Taking a pre-war Harley-Davidson out for a spin isn't just a ride—it's an event. Few sights match the rarity of seeing one of these antique machines on the road outside of a museum. So, it's no wonder that every outing on my vintage flathead turns heads and sparks curiosity.
Having crisscrossed the nation on my antique Harley and fielded countless inquiries along the way, one question consistently rises above the rest: "How do you ride that thing?"
But before delving into the nuances of maneuvering this piece of history, let's unpack the mechanical marvel that is my 1933 Harley-Davidson V-series. A product of Harley's early 1930s innovation, these bikes boasted a robust 74ci sidevalve V-twin engine (later models even featured 80ci powerhouses) with a distinctive valve placement directly in the cylinders. Pairing this engine with a hand-shifted three-speed transmission via a foot-operated clutch, Harley ensured a unique riding experience. The front suspension, a sturdy I-beam springer, complements the bike's spring-loaded seat, compensating for the absence of rear suspension. Manual drum brakes, both front and rear, bring the machine to a halt, while adaptable rims facilitate the use of modern tires. Despite resembling a tractor engine more than a modern motorcycle powerplant, these bikes could reach speeds exceeding 100 mph.
A notable departure from modern Harleys lies in the engine's oil circulation. Unlike their successors, these vintage models lack recirculating oil systems. Instead, oil flows from the tank to the crankcase, then into the primary before finally lubricating the rear chain. While this may seem archaic, it ensures a constant flow of fresh oil through the engine, albeit at the expense of leaving a trail behind.
During my 3,650-mile journey across the country, my Harley guzzled 15 quarts of oil—an impressive feat considering it boasts two mechanical oil pumps, sparing riders the chore of manually pumping oil while in motion. Despite misconceptions, a mere 3-4 ounces of oil suffices for optimal engine performance and minimal exhaust smoke.
Starting this vintage machine is a ritual far removed from modern conveniences. First, one must engage the fuel supply by manipulating multiple petcocks, a process complicated further by the bike's dual-tank setup. Priming the engine follows, achieved by manipulating the throttle and choke while kicking the engine to coax fuel into the cylinders. Only then can the ignition key be turned, marking the beginning of a delicate dance between throttle, timing, and ignition.
Once the engine roars to life, mastering the hand shifter becomes paramount. With a foot-operated clutch and a hand-shifted transmission, coordination is key to smoothly transitioning through the gears. And while the rocker clutch simplifies clutch operation, adapting to its heel-down disengagement and toe-forward engagement presents its own challenges.
Indeed, riding an antique Harley demands a mastery of vintage mechanics and a deep respect for tradition. Yet, as riders navigate the idiosyncrasies of these historic machines, they embrace a connection to a bygone era of motorcycling—one marked by innovation, ingenuity, and the enduring allure of the open road.