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1946 Harley-Davidson WL45
Highlights
- Full restoration completed in 2021
- AMCA certified for authenticity
- Original 1946 parts including major metalwork and handlebar spirals
- Rebuilt 16” wheels with original Kelsey Hayes rims and Heidenau Classic Tyres
- Reconditioned Stewart Warner 1946 speedometer
The Appeal
It's not often an opportunity comes up to get hold of a 'proper' Harley. This is a genuine WL45 1946 mount that was built when Arthur Davidson was still alive - with its robust design, and beautifully simple V-Twin engine.
This was when bikes were far more straightforward than they appear today. A simple three-speed gearbox, with original foot-operated rocker clutch and the addition of a hand operated clutch assist for first gear starts. These were hard-tail bikes, too - if you wanted rear suspension, you'd have to go elsewhere. This gritty, true-to-rider spec is exactly what makes these impressive machines so enduring. It is a hard tail however the rear suspension is in the seat post and pivots on the tank where it’s packed with springs which gives a comfortable ‘floating’ bounce as you ride.
This particular WL45 underwent a full restoration in 2021 - a remarkably sympathetic one. Most of the components are original to the machine, to such an extent that it'd be a shorter job to list what's new. It's been AMCA certified, and comes to us in a fabulous Skyway Blue that perfectly suits its lines.
This was when bikes were far more straightforward than they appear today. A simple three-speed gearbox, with original foot-operated rocker clutch and the addition of a hand operated clutch assist for first gear starts. These were hard-tail bikes, too - if you wanted rear suspension, you'd have to go elsewhere. This gritty, true-to-rider spec is exactly what makes these impressive machines so enduring. It is a hard tail however the rear suspension is in the seat post and pivots on the tank where it’s packed with springs which gives a comfortable ‘floating’ bounce as you ride.
This particular WL45 underwent a full restoration in 2021 - a remarkably sympathetic one. Most of the components are original to the machine, to such an extent that it'd be a shorter job to list what's new. It's been AMCA certified, and comes to us in a fabulous Skyway Blue that perfectly suits its lines.
History and Paperwork
- Registered in 1946
- Full restoration completed in 2021
- AMCA certified for authenticity
- First UK registration in 2022
- No road tax or MOT required
The Condition
- Skyway Blue paintwork is only 1 year old and its beautifully presented
- All badges and branding are nicely kept
- All major metal work is OEM
- 16” wheels rebuilt on original Kelsey Hayes rims with blasted stainless spokes
- German Heidenau Classic Tyres in good condition
- Original seat pan recovered as a period solo deluxe by Heathers Leathers in the USA
- Reconditioned Stewart Warner 1946 speedometer is clear and legible, and working well
- Rack-mounted saddlebags date to circa 1960 - these are hot collectables in themselves
The Mechanics
- 750cc V-Twin engine
- Manual transmission with 3 gears
- Original to the bike, with correct 1946 belly numbers and VIN
- Correct 1946 frame only for that year
- Correct WL tanks with ‘OIL’ mark indentation
- Dispatch rider cams and large exhaust valves, heads 6:1
- Clutch assist installed
- M41 Linkert carburettor
- Converted 2 Brush 32e Generator
- All mechanics have been rebuilt and are working well
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
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✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
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