The Harley-Davidson Model WLA: A Masterpiece of Engineering Built for War

The Harley-Davidson Model WLA was a military motorcycle designed and manufactured by Harley-Davidson during World War II. It was the most widely used motorcycle in the war, and its combination of ruggedness, reliability, and performance made it a favorite among soldiers in all branches of the military.

HARLEY-DAVIDSON MANUAL: MODEL WLA, 1943

by D C Robinson

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	109074 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	208 pages

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The WLA was based on the Harley-Davidson Model W, which had been introduced in 1937. However, the WLA was heavily modified to meet the demands of military service. These modifications included a strengthened frame, a more powerful engine, and a variety of other features that made it better suited for use in combat.

The WLA was powered by a 45-cubic-inch (740 cc) V-twin engine that produced 23 horsepower. The engine was mated to a three-speed transmission and a chain drive. The WLA had a top speed of 65 miles per hour (105 kilometers per hour).

The WLA was a very versatile motorcycle. It could be used for a variety of purposes, including transportation, reconnaissance, and combat. The WLA was also used by the military police and the United States Postal Service.

The WLA was a very popular motorcycle with soldiers. It was rugged, reliable, and easy to maintain. The WLA was also very comfortable to ride, even on long journeys.

The WLA was phased out of service after the war. However, it remains a popular collector's item. The WLA is a reminder of the important role that motorcycles played in World War II.

The Design of the Harley-Davidson Model WLA

The Harley-Davidson Model WLA was designed to be a rugged, reliable, and versatile motorcycle. It was built on a strong frame with a low center of gravity, which made it stable and easy to handle. The WLA had a long wheelbase, which provided a smooth ride even on rough terrain.

The WLA was powered by a 45-cubic-inch (740 cc) V-twin engine that produced 23 horsepower. The engine was mated to a three-speed transmission and a chain drive. The WLA had a top speed of 65 miles per hour (105 kilometers per hour).

The WLA was equipped with a variety of features that made it well-suited for military service. These features included a reinforced frame, a heavy-duty suspension, and a blackout lighting system. The WLA also had a number of accessories that could be added, such as a sidecar, a luggage rack, and a gun scabbard.

The Performance of the Harley-Davidson Model WLA

The Harley-Davidson Model WLA was a very capable motorcycle. It was able to handle a variety of terrain and weather conditions. The WLA was also very reliable, and it could be ridden for long distances without breaking down.

The WLA was a very popular motorcycle with soldiers. It was rugged, reliable, and easy to maintain. The WLA was also very comfortable to ride, even on long journeys.

The WLA was used by the military in a variety of roles, including transportation, reconnaissance, and combat. The WLA was also used by the military police and the United States Postal Service.

The Legacy of the Harley-Davidson Model WLA

The Harley-Davidson Model WLA was a very important motorcycle in the history of Harley-Davidson. It was the most widely used motorcycle in World War II, and it helped to establish Harley-Davidson as a leading manufacturer of motorcycles.

The WLA remains a popular collector's item today. It is a reminder of the important role that motorcycles played in World War II, and it is a testament to the engineering expertise of Harley-Davidson.

HARLEY-DAVIDSON MANUAL: MODEL WLA, 1943

by D C Robinson

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	109074 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	208 pages

FREE