Vehicle Description
This is an extremely unique, experimental, Harley Davidson 1938-39
Motorcycle! This is the actual, Bill Harley's experimental, �second
generation� 52-cubic-inch overhead valve 1938-39 Knucklehead
prototype designed and fought for by Bill Harley in the late
1930's. There were five prototypes produced, but this example is
the only one equipped with aluminum heads and barrels. (It may be
the only complete experimental Harley Davidson motorcycle known to
remain in existence). The 1938 lower end is overhead-valve only,
specific to this model, and utilizes an oil pump from a 1937
motorcycle. The motor is proprietary to this machine using narrow
cams and oversized cam cover. With an A-frame style head, Motor No.
4 is marked EX. The lifter blocks are drilled to the channel to
vacuum the oil from the OHV heads. The wheels sport one-off narrow
stepped hubs with small-spoke rims.
This prototype uses the �dome piston� mentioned in the
Harley-Davidson board meetings between 1938 and 1939. Bill Harley
took pride that this piston would end his overheating problem. This
experimental motorcycle was sold to Roy Egeberg just after
production and remained with him until 1974 when it was purchased
by restorer Daniel Pugens, a known Harley-Davidson CAC, DAH and OHV
specialist.
This experimental 1938-1939 Harley Davidson motorcycle has recently
been restored to its original glory utilizing all of the parts
purchased from Egeberg. Egeberg acquired this exact machine from
the factory and had it titled in Minnesota until he sold it in
1974. The authenticity of this particular prototype experimental
motorcycle is well documented including in the Harley Davidson
archives, extensively in Herb Wagner's �Harley-Davidson 1930-1941�
and in Jerry Hatfield's �Inside Harley-Davidson.� This 1938-39
motorcycle may be the only experimental Harley Davidson to be
released from the factory.
This 1938�1939 Harley Davidson overhead valve motorcycle is a true
investment quality motorcycle and it is available to the discerning
buyer!
Mileage
..zero miles
Paint
Excellent quality and application of the paint
Sheet Metal
Excellent sheet metal, proper fit
Chrome
mimimal
Mechanical
This engine starts and runs well, It is an Experimental assembly
and should not be used as a riding machine.
Wheels - Tires
Correct and fresh
Title
Sold on a bill of sale with a copy of the original MN Title
Nada
not rated
Accessories
none
