Harley-Davidsons For 1963
HARLEY-DAVIDSONS FOR 1963
THE Harley-Davidson Motor Co. in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, have announced their 1963 models ranging in size from 175cc up to the old familiar 74 cubic inch Duo-Glide. Among the most significant additions are two new 175cc lightweights, the Pacer and Scat, both with a new swinging arm rear suspension employing a pair of coil springs running lengthwise under-neath the engine and gearbox. Though both use the same single-cylinder two-stroke engine, the Scat has a "tuned" exhaust system, ball end control levers, 18 inch wheels and off-the-road tires. The Scat is also to be made available in a trail riding model with a larger rear sprocket and smaller transmission sprocket.
The 250cc, ohv, single-cylinder Sprint and Sprint H are continued with several improvements including a newly strengthened lower end bearing, lightweight racing tappets, improved oil filter, larger capacity oil pump, provision for tachometer drive and a re-designed shifter spring. The Sprint has a new gas tank, higher rubber mounted handlebars and several other changes including wider and softer saddle. The Sprint H, with a 1 1/3" longer wheelbase (53 1/3 inches) than the Sprint, longer fork angle, 18" wheels and a one tooth lower counter shaft sprocket, is the scrambles version.
The Sportster H and CH are continued but with a new third gear ratio that should add to performance (the interval between third and fourth gears is closer). Minor changes include a new kick start pedal, rubber mounted sealed beam headlight, remounted dimmer switch and a new magneto with a key lock.
Harley’s 74 cubic inch Duo-Glide has a new rear brake with 40% more contact area and a re-designed rear wheel hydraulic brake cylinder that reduces brake pedal pressure. A new chain guard and chain oiler are featured as well as new external oil lines to supply oil to the overhead valve gear, larger tappet rollers and a new kick start pedal.
In 1963 the Topper motor scooter retains the 165cc, two-stroke engine with automatic transmission, fiberglass body and 12" wheels of its predecessors, but has a new seat. The Topper and the Pacer lightweight motorcycles are now available in 5 horsepower models for teenagers in states which have junior licensing laws restricting horsepower. •
