Harley-Davidson Skyway Blue Paint Code: B97-1S |
This page records my progress with the restoration of my 1941 Harley-Davidson WL - this H-D was used by the Union Defence Force of South Africa in World War 2. The SAUDF acquired around 4,500 motorcycles from the US War Department mid-1940 and they were used in the East Africa Campaign, the Madagascar Campaign and the North Africa Campaign.
Saturday, 25 October 2014
1941 Harley Davidson Colour Schemes
Back in 1941, Harley Davidson painted their motorcycles in five colours:
Monday, 20 October 2014
Sunday, 19 October 2014
Some Restoration Examples
Here are some examples of what 1941 Harley Davidson WL's can look like. The following photos came from a variety of Web sites and are all subject to copyright and they should not be downloaded and used in any way.
A beautifully restored 1941 WL, with period correct tank trim and decals. Nice chrome job. |
Bike Origin
The 1st Owner - the South African Defence Force
After the outbreak of the Second World War against Germany in September 1939, two South African motorcycle companies, No's 1 and 2, were formed by the ‘Armoured Vehicle Battalion’ of the Union Defence Forces. Simultaneously, the Defence Force purchased motorcycles (mainly BSA’s) from existing dealers in the Union. These were augmented by the acquisition of other machines of various makes commandeered and bought from civilian owners. By June 1940, when Italy declared war against the Allies, a third motorcycle company, No 3, had been formed and 93 motorcycles and 30 motorcycle combinations were by then mobilized for each company.
Saturday, 18 October 2014
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