THE “SLOW JOE” GARDELLA ESTATE Among some of the most scarce and coveted motorcycles in history, early Harley-Davidson V-twins, like this genuinely magnificent example from The “Slow Joe” Gardella Estate Collection, represent the historic monolith of motorcycling as it ascended to the industry’s top. Over the decades, Harley- Davidson has rarely been a company of firsts but rather one known for its dedication to quality, slowly adopting and incorporating new technologies into existing platforms built on robust and reliable machines. Still, by 1912, the company’s founders had established an unshakable foundation with an ever-growing factory, expansive dealership network and reputation for building sturdy, capable machines. Though several American motorcycle manufacturers offered V-twin models in their lineups for years, Harley-Davidson had only just introduced a V-twin in 1911 after scrapping an unsatisfactory prototype project in 1909. However, in 1912, the cofounders raised the stakes by uncharacteristically incorporating a host of new features into its lineup. Its first twin, the 1911 model 7D, proved that its latest flagship motorcycle was up to the company’s standards and marked a new chapter of success for the brand, and the 1912 models further expanded on its mechanics, comfort and style. For its standard 8D twin in 1912, Harley-Davidson carried forward the 50/6.5 HP F-head V-twin from its debut year. However, several internal features were improved, like its cam-operated mechanical valves and oiling system. Also, for the 1912 models, the company introduced its new “Free- Wheel” clutch assembly in the rear hub with a hand-lever control to aid riders at start-up and idle. Another innovative feature conceived for rideability was the “Ful-Floteing” seat post, which, in conjunction with its sprung Messinger saddle, added a series of springs inside the seat post to smooth out the bumpy roads. To further refine the overall experience and look of the new models, a new frame with a lowered seating position, as well as freshly redesigned fenders and tanks, were introduced, giving the machine an appearance more akin to a motorcycle than a bicycle. This 1912 Harley-Davidson Model 8D competed in the “Race of the Century” at Barber Motorsports race track, a place where Joe Gardella loved to race vintage bikes, especially with his good friend Dale Walksler. This V-twin from Gardella’s estate captures the moment when the brand truly began to forge its legacy, blending innovation with reliability to set the stage for its future dominance in the motorcycle world. F143 1912 Harley-Davidson Model 8D
