Announced in August 1929 as a replacement for the much-loved two-cam ‘pocket valve’ J-type, the Model U’s progenitor - the Model V - was far from an instant success. More massively built and heavier than its predecessor, the V lacked top end power to such an extent that the first examples were recalled for an extensive engine redesign. A larger crankcase accommodating heavier flywheels did the trick and, its problems solved, the 74ci ‘flat head’ v-twin went on to win the hearts of Harley-Davidson enthusiasts everywhere. Revised with the frame, tank and wheels of the 61ci overhead-valve ‘Knucklehead’, plus dry-sump lubrication, the V became the Model U in 1937. Inside the engine there was virtually nothing left unchanged: the crankpin was enlarged, connecting rods strengthened and the flywheels grew in size, while in the interests of rationalising production, the bore size changed to that of the ohv ‘61’ and stroke to that of the ‘80’. Improved and updated annually throughout the late 1930s, the old ‘flat head ‘74’ recommenced production after WWII, finally disappearing from the range at the end of 1948. Purchased by the vendor from a collector in Texas, this ’37 UL is attached to a sidecar of Harley-Davidson’s own manufacture, making it a particularly handsome and collectible combination. Previously restored (at date unknown) by Wheels Through Time Museum in Ohio, it has since been thoroughly reconditioned by Ted Tine Motorsports Inc in Chester, CT. Completed in 2005, the machine is offered with Certificate of Title
Announced in August 1929 as a replacement for the much-loved two-cam ‘pocket valve’ J-type, the Model U’s progenitor - the Model V - was far from an instant success. More massively built and heavier than its predecessor, the V lacked top end power to such an extent that the first examples were recalled for an extensive engine redesign. A larger crankcase accommodating heavier flywheels did the trick and, its problems solved, the 74ci ‘flat head’ v-twin went on to win the hearts of Harley-Davidson enthusiasts everywhere. Revised with the frame, tank and wheels of the 61ci overhead-valve ‘Knucklehead’, plus dry-sump lubrication, the V became the Model U in 1937. Inside the engine there was virtually nothing left unchanged: the crankpin was enlarged, connecting rods strengthened and the flywheels grew in size, while in the interests of rationalising production, the bore size changed to that of the ohv ‘61’ and stroke to that of the ‘80’. Improved and updated annually throughout the late 1930s, the old ‘flat head ‘74’ recommenced production after WWII, finally disappearing from the range at the end of 1948. Purchased by the vendor from a collector in Texas, this ’37 UL is attached to a sidecar of Harley-Davidson’s own manufacture, making it a particularly handsome and collectible combination. Previously restored (at date unknown) by Wheels Through Time Museum in Ohio, it has since been thoroughly reconditioned by Ted Tine Motorsports Inc in Chester, CT. Completed in 2005, the machine is offered with Certificate of Title
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