LOT 336

1946 Harley-Davidson 74ci Model U Registration no. LFF 785 Frame no. 2148 Engine no. 46U2148

Sold for £17,250 inc. premium

Lot 336

1946 Harley-Davidson 74ci Model U

The Spring Stafford Sale - The International Classic MotorCycle Show|27 April 2025, 11:00 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground

1946 Harley-Davidson 74ci Model U
Registration no. LFF 785
Frame no. 2148
Engine no. 46U2148

The remnants of this Harley-Davidson Model U were discovered in the Middle East by the current owner in 1991. Purportedly, it was an ex-Police bike sold to a farmer after its service life ended, with the intention of using it to carry milk/water churns. As the bike had a difficulty in going around corners due the low ground clearance, spacers were installed to raise ground clearance by some 100mm.

When the current owner encountered the bike it was disassembled and incomplete, while the rear cylinder had a large hole in it where the con-rod had penetrated. The bike was transported to the UK and Tennant Eyles were commissioned to rebuild it to a 'rider's' specification. The work was completed in October 1994 and the Harley registered in the UK that same month. The machine has been regularly ridden since then. In 2000 the alloy cylinder heads were replaced, enabling modem sparkplugs to be used, while in 2007 the gearbox was refurbished by renowned marque specialist Fred Warr (Kings Road, London). The bike was regularly run until 'Covid', since when its use has been sporadic due the owner's overseas family commitment. We are advised by the vendor that the bike is ready to go, although he recommends that the new owner undertakes a thorough check of the machine prior to any long journey. The machine comes with a large file of paperwork, including V5C, old V5C and old V5.
Offered with key

Footnotes

All lots are sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.
Please see the Auction Information and Guide for Buyers at the top of the main sale page, for bidders' obligations. The Spring Stafford Sale

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This Lot will be auctioned on Sunday 27 April, with the auction starting at 11am GMT.

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