Icon Defined – 1929 Henderson KJ

In America, Cruiser, Vintage by Tom WackerLeave a Comment

In American motorcycling 3 manufacturers dominate any discussion. Harley Davidson, Indian and Henderson. From 1912 to 1931 they were generally considered as the cream of the American market. They led the market with a flair. In 1925 Henderson introduced a 45 CID V-Twin that HD and Indian BOTH copied, and which lives on today in the 883 Sportster.

Henderson KJ - Engine

The 1929 Henderson KJ Streamline was a brand new design from legendary designer Arthur Constantine. Boasting 57 new features from the previous model including a foot clutch and the teardrop tank. It was to be the pinnacle of Henderson’s line as they went out of business in 1931.

Henderson KJ - Cockpit

The 1929 Henderson KJ used a 4 stroke OHV 4 cylinder air cooled motor and 4 downdraft carburetors. With 79.4 CID (1301 CC) and a brand new head/valve configuration with 5 main crank bearings it produced 40 HP and would easily go 100 MPH. This KJ (VIN # KJ1234) lives in Redondo Beach, California at American Classic Motors and is listed with a Buy It Now price of $75,000. It’s a 100 mile survivor that you can find