are already posted here.

[Jack K]

I see this thread is moving toward dealer photos but I just had to submit my personal all time favorite photo.

[Jack K]

I've posted pictures here before with no trouble. Must re-read instructions.

[Jack K]

Here is another try!

[Jack K]

If you down size enough it works. This may interest no one but it's my all time favorite. It's my Dad on maneuvers in 1943. Somewhere in Kentucky I think. Oh, he is not on "his" bike, he is on a motor pool loaner while his was in for service.

[c.o.]

Cool pic Jack. I had a couple of uncles that were dispatch riders, but alas no pics.......

[c.o.]

Here's a motorcycle club pic in front of Smith's Cycle Store in Edmonton, Alberta. I'm diggin' that 101 out front!

[c.o.]

Lethbridge Alberta Fair 1912. If ya squint hard you can see a motorsickle....

[c.o.]

This one was popular last time around...........

[Chris Haynes]

Here is what that photo looks like without the retouching.
http://i412.photobucket.com/albums/pp209/hd36knuck/13360approx1933RLLeftwithbeauties.jpg
And another. Nice cheeks.

http://i412.photobucket.com/albums/pp209/hd36knuck/133401933RLwithbeautiesLeft.jpg

[jurassic]

bill posted this one awhile back.excellent pic. http://img156.imageshack.us/img156/2973/wowaz0.jpg

[HarleyCreation]

That bathing suit on the left is pretty hot for the 1930s.

I'll say!

Retouched one has a logo on it, not found on the original that I can see.

Just like the logo was painted onto the photo of the woodshed door?

Nice leg shot in that last photo!

[bmh]

Don't gotta do dealer pics. How about one of my favorite topics....

Chicks on bikes.

[bmh]

Sorry didn't see I doubled one up

[koanes]

I really like the picture of the two beauties with the big smiles, hanging on the banged up 29.

[c.o.]

I'd never seen the second one before Chris......pretty good stuff!

This one's a little more conservative.......

[Dave R]

..a few COB (chicks on bikes) pics for you... Coles County, Illinois 1947/48



http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa31/davrenn/joannmurrayeaton.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa31/davrenn/sisredo22.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa31/davrenn/gills.jpg

[Chris Haynes]

[QUOTE=c.o.;73820]I'd never seen the second one before Chris......pretty good stuff!

There are more where those came from.

[jurassic]

http://img267.imageshack.us/img267/2608/couplesgaleu9.jpg

[exeric]

That last picture is amazing Jurassic. Look at the date on the license plates and the far-away stare on the faces of the riders and you know it was the eve of a horrendous 4 years.

[Rub]

Super picture Jurassic. Check out the deluxe package equipped '40 model with all the chrome. Even the correct fender top trim pieces! Might have been a last ride together as those boys look like they would have been prime candidates for enlistment. Back to women riders, for years the " Motorcyclist" and later the AMA's "American Motorcycling" magazines had an annual Women's issue and always had lots of great pics.
Robbie

[Matthew N. Olse]

I don't think it is a 40, the bike has a 37 dash and centerstand on it. Maybe the bike was updated with the new model badges, trim and tail light. What a cool bike!!!! What year is the other one.

[vride5]

the other one looks like an early V model, he certainly got his moneys worth out of that tire

[Perry Ruiter]

I don't think it is a 40, the bike has a 37 dash and centerstand on it. Maybe the bike was updated with the new model badges, trim and tail light. What a cool bike!!!! What year is the other one.
Rectangular footboards are another hint that it's a faux 40 ... Perry

[William McClean]

He couldn't afford a new tire having spent all his money on those 2-tone wingtips to impress the girls

[Rub]

Good call guys, I was looking at the trim and didn't see the bike beneath it. He put '40 emblems on it too, even the pinstripe. Obviously Big Twin but which one?
Robbie

[exeric]

So we have '37 dash and center stand, sqaure foot boards, '40 tank badges, and '39+ tail light and fender trim.. What do you think he started with? If he started as a '37, he had to spend some serious cash (for the time) to get it to look like a 1940 EL. Hell, he was young, no mortgage payments and girls to impress, and a '37 EL that would eat his buddy's VL for lunch. . . . Why buy a new bike?

