c1939 Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead Motorcycle

Description

Introduced in 1936, the Knucklehead was Harley's first production overhead-valve V-twin model and the first to use hemispherical heads. Using cylinder heads adapted from the original ohv 'Peashooters' on existing JDH V-twin crankcases, the bike was also Harley's first four-speed motorcycle and was available as the E, sidecar ES or high compression EL. With more than 40 horsepower on tap, the EL was a seriously powerful motorcycle by the standards of the day and the equal of Harley's main rival, the Indian Chief. A new double-cradle frame housed this masterpiece of engineering, while the teardrop fuel tank, patented oil tank/battery box and integral dash by Bill Harley completed the package. Demonstrating the potential of the new model, a Knucklehead achieved a top speed of 136.183 mph on the sands at Daytona Beach in Florida. Some initial problems were resolved early in the Knucklehead's model run, including reinforcing the frame, enclosing the rocker assemblies and most important of all, addressing some of the issues around the dry-sump lubrication system. For many enthusiasts the Knucklehead reached its zenith in 1939, thanks to the stylish paint scheme, chrome trim, brown saddle and streamlined ?cat's eye? instrument panel. Mechanical changes included a revised sliding-gear transmission, better brakes and a new fuel filter. Sales were up in 1939, with 2695 EL and 214 ES Knuckleheads finding buyers that year. Following the Second World War civilian production resumed in 1946 but the Knucklehead's days were numbered, the model evolving into the Panhead by 1948. By this time the Knucklehead had already taken on legendary status but for collectors the models built in the late 1930s remain the most desirable in terms of styling and performance, with surviving examples found in some of the finest Harley collections around the world.