T136.1 1950 HARLEY-DAVIDSON S125 This charming, restored 1950 Harley-Davidson S125 hails from a unique moment in the history of America’s most recognizable motorcycle manufacturers. From the beginning, Harley-Davidson built its reputation on producing high-quality, sturdy and capable motorcycles. The American V-twin became the Motor Company’s bread and butter, bolstered over the decades by a commanding commercial presence, an unequaled marketing department and a legendary racing program. By the 1940s, Harley-Davidson had become synonymous with motorcycling itself, and the company thrived atop the global marketplace. Still, other than a few marginally successful experiments with lightweight platforms in the 1920s, the most accessible machine in the company’s lineup was a 45 CI (750cc) middleweight V-twin. In hopes of capturing new market segments, including first-time riders, frugal enthusiasts, ambitious youngsters and urban commuters, Harley-Davidson capitalized on a unique opportunity presented in the aftermath of World War II. German manufacturer DKW, which produced lightweight two-stroke commuter motorcycles, was among the assets allocated to allied nations as a part of the country’s war reparations. In the U.S., Harley-Davidson was granted rights to build a new model based on one of DKW’s most successful lightweights, the RT125. The first of Harley-Davidson’s interpretations of the DKW platform, the S125 debuted in 1948 and featured a two-stroke, 125cc single-cylinder engine constructed in unit with a 3-speed gearbox. The S125 introduced the hand-clutch, foot-shifted configuration that would soon become an industry standard. The model also introduced a unique “peanut” fuel tank that became a favorite among racers and customizers, eventually becoming a signature of the coming Sportster line. The S125 was a breeze to ride, service and was substantially more affordable than the other machines in the Harley-Davidson lineup. Throughout its production from 1948 to 1966, the S125 provided a foundation for a slew of lightweight configurations, primarily differing in name only, including the 165, Super 10, Ranger, Pacer, Scat and Bobcat. Most notably, the 1955-59 Hummer variation became the moniker that defined each lightweight model over the years. This beautiful Peacock Blue 1950 Harley-Davidson S125 has been comprehensively restored and features the earlier girder fork, sprung saddle, passenger pillion, a rear-fender luggage rack and new chrome.