[Snakeoil]

I know it's been said by others, but I just have to say thanks for sharing these pictures. I've worn my two mouse fingers down to the first knuckle saving them to my hard drive. These will all get printed and will adorn the walls of my barn this summer.

Thanks,

[jurassic]

http://img371.imageshack.us/img371/6444/lotimg1882lg3.jpg

[T. Cotten]

I checked all 22 pages to see if this one had been posted, and I cannot believe it hasn't!

Note how the rider is apparently returning across a dam after a morning swim in the lake behind her.

She certainly seems to be in control of a moving machine, as not only does she grab the ends of the grips for maximum leverage, her foot is firmly upon the footboard, and dust obscures the rear wheel.

And the wind is gently billowing the towel from her thigh.

The final proof that she is commanding the machine is how her East breast points in a different direction than her West, thus they are bouncing from the trail.

Even if it is posed, her smile puts the Mona Lisa to shame!

(Sigh...)

....Cotten

[c.o.]

That's been on here before but was quickly censored by admin-guy...... Good description Cotton, you could easily write scripts for those ol' silent pictures!!!

[c.o.]

Before a motorcycle race.......downtown San Diego.......... and the Pepper Tree Motorcycle Club....... sorry to break the chain of gal pics.

[jurassic]

http://img267.imageshack.us/img267/2608/couplesgaleu9.jpg

just an observation,but our hero on the left is wearing a wedding band,and i'd be willing to bet his lovely wife requires more maintenance than that old VL.also willing to bet neither of these guys waited till '42 to enlist.

[c.o.]

You can always fix a boo-boo with a band aid Cotton!!! Hilarious!!!

[jurassic]

photo by lloyd j isam http://img392.imageshack.us/img392/8448/znagack4.jpg

[Sargehere]

Jurassic, you trying to change the subject? This thread 'turning too festive for ya, heh? I've got some photos of December 8th, 1941, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, for comparison. Nanking, Bataan, Burma Railroad, Guadalcanal, Tarawa (where the late, great Bob McClean, USMC, among others, waded in, first wave) come to mind.


Good call guys, I was looking at the trim and didn't see the bike beneath it. He put '40 emblems on it too, even the pinstripe. Obviously Big Twin but which one?
Robbie

Carburetor's on the right side, out of sight, so it's an EL, OHV. 1937 or mebbe even a '36. I think that clutch pedal a the later one. He must have been given fits by that 4-bolt 36-40 clutch-there's no derby cover on it. 'Like the end of the tailpipe, too! Wish we could see the end of the clutch arm (it's behind the saddlebag).

[vride5]

there must be something here we can't see, but what holding that old bike up

[Snakeoil]

How do you think OAKLEY FROGS would look as a top rocker?

[bmh]

Aside from taste in bikes, how much else do you figure these two have in common?

[Paps]

Father and Son ? Paps

[Jack K]

OK, so it's not two hotties on a motorcycle. Just Mom and aunt Dean.

[Hrdly-Dangrs]

Hey guys if you have any New Jersey related motorcycle photos or scans of New Jersey motorcycle related memorabilia and would like to share, you can post it on my Yahoo website NJHMCS The New Jersey Historic Motorcycle Society at

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/NJHMCS

Some of you guys may remember I had a paid website some time ago which I closed when I moved to my current location. Anyway, since I have some time on my hands (unemployed) and kinda down in the dumps, I thought I'd resurrect it on the Yahoo Group site.

I just started it up last night and began posting some photos and memorabilia. Its going to take some time to post up all my New Jersey motorcycle stuff but check it out.

You may have to join the group to see it. I'm working on the final settings, but once you apply I'll sign you up.

