Harley–Davidson Aermacchi Sprint model 1961 introduction motorcycle photo

Description

A superb photo made of the absolutely magnificent
Harley-Davidson Italian Aermacchi Sprint model motorcycle during the new model introduction in 1961!
As you can see in the photograph, on hand for the introduction are; William J. Harley, Walter C. Davidson and William H. Davidson as they are uncasing the new bikes. In America, the Aermacchi Harley's were brought out simply as Harley-Davidson motorcycles. In Europe they were branded Harley-Davidson Aermacchi motorcycles.
Aermacchi
was found in the Northern Italian city of
Varese
in 1913. Soon after World War II had ended it was decided to start peacetime production with a three-wheeler truck. This was an unorthodox but very good design. Then, anticipating the motor cycle boom and intending to have a stake in it, the Aermacchi chiefs looked for a good designer who could produce an attractive lightweight. Their choice was Lino Tonti, who had been at Benelli and had worked on aircraft engines during the war. Tonti designed a lightweight motorcycle that broke the land speed record for the displacement. The bikes produced by Aermacchi were quite successful in the postwar Italian market, also thanks to their repeated placements on the race tracks. The firm designed and produced models incorporating the Italian word "Ala" (wing) in its names, such as "Ala Verde", "Ala Blu" and "Ala d'Oro" (respectively "green wing", "blue wing" and "golden wing"). In 1959, 50% of Aermacchi stock was acquired by Harley-Davidson to produce, in its assembly plant at Schiranna (near
Varese
), several models of small bikes (with engine displacement between 125cc and 350cc) for the American and the European market. This was an attempt to take back market sectors that were at the time increasingly being taken by Japanese manufacturers such as Honda and Yamaha. Aermacchi went on to have success in the Grand Prix motorcycle racing world with rider Renzo Pasolini finishing 2nd in the 1972 250 cc Roadracing World Championship. After 1974, when the American manufacturer acquired complete control of the Italian company, Aermacchi bikes re-badged as Harley-Davidsons won the 250 cc Roadracing World Championship three years in a row in 1974, 1975 and 1976. They also won the 350 cc World Championship in
1976. In
1972 AMF bought the remaining shares over from Aermacchi. From then on, the name Harley-Davidson was the only name to be found on the bikes, instead of the previous Aermacchi - Harley-Davidson name. In 1978 the Italian operations of the firm were sold to the Castiglioni brothers, founders of the Cagiva motorcycle company.
We have more photos listed on Ebay of Harley-Davidson and Aermacchi and Aermacchi H-D and other brands with various riders.
This is your rare chance to own this non period photo that reflects a very interesting and historic piece of motorcycle history. Therefore it is printed in a nice large format of ca. 8" x 8.3" (ca. 20 x
21 cm
).
Shipping costs will only be $ 7.00 regardless of how many photos you buy.   For 5 or more photos, shipping is free!
(Note: A. Herl, Inc. does not appear on photo, for ebay purposes only)
No copyright expressed or implied. Sold as collectable item only. We are clearing out our archives that we have gathered from various sources.
All items always sent well protected in PVC clear files
and board backed envelopes.
We have photographs that came from professional collections and/or were bought from the original photographer or press studio! They are all of professional and excellent quality.
After many decades of professionally collecting photographs and posters we are clearing out our archives. They make the perfect gift and are perfectly suited for framing. They will look gorgeous unframed and will be a true asset nicely framed with a border. They are a gorgeous and great asset in every home, workshop, workplace, restaurant, bar or club!
First come - first served. And you can always contact us for your requests. Please ask any questions before the auction ends.