My grandfather brought a bike back from the war. It's a 1942. He put it together for his daily ride to work. He parked it 60 years ago. He passed away 14 years ago and I got the bike. I got it back to running condition just how he left it and ride to this day. Great story. Ride safe
Hi Jeremy. I have exactly the same story but just taking possession of mine next week... Its in good cosmetic condition but has been sitting for about 50 years. I'm curious if you know of any resources where I can learn more about the bike, perhaps obtain parts, etc.. any advice would be greatly appreciated!!
@@fearghal I have the exact same story too except my uncle has the bike and I do not. I would get more use outta it and take better care of it. Sad to see that it has to sit more.
@@fearghal JP cycles is where I got some parts. And Google searches. Parts are getting harder and harder to find. I did mine about 4 years ago but some parts are still out there. My piston and jugs were new old stock from 1942.
This is probably the most American, American motorcycle ever made. Too precious to discard, and in my deepest hopes and dreams, to see thia bike restored to its former glory and ended up in the hands of a really passionate owner.
Love it when an old forgotten bike (doesnt really matter what make) kicks into life again. These really old bikes have Soul and character not like new bikes that use computer chips and built by robots etc 🙂
My old friend bought 20 of these army surplus in a net for $800 once. He got 14 pieces together and sold them to marine buddies for $75 each so they could start a club. We kept and occasionally road the bike into his 80s, although he did require help kicking it over near the end, it was a privilege to be asked honestly
Privledge to kick one over, until it knicks you over its handlebars. LOL.. but yeah I know that feeling, my friends father an old biker from the 60's, let me ride his 42' knucklehead one fine day. And I thought that was something to write about.
Sometimes its just about giving it a home with someone who will appreciate it, or who you know will fix and ride it. Around here we call the wannabees "Gunners", as in you ask what they want for the rusting hulk in their driveway / front yard and they say "Not for sale. I'm gunna fix her up" or something similar. Five years later you drive past the same lot and that same hulk is sitting there, returning to the Earth. Anywho, rant aside, awesome to see someone give this up and get it a new lease on life!
@@PrivateEyeYiYi almost bought a '49 45 flathead all original ( beat up ) in 1982 for $1000 but I passed as I wanted a bigger bike. They still weren't that special at that time. I bought a really hammered 1200 panhead instead. For $1500
Dude.. this is 100% the coolest one yet. I thought I was stoked when I first kicked my '78 shovelhead last year after I got it. I'd be over the moon to own that WL.. congrats man.
Dude i have my grandpas 78 shovelhead ive ridden it plenty but were rebuilding it now cant wait to kick it over for the first time. Its kick electric thats why ive never had to kick it over.
@@B.A.D.805 mine is a kick/electric also. I just enjoy kicking if the mechanism engages correctly. I just had to fix the electric starter 2 weeks ago. Wasn't bad really to do. The ring gear on the clutch basket had some broken teeth.
I like how you say prayers. I pray when I got to ride that the Lord will keep me safe or guide me. Also that I accept if something happens to look after my family and bring peace to world and stop hate. Loved the sound of that old bike. Made me smile when it started.
The year was 1967; I was 17 years old, traded a BMW Iseta for a black WL. I drove it and my Harley 750 flathead KIt KR for a year and had to sell both before I left for Marine boot camp in June of 1969 because my dad said he wouldn’t store my junk while I was gone. While stationed at El Toro Marine Air Station in California a buddy and I had an opportunity to purchase five of these bike still in crates and wrapped in oiled paper for $500; we were broke and lost the deal! You sure brought back memories; thanks!
This video takes me back a ways. I bought a stock 1942 WLA in 1977 when my son was born. When he turned 16 I gave it to my son. It even had the maps and paperwork from its tour of Europe during WWII. That bike was in our family for 30 years. Great video great memories.
