Orley Ray Courtney’s Art-Deco Henderson Reborn by Frank Westfall

Timeless Revival - In the world of motorcycle enthusiasts, some projects transcend mere mechanics to become true works of art. Among these, one project that has captured widespread acclaim is the extraordinary art-deco motorcycle owned by Frank Westfall—a prominent motorcycle collector and respected local figure in Syracuse, where he operates Middle Earth Leather Works. This striking motorcycle has turned heads as it gracefully cruises city streets, a testament to the fusion of creativity and engineering.

The 1930 Excelsior KJ Henderson custom motorcycle is built and designed by Orley Ray Courtney. (Picture from: BikeExif)

The story of this masterpiece begins with the chassis of a 1930 Henderson KJ Model “Streamline” Four, a classic of its era. Originally crafted by master builder Orley Ray Courtney in 1936, this motorcycle embodies the seamless integration of artistic vision and mechanical excellence. At its heart lies an inline four-cylinder engine producing 40 bhp at 4,000 rpm, capable of propelling the bike to around 100 mph (160 kph). 

The 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)

The KJ’s body shell was a radical departure from convention. Its streamlined form features a curved, vertical-bar grille reminiscent of the Chrysler Airflow and a rear end echoing the elegance of an Auburn boat-tail speedster. Every panel was meticulously hand-formed from steel, a labor-intensive process executed with precision using a power hammer.

The 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)

Henderson, once a respected American marque owned by Excelsior Motor Mfg. & Supply Co., was among the “Big Three” of American motorcycle manufacturers in the 1930s, alongside Harley-Davidson and Indian. Sadly, the marque eventually faded into obscurity, with only a brief attempt at revival in the late 1990s. The enigmatic Orley Ray Courtney, the genius behind this design, remains a mysterious figure, though his work appeared in a 1953 Popular Science article showcasing the Enterprise, a 1950s  custom motorcycle transformation that reflected evolving stylistic trends.

The 1930 Excelsior KJ Henderson custom motorcycle was finished in glossy black, complete with custom leather seating and a finned exhaust. (Picture from: Silodrome)

Frank Westfall played a pivotal role in bringing this historic machine back to life. He acquired the motorcycle in 2001 from collector Mike Gaglioti, who had previously obtained it from Ron Finch, a friend of Courtney. Recognizing its potential and historical significance, Westfall embarked on a comprehensive restoration. Beginning in 2002, the restoration process—undertaken with the help of expert motorcycle restorer Pat Murphy—lasted nearly a year and totaled approximately 700 hours of meticulous labor. Many steel body panels were re-formed with a power hammer to faithfully replicate Courtney’s original craftsmanship. The restored motorcycle was finished in glossy black, complete with custom leather seating and a finned exhaust.  

The 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)

This restored masterpiece first appeared publicly at the Rhinebeck Grand National Meet in June 2010, drawing admiration from collectors and enthusiasts alike. Its presence celebrated not just the motorcycle itself, but also the legacy of Orley Ray Courtney, showcasing the artistry, innovation, and engineering of a bygone era. 

Frank Westfall’s art-deco Henderson remains a living testament to the possibilities that emerge when passion, creativity, and historical preservation converge. For enthusiasts interested in modern interpretations of such iconic designs, companies like NMoto and Jakusa-Design offer contemporary inspirations that echo this timeless blend of style and performance.

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][07112023] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DRIVE2.RU | BIKEEXIF.COM | CORE77 | AUTOEVOLUTION | CARS.BONHAM | AFINEPRESS | FUZZYGALORE | MIKEZINE | SILODROME | FRISTARTMUSEUM ]

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