Lil4X

It could have been penned by Raymond Lowey, or by a committee of Chrysler styling execs, or possibly a bit of Buckminster Fuller . . . it looks like the penultimate example of the Art Deco movement seen in everything from the Chrysler Airflow to the Chrysler Building, or even one of a number of toasters, radios, and even a railroad engine that came out of the Deco movement in the US. That movement, that featured clean, industrial-looking, streamlined lines came out of fin de siècle France and became popular in the US during the inter-war years.

Whatever its pedigree, it's a gorgeous piece of work.



This is a motorcycle, not a scooter, a one-off custom built around a 1930 Henderson - having a four-cylinder inline engine and known as the most powerful production motorcycle of its day.

For a look at the orignal Henderson, see Jay Leno's website for a tour of his completely restored 1931 Henderson at http://www.jaylenosgarage.com/at-the...-henderson-kj/

The restoration by its current owner, Frank Westfall of Syracuse, NY is immaculate, and shows off the design and build quality of O. Ray Courtney who built the machine in 1936 using the mechanicals from a 1930 Henderson.





Note the low profile makes it look like a scooter, but it is a tribute to the machine's packaging that it ended up this low.



Although the bike is ridable, it isn't much on comfort apparently - like many styling exercises, it exacts a penalty for fashion. At least the clutch pedal and hand shifter allow for the carrying of an adult beverage as you motor down the boulevard, turning heads as you go.

H/T to www.knuclebusterinc.com for the photos and this piece. http://www.knucklebusterinc.com/feat...eco-henderson/