The funny thing is when the bike locks up in front of everyone on the road and you drop the bike and everyone looks at you like you can't ride... Trust me, it's embarrassing
This is the best bike you have ever featured and welcome to the world of classic bikes. I live in Hong Kong and ride a WW2 1943 BSA WM20 and a 1929 Scott Flying Squirrel on a daily basis. It's not about getting from A to B as fast as you can but it's all about the journey and the massive smile on your face when you arrive.
My Grandfather had one he got after leaving the air force/ army air corps in the 50’s, he had all the parts to convert it from military to civilian trim. Occasionally during winter he’d tear down the engine and run the 74” flywheel to stroke it to 950cc approximately, went a lot faster especially after he found a racing cam. I wish he didn’t sell it when I was 16,
My grandpa rode this model through WW2. In England, he escorted convoys at night, with black out lights, to prepare for d-day invasion. While escorting a convoy, wrecked in the dark, broke ankle and got a purple heart. Then him and bike was put on a ship, taken to Normandy and escorted convoys from France to Germany. He was also trained to use a mortar, that fit the bikes side car frame.
He was the first to be drafted, from the second smallest county in Indiana, during the peace time draft; before Pearl Harbor. Trained on the east coast to use the bike, then sent to New York City for deployment. Don't know how it worked out this way, but while waiting for a ship to ship out, he was allowed to ride his bike all over early 1940's New York city. That had to be a shock, coming from little rural Union county Indiana. Then across England several times, France, Belgium and Germany. Was still in Germany after end of war. Seen pics of him riding around in back seat of big fancy Mercedes open top car, after VE day, that had belonged to some high ranking general or something. That's a very long and difficult adventure ride, plus using that model of bike.
This is so amazing, this shop is literally 40 minutes from my hometown and I used to come here almost every other weekend for gear, looking at the motorcycles, and parts. Great bike and great shop, with a great story and beautiful area to ride through.
I bought a bike like this when I was 16 years old back in 1963 for $100. My first registered vehicle. I learned to ride it the morning I picked it up. I had so much fun with it. It was red but had been painted so with a brush and wasn’t all rusty.
I'm on an old flathead, I'm not going very fast, my bike hasn't even run for 50 years, and im trying to get it home. All my friends I'm hoping will follow me drive 80 mph and wait for me to show up. That's what friends are for.
@Repent!. uh, yeah,,, got that covered. Nothing to repent of in my comment though. Take a break and be happy with a brother for a brother. Leave space for Grace.
I enjoyed watching that, reminds me of my younger days I never knew if I were going to make the trip but that didn’t stop me, and I’m glad that you included our Heavenly Father
Never ridden the WLA, but from what I've read, the must switch to taller cogs to keep up with the bigger Harley's on a run. Pretty sure that little flathead only makes about 25 horsepower.
I'm from Italy. When I was 14 I took out of my dad's basement grandpa's old Vespa from the '60s and it started with just fuel in it after decades. Old bikes are awesome. Your WLA is amazing, man.
I bet you actually really enjoyed every second of that journey! They way you gotta take your hand off to shift the gears just really makes me appreciate what you said! “That Motorcycle if from another time.” Makes me wanna buy & restore a golden oldie!
Considering that it is almost suicidal to ride a bike on the street or the highway without a front brake, I'm glad you made it safely. People forget that about 75% of your braking is on the front wheel. A lot of people don't know that a significant percentage of those bikes went to the Soviet Union during the war, the Jeep proved to be so versatile that they ended up doing most of the jobs they thought would be done by the bikes, so the went on the lend/lease program to Russia. After the war the Soviets sold the bikes as surplus to their own people, there are still WW2 vintage Harleys being ridden in Russia.
At 35 miles an hr I don't think the old mechanical brake was that big of a loss. They help keep the bike from rolling if you have to stop on an incline and with the shift and clutch set up on those bikes that a big big plus.
@@rivjoy I had a 58 model bike and the front brake didn't work. Back in 1962 when I was riding that bike we were told to never use the front brake, it will throw you on your head, an old wives tale I hope nobody believes anymore. I had to make several panic stops when I had that bike, and I have the memory burned into my brain just how far that bike takes to stop on the rear brake alone. I had a guy run a stop sign, I was riding about 30 mph at the time. I missed a broadside by only a couple of feet, I got the bike stopped about 50 ft past him, I just sat there a couple of minutes shaking, if that guy would have been going slower I would have hit him broadside. 58 years and over 300,000 miles on bikes and I am very aware of the value of the front brake.
