BODYWORK. Frame: single cradle tubular steel. Front suspension: parallelogram fork. Rear suspension: rigid. Chassis no.: V-2209.

MECHANICS. Engine: single-cylinder, four-stroke. Displacement: 345.7 cc (73.6 x 82.6 mm). Transmission: chain drive. Gearbox: 3-speed. Engine no.: 26B2376.

DOCUMENTS. Original Spanish registration papers from Valencia.

HISTORY. By the mid-1920s, Harley-Davidson had ceased production of single-cylinder motorcycles, but when the Indian Prince appeared in 1925, the Milwaukee manufacturer responded with two machines of the same configuration and displacement —one with side valves and the other with overhead valves— both featuring, for the first time on a Harley, a removable cylinder head. These models were essentially smaller versions of the well-known V-twin, sharing similar chassis and cycle parts, including the sprung saddle.

The Model B, fitted with the flathead engine, used a coil-and-battery ignition system and produced 10 hp. Equipped with a three-speed gearbox and chain final drive, it was capable of reaching 97 km/h (60 mph). Production ran from 1926 to 1929, though several units were still sold in 1930. Over time, the Model B has become a highly sought-after motorcycle among vintage enthusiasts.

Actor Steve McQueen owned a slightly later version of the Model B than the one presented here. The example offered in this auction was registered in Valencia in December 1930, comes with up-to-date documentation and a known history. After passing through several owners, it became part of the renowned Col·lecció d’Automòbils de Salvador Claret in Sils, Girona, where it remained on display for many years. It later joined the collection of its most recent owner, who commissioned a meticulous restoration, the excellent results of which are evident in these photographs.