1950 Harley-Davidson WL

FROM THE DICK SHAPPY COLLECTION: The 1950 Harley-Davidson WL45

Harley-Davidson, Inc. needs no introduction as an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. In 1901, William S. Harley, Arthur Davidson, and brother Walter Davidson began work on their first motorcycle engine. Their first attempt may have been a failure, but they founded Harley-Davidson in 1903 and became one of the largest motorcycle manufacturers by 1920. They produced motorcycles for the United States used in both World War I & II and were one of only two major motorcycle manufacturers to survive the Great Depression. In fact, theyve survived numerous changes to ownership and restructuring, intense global competition, charges of restrictive practices, claims of stock price manipulation, and a constantly evolving view of the company and bikers. Still, they are widely known for their loyal following and now manufacture in Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Brazil, and Thailand. Their classic cruiser style, including high handlebars, low seats, and chrome parts, is easily recognizable. Theyre also noted for their customizability, giving rise to the chopper style of motorcycle, and for the distinct sound of HDs powerful engines.

"You've got to take your hat off to the Harley-Davidson 45," stated a Harley-Davidson advertisement. "It was a hero on the battlefields of Europe and the South Pacific; it has broken records on all the nation's racetracks, and it is providing hundreds of thousands of riders many happy hours of pleasant, economical, trouble-free rides."

Introduced in 1937, this bike became better known as the "45" for its 45 cubic inch v-twin engine, producing an exhaust note unlike any other machine on the planet. The side-valve powerful workhorse of an engine would turn out to be one of the longest-running Harley motors and this one is hooked to a three-speed transmission.

It's almost identical to the infamous military WLA and WLC Liberators. The WL 45 models continued in post-war production with the venerable 45 CI flathead twin. This very low-mileage example is in completely original condition, and it runs as good as it looks.

VIN NO: 50WL1014