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This 1908 Strap Tank Harley-Davidson Just Sold For RM3.9 Million

A vintage 1908 Strap Tank Harley-Davidson has just been sold, or USD 935,000 (RM3.9 mil), including auction fees at the Mecum Auction, held in Las Vegas. 

  • The bike gained the ‘Strap Tank’ name due to its fuel and oil tank that wraps around the cross-bar of the frame by nickel straps. 
  • The Strap Tank is said to be an evolution from Harley-Davidson first built motorcycle. 

While the numbers themselves don’t make it the most expensive motorcycle ever sold at an auction, it is still a considerable amount for a Harley-Davidson built machine.

According to reports, the motorcycle was owned by its owner, David Uihlein, since the 40s, and he kept it for 66 years before letting it go.

The bike gained the ‘Strap Tank’ nameplate due to its fuel and oil tank that wraps around the cross-bar of the frame by nickel straps. 

Although the motorcycle got restored at some point, the bike is mainly in its original state, including the tank, wheels, engine belt pulley, seat cover and muffler sleeve. 

Some suggest that the Strap Tank is an evolution from the first Harley-Davidson that William S. Harley and Arthur Davidson built together. 

Reportedly, there were 450 models made, but these days, less than a dozen remain in complete condition. 

A passionate football fan and anything two-wheels. He likes to commute on his 150cc scooter on a daily basis and occasionally takes a long trip with his 750cc machine just to "tapau" his favourite "roti canai". With a journalism background, he likes to write as much as he rides.

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