@Bikes and Beards or get your spine fused! Lol. It can’t be that hard to free it up and get her moving. Bless you brother. If you want to ride up here in Ontario let me know. Got some great roads
I got goosebumps just watching you ride this bike. I love things like this. I know exactly what you mean about feeling like nostalgia. I restored an old 56 ford truck. And driving something with history is an amazing feeling.
I love these guys so much , Sean and Craig have one of the best employee/friendships ever. Sean you are an inspiration man, I love your positivity and daily scripture. Thanks for the awesome content, keep it up can’t wait for the next video!
I'm thankful for cameras so more of us can experience this epic trip with you. That is a beautiful bike and no one can talk crap about it. To sit that long and then go all that way. I'm still in awe. This was one of your best videos although I haven't seen a dud yet except I missed the Road King giveaway 😭
We had access to parts and sometimes near finished WLA Harleys when I was stationed in the Philippines in the '80s. They are a blast to ride. My friend had a '42 and we built it from parts we were able to acquire.
That is pretty freaking legit. I hope one day I get to fulfill my dream of writing. I may Air Force wounded warrior and I broke my back at the young age of 24 now being 27 high always dreamed of riding one day since I was a little kid I played with motorcycles. But now after my back injury it’s extremely nerve-racking and I do have a lot of stress worrying about hurting myself because I can become paralyzed. I am a follower of God like you are and I’m happy that I get to watch these videos and kinda live through you.
Hey brother. Im 100% total and permanent. From my vacation in the sandbox. I have a bike and it is better therapy riding and being in nature than any mental health specialist. I have fractures, ddd, spinal stenosis, basically i need a new back. I retired from the Army and moved my home of record to Florida from Illinois. I say all of this to say i totally understand. There's a bike out there from everyone. If two wheels is too nerve wracking, there are trikes and slingshots and can am spyders out there. Please dont hurt yourself, but there is something out there for everyone. I wish you the best brother. Carpe Diem!
Disabled army veteran back broken in 6 places both knees and hips and a shoulder has to be replaced most my disc missing carpel tunnel rheumatoid and osteo arthritis in bother hands I ride brother and I plan on getting a bigger and more powerful bike my lil 650 V-Star isn't powerful enough for major emergency maneuvers especially 2 up ya ain't passing 3 truck going 30 under the speed limit. I also wear a lower back brace aka kidney pad I also have a plate in my left leg and screws in my left ankle . Hope this gives ya see hope. I rebuilt this bike too.
May as well just send it. It’s pointless to spend your whole life worrying about this injury and the fact you could end up paralyzed. Just get out and send it. If it happens it happens. Just stay safe. But you’re going to hate yourself in 50 years if all you have to talk about is stuff you never did. Just fuckin send it bud. Thank you for serving but don’t live your whole life contained to a shell of stress
That's a proper motorcycle. Love that you're giving some screen time to an old classic. That took some balls to ride that thing home in that condition.
@@Mr.deviledegg, Quit, dude. That's the same thing. You have to be smarter than that. Thinking that you're clever is not necessarily being smart. Have some decency. Have some sense.
All you need to get a old Honda or Harley’s running is starter fluid and miracle oil and probably a set of valve stem seals depending if you want to blind the car behind you
Ehh... You’re right BUT... your statement is more true for old Honda motorcycles than it is for old Harley motorcycles (in regards to the ease & what’s required to get them running). But having that said, the older carbureted Harleys were somehow less troublesome (in some ways) and easier to get going after they’ve sat for extended periods than the bikes they made after the mid-80’s, even though those were carbureted as well.
