The Harley-Davidson WLA was a motorcycle manufactured by Harley-Davidson for the United States Army during World War II. It was based on the civilian Harley-Davidson WL model, but with a number of modifications to make it suitable for military use, including a heavier frame, a more powerful engine, and a variety of military-specific features such as a blackout light and a gun scabbard.
The WLA was a highly successful motorcycle, and it was used by the US Army in a variety of roles, including reconnaissance, dispatch, and combat. It was also used by other Allied forces, including the British Army and the Soviet Red Army. After the war, many WLAs were sold to civilian buyers, and they remain popular collector’s items today.
The Harley-Davidson WLA is an important part of American military history, and it is a testament to the skill and dedication of the Harley-Davidson workforce. It is a powerful and reliable motorcycle that played a vital role in the Allied victory in World War II.
Harley-Davidson WLA
The Harley-Davidson WLA was a motorcycle manufactured by Harley-Davidson for the United States Army during World War II. It was based on the civilian Harley-Davidson WL model, but with a number of modifications to make it suitable for military use. These modifications included a heavier frame, a more powerful engine, and a variety of military-specific features such as a blackout light and a gun scabbard.
- Military motorcycle: The WLA was designed specifically for military use, and it was used by the US Army in a variety of roles, including reconnaissance, dispatch, and combat.
- Based on civilian model: The WLA was based on the civilian Harley-Davidson WL model, but with a number of modifications to make it suitable for military use.
- WWII service: The WLA was used extensively by the US Army during World War II, and it played a vital role in the Allied victory.
- Popular collector’s item: After the war, many WLAs were sold to civilian buyers, and they remain popular collector’s items today.
- Iconic American motorcycle: The WLA is an iconic American motorcycle, and it is a testament to the skill and dedication of the Harley-Davidson workforce.
- Historical significance: The WLA is an important part of American military history, and it is a reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women who served in World War II.
- Durable and reliable: The WLA was a durable and reliable motorcycle, and it was able to withstand the harsh conditions of wartime use.
- Versatile: The WLA was a versatile motorcycle, and it was used in a variety of roles by the US Army.
- Legacy: The WLA left a lasting legacy, and it is still remembered today as one of the most iconic motorcycles of all time.
The Harley-Davidson WLA is a significant motorcycle, both historically and in terms of its impact on American culture. It is a reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women who served in World War II, and it is a testament to the skill and dedication of the Harley-Davidson workforce. The WLA is a durable, reliable, and versatile motorcycle that has left a lasting legacy.
Military motorcycle
The Harley-Davidson WLA was a military motorcycle designed for use by the US Army during World War II. It was based on the civilian Harley-Davidson WL model, but with a number of modifications to make it suitable for military use, including a heavier frame, a more powerful engine, and a variety of military-specific features such as a blackout light and a gun scabbard.
- Combat use: The WLA was used in a variety of combat roles by the US Army, including reconnaissance, dispatch, and combat. It was also used by other Allied forces, including the British Army and the Soviet Red Army.
- Reliability: The WLA was a reliable and durable motorcycle, and it was able to withstand the harsh conditions of wartime use. It was also easy to maintain, which made it ideal for military use.
- Versatility: The WLA was a versatile motorcycle, and it could be used for a variety of purposes. It was used for transportation, reconnaissance, and combat, and it could also be used to tow artillery pieces and other equipment.
- Legacy: The WLA left a lasting legacy, and it is still remembered today as one of the most iconic motorcycles of all time. It is a symbol of American military might, and it is a reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women who served in World War II.
The Harley-Davidson WLA was a significant motorcycle, both historically and in terms of its impact on American culture. It is a reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women who served in World War II, and it is a testament to the skill and dedication of the Harley-Davidson workforce.
Based on civilian model
The Harley-Davidson WLA was based on the civilian Harley-Davidson WL model, but with a number of modifications to make it suitable for military use. These modifications included a heavier frame, a more powerful engine, and a variety of military-specific features such as a blackout light and a gun scabbard.
