1947 HARLEY DAVIDSON KNUCKLEHEAD W MATCHING SIDE CAR

1947 HARLEY DAVIDSON KNUCKLEHEAD & SIDECAR

While the ‘Knucklehead’ is recognized today as an utterly iconic American motorcycle. which set a stylistic standard so high it is echoed and imitated to the present day. Harley hid its light under a bushel the first year. fearful that disaster might strike from introducing such a radical machine. The EL wasn’t listed in the 1936 catalog or advertising. except in passing as a mention of successful events where the Knucklehead was ridden. And in truth. the first production year saw significant changes and improvements to the EL. which vexes restorers to this day. but none of this erases the true greatness of the design.

The EL was entirely new. from its frame to the engine. gearbox and overall styling. It was the first H-D with a duplex-tube frame. which gave terrific stability when riding. and of course. it was the first OHV Big Twin from Milwaukee for the street. H-D had built OHV bikes for racing since the ‘Teens. but their fragility kept the factory close to reliable F-Head and Flathead designs. Helping to keep the new OHV engine cool was Harley’s first reticulating oil system–a proper oil pump at last. The gearbox now had four speeds and a robust clutch. Most importantly. all this innovation was styled in a compact. sleek and streamlined package which could not be faulted. Its teardrop tanks. dash-mounted speedometer and sleek fenders combined to create a picture we still hold of a modern motorcycle.

This Final production year Knucklehead for sale. was acquired by a mid western vintage HD fanatic who had conducted a no expense restoration several years ago and is a perfect representation of a combination cycle and side car all completed with the original and New Old Stock components. A rare and added feature is the very rare Harley Davidson factory auxiliary side car fuel tanks of which there are few in existence. It is as close to perfection as possible. fully sorted. ridden briefly and now in static display condition in my collection. A wonderful example to be added to your collection for driving enjoyment or display.   Enjoy numerous photos by visiting this link https://www. flickr. com/gp/113611455@N07/2WnBC2/

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