Originally an Italian aircraft manufacturer, Aermacchi began making motorcycles after the Second World War.
Harley-Davidson bought half its motorcycle division in 1960, adding lightweight Italian machines to its range, and took full ownership in 1974.
The Sprint 250 Model H was built in Italy by Aermacchi and sold under the Harley-Davidson name. Its air-cooled 250cc four-stroke single features pushrod-operated overhead valves and a cylinder mounted almost horizontally, pointing forwards. The engine and four-speed gearbox share a common housing, with chain final drive to the rear wheel.
The H was intended for both road use and light off-road riding. Its simple backbone frame is fitted with telescopic front forks and a swinging arm with twin rear dampers, while drum brakes are fitted at both ends. The low-mounted engine and compact layout gave the Sprint a distinctive appearance among the small-capacity motorcycles of the period.
Cagiva acquired the motorcycle business in 1978, continuing production under its own name and bringing the Aermacchi motorcycle era to a close.
