1936 Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead

1936 Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead

cruiserpre-warUnited States

Harley-Davidson released the 1936 Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead in 1936 with a 989cc OHV V-twin Knucklehead powerplant making 40hp — a definitive cruiser.

Specifications

Engine

Type
OHV V-twin Knucklehead
Displacement
989 cc
Cylinders
2
Power
40 hp @ 4800 rpm
Torque
70.0 Nm
Compression
—
Bore × Stroke
84.1 × 88.9 mm
Cooling
Air-cooled
Fuel System
Linkert carburetor

Chassis & Transmission

Frame
Steel double loop
Front Suspension
Springer fork
Rear Suspension
Rigid
Front Brake
Drum
Rear Brake
Drum
Front Tyre
—
Rear Tyre
—
Transmission
4-speed
Final Drive
Chain

Performance

Top Speed
150 km/h (93 mph)
¼ Mile
—

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
245 kg (540 lbs)
Wet Weight
265 kg (584 lbs)
Seat Height
680 mm
Wheelbase
1500 mm
Ground Clearance
—
Fuel Capacity
14.0 L

History & Story

When Harley-Davidson unveiled the 1936 Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead in 1936, it signaled the company's commitment to the cruiser segment. Built in United States, this cruiser embodied the spirit of pre-war era motorcycling.

The 1936 Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead is motivated by a 989cc OHV V-twin Knucklehead twin-cylinder unit delivering 40hp at 4800 rpm. Breathing through Linkert carburetor and kept cool by air-cooled, the engine drives through a 4-speed transmission with chain final drive.

Weighing 245 kg (540 lbs) dry, the 1936 Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead uses a steel double loop frame, springer fork front suspension, and rigid rear suspension. The braking system comprises drum front and drum rear units.

Performance-wise, the 1936 Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead achieves a claimed top speed of 150 km/h (93 mph). With a fuel capacity of 14.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for cruiser duties. The seat height of 680 mm makes it accessible for most riders.

Today, the 1936 Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead is considered an extremely rare and highly prized collector piece, commanding premium prices at auction. Parts availability is rated as difficult, making ownership a dedicated pursuit. It remains an icon of Harley-Davidson motorcycling from pre-war era.

Known Issues

  • Oil leaks considered normal on vintage models
  • Generator and voltage regulator issues
  • Rocker arm oil leaks
  • Top end oiling issues
  • Primary chain tensioner adjustment
  • Period-correct fasteners and hardware hard to find

Fun Facts

  • Pristine examples of the 1936 Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead can command six-figure prices at auction
  • The 1936 Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead is considered one of the most collectible motorcycles from Harley-Davidson
  • The 1936 Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead is widely regarded as a milestone in motorcycle history

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Difficult
Collector Rating
10/10

Resources & Parts

🔧 Find 1936 Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead Parts on eBay Search eBay Motors for parts, accessories and restoration supplies 📖 Haynes Manual for Harley-Davidson Workshop manuals, service guides and technical references 🛡 Insure Your Classic Harley-Davidson Specialist classic motorcycle insurance from Hagerty

Compare 1936 Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead with...