Description
Harley Davidson 1948 “UL” 1209 cc side valve V-twin frame # 5733024 engine # 48UL077
For 1937 the HD engineers redesigned the Big Twin range: frame and cycle parts of the newly introduced OHV ‘Knucklehead’ were used as the basis for the new 1209cc and 1303 cc models U and UH. An important new feature was the introduction (finally!) of dry sump lubrication.
The “UL” was the 5.2:1 high-compression type; the standard compression was 5:1. Power output of the UL was 37.5 hp @ 4200rpm and its top speed was 135km.
The new models proved themselves as reliable and dependable machines and gave their owners every satisfaction from the start and continued to do so for many years.
Improved and updated annually throughout the late 1930s and 1940s, the U and UL models finally disappeared from the range at the end of 1948.
This impressive long distance traveller is an older restoration that is fitted with impressive studded leather saddle bags.
She has not been ridden for some 15 years.
However with a fresh battery, fuel and oil, she started up second kick and she sounds healthy.
Nevertheless, a mechanical and optical evaluation is recommended before putting her back on the road.