- Shared platform: The WLA and the WL shared the same basic platform, including the frame, engine, and transmission. This allowed Harley-Davidson to quickly and easily convert the WL into a military motorcycle.
- Military modifications: The WLA featured a number of modifications to make it suitable for military use. These modifications included a heavier frame, a more powerful engine, and a variety of military-specific features such as a blackout light and a gun scabbard.
- Proven reliability: The WL was a proven and reliable motorcycle, and this reliability was carried over to the WLA. The WLA was able to withstand the harsh conditions of wartime use, and it was easy to maintain.
- Versatility: The WLA was a versatile motorcycle, and it could be used for a variety of purposes. It was used for transportation, reconnaissance, and combat, and it could also be used to tow artillery pieces and other equipment.
The fact that the WLA was based on the civilian WL model was a major advantage for Harley-Davidson. It allowed the company to quickly and easily convert the WL into a military motorcycle, and it also ensured that the WLA would be reliable and versatile.
WWII service
The Harley-Davidson WLA played a significant role in the Allied victory in World War II. It was used extensively by the US Army in a variety of roles, including reconnaissance, dispatch, and combat. The WLA was also used by other Allied forces, including the British Army and the Soviet Red Army.
- Role in combat: The WLA was used in a variety of combat roles, including reconnaissance, dispatch, and combat. It was also used to tow artillery pieces and other equipment.
- Reliability: The WLA was a reliable and durable motorcycle, and it was able to withstand the harsh conditions of wartime use. It was also easy to maintain, which made it ideal for military use.
- Allied forces: The WLA was used by a variety of Allied forces, including the US Army, the British Army, and the Soviet Red Army. This shows that the WLA was a versatile and effective motorcycle that was valued by all of the Allies.
- Legacy: The WLA left a lasting legacy, and it is still remembered today as one of the most iconic motorcycles of all time. It is a symbol of American military might, and it is a reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women who served in World War II.
The Harley-Davidson WLA was a significant motorcycle, both historically and in terms of its impact on American culture. It is a reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women who served in World War II, and it is a testament to the skill and dedication of the Harley-Davidson workforce.
Popular collector's item
The Harley-Davidson WLA is a popular collector’s item today because it is a piece of American history. It is a reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women who served in World War II, and it is a testament to the skill and dedication of the Harley-Davidson workforce. The WLA is a durable, reliable, and versatile motorcycle that has left a lasting legacy.
The WLA was originally designed for military use, but after the war, many WLAs were sold to civilian buyers. These motorcycles were quickly snapped up by collectors, who recognized their value as historical artifacts. Today, the WLA is one of the most popular collector’s motorcycles in the world. There are many reasons for this popularity, including the WLA’s unique history, its classic design, and its. The WLA is a reminder of a simpler time, when motorcycles were built to last. It is a beautiful machine that is sure to turn heads wherever it goes.
The popularity of the WLA as a collector’s item has had a number of positive effects. It has helped to preserve the WLA’s legacy, and it has also helped to increase the value of these motorcycles. The WLA is now a valuable investment, and it is a motorcycle that is sure to appreciate in value over time.
Iconic American motorcycle
The Harley-Davidson WLA is an iconic American motorcycle for many reasons. It is a symbol of American military might, and it is a reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women who served in World War II. It is also a testament to the skill and dedication of the Harley-Davidson workforce.
The WLA was designed and built by Harley-Davidson during World War II. It was based on the civilian Harley-Davidson WL model, but with a number of modifications to make it suitable for military use. These modifications included a heavier frame, a more powerful engine, and a variety of military-specific features such as a blackout light and a gun scabbard.
The WLA was a very successful motorcycle. It was used by the US Army in a variety of roles, including reconnaissance, dispatch, and combat. It was also used by other Allied forces, including the British Army and the Soviet Red Army.
After the war, many WLAs were sold to civilian buyers. These motorcycles were quickly snapped up by collectors, who recognized their value as historical artifacts. Today, the WLA is one of the most popular collector’s motorcycles in the world.
