In 1938, Harley Davidson designed and created a declared work of art, securing a monumental crown to be forever admired, the 1938 Harley Davidson Vintage Motorcycle was born. Its distinctive engine contributed to the veracious nickname, the “Knucklehead.” Acquiring a substantial audience while purely accumulating a vast crowd of devoted enthusiasts, the Harley Davidson Motorcycle continued to gain traction and by 1940 both, the EL and ES model’s production had reached 4,069 units. The EL model was the first Harley that recirculated the engine oil, transferring it to and from the oil tank. By 1947, the production of the EL and ES peaked graciously reaching a total of 4,354 bikes.

The chief engineer guiding the design of the “Knucklehead,” William S Harley was 1 of the 4 founding fathers to the company that hit the world by storm. W.S. Harley completed his quest and was able to watch and enjoy the success of his new design for a short time before passing in 1937.

The “Kucklehead” design pressed on, remaining impervious and prosperous for another 11 years until it was replaced with the Panhead in 1948, a new alloy head V-Twin. This worthy antique, immaculately restored, currently upholds its nickname and reputation at the Wheels Through Time Museum, on display, anchored in the hearts of its devoted enthusiasts and forever gaining devotees.