1916 Harley-Davidson Cut-down

The beginnings of the 1916 Cut-down! Great news from the Wheels Through Time restoration shop! The 1916 Harley-Davidson Cut-down project is finally finished.

I have to admit, this has been one of the most fun, and most challenging builds that I've ever taken on.

About 8 months ago, I dreamed up this project after taking my dads '25 Harley Cut-down out on the road for the first time. The bike was a powerhouse, and strongly reflects the earliest days of motorcycle customization.

The term “Cut-down” most likely originated in the early to mid 1920s, when motorcyclists began to modify their machines into their vision of the perfect motorcycle. By “cutting down” the frame and fenders, removing unnecessary parts and components, and hopping up engines for better performance, these machines were lighter and faster, lower to the ground, and more maneuverable. Originating in the Southern California area, a region known for its racing history, the cut-down was an answer to those who couldn't obtain, or afford, a factory race bike. With a lower center of gravity, a shorter wheelbase, and a more aggressive riding position, these machines became ever more popular among riders through the late 1920s and '30s, and hold an important position in motorcycle history.

The 1916 Cut-down Near Completion the cut-down build here at the museum has been filled with ups and downs, and after 8 long months of development, it's finally come together in a manner that far exceeded our expectation. We started with a pile of parts, and through much work and dedication, slowly evolved this machine into our interpretation of how an early customizer would have envisioned his perfect bike.

Beginning with a rare 1916 Harley-Davidson engine that was adapted for racing during its early life. Motor was someone's hot rod back in the day. Found it at Wauseon, and when we took it apart, we discovered 1937 6-cylinder Ford domed aluminum pistons. Much better than the old cast iron jobbies they came with, was a major benefit. It also had a big old hot cam, and lightened racing flywheels. We didn't really have any idea of how it would run, since it was a mix match of parts probably put together in the '30s.

This thing hauls ass. My dad and I raced up the hill from town to the Blue Ridge Parkway with a couple of buddies. It was five miles at up to 9% grade. All were on pre-1925 bikes. By the time they got to the top, my bike had already cooled off.

We found a great period frame that would be perfect for modifications. With the help of my friend John the Painter, from Dills Paint Works, we modified the frame for better handling by lowering the seat position, shortened the tanks, and lowered the motors center of gravity. Using 100% original Harley-Davidson parts from the period, we spent long hours, building the machine into a true early American hot-rod.

We cut 2 inches out of the bottom of the neck tube, and moved it to the top, raising the frame in front. Then we cut 2 inches out of behind the seat casting on the rear triangle, and wedged the rear end up to level it out. It also shortened the wheelbase about an inch and a half. Then we dropped the seat post casting 2 inches for a lower ride position. All in all, the bike is lowered about 4 inches from stock, placing the center of gravity much closer to the ground.

Aiming to have the bike done for the Cycle Source Big Mountain Run, we had our work cut out for us over the past few weeks. I've got to admit, I was in serious doubt that I could finish the machine by the time the run came to Wheels Through Time and just as I began to hit panic-mode, my dad patted me on the shoulder and said “We'll get her done”.

We had to shorten the tanks 4 inches, which was a hell of a challenge. When we found them, they contained more holes than a screen door.

Boy was he right. Last night, we cranked it up for the first time and took her for a ride. What a thrill.

I've got a lot to be thankful for, and having a dad that is as supportive as Dale is at the very top. Without his help, expertise, and passion, this 1916 Harley-Davidson cut-down would have never come to fruition. I plan to race it at Wauseon….but have a little more work to do.

Thanks Dad! Now what do we work on next?