Often overshadowed in popular memory by tanks, aircraft and battleships, the motorcycle actually played a crucial role in the Second World War. As an effective form of easily deployable transport for infantrymen, bikes such as the Harley Davidson WLA became vitally important for airborne units and messengers.
Here we have a charming example of one such Harley Davidson, carefully restored to its original military specification. We understand this 1942 example was used by the US Military Police during the conflict. Now it stands as a fine example, finished to a high standard and accompanied by a number of period accessories.
The vendor informs us that this Harley Davidson has undergone an extensive restoration and is now resplendent in its original US Military Olive Drab livery.
The paintwork itself would appear to be in very good order, with a few imperfections and signs of use here and there. There is a little wear to the tank including a couple of small dents. There is also some crazing on the lower cowls, most likely caused by heat from the engine. There are a couple of small scratches to the leather saddle but these are fairly insignificant.
Everything appears to be present and correct, including a number of accessories which include the military air cleaner, skid plate, crash bars, saddlebags, scabbard and a submachine gun which of course is deactivated. It is even supplied with boots and a uniform, for the ultimate period experience!
This WLA really looks the part and is in very good usable condition.
We are informed that this Harley Davidson has had its engine rebuilt by Damian Eggs, resulting in it being in very fine fettle. The vendor reports that it starts, runs and rides exactly as it should.
The big V-twin engine creates a rhythmic thud as it settles down to a steady idle and the vendor does not report any mechanical issues or eccentricities the next owner should know about. We understand that this Harley is ready to be enjoyed, operating exactly as the manufacturer intended.
Sympathetically restored to a good standard, the very fact this motorcycle is still functioning today is testament to the robust engineering of Harley Davidson in the 1940s.
This is more than a classic motorcycle, it’s a slice of history.
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1942 Harley Davidson WLA
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