The 1936 Harley Davidson
The 1936 Harley Davidson EL “Knucklehead” is a classic American motorcycle that has become an icon of the motorcycle world. It is known for its distinctive “knucklehead” engine design, which featured overhead valves and rocker arms in a compact, high-performance package. This landmark motorcycle was first introduced in 1936, and it has been a favorite among motorcycle enthusiasts and riders ever since.
Most significant features
One of the most significant features of the 1936 Harley Davidson EL “Knucklehead” was its innovative engine design. Prior to the “Knucklehead,” most American motorcycles had side-valve engines that were reliable but lacked the performance of overhead-valve engines. The “Knucklehead” changed all that, with its innovative overhead valve engine design that combined power and reliability in a single package. The engine was capable of producing around 40 horsepower, which was a significant improvement over earlier designs.
High performance and reliability
Another factor that made the 1936 Harley Davidson EL “Knucklehead” special was its high performance and reliability. This motorcycle was designed to be a reliable workhorse that could handle a wide range of riding conditions. It was used by police departments, delivery services, and even the US military during World War II. The “Knucklehead” became known for its power, speed, and durability, making it a favorite among motorcycle enthusiasts and riders.
The motorcycles produced are not known
Although the exact number of 1936 Harley Davidson EL “Knucklehead” motorcycles produced is not known, it is estimated that around 1,800 were made in that year. Many of these motorcycles have been preserved and restored over the years, making them prized possessions among collectors and enthusiasts. A fully restored and well-maintained example can fetch hundreds of thousands of dollars at auction, while a rough or incomplete example may be worth significantly less.
Check out, Harley Davidson History: A Legacy of 120 Years
Despite its age, it is still possible to ride a 1936 Harley Davidson EL “Knucklehead” today. Many of these motorcycles have been restored and are still in running condition. However, due to their age and rarity, these motorcycles require careful maintenance and may not be suitable for everyday use. Riding a “Knucklehead” is a unique and exhilarating experience that gives riders a taste of what it was like to ride a classic American motorcycle from the golden age of motorcycling.
In conclusion, the 1936 Harley Davidson EL “Knucklehead” is a landmark motorcycle in American history that continues to captivate motorcycle enthusiasts and riders to this day. Its innovative engine design, high performance, and reliability have made it an icon of the motorcycle world. Although it is a rare and valuable collector’s item, it is still possible to ride a “Knucklehead” today and experience the thrill of riding a classic American motorcycle from a bygone era.
Here are some frequently asked questions about the 1936 Harley Davidson EL “Knucklehead”:
- What is the 1936 Harley Davidson EL Knucklehead?
- The 1936 Harley Davidson EL is a classic American motorcycle that was first introduced in 1936. It is known for its distinctive design, including a V-twin engine, teardrop-shaped fuel tank, and “horseshoe” oil tank.
- What is the engine size of the 1936 Harley Davidson EL Knucklehead?
- The 1936 Harley Davidson EL has a 61 cubic inch (1000 cc) V-twin engine that was capable of producing around 40 horsepower at the time.
- What makes the 1936 Harley Davidson EL Knucklehead special?
- The 1936 Harley Davidson EL is considered to be a landmark motorcycle in American history, as it was one of the first motorcycles to feature a modern overhead valve engine design. It was also known for its high performance and reliability, and became a favorite among motorcycle enthusiasts and riders.
- How many 1936 Harley Davidson EL motorcycles were produced?
- The exact number of 1936 Harley Davidson EL motorcycles produced is not known, but it is estimated that around 1,800 were made in that year.
- What is the value of a 1936 Harley Davidson EL today?
- The value of a 1936 Harley Davidson EL can vary widely depending on its condition, rarity, and other factors. A fully restored and well-maintained example can fetch hundreds of thousands of dollars at auction, while a rough or incomplete example may be worth significantly less.
- Is it still possible to ride a 1936 Harley Davidson EL today?
- Yes, it is still possible to ride a 1936 Harley Davidson EL today, as many of these motorcycles have been restored and are still in running condition. However, due to their age and rarity, these motorcycles require careful maintenance and may not be suitable for everyday use.
- What are some common features of the 1936 Harley Davidson EL?
- Some of the common features of the 1936 Harley Davidson EL include a “knucklehead” engine design, which featured overhead valves and rocker arms, a rigid frame, a 4-speed transmission, a foot-operated clutch, and a hand-operated brake.
- Was the 1936 Harley Davidson EL used for any specific purposes?
- Yes, the 1936 Harley Davidson EL was used for a variety of purposes, including by police departments, delivery services, and even the US military during World War II. It was known for its power, speed, and durability, which made it suitable for a wide range of riding conditions.
- How has the 1936 Harley Davidson EL influenced modern motorcycles?
- The 1936 Harley Davidson EL is considered to be a landmark motorcycle in American history, and it has influenced the design and engineering of many modern motorcycles. Its innovative engine design, high performance, and reliability set the standard for future motorcycle designs, and its iconic styling has inspired many designers and enthusiasts.
- Are there any unique features of the 1936 Harley Davidson EL that are not found on modern motorcycles?
- Yes, there are several unique features of the 1936 Harley Davidson EL that are not found on modern motorcycles, such as its rigid frame, which provided a more stable and direct riding experience, and its foot-operated clutch, which required a different type of riding technique. Additionally, the “knucklehead” engine design was a significant departure from previous motorcycle engine designs and is not commonly found on modern motorcycles.
What oil is best for the 1936 Harley Davidson EL Knucklehead
The 1936 Harley Davidson EL was designed to use non-detergent 50-weight motor oil. This type of oil is commonly referred to as “straight weight” oil and is still available today from various manufacturers. It is important to use non-detergent oil in these older engines because detergent oils can break down and release contaminants that can clog the engine’s oil passages and cause damage. Additionally, it is recommended to use an oil with a low zinc content, as high levels of zinc can damage the engine’s soft metals. It is always best to consult with a qualified mechanic or expert in vintage motorcycle maintenance to ensure you are using the correct type of oil for your specific motorcycle.
Where is the best place to find 1936 Harley Davidson EL parts?
Finding parts for a 1936 Harley Davidson EL can be challenging due to the age of the motorcycle and the limited availability of original parts. However, there are several places where you can find parts for your vintage motorcycle, including:
- Online marketplaces: There are several online marketplaces such as eBay, Amazon, and Craigslist where you can find vintage motorcycle parts. These platforms allow you to search for specific parts or browse through listings from various sellers.
- Specialty motorcycle parts dealers: There are many specialty dealers who focus specifically on vintage motorcycle parts. These dealers can be found online or through vintage motorcycle clubs and forums. They often have a vast inventory of hard-to-find parts and can offer expert advice on restoring your motorcycle.
- Salvage yards: Salvage yards or “boneyards” can be a great place to find original parts for your motorcycle. These yards specialize in salvaging parts from vintage motorcycles and other vehicles, and can often offer rare or hard-to-find parts at a fraction of the cost of new parts.
- Vintage motorcycle events: Attending vintage motorcycle events such as swap meets or rallies can be a great way to connect with other vintage motorcycle enthusiasts and find parts for your motorcycle. These events often have vendors selling parts and accessories, as well as opportunities to network and trade parts with other enthusiasts.
When searching for parts for your 1936 Harley Davidson EL, you should ensure that the parts you purchase are compatible with your specific motorcycle and are of high quality. It is also recommended to work with a qualified mechanic or expert in vintage motorcycle maintenance to ensure that the parts are installed correctly and the motorcycle is restored to its original condition.