The Harley-Davidson Motor Company began the 1940’s with renewed vigor and a dedication to design new, distinct, and streamlined models. It had survived the previous decade, which had devastated so many of its competitors, to release the most advanced, powerful, and attractive line in its history.
1940 brought a new line of 80, 74, and 45 cubic inch engines with deep-finned, aluminum heads that improved cooling, reduced weight, and provided greater power and performance. The new motorcycles also sported new semi-circular floorboards which are still popular today, as well as optional 5” x 16” balloon tires and rims. Police business was also booming in 1940 with 3500 cities using Harleys in their police departments.
War in Europe and Asia brought on a new need for motorcycles in the military. All branches ordered record numbers of the 45 WLD model. As England and Russia came under Germany’s attacks, their motorcycle industries converted to the production of wartime materials. To cover the shortage, Harley-Davidsons were shipped to both countries and were greatly appreciated.
In 1941, with the United States not yet involved in the war, Harley-Davidson released a 74 cubic inch version of the EL with a more efficient oil pump, a better clutch an improved, easier-to-read speedometer, and new color options.
In 1942, tragedy once again befell the company when President Walter Davidson died. He was succeeded by Vice-president William H. Davidson. William S. Harley died one and a half years later, making Arthur Davidson the only remaining of the original four founders. World War II was responsible for one of the most unique HD motorcycles. The XA model included a 45 cubic inch, horizontally opposed engine and it was also the only model to ever include a driveshaft. The driveshaft was needed to withstand the sandy environment of the North African deserts, which had a tendency to demolish chains and sprockets. Only 1000 of these were produced before that phase of the war was over.
After the end of the war in 1945, it wasn’t easy to buy a motorcycle for civilian use. Material shortages and general strikes caused scarcity of new models. It wasn’t until 1947 when full civilian production resumed. 1947 saw the first new models since Pearl Harbor. These were basically upgraded 1941 models with a new taillight, redesigned instrument panel, hydraulic shock absorbers and additional chrome. Racing resumes in 1947 and Harley-Davidson took the checkered flag at National TT, National Miniature TT, and other Nationals at Richmond, VA, Springfield, IL and Milwaukee.
In 1948, HD created a 125 cc single-cylinder for younger riders. This was the first in a long line of lightweight motorcycles. This year also saw more advanced 61 and 74 OHV engines with one-piece chrome plated rocker covers that eventually came to be called the “Panhead”.
The next year, the most important improvement was a hydraulically-dampened, telescoping front fork called the Hydra Glide Fork. Also included were skirted airflow fenders and rubber mounted handlebars.
The fifties decade in the US began with a booming economy with many markets competing with the motorcycle industry for the consumers dollar. To help combat negative images generated by some motorcyclists, the 1950 models came with new mufflers that produced deeper, more pleasing sounds. This quieter exhaust, along with redesigned inlet ports on the 61 and 74 OHV engines, increased horsepower ten percent.
1950 ended on a sad note when Arthur Davidson, the last of the original founders, was killed along with his wife in a tragic automobile accident. 1951 models sported new chrome-plated piston rings, and the industry’s first hydraulic rear brakes on the Servi-Car.
1951 was also the year when Harley-Davidson founded the Mileage Club. Riders received pins for reaching the 25,000, 50,000 and 100,000 miles milestones. By the end of the fourth year, 73 members had already topped the 100,000 mile mark.
In 1952, the 45 WL, which had been in production since the Thirties, was dropped and replaced by the Model K. The Model K included and all new 45 cubic inch side valve engine, four-speed foot shifter, hand clutch, hydraulic suspension front and rear, and sleek new looks. It was an instant success.
The next year, two more models disappeared from production. The 61 OVH was dropped due to increasing demands for the more powerful 74 OVH. The 125cc model was replaced by a 165cc model.
An exciting new model was introduced in 1957; the Sportster. The original model, with its 55 cubic inch overhead-valve engine didn’t perform as expected, so the following year, the Sportster featured larger intake ports and valves with a twelve percent increase in horsepower and a legend took life.
Harley-Davidson released the stunning Duo-Glide in 1958. It featured a powerful 74 OHV engine, hydraulic suspension, whitewall tires, chrome trim, two-tone paint and hydraulically actuated rear brakes. It was absolutely the most eye-catching motorcycle on the road.
Bolfert, Thomas. The Big Book of Harley-Davidson: Official Publication by Harley-Davidson Motor company; Centennial Edition. Milwaukee: Harley-Davidson, 2002.