This 1948 Harley-Davidson Hummer is one of those rare vintage machines that immediately draws a crowd — not because it’s loud or fast, but because it tells a story. It’s lightweight, charming, and full of the quirky engineering that makes the early Harley two-strokes such sought-after collectibles today.
A Well-Preserved, Well-Loved Restoration
This bike was purchased by its second owner in the late 1960s and underwent a full restoration in the early 1990s. From there, it enjoyed a carefully maintained life indoors — displayed in showrooms, used as a prop in menswear stores, and featured at festivals like Riverfest and Bluesfest. It was never abused or left to deteriorate. Mechanically, it has been ridden sparingly over the years only to circulate fuel and keep everything fresh.
Not Your Typical Harley
The Hummer is a beautifully simple machine: a 125cc two-stroke single, a left-hand kickstart, rubber-band girder suspension, and an unmistakable silhouette that often makes even seasoned riders do a double take. It’s light, easy to maneuver, and an ideal display piece for any collector, shop, or private collection.
A Celebrity Backstory
One of the best parts of this particular bike’s history is its unexpected brush with fame:
Jay Leno rode this exact Hummer onto a stage during a performance in Niagara Falls in the mid-1990s.
He borrowed it from the Eagle’s Nest Motorcycle Shop, where it was displayed after its restoration. The small scratch on the rear fender? That’s from Jay bottoming out the seat. A tiny piece of comedy and motorcycle history all in one.
Rare Original Details
Collectors will appreciate the hard-to-find original ammeter — a component that is highly sought after on its own and often sells for impressive prices. The bike also retains the iconic features that make these early Hummers such fun, including the oil-cap filler, the compact Sportster-style tank, and that unmistakable two-stroke character.
A Perfect Display Bike With a Gentle Past
This Hummer has spent most of its life being appreciated rather than ridden. It has been cared for by its current owner for the last 14 years, serving as both a display and a sentimental piece — even helping spark a family member’s path to getting their motorcycle license.
Whether you’re a vintage Harley collector, a fan of unusual motorcycles, or someone looking for a standout display piece, this is a rare opportunity to own a well-documented, beautifully preserved 1948 Harley-Davidson Hummer with a story unlike any other.
Key Features
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1948 Harley-Davidson Hummer (Model 125)
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Fully restored in the early 1990s
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Long-term, well-documented ownership
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Rare original Harley ammeter
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Left-hand kickstart
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Girder suspension with rubber-band springs
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Lightweight, easy to maneuver, perfect display bike
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Jay Leno rode this exact bike during a live performance
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Stored indoors for decades
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Ridden sparingly only for maintenance purposes
Condition
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Excellent restored condition
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Mechanically sound for its age
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Cosmetic wear consistent with careful display use
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Small scratch on rear fender from Jay Leno’s stage ride
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Ideal as a collector’s piece or display motorcycle
Availability
This motorcycle is on display now at Perth County Moto.
Interested buyers are encouraged to visit in person or contact us with any questions.
You can read a short blog about this motorcycle here
