Bulli nearly here

The 2021 AMCA Australia Antique Motorcycle Weekend on the weekend of 28/29 August is rapidly coming together, with another great entry for the 2021 auction – a 1938 Harley Davidson U Model. Announced in August 1929 as a replacement for the much loved two-cam ‘pocket valve’ J-type, the Model U’s progenitor – the Model V – was far from an instant success. More massively built and heavier than its predecessor, the V lacked top end power to such an extent that the first examples were recalled for an extensive engine redesign. A larger crankcase accommodating heavier flywheels did the trick and, its problems solved, the V-series ‘flat head’ twins went on to win the hearts of Harley-Davidson enthusiasts everywhere. An 80ci (1,300cc) VLH arrived for 1935, joining the existing V and VL (high-compression) 74s. Revised with the frame, tank and wheels of the 61ci overhead-valve ‘Knucklehead’, plus dry-sump lubrication, the V became the Model U for 1938. Inside the engine virtually nothing was left unchanged: the crankpin was enlarged, connecting rods strengthened and the flywheels grew in size, while in the interests of rationalizing production, the ’74’s bore size changed to that of the ohv ’61’ and stroke to that of the ’80’. Improved and updated annually into the early 1940s, the old ‘flat head’ U series recommenced production after WW2, finally disappearing from the range at the end of 1948.

This fabulous machine was rebuilt by an ex-Harley-Davidson head mechanic, all chains, sprockets, brakes, clutch, speedo, tyres etc are new. The motor is an ex-police version, stroked and bored out to 1340cc (80 cubic), with only 600 miles on it. Some extra chrome and pan head fittings to the bike with blinkers from a pan head are also fitted. This bike is sorted, and ready to ride and rally. Price guide $45,000-55,000.

To list your motorcycle for auction or for other enquiries please contact Antony Gullick 0415 284 620. For Swap Meet and Club enquiries call Mick Johnson 0419 297 171, for Significant Parts and Memorabilia auction call VL Phill 0427 407 398 or

Keith Levy at Manshed Auctions 0431 066 615. For AMCA Motorcycle Judging call

Ian Pryde 0412 575 965. n