The WLA is an iconic American motorcycle because it is a symbol of American military might, and it is a reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women who served in World War II. It is also a testament to the skill and dedication of the Harley-Davidson workforce.
Historical significance
The Harley-Davidson WLA is an important part of American military history because it was used extensively by the US Army during World War II. The WLA was a reliable and versatile motorcycle that was used in a variety of roles, including reconnaissance, dispatch, and combat. It was also used by other Allied forces, including the British Army and the Soviet Red Army.
The WLA is a reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women who served in World War II. These men and women fought for freedom and democracy, and they deserve to be remembered. The WLA is a symbol of their courage and sacrifice.
The historical significance of the WLA is also important because it helps us to understand the role that motorcycles played in World War II. Motorcycles were an important mode of transportation for the military, and they were used in a variety of ways. The WLA is a reminder of the importance of motorcycles in wartime.
The WLA is a valuable part of American history, and it is important to preserve its legacy. The WLA is a reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women who served in World War II, and it is a symbol of the importance of motorcycles in wartime.
Durable and reliable
The Harley-Davidson WLA was a durable and reliable motorcycle, and it was able to withstand the harsh conditions of wartime use. This was due to a number of factors, including its sturdy construction, its powerful engine, and its simple design. The WLA was also easy to maintain, which made it ideal for military use.
The durability and reliability of the WLA was essential to its success as a military motorcycle. It allowed the WLA to be used in a variety of roles, including reconnaissance, dispatch, and combat. The WLA was also used to tow artillery pieces and other equipment. The WLA’s durability and reliability also made it a popular choice for civilian buyers after the war.
The durability and reliability of the Harley-Davidson WLA is a testament to the skill and dedication of the Harley-Davidson workforce. The WLA is a well-built motorcycle that was able to withstand the rigors of wartime use. It is a reminder of the importance of quality craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Versatile
The versatility of the Harley-Davidson WLA was one of its most important features. It allowed the WLA to be used in a variety of roles by the US Army, including reconnaissance, dispatch, and combat. The WLA was also used to tow artillery pieces and other equipment.
The versatility of the WLA was due to a number of factors, including its sturdy construction, its powerful engine, and its simple design. The WLA was also easy to maintain, which made it ideal for military use.
The versatility of the Harley-Davidson WLA is a testament to the skill and dedication of the Harley-Davidson workforce. The WLA was a well-built motorcycle that was able to withstand the rigors of wartime use. It is a reminder of the importance of quality craftsmanship and attention to detail.
The versatility of the Harley-Davidson WLA is also a reminder of the importance of motorcycles in wartime. Motorcycles were an important mode of transportation for the military, and they were used in a variety of ways. The WLA is a symbol of the importance of motorcycles in wartime.
Legacy
The Harley-Davidson WLA left a lasting legacy for many reasons. It was a symbol of American military might during World War II, and it played a vital role in the Allied victory. It was also a well-built and reliable motorcycle that was popular with civilian buyers after the war. Today, the WLA is a sought-after collector’s item, and it is still considered to be one of the most iconic motorcycles of all time.
- Historical significance: The WLA is an important part of American military history. It was used extensively by the US Army during World War II, and it played a vital role in the Allied victory. The WLA is a reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women who served in World War II, and it is a symbol of American military might.
- Cultural impact: The WLA has had a significant impact on American culture. It is a symbol of freedom and individuality, and it has been featured in numerous movies, television shows, and songs. The WLA is also a popular choice for customizers and hot rodders, and it has inspired the creation of many new motorcycle models.
- Collectability: The WLA is a highly sought-after collector’s item. It is a valuable investment, and it is sure to appreciate in value over time. The WLA is a beautiful and iconic motorcycle, and it is a must-have for any motorcycle enthusiast.
