A WW2 Harley-Davidson “Liberator” (With a Schwinn Bicycle Seat)
Motorcycles & ATVs
Motorcycles
Harley-Davidson introduced its W models in 1937. The 1945 WLA example recently listed on eBay is considered a “solo” model—due to its solo seat and small 45 cubic-inch engine. The US Army dictated WLA specifications during the Second World War, helping the model earn the nickname of “Liberator.”
Used in the War
Speedmill Customs, based in Daytona Beach, Fla., customized the bike for sale on eBay. The shop used a custom TIG-welded aluminum frame—aligning the 45-inch engine Big Twin with the bike’s four-speed, jockey-shifted transmission.
The frame maintains the WLA’s original style, with some minor updates. It’s driven by a new hub, clutch plates, and a 1.5-inch open-belt drive. This bike is kickstart only, so get ready to draw a crowd as you start it up.
In line with H-D’s letter naming system, the WLA is denoted as follows:
- W is the 45 cubic-inch family of motorcycles
- L stands for high-compression engine
- A indicates that it was built for the US Army during the war
Fun fact: Harley-Davidson issued serial numbers indicating 1942 production for all WLA models produced after Pearl Harbor.
The Reliable 45
A notable feature of these models is the oil-recirculation system. It’s a massive upgrade from the total-loss oiling system used in earlier models. With the older system, oil ran through the engine and was a “total-loss” as it dripped on the chain and ground. Riders had to add oil to the engine repeatedly. The change to recirculation meant less maintenance and clean-up.
The smaller, 45 cubic-inch engine is a side-valve design. While it’s less potent than the larger Big Twin engines, it was more reliable. The “high compression” description is not quite correct, as Army models had a medium compression of about 5:1. They can run on about 74 octane gasoline.
Harley-Davidson used the standard version of the 45-inch engine in Servi-Car three-wheeled models - opens in new window or tab. until 1973.
A Proto-Chopper with a Bicycle Seat
Many WLA models were later sold as surplus. Soldiers were thus able to purchase bikes they rode during the war. Heavy customizations that followed helped give birth to the chopper scene. Logically, owners wanted to push the bikes to the limit, often on dirt flat tracks.
The seller notes that Speedmill Customs fully rebuilt the engine. It features new cylinders, heads, pistons, rings, bearings, and seals. The 45 cubic-inch engine is fed by a Mikuni carburetor - opens in new window or tab. and a custom intake manifold. The bike also has a brand-new Antigravity 4-cell lithium battery - opens in new window or tab. hidden under the right side of the gas tank.
The long list of additional customizations include:
- A foot-clutch with custom CNC-crafted controls
- A Brembo master brake cylinder - opens in new window or tab., and a sprotor with a rear caliper for a clean look
- Hand-crafted handlebars featuring an internal throttle
- Sixteen-inch tires, front and back
But the white Schwinn bicycle seat perched atop the custom frame is the stand-out feature of this Liberator.
Speedmill Customs has been building custom bikes for 25 years in Daytona Beach. Perhaps you’ve spotted it there at a chopper show. Now, this 1945 WLA is ready to ride wherever its next owner wants to go. It was offered with a Buy-It-Now price of $25,000.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.