SOLD
Harley-Davidson began producing the WLA in small numbers in 1940, as part of a general military expansion.
Unusually, all the WLA’s produced after Pearl Harbor, regardless of the actual year, would be given serial numbers indicating 1942 production. Therefore war-time machines would come to be known as 42WLA’s. WLA’s were used extensively by US Troops for messenger and Military Police duties and thousands were supplied to other countries thru Lend Lease Agreements. These bikes were therefore nicknamed ‘Liberators’ in Europe since they were ridden by troops liberating their towns and countries from German occupation. The name has stuck ever since. Most WLAs in western hands after the War would be sold as surplus and “civilianized”. Many a young soldier would come home hoping to get a Harley-Davidson like he saw or ride in the service, leading to the post-war popularity of both the motorcycle and the company in general. However, this also ensured that few nearly-original WLAs would survive in the US or even Western Europe. Nowadays it’s one of the most popular classic military motorbikes and comfortable to drive.
Condition: This WLA was definitely in service for the US troops liberating Europe!
Currently details of its active military service are unknown however when this bike could talk it must be impressive! After the 2nd World War quite a number of these 750 cc models have been left by the American Forces in Europe.
This unit did however never see any civilian life but was used in Greece after WW-II. In the period 2003-2005 it was fully restored by using almost 100% NOS parts. Therefore it was awarded with nearly the highest score in the KTR originality check (51 from the applicable 52 points)
Therefore an excellent and outstanding bike which should be in your collection! Since its restoration it has been used very limited and was always well maintained.
Has a Dutch road registration. The best and most original currently on the market!
If you have any questions please contact us
