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The 1942 Harley-Davidson WLA and 1944 Indian 841 are both iconic 1940s standards that defined their respective markets.
The 1942 Harley-Davidson WLA from United States was powered by a 739cc SV V-twin producing 23hp at 4600rpm. Weighing 260.0kg (573 lbs) and with a seat height of 680mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1944 Indian 841 by contrast offered 745cc of SV V-twin transverse power, delivering 25hp at 4800rpm. Tipping the scales at 225.0kg (496 lbs) with a top speed of 115km/h (71 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1940s motorcycles, especially military-era models, hold strong collector interest with values reflecting their historical significance.
The 1942 Harley-Davidson WLA from United States was powered by a 739cc SV V-twin producing 23hp at 4600rpm. Weighing 260.0kg (573 lbs) and with a seat height of 680mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1944 Indian 841 by contrast offered 745cc of SV V-twin transverse power, delivering 25hp at 4800rpm. Tipping the scales at 225.0kg (496 lbs) with a top speed of 115km/h (71 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1940s motorcycles, especially military-era models, hold strong collector interest with values reflecting their historical significance.
Specifications Comparison
| 1942 Harley-Davidson WLA | 1944 Indian 841 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 739 cc | 745 cc |
| Power | 23 hp | 25 hp |
| Torque | 40.0 Nm | 42.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 105 km/h | 115 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 260.0 kg | 225.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 280.0 kg | 242.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 680 mm | 720 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 13.0 L | 13.0 L |
| Gears | 3 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1944 Indian 841 has the edge thanks to more power (25hp vs 23hp) and a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1942 Harley-Davidson WLA, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority. Parts availability is moderate for the 1942 Harley-Davidson WLA and very difficult for the 1944 Indian 841 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1942 Harley-Davidson WLA
The 1942 1942 Harley-Davidson WLA is a 739cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Harley-Davidson's most memorable motorcycles of the 1940s.
Full 1942 Harley-Davidson WLA Profile →About the 1944 Indian 841
The 1944 1944 Indian 841 is a 745cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Indian's most memorable motorcycles of the 1940s.
Full 1944 Indian 841 Profile →