The story
Founded by Howard R. Davies in 1924.1
1924
In 1924, with E J Massey, the first HRD motorcycles were built. Motors were sourced from JA Prestwich Industries Ltd (JAP), close ratio gearboxes from Burman, forks from Druid or Webb, chains from Renolds, oil pumps from Pilgrim, and carburettors from Binks. The bikes targeted the more affluent among the mechanically minded, with sporting performance and quality components.
1924 Models
HD90 – 500 cc JAP racing engine – 90 mph (140 km/h) – 90 guineas
HD80 – 350 cc JAP OHV double port – 80 mph (130 km/h) – 80 guineas
HD70 – 350 cc JAP OHV – 70 mph (110 km/h) – 70 guineas
HD70 S – 500 cc JAP sports sidevalve – 70 mph (110 km/h) – Solo: 66 guineas, Sidecar: 83 guineas
1925
In 1925 Davies rode his own motorcycles at the Isle of Man TT, coming second in the Junior and winning the Senior. This brought in orders, but while appearing successful the firm was losing money. The first premises were too small, so they had to enlarge, but were undercapitalised. There was always a waiting list, but only small numbers were produced. In September Bert le Vack set a speed record of 104.41 mph (168.03 km/h) on an HRD at Brooklands.
1925 Models
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HD Super90 – 500 cc JAP twin port engine – 100 mph (160 km/h) – 98 guineas
1926
In 1926 the opposition at the TT were faster, and the best placing for HRD was fifth.
The model range was broadened, but production didn't meet demand. A general strike inflicted more financial damage.
1926 Models
HD75 – 500 cc Jap OHV engine – 75 mph (121 km/h) – 75 guineas
HD 600 De Luxe – 600 cc JAP sidevalve – 72 guineas
HD65 – 350 cc JAP OHV – 65 mph (105 km/h) – 65 guineas
HD60 – 350 cc JAP sidevalve – 60 mph (97 km/h) – 60 guineas
The HD Super 90 gained the option of a 600 cc JAP OHV motor, raising the price by 5 guineas.
1927
In 1927 Freddie Dixon took first place in the Junior TT, and sixth in the Senior for HRD. Despite this victory, the financial situation worsened.
From Wikipedia’s article on HRD Motorcycles, shared under CC BY-SA 4.0.3