The year 1909 was the first in which Harley-Davidson manufacturing surpassed 1,000 motorcycles. It was also the debut of the Model 5, named in reference to the fifth year of Harley-Davidson production. The 5 was the first Harley model offered with multiple variations. The 5 and 5-A featured 28-inch wheels and battery or magneto ignition, respectively. The 5-B and 5-C came with 26-inch wheels and the same choice of ignition power. The 5-D variant was powered by Harley's first V-twin engine, but disappointing performance led to its cancellation after only 27 examples were built.
WheelsAge.org '2005–prés.