On a dollar-per-pound basis, older Harley-Davidson motorcycles command some of the most amazing prices in the current classic market. Enthusiasts love the idea of buying a vehicle that offers a relaxed lifestyle and a rewarding ownership experience. That is the opportunity awaiting the next owner of this 1933 Harley VL Big-Twin. It isn’t perfect but can be ridden and enjoyed immediately. With colder weather approaching, that may provide the ideal opportunity to treat it to some TLC in preparation for fun in the sun when summer blesses us with its presence. The Harley is listed here on eBay in Redmond, Oregon. Bidding passed the reserve, currently sitting at $14,488.
This old Harley looks positively menacing, wearing its predominantly black paint. The seller states that it shouldn’t be considered a 100% original survivor, nor should potential buyers view it as a restored classic. The paint is generally presentable, but it would benefit from a cosmetic refresh. Scratches and marks are visible in the supplied photos, but the shine is still impressive. The worst problem the buyer needs to tackle is the fuel tank. It has accumulated plenty of dings and dents, and while it may prove restorable, they will probably elect to source a replacement. The seat is in good order, as are the plated components. I feel that applying fresh paint and polishing this classic’s alloy engine parts during winter would make this VL sparkle when the time comes to hit the road under the summer sun.
The defining feature of any Harley is its engine. The company has traditionally focused on a V-Twin configuration, and a running Harley motor is easily distinguished from other brands due to its unique exhaust note. This 1933 VL packs good news for potential buyers. Its 74ci flathead “Big Twin” produces 40hp that finds its way to the road via a three-speed manual transmission. Compared to modern models, the number of ratios may seem small. However, these motors are renowned for producing bags of torque, giving them the flexibility that other makes envy. The seller purchased this classic sixteen years ago with the engine freshly rebuilt. They handed it to a noted specialist for final assembly, and it has served them faithfully ever since. They say it is as noisy as any Harley of this vintage, but this YouTube video shows the engine roaring to life from cold with little effort. It runs and rides well, but it does drink oil. However, if the new owner monitors the situation, it shouldn’t cause any problems.
I have previously admitted not understanding why enthusiasts are so passionate about classic Harley-Davidson motorcycles, but I happily accept my attitude was born out of ignorance. We should not consider a classic Harley in terms of a traditional motorcycle because the ownership of one involves admission into an entire lifestyle. There is a sense of community among owners you will find with no other brand, with a willingness to assist others in their time of need. That basic philosophy has existed for close to a century, and it continues to grow in strength with each passing year. Therefore, if that lifestyle sounds appealing and you are considering admitting a motorcycle into your life, perhaps this 1933 Harley VL could be the ideal starting point.
Great fairly complete 74 Flattie. Fix the foot brake lever. DO NOT polish the misc aluminum. All of my H/D’s have been kick start only, so you’ll need to get attuned to that process. I’d ride it as is otherwise. If I hadn’t recently purchased a vintage sports car, I’d bring this bike home.
I’m not even a motorcycle guy but that one looks beautiful to me.
American Pickers
Great honest bike, hopefully goes to a rider, refinishing this would be sad and probably take it off the street permanently. I have an original unrestored ’36 VLH that would welcome this ’33 V as a shop mate and take turns potato- potato-potato cruising my sleepy little town. f.w.i.w. the V produced 28 horsepower, the higher compression VL 30, and the VLH about 34 horsepower.
Cool 😎 H.D is there a site like Barnfinds for motorcycles only ?
love the springer frnt end and would chrome the whole thing if mine (& seek to get 1 to place on any other HD I’d own). Hidden rake, extension or what ever needed but those were a highlight to me (over the other models).
Glad he redid the motor. Wonder if there’s enuff for another rebuild in 1 or 200K? Mod into softail or better seat? Would researcha bouta button start.
Love it! The VL is my favorite of the flatheads. Interesting that people refer to bikes like this as oil burners. Well, in a way they’re right. The VL, like the JD that preceded it, and other HD bikes before the mid 30s, they all used a ‘Total Loss’ lube system. The oil was pumped in from the reservoir and stayed there until it was used up. The system worked just fine as long as it was properly calibrated. Trouble was, too many people worried about starving the bottom end so they pumped too much oil into the crankcase. That was dangerous as well because too much oil could cause the needle bearings to skid rather than roll, and that burned them up too. That was told to me by an OLD HD mechanic who was older than my father. He wrenced on bikes for over 50 years and told me lots of stories. I sure miss those old wrenches…