The 1936 Harley-Davidson EL, later known as the Knucklehead, marked a bold move by Harley-Davidson during the Great Depression. This pioneering model introduced a new engine design that would become iconic and played a crucial role in shaping the company’s future.
the 1936 Harley-Davidson EL is truly a piece of history that paved the way for modern motorcycles, its design and impact are still celebrated today. ~ Patricia Cogar
It’s interesting that this exact featured bike does not yet have a saddle attached yet (photo 1), and the hand grips are covered by some sort of protective sheathe. There may be some H-D historians out there who could name each one of those factory workers in the background (Herbert Wagner comes to mind). ~ Philip Block
The moment Harley-Davidson stopped building motorcycles and started building legends. it was a statement. In the depths of the Depression, they dropped this. Overhead valves, a recirculating oil system (finally!), and that gorgeous, sculptured rocker box cover that just begged for a name. “Knucklehead” perfect. It looks like a closed fist. ~Tina Barnett
And… what about the guy behind the pillar? (photo 1) In many official pictures he has been removed.
What a fine piece of engineering! Absolutely beautiful. I too would purchase one off the blueprint. The cost to purchase one, off the line was only about $450. The ’34 VLD were $350. It was a first-year model and the first Harley-Davidson with an overhead-valve engine. The rarity and desirability of this motorcycle, with only 1,704 produced that year, make it the most sought-after among collectors.
