Aermacchi-Harley-Davidson produced the Model MC-65 Shortster in 1972 using the same engine fitted to the larger "Leggero" model. The Shortster utilized a large tube-backbone frame and incorporated hydraulic suspension front and rear. It had full lighting, a speedometer, and cross-braced handlebars. The compact light-weight came equipped with a two-up seat, upswept exhaust with a chrome heat shield, and stainless steel mudguards. Tyres were 3x10", and the wheelbase measured 39.2 inches. At 126 pounds, it was the HD Motor Company's smallest motorcycle, and its first minibike.
Model year 1972 was the only year this machine was called the Shortster and the only year it used a 65cc engine. For 1973, it featured a 90cc engine with a four-speed transmission and was renamed the X-90. The partnership manufactured approximately 8,000 of these machines, the example pictured, in Furious Yellow, sold new for US$295.
This page is derived from an archive of 2stroke-nl