Ok that's it, hope to see you in the Group....her's a pic from my collection of New Jersey Motorcycle photos. Hrdly

[exeric]

That's a great picture Hrdly. Do you have any information about that picture ? I'll check out your Yahoo group.

[Hrdly-Dangrs]

The guy on the bike is Mr Harris and is a relative of a friend of mine in New Jersey. Photo taken in NJ but not sure of the location.

Just setting the site up now. Posting a bunch of stuff. Should start looking pretty good by late tonight. Hrdly


That's a great picture Hrdly. Do you have any information about that picture ? I'll check out your Yahoo group.

[Chris Haynes]

OK, so it's not two hotties on a motorcycle. Just Mom and aunt Dean.

And a new '37.

[exeric]

Or a '34 in '37 clothing.

[Jack K]

I think the picture was made in 42 or 43. He owned this bike until the fall of 51 when he traded it for a new 52 Plymouth. Dad always said it was a 35. Grandad operated a "machine shop" and regularly bought motorcycles that he would repair and re-paint for resale. If it was a 35, Grandad must have thought it should have the front mounted toolbox Harley had neglected to add to the 35 models.

[Baytown]

I checked all 22 pages to see if this one had been posted, and I cannot believe it hasn't!

Even if it is posed, her smile puts the Mona Lisa to shame!

(Sigh...)

....Cotten

Has she hurt her breasts or something???

[T. Cotten]

Ken!

Just a 'wardrobe malfunction"...

I should have been more careful.

('sigh.....')

....Cotten

PS: Just to change the mood for Christmas,
Here's a NEWS FLASH!

ELVES EXPOSE PROTOTYPE REINDEER-LESS SLEIGH!

(but Santa couldn't get it up by himself.)

[c.o.]

That's a pretty cool pic Cotton! Here's a couple other variations..........

[c.o.]

here's another one, but they seem to be lacking a proper surface to run on!!

[Ohio-Rider]

These two brothers where also avid ice racers on the Detroit river back in the day. I'd like to find one of those old junior chiefs one day for myself.

[sveger]

Hope you enjoy my contributions to this thread.
http://img401.imageshack.us/img401/1728/am950031cq2.jpg

Sverre

[sveger]

Another one;
http://img209.imageshack.us/img209/8558/fakf07281sq2.jpg

Sverre

[sveger]

Sign says; "rather 5 minutes to late than never".
http://img212.imageshack.us/img212/2331/fakf100152cl4.jpg

Sverre

[sveger]

Another one;
http://img212.imageshack.us/img212/9177/fakf1001521ns5.jpg

Sverre

[sveger]

Another one;
http://img131.imageshack.us/img131/4153/fakf1001521sw3.jpg

Sverre

[sveger]

Another one;
http://img131.imageshack.us/img131/3153/fakf1001521cp9.jpg

Sverre

[sveger]

Another one;
http://img131.imageshack.us/img131/3883/fakf1001522la9.jpg

Sverre

[sveger]

Any help in identifying this would be apprechiated;
http://img525.imageshack.us/img525/6292/sfff1001251nx0.jpg

Sverre

[sveger]

Sigh, I could have had this one;
http://img525.imageshack.us/img525/9100/sfff19941001fb2.jpg

Sverre

[exeric]

Those are fantastic pictures Sverre. How are you doing on your Henderson ?

[sveger]

Hi Eric,
Henderson is now all apart again. All smaller parts are nickle plated, gears and clutch levers as well as exhaust are to big for my kit and need to be done out of town.
Then parts are to be painted and striped where required during the next couple of months.

Just bought a running condition Super X 1926 that will need parts from your side of the pound, stored in a barn since 1948.

Kind regads
Sverre

[sveger]

Some more;
http://img367.imageshack.us/img367/3440/12nq6.jpg

http://img367.imageshack.us/img367/8659/226021hlrc1.jpg

http://img367.imageshack.us/img367/6489/15dl3.jpg

Sverre