1941 Harley-Davidson EL

Launched in 1936, the stylish new EL, quickly known as the “Knucklehead,” set new standards for Harley-Davidson and was an instant success that remained in production for 12 years. Considered the first “modern” Harley-Davidson, it is a milestone machine on which all following Harleys were based. Technically, the big change was the switch from the F-head to overhead valves. An improvement over the two- and four-shaft flathead motors, the single camshaft powered the EL to 100 mph and beyond. The resulting shape of the new motor’s handsomely polished rocker covers evoked the model’s enduring nickname, and a new re-circulating oil system replaced the previous “total loss” set-up.

New from the bottom up, the EL’s double-downtube frame required was beefed up to handle the power increase. Up front, both form and function improved with a more streamlined and stylish use of oval-tube struts. Sleek, welded fuel tanks (with Art Deco logos) and a tank-mounted instrument cluster set a new stylistic benchmark. The overall look of the bike was further enhanced by a lower 26-inch seat height. With clean, unbroken lines from nose to tail, the EL was acclaimed by riders of the day as the “best damn looking motorcycle they had ever seen.”

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