Lot 124: 1947 Harley-Davidson 45ci WL

This 1947 Harley-Davidson WL utilized the legendary 45ci flathead twin engine. Long considered the workhorse of the Harley-Davidson model lineup, this engine was launched in the summer of 1929 to usher in the era of the company’s sidevalve engines. It remained in the solo motorcycle model lineup through 1952 and was used as late as 1973 in the three-wheeled Servi-Cars. Its success and longevity were attributed to its simplicity. It was often mistaken for a ‘Big Twin’ because it looked similar to its larger 74ci and 80ci flathead brethren.

Infinitely more reliable than the larger 74 and 80ci flatheads, it won its place in military machines as well as race bikes. The 45 was used almost exclusively in military bikes produced for World War II and during the late 1940s and 1950s, it was the engine choice of dirt track racers. From the beginning, the engines had a cam for each cylinder that allowed easy tuning, and honing the skills of backyard racers all over the country. The bike’s simplicity made it both reliable and easy to maintain.

During the peak of the war in 1942, production hit nearly 27,000 machines as Harley-Davidson produced the WLA for the war. In 1947, only 3,338 WL’s were produced and sold for $490. By the end of WL production in 1952, fewer than 1,000 bikes were built and sold at $730.

Harley-Davidson used a friction dampened ride control for positive fork dampening through 1949. Hydraulic shock absorbers used by other manufacturers were more advanced but prone to leaking. Harley waited until the new Hydra-Glide front end could be perfected. This motorcycle is equipped with chromed 16” wheels and tires which were standard for 1947, but 18” wheels could be obtained as an option. Prior to World War II, the opposite was true. The motorcycle’s distinctive Tombstone taillight was introduced this year and used until 1949. Its sporty black leather solo saddle was a common accessory throughout the 1940s.

This 1947 WL features a non-metallic, two-tone red and silver paint scheme reminiscent of the 1934 Harley-Davidson VL diamond fender pattern while the gas tank is painted similar to the 1939 two-tone paint scheme. Even during the 1920s, Harley-Davidson offered alternate paint schemes, and ever since man and machine were joined, riders were customizing their mounts. In the early 1930s, Harley-Davidson started to offer an increased variety of accessories, and encouraged owners to dress up their motorcycles.

This motorcycle was restored by Mike Egan of California and acquired by Santa Cruz Harley-Davidson. A California title is provided with the motorcycle and as it has been on constant display since its purchase, careful reconditioning is advised before starting and operating this bike.

Without reserve