ONE-OFF - In the realm of motorcycle enthusiasts, a captivating history unfolds, characterized by passion-driven projects that culminate in truly remarkable outcomes. Among these, a project that has earned widespread acclaim is the extraordinary motorcycle owned by Frank Westfall, who is not only a prominent motorcycle collector but also a well-known local figure in Syracuse, where he runs Middle Earth Leather Works. This exceptional motorcycle, crafted in the art-deco style, has left admirers and onlookers in awe as it elegantly traverses the city streets.
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1930 Excelsior KJ Henderson custom motorcycle is built and designed by Orley Ray Courtney. (Picture from: BikeExif) |
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1930 Henderson 1,301cc Model KJ 'Streamline' Four was the base of the Orley Ray Courtney's art-deco style custom motorcycle. (Picture from: Cars.Bonham) |
In the annals of motorcycle history, Henderson was once a respected marque, owned by the renowned American motorcycle manufacturer, Excelsior Motor Mfg. & Supply Co. During the 1930s, it stood tall among the "Big Three" of American motorcycle companies, alongside Harley-Davidson and Indian.
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1930 Excelsior KJ Henderson custom motorcycle is powered by an inline four-cylinder of 40 bhp at 4,000rpm, which can be made it run at the top speed of 100 mph (approx 160 kph). (Picture from: AFinePress) |
Regrettably, the Henderson marque has faded into obscurity, with a brief attempt at revival in the late 1990s. The enigmatic figure behind the design, Orley Ray Courtney, remains a mystery to many. However, his name resurfaces in a 1953 Popular Science article, accompanied by images of another motorcycle he transformed in 1950, reflecting the evolving style of the times.
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1930 Excelsior KJ Henderson custom motorcycle is owned by a collector named Frank Westfall of Syracuse, and had caused a stir in June 2010 when it appeared at the Rhinebeck Grand National Meet. (Picture from: AutoEvolution) |
The meticulous restoration and reconstruction efforts undertaken by Frank Westfall are nothing short of awe-inspiring. The unique motorcycle, with its captivating form and undeniable charm, made a significant impact when it graced the Rhineback Grand National Meet in June 2010. This motorcycle show, located just a few hours' drive north of New York City, provided the perfect stage for the world to witness this magnificent creation in all its glory.
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Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of the two-wheeled monster and stay alive with true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops...... *** [EKA [01072020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DRIVE2.RU | BIKEEXIF.COM | CORE77 | AUTO EVOLUTION | CARS.BONHAM | AFINEPRESS | FUZZYGALORE | MIKEZINE ]
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