Harley-Davidson Eight-valve racer

⚠️ Things to consider

• Limited Speed and Performance: While the Eight-Valve Racer was advanced for its time, its performance may not meet modern expectations, especially when compared to contemporary racing motorcycles.
• Maintenance Challenges: The complexity of the eight-valve engine design can lead to increased maintenance needs and difficulties in repairs, particularly for those unfamiliar with vintage motorcycle mechanics.
• Comfort and Ergonomics: The racing design prioritizes speed over comfort, resulting in a riding position that may be less ergonomic for long-distance riding or casual use.
• Availability of Parts: Being a vintage motorcycle, finding replacement parts can be challenging and expensive, which can make ownership more cumbersome for enthusiasts.
• Limited Versatility: The Eight-Valve Racer is specifically designed for racing, which limits its versatility for everyday use or touring compared to more modern motorcycles that accommodate a wider range of riding styles.

⚖️ Comparison & Competition

• Indian Scout (1920s)
• The Indian Scout was a lightweight and agile motorcycle that gained popularity in the 1920s for its performance and reliability. It featured a 101 cubic inch V-twin engine, making it a strong competitor in racing and a favorite among riders who appreciated its speed and handling.
• Norton Model 18 (1920s)
• The Norton Model 18 was known for its robust construction and powerful performance, featuring a 490cc single-cylinder engine. It became a favorite in the racing scene due to its excellent handling and lightweight frame, making it capable of competing in various events.
• BSA B31 (1945)
• Although slightly later than the Eight-Valve Racer, the BSA B31 was a significant motorcycle in the post-war era. It featured a 350cc single-cylinder engine and was known for its versatility, being suitable for both road use and competitive racing.
• Triumph Speed Twin (1938)
• The Triumph Speed Twin was a groundbreaking motorcycle that introduced a parallel-twin engine to the market. Its 500cc engine provided a balance of power and smoothness, making it an iconic choice for both sport riding and daily use in the late 1930s.
• BMW R32 (1923)
• The BMW R32 is notable for being one of the first motorcycles to feature a shaft drive and a flat-twin engine layout. With its innovative engineering and solid performance, it set the stage for future BMW models and became a respected choice among enthusiasts for its reliability and unique design. These motorcycles reflect a range of styles and engineering approaches from the same era, offering exciting alternatives to the Harley-Davidson Eight-Valve Racer

Rule of thumb: under 125cc / 15HP → A1, under 47HP → A2, above → A.

Estimated average for 1000cc class: 35-50 mpg (5.0-7.0 L/100km)

Insurance grouping for Harley-Davidson Eight-valve racer (1000cc):

• 📋 Group 15-20+ — performance class, higher premiums
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Insurance Calculator (UK est.)

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Personalised premium estimate for the Harley-Davidson Eight-valve racer (UK rates):

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Price Estimate

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Estimated price range for the Harley-Davidson Eight-valve racer based on comparable motorcycles:

AVERAGE

$3,174

📊 Category-based (9 motorcycles) · Approximate (USD)

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Buy New & Used

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Find new and used Harley-Davidson Eight-valve racer 1928 listings:

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• 👤 Final premium varies by rider age, history, location.