Introduced for the 1930 model year, the Harley-Davidson V series was the first of the Big Twins to have sidevalve engines. Everything about the motorcycle was new. Virtually nothing was shared from the old JD models. The new V models were lower thanks to new frames and the engines very tractable. But Harley-Davidson faced challenges other than engineering issues from their new venture into sidevalve engines in the 45 and 74 models. The country was in the midst of the Great Depression. Projected production had to be lowered as many people and community services just couldn’t afford to spend on such a commodity. The company persevered by pulling back and helping their employees and dealers survive. They were also well funded and able to survive the economic downturn.
The new Harley-Davidson was a handsome motorcycle, low and stylish with its traditional livery of Olive Green with vermilion striping. The 74ci sidevalve came in four variants. Two were lower compression engines destined for sidecar and commercial work. Another was the VL, which had a high compression engine and Dow metal pistons, and was considered the Sport Solo version.
The 1931 Harley-Davidson 74ci VL on offer here was offered at the 1984 Imperial Palace auction of the collection of Hollywood Superstar, on and off-road motorcycle and car racing dignitary, Steve McQueen. The bike has been cosmetically refurbished in period appropriate black with red and gold since McQueen’s ownership and has been on static display since. It remains in excellent condition, but upon close inspection in our shop, is missing a primary chain and a few other very easily replaced parts to make it run. The bike features the original 74ci (1,200cc) engine, 3-speed transmission, front and rear stands, and an original 1931 California license plate. To complete the provenance is the display of the original Certificate of Authenticity, Bill of Sale and Odometer Statement from the 1984 sale. As Steve’s third wife, Barbara McQueen put it about the restoration, “Steve was fanatical about antique motorcycles – we once drove 700 miles on a whim to go see a rare bike. The Harley was definitely done to Steve’s standards and he would have dug it.”
Engine no. 31VL6590
Location: ventura, California
SOLD
