Description
National Motorcycle Museum | Solihull, West Midlands
Viewing: Tues 24th March from 1pm
Auction: Wed 25th March from 10am
Location: National Motorcycle Museum, Coventry Road, Bickenhill, Solihull B92 0EJ
Registration No: YWG 204Frame No: 42WLA54190MOT: Exempt
Restored with uncompromising attention to detail
Registered for British roads in 2016
Said to start easily and ride beautifully
Torquey and robust, the Harley-Davidson WL with its 45ci (740cc) ‘Flathead’ V-twin was ideal for military duties such as scouting and escorting, and so it was transformed into the army-model WLA in 1940, along with the Canadian Army WLC. Commissioned as part of American military expansion, it soon found itself in the European war theatre, supplied to the Allies under the Lend-Lease scheme. Production of around 70, 000 ended in 1945, but was revived for the Korean War from 1949 to 1952. The main differences from the WL were drab paint, sideless mudguards, and various accessories such as a heavy-duty luggage rack for radios and a machine gun scabbard.
This 1942 WLA has been beautifully and authentically restored with uncompromising attention to detail. The restorer went to great pains to source all the correct army equipment, and we would defy anyone to find fault. Registered with the DVLA in 2016, it has lately been off the road, though we are advised by the vendor that it “starts with ease and is a joy to ride.” Pleasantly patinated and in regular use until recently, it would be perfect for everything from motorcycle rallies to ’40s weekends and militaria fairs.
** Bidding will take place live at the venue, online via our H&H website, by telephone and commission - T&Cs apply**
Parking and entry into the auction is free for auction attendees with a catalogue, available at the door.
Catalogues can be purchased for £20 (admits 2 people)