This video was awesome! Can’t wait to see the restoration of this bike, Sean and his crew are absolutely kick ass. One of these days I’m hopping on my bike and making a trip up to SRK cycles, it’s only a couple hours away from me. Once again, you guys are absolutely awesome 👍👍
I love the Scrips you use on these vids. I still have the Triumph I had in school. Rebuilding again for the 3rd time in mine & it's lifetime. In the meantime I have a 95 evo I ride. I also had a 45 that I should never have sold. Great to see this. Be blessed brother.
2 weeks ago, while riding a very early morning ride on my RT, a guy in full WWII GI uniform and helmet wit goggles showed up behind me on his WWII Harley WLA 'Liberator' .. Now that was such a cool sight! It was in pristine condition and the sound was awesome..He rode a few miles with me and then took another turn. Love these old H-D's.
I’ve always passed that Harley dealer on my way to Penn state. Ever time i wanted to go look inside. Such a beautiful dealership. Truly a work of American art. I hope they’re still open.
I’m amazed that gas tank wasn’t full of rust and the carburetors didn’t even have to be rebuilt to get that thing going. What was it doing in a junkyard if it was almost ride ready?
Pa bought a used Harley when I was 5 years old and took me for rides around our neighborhood a few times (circa 1950)....Your bike takes me back; still remember those rides..... I got my first motorcycle at 18 (used Jawa, early 1964)....Then a couple 350 Hondas until my bride made me stop riding, since we had 2 kids (late 70s).....After our divorce and just before my 50th birthday, I bought my first Harley (1200 Sporty) in '95....Fat Boy in '98, used bagger ('96 in 2000), used '99 Softail custom in 2003.....Currently a Sporty 48 customized to look like a Fat Boy junior.....
This is what motorcycles are all about! A real man’s machine! No electric start, no smooth effortless ride, just a man and his machine. Cantankerous as hell, leaks, breaks down but for the love of motorcycles a work of art!
First time viewer from Panama (not Florida, but the Canal) . enjoyed you letting us share in your adventure.. Love the bike, can relate to the ride … Look forward to more videos …Take Care
I am glad you said a prayer brother,I think most would ,you definitely have bigger nads than I as i would have not trusted such an old bike that had sat for so long ,it really is testament to how well Harleys were made back in the day.
I really dug this one for real, I think you should update what ever needed to make it safe and leave it as is. I can’t wait to see what you end up doing with it! Awesome find
Chad knows his Chit, 3 times down on the crank, ignition on 4th crank down fired up bringing the Old Hog back to life, loving these bike videos reminding me when i rode the old 62 Panhead Chopper back in 1975 like my picture shows. Harley's run in my family in the 1930s to the late 40s, my dad had a 1929 JD and a 1936 Flathead WL, my uncle a 1937 UL
When working properly, the WLA makes MAYBE 25 horsepower. Given the ancient condition of the carbeurator, I would assume that the bike is making 10-15 horsepower at the wheel. It’s probably advisable to not exceed 40-45 MPH lol. Which, for the time, is fairly impressive. Especially since that bike was made to trundle down dirt roads with gear on it. It wasn’t made to go on the highway at all. Hell, highways barely existed in the US.
I've always thought they had to have a hidden gem there. Gotta say that going down 322 was ballsy, but it's good that you made it. 7 mountains would have me a little worried going down.
In before the haters complain that it’s junk because it “iSnT fAsT eNoUgH!”, ignoring that this is an amazing piece of history you scored! Definitely the coolest bike you’ve had on here yet!
As always god bless you brother it heals my soul a little each time i watch your videos never rode a bike but i have two older bikes in the garage 80s cavalcades one a parts bike my friend went down and snapped his ankle and brought them to me
OMG, that's the holy grail bike! And what an INCREDIBLE video and INCREDIBLE journey! I've made the trip to and from State College a few times, so I know how long it is! Holy crap, you must have been bricking it the whole way.
That was awesome, I don’t think I would’ve rode that on the freeway though unless I had someone directly behind me the whole way. Loved the prayer, and Bible verses. I would keep that bike just like it is, I would just work on what needed to be done mechanically, and find a front and rear tail light for it, oh yeah and a speedometer, that old so-called patina is actually more cool than having a nice shiny restore job, at least to me anyway, cheers.
