Roaring Twenties: Popular Motorcycles Made in the 1920s
When you think of the 1920s, images of flappers, jazz, and Art Deco everything come to mind. It was also considered the golden era for motorcycles. The Roaring Twenties ushered in a wave of innovation and unique style to the motorcycle world. Historic brands like Harley-Davidson, Indian, and BSA would debut distinctive models that continue to shape motorcycle trends today.
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100 years later, many of these vintage models can be found in the garages of avid collectors or displayed in museums, still inspiring and appealing to riders today. We’ve assembled a list of motorcycles that made their mark last century and continue to capture our attention today.
Popular Motorcycles of the 1920s:
Harley-Davidson JD
1925–1929
Harley-Davidson’s JD series was the brand’s pinnacle series of the 1920s. Boasting a revised V-twin engine and featuring a three-speed transmission, the JD series was a reliable touring bike in its day. The teardrop fuel tank and iconic olive-green paint made it easy to recognize on the road. Modern collectors admire the JD series for its mechanical simplicity and iconic Harley-Davidson elements that continue to this day.
Indian Scout
1920–1929
Making its big debut in 1920, the Indian Scout is perhaps one of the most beloved bikes of its time. It quickly earned a reputation for both power and agility. The Scout’s 606cc V-twin engine and low-slung frame made it a favorite for motorcycle racers. It was the only American V-twin at the time to make use of a gear-driven primary drive rather than a belt of chain drive. Indian reintroduced the iconic model in 2015 with a body inspired by the bikes original design.
BSA S26
1926
Birmingham Small Arms Company, better known as BSA, became one of the largest motorcycle manufacturers in the world during the 1920s. The BSA S26, a single-cylinder engine model, was known for its ruggedness and dependability. Offering a more practical bike for riders who were simply looking for a dependable motorcycle, the S26 was a workhorse that could handle everything from daily riding to long-distance touring. The company became so popular in the 1920s that their 25 percent market share allowed them to legitimately boast that “One in Four is a BSA.”
Norton Model 18
1922–1931
Norton’s Model 18 solidified the brand’s reputation for smooth performance. With a 500cc single-cylinder OHV engine, the Model 18 offered both noteworthy speed and control for the time period. Because of its lively performance and handling, the Model 18 was also popular at early racing events, including the Isle of Man TT, laying the groundwork for Norton’s racing heritage.
Triumph Model P
1925–1927
Triumph’s no-frills Model P offered affordability in a post-war world. The Model P’s 500cc side-valve engine wasn’t as flashy as some of its competitors, but it was a reliable bike that was easy to service. This made it a favorite among police forces and everyday commuters, solidifying Triumph’s position as a leading British brand.
Vintage Motorcycles That Hold Their Value
Although not as easy to come by as in years passed, motorcycles manufactured in the 1920s remain popular in the collector’s market. A well-preserved or fully-restored model like the Indian Scout or Harley-Davidson JD can be valued anywhere from $30,000 to $80,000 depending on lineage and condition. These increasingly rare gems appeal to collectors because of their innovative engineering and timeless craftsmanship. With regular maintenance and careful attention, many 1920s bikes remain roadworthy nearly a century later, a testament to their engineering.
Affordable Vintage Motorcycles
Some younger riders are becoming increasingly more interested in older motorcycles. Those raised in the high-tech digital era find charm in the analog simplicity of early mechanical devices. Even though a fully restored 1920s model can be pricey, projects and “barn finds” sometimes hit the market for under $10,000, a steal for those willing to source out parts to do their own maintenance and restoration.
Older bikes offer younger riders an opportunity to hone their mechanical skills and challenge their riding abilities as they are far more complex to operate. And lastly, vintage bikes turn heads. The style and individuality of a vintage ride will absolutely make you popular with fellow riders and enthusiasts alike.
Key Considerations
Be sure to factor in maintenance costs and the availability of parts, as many 1920’s motorcycles require specialty work. Joining a vintage motorcycle club or forum can be an invaluable resource for troubleshooting as well as allowing you to share your experience with a likeminded community.
Final Thoughts
Owning a vintage bike from any era can be a challenging, but rewarding experience. Before you consider purchasing an older motorcycle, especially one from the 1920s, make sure that you consider the maintenance and costs required to keep it running smoothly. If you’re up for the challenge, you could be riding your very own piece of history.
Anna Cecilia Tozzi