The Harley-Davidson WLA is a truly iconic motorcycle. It is a symbol of American military might, cultural impact, and collectability. The WLA is a reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women who served in World War II, and it is a testament to the skill and dedication of the Harley-Davidson workforce.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Harley-Davidson WLA
The Harley-Davidson WLA was a motorcycle manufactured by Harley-Davidson for the United States Army during World War II. It was based on the civilian Harley-Davidson WL model, but with a number of modifications to make it suitable for military use. The WLA was a highly successful motorcycle, and it was used by the US Army in a variety of roles, including reconnaissance, dispatch, and combat. It was also used by other Allied forces, including the British Army and the Soviet Red Army. After the war, many WLAs were sold to civilian buyers, and they remain popular collector’s items today.
Question 1: What is the difference between the Harley-Davidson WLA and the civilian WL model?
Answer: The WLA was based on the civilian WL model, but with a number of modifications to make it suitable for military use. These modifications included a heavier frame, a more powerful engine, and a variety of military-specific features such as a blackout light and a gun scabbard.
Question 2: What roles did the WLA play in World War II?
Answer: The WLA was used by the US Army in a variety of roles, including reconnaissance, dispatch, and combat. It was also used to tow artillery pieces and other equipment.
Question 3: Why is the WLA such a popular collector’s item?
Answer: The WLA is a popular collector’s item because it is a piece of American history. It is a reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women who served in World War II, and it is a testament to the skill and dedication of the Harley-Davidson workforce.
Question 4: How many WLAs were produced?
Answer: Harley-Davidson produced a total of 90,000 WLAs during World War II.
Question 5: What is the average price of a WLA today?
Answer: The average price of a WLA today is between $15,000 and $25,000.
Question 6: What is the most expensive WLA ever sold?
Answer: The most expensive WLA ever sold was a 1942 model that sold for $126,500 at auction in 2011.
Summary: The Harley-Davidson WLA is a significant motorcycle, both historically and in terms of its impact on American culture. It is a reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women who served in World War II, and it is a testament to the skill and dedication of the Harley-Davidson workforce.
Transition to the next article section: The Harley-Davidson WLA is a popular motorcycle for collectors and enthusiasts alike. In the next section, we will take a look at some of the most famous WLA owners and their motorcycles.
Tips for Harley-Davidson WLA Owners
The Harley-Davidson WLA is a classic motorcycle that is popular with collectors and enthusiasts alike. However, owning a WLA can be a challenge, as these motorcycles are getting older and harder to find parts for. Here are a few tips to help you keep your WLA running smoothly for many years to come:
Tip 1: Find a good mechanic. This is one of the most important tips for any classic motorcycle owner. A good mechanic will be able to help you with everything from routine maintenance to major repairs. Tip 2: Join a club or forum. There are a number of clubs and forums dedicated to the WLA. These groups can be a great source of information and support. Tip 3: Stock up on spare parts. As mentioned above, WLA parts can be hard to find. It is a good idea to stock up on spare parts, especially for critical components such as the engine and transmission. Tip 4: Be prepared to do some work yourself. Even if you have a good mechanic, there will be times when you need to do some work on your WLA yourself. This is why it is important to have a basic understanding of motorcycle mechanics. Tip 5: Ride your WLA regularly. The best way to keep your WLA in good condition is to ride it regularly. This will help to keep the engine and other components lubricated and in good working order. Summary: Owning a Harley-Davidson WLA can be a rewarding experience. By following these tips, you can help to keep your WLA running smoothly for many years to come.
Transition to the article’s conclusion: If you are thinking about buying a Harley-Davidson WLA, be sure to do your research and find a good mechanic. With proper care and maintenance, your WLA can be a source of enjoyment for many years to come.
Conclusion
The Harley-Davidson WLA is a significant motorcycle, both historically and in terms of its impact on American culture. It is a reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women who served in World War II, and it is a testament to the skill and dedication of the Harley-Davidson workforce.
The WLA was a well-built and reliable motorcycle that played a vital role in the Allied victory in World War II. It is a symbol of American military might, and it is a popular collector’s item today. If you are thinking about buying a WLA, be sure to do your research and find a good mechanic. With proper care and maintenance, your WLA can be a source of enjoyment for many years to come.