1956 Harley-Davidson KH

1956 Harley-Davidson KH

standard50sUnited States

Harley-Davidson released the 1956 Harley-Davidson KH in 1956 with a 883cc SV V-twin powerplant making 38hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.

Specifications

Engine

Type
SV V-twin
Displacement
883 cc
Cylinders
2
Power
38 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque
52.0 Nm
Compression
Bore × Stroke
76.2 × 96.8 mm
Cooling
Air-cooled
Fuel System
Linkert carburetor

Chassis & Transmission

Frame
Steel double loop
Front Suspension
Telescopic fork
Rear Suspension
Twin shock
Front Brake
Drum
Rear Brake
Drum
Front Tyre
Rear Tyre
Transmission
4-speed
Final Drive
Chain

Performance

Top Speed
155 km/h (96 mph)
¼ Mile

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
200 kg (441 lbs)
Wet Weight
218 kg (481 lbs)
Seat Height
720 mm
Wheelbase
1450 mm
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
13.0 L

History & Story

In 1956, Harley-Davidson launched the 1956 Harley-Davidson KH — a standard motorcycle that would come to define an era of motorcycling. Hailing from United States, it combined United States engineering with standard motorcycle appeal.

The 1956 Harley-Davidson KH is motivated by a 883cc SV V-twin twin-cylinder unit delivering 38hp at 5500 rpm. Breathing through Linkert carburetor and kept cool by air-cooled, the engine drives through a 4-speed transmission with chain final drive.

Weighing 200 kg (441 lbs) dry, the 1956 Harley-Davidson KH uses a steel double loop frame, telescopic fork front suspension, and twin shock rear suspension. The braking system comprises drum front and drum rear units.

Performance-wise, the 1956 Harley-Davidson KH achieves a claimed top speed of 155 km/h (96 mph). With a fuel capacity of 13.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 720 mm makes it accessible for most riders.

Today, the 1956 Harley-Davidson KH is considered a respected classic that attracts serious collector interest and continues to appreciate. Parts availability is rated as difficult, making ownership a dedicated pursuit. It remains an icon of Harley-Davidson motorcycling from 1950s.

Known Issues

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

Fun Facts

  • The 1956 Harley-Davidson KH was produced in Harley-Davidson's United States facilities
  • The 1956 Harley-Davidson KH featured a steel double loop frame typical of 1950s design philosophy

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Difficult
Collector Rating
7/10

Resources & Parts