Harley Davidson World War 2

Most of us know that motorcycle clubs, whether of the law-abiding or outlaw biker gang variety, are descended from WWII vets who caught the "riding" bug in the combat zone. But what role, exactly, did motorcycles play in the military?
Most of us know that motorcycle clubs, whether of the law-abiding or outlaw biker gang variety, are descended from WWII vets who caught the "riding" bug in the combat zone. But what role, exactly, did motorcycles play in the military?

Harley Davidson World War 2

Harley Davidson World War 2

Harley Davidson World War 2

Harley Davidson World War 2

Harley Davidson World War 2

Harley Davidson World War 2

Harley Davidson World War 2

Harley Davidson World War 2

Harley Davidson World War 2

Harley Davidson World War 2

Harley Davidson World War 2

Harley Davidson World War 2

Harley Davidson World War 2

Harley Davidson World War 2

Harley Davidson World War 2

Harley Davidson World War 2

Harley Davidson World War 2

Harley Davidson World War 2

Harley Davidson World War 2

Harley Davidson World War 2They're riding around on the Harley-Davidson WLA, which first saw production in 1940. Harley engineers took an existing civilian bike, the WL, and adapted it for military use with several changes. The fenders were shaped in such a way that mud flung by the wheel could exit from the sides rather than clog. It was fitted with a heavy duty carrying rack in the rear that could support an ammunition box or two radios, and saddlebags could be hung from its sides. A scabbard placed up front was sized large enough for the driver to tuck a Thompson submachine gun in. On the other side of the front wheel, another ammo box could be attached.

 There were mechanical changes as well. In a nod to the Army's logistical needs, the air filter was replaced with an oil-bath air cleaner—something then used in farm tractors in high-dust environments—for ease of maintenance; rather than having to stock replacement air filters, the rider could "freshen up" his filter by adding regular motor oil. And the crankcase was redesigned to reduce water intake, so that the vehicle could reportedly ford 16 inches of water without stalling out.