1939 EL HARLEY DAVIDSON KNUCKLEHEAD MOTORCYCLE

This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/15/2026

The 1939 EL was a legendary motorcycle famous for establishing Harley’s OHV V-twin legacy. The 39 model year is prized by collectors because with this model, Harley Davidson successfully resolved its early oiling issues that plagued the earlier 36-38 models, helping it gain the trust of the buyer as a reliable source of transportation. The 61 cubic inch (1000cc) high compression overhead valve V-Twin created about 40 hp and could achieve speeds near 100 mph. The improved motor was paired up with a 4-speed constant mesh transmission with a hand shifter and a foot clutch and was the only year Harley placed neutral between second and third gear. The bike featured its iconic 'clenched fist' rocker covers, giving the bike the 'Knucklehead' nickname. CONDITION: This is an older restoration and made into someone’s period-style bobber with mid-40s tank emblems and 40s-style floorboards. Taillight appears to be an older aftermarket beehive taillight. Bike appears to be mostly original with minor chrome accents added at a later date. Leather seat and saddlebags are still soft and pliable, but could use some minor conditioning. Biased ply tires are hard from age and show light oxidation and fading, and would recommend replacement before attempting to ride. We have made no attempt to start this bike, but it does kick over with good compression and transmission shifts through the gears. This motorcycle is being sold as-is with no warranty.

TITLE DISCLAIMER: This lot is sold AS IS, WHERE IS, with no warranty or guarantee, expressed or implied, regarding the ability to obtain, transfer, register, or successfully title the motorcycle in any jurisdiction. Morphy Auctions and the consignor make no representations, guarantees, or warranties regarding the validity, accuracy, completeness, or transferability of any title, VIN data, or ownership paperwork. Buyers explicitly acknowledge and agree that there is no guarantee of a successful title transfer, and that neither Morphy Auctions nor the consignor guarantees that any provided documents will be accepted by any local, state, federal, or international motor vehicle agency (DMV). All sales are final and non-refundable. A failed title transfer or DMV rejection shall not constitute grounds for a refund, return, or cancellation of the sale.

This is not a standard shippable item and will require 3rd party shipping or pickup arrangements to be made.

Item Dimensions: 92" x 56" x 39"