1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster

FROM THE DICK SHAPPY COLLECTION: The 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH Custom Engine Belly Burner Dragster

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.

In the 1960s, Harley-Davidson motorcycles were a prominent force in drag racing. These bikes, often modified Sportsters, gained popularity for their powerful engines and competitive performance. The motorcycles were known for their single-engine, carbureted setups and, in the Top Fuel class, the use of nitromethane, which provided significantly more power than gasoline. Some riders pushed the boundaries of speed and performance with innovative modifications. Racers often lightened their motorcycles, incorporating features like lightweight aluminum rims, modified transmissions, and custom tires.

The Harley-Davidson brand dominated the Top Fuel and no-bar drag racing classes. In the 1960s, the Top Fuel motorcycle class was a relatively new and evolving category, though other brands also saw experimentation with nitromethane fuel. The no-bar style, where bikes raced without wheelie bars, safety devices designed by Carl McClanahan that prevented the motorcycle from lifting too high, was a popular style of drag racing with roots tracing back to Harley-Davidsons early days. In the late 1960s, riders like Joe Smith and Gordon Kately achieved significant success with modified Sportsters, including multiple wins at the NHRA U.S. Nationals.

This 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH Custom Engine Belly Burner Dragster has a 55 cu. in. S & S v-twin engine and Super B careburetor. The tank sports "Custom Engines," the company of the racing legend Carl McClanahan. The tank also displays the phrase Belly Burner, a nickname given to low-slung, stretched chassis drag bikes that placed the rider in a nearly prone position over the engine. Racing tags mark it as a Class A, and note "The Drag Racers Association Member"ship and "Midwest Owners & Drivers Association." A sticker proclaims it as an Alton Dragway Class Trophy Winner.


ENGINE: 55 cu. in. S & S V-Twin

TANK: Custom Engines 314-42-0312

CARBURETOR: S & S Super B

RACING TAGS: Alton Dragway Class Trophy Winner, Class A, The Drag Racers Association Member - Midwest Owners & Drivers Association