40 hp, 61 cu. in. OHV engine, four-speed hand-shifted transmission.

• Professionally restored, correct example of one of the most revered Harleys

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. More than 70 years later, it continues to reign as perhaps America’s most beloved Big Twin.

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.”

This example was professionally restored with painstaking attention to detail, and we understand it is correct down to the nuts and bolts. Desirable period-correct features include "Superior" twin exhaust and Flanders bars and risers. Finished in Skyway Blue, it is an extraordinary example of an early EL Knucklehead and has covered just over 700 miles since completion of its restoration.