Henderson Bike: A Legacy of Power, Style, and American Innovation

The name Henderson may not be as widely recognized today as Harley-Davidson or Indian, but in the early 20th century, it was one of the most respected motorcycle brands in the world. Known for its luxurious four-cylinder motorcycles and innovative engineering, Henderson bikes combined performance with elegance, leaving a legacy that still captures the imagination of bike enthusiasts and collectors.

A Brief History of Henderson Motorcycles
Founded in 1911 by brothers William and Tom Henderson in Detroit, Michigan, Henderson Motorcycles quickly gained a reputation for building high-performance four-cylinder bikes. The brand stood out in an era when most motorcycles had single or twin-cylinder engines. By offering a smoother and more powerful ride, Henderson bikes were ahead of their time.

In 1917, the Henderson company was sold to Ignaz Schwinn, owner of the Excelsior Motor Manufacturing & Supply Company, but the name Henderson remained. Under Excelsior-Henderson, the brand flourished and continued to innovate until production ceased in 1931 during the Great Depression.

Iconic Features of Henderson Bikes
1. Four-Cylinder Engines
Henderson was one of the first motorcycle companies to focus exclusively on inline four-cylinder engines. These engines were smoother, faster, and more refined than the competition, making Henderson motorcycles a favorite for long-distance touring and law enforcement use.
2. Speed and Performance
Henderson bikes were known for their speed. Models like the Henderson KJ Streamline (introduced in 1930) could reach speeds over 100 mph—a remarkable feat at the time. This made them popular with police departments across the United States.
3. Streamlined Design
Especially in its later models, Henderson embraced art-deco-inspired styling. The KJ Streamline, with its curved lines and elegant finish, is considered one of the most beautiful motorcycles ever made.
4. Advanced Engineering
Henderson motorcycles featured technological innovations such as full-pressure lubrication systems, mechanical oil pumps, and sophisticated cooling systems—decades ahead of many competitors.

Henderson Today: A Collector’s Dream
Though Henderson bikes are no longer in production, they remain highly collectible and valuable. Restored models often fetch high prices at auctions, and museums display them as examples of classic American craftsmanship. Enthusiasts admire Henderson not just for its engineering excellence, but also for the spirit of innovation it brought to the early motorcycle industry.

Final Thoughts
The story of Henderson Motorcycles is one of vision, ambition, and exceptional craftsmanship. Though the brand was short-lived, its impact on motorcycle history is enduring. Today, Henderson bikes are more than machines—they're symbols of a golden era of American motorcycling, admired for their elegance, engineering, and the legacy they left behind.
Whether you're a vintage bike enthusiast or a history buff, Henderson remains a name worth knowing—an icon of two-wheeled excellence.