My very first "real" motorcycle was a 1933 Harley VL that I bought in 1961 for $20. Memories! Edit: Be glad that you weren't on a VL - they had a total loss oil system with a hand pump in the right side tank where you would pump oil to the engine when you felt it tightening up. Technology!
I’ve got to be honest here and I thoroughly enjoyed this video. Was so good to take the challenge on such an old bike you knew naff all about. Well done 👏🏼
I have to add that your shifter and clutch arrangement was/is known as a “suicide shifter and suicide clutch”; because you have to take you hand of the handle bar to shift.
Absolutely a fantastic motorcycle by the way... I love everything about it, especially the springer front end. I would leave it pretty much the way it is if it was mine... it's just perfect. Of course it would be good to make sure it would run, stop and not burst into flame, but beyond that it's very cool as is. NICE FIND! I really enjoyed the vid.
Build a nice looking stocker flathead out of it. I wish I had one to build, I'm trying to build an old style 30s - 40s Harley and I don't even have one to start with. All I have is a springer and some big fenders, and my old Triumph.
"What do you think of your electric start now Enstien?" Yeah I got an SV650 now, but I loved that Norton Commando I had in the Marine Corps. But it's not what you ride, it's where you're going. Or that you're riding something there.
I remember being a young kid back in the 60's when the stories were that you could get a WWII surplus bike for $75. I wasn't old enough to ride at the time and by the time I was and had gotten into bikes they were nowhere to be found.
I remember seeing a bike like that sitting in a field when I was a kid with no wheels on it I used to play on it for hours. Idk if it’s still sitting there or not
@@cpevida309 West coast a little town called boswarlos it was behind my brother in laws house. It had no wheels but was standing upright I would sit on it as a kid a pretend I was riding it
Awesome find! I can't believe you made it all the way back to the shop. I'm in Scranton and have been meaning to ride down to check out your shop. I'll have to swing by and check that beauty out.
Those guys is State College probably look forward to seeing you pull into the lot. That's like the third bike out of there I think. Pretty good for your first time with a suicide shifter, mighty ambitious first ride.
That was definitely cool 😎. Now imagine riding that at a hurried pace while shooting and getting shot at 🤪. Them boys were tough!!!! Not sure if you can find a WW2 vet that's able bodied enough to ride it, but damn it would be great to see them do it! 🇺🇲
I love that prayer you did while rideing. I pay Everytime before rideing for the lord to keep angels around me ,mindful drivers and open roads. Very cool bike nice find forsure!!😎
My grandfather brought a bike back from the war. It's a 1942. He put it together for his daily ride to work. He parked it 60 years ago. He passed away 14 years ago and I got the bike. I got it back to running condition just how he left it and ride to this day. Great story. Ride safe
Hi Jeremy. I have exactly the same story but just taking possession of mine next week... Its in good cosmetic condition but has been sitting for about 50 years. I'm curious if you know of any resources where I can learn more about the bike, perhaps obtain parts, etc.. any advice would be greatly appreciated!!
@@fearghal I have the exact same story too except my uncle has the bike and I do not. I would get more use outta it and take better care of it. Sad to see that it has to sit more.
I have that EXACT same story as well!
That's awesome bro keep the heritage alive bro.
@@fearghal JP cycles is where I got some parts. And Google searches. Parts are getting harder and harder to find. I did mine about 4 years ago but some parts are still out there. My piston and jugs were new old stock from 1942.
This is probably the most American, American motorcycle ever made. Too precious to discard, and in my deepest hopes and dreams, to see thia bike restored to its former glory and ended up in the hands of a really passionate owner.
Have you seen the other videos that came after this where he puts a motor from a generator in it?
Looks more like old British motorcycle
harley shoulda remade it
@@sinceninetyeightysixgustof8122 no he didnt
Perfect the way it is.
Love it when an old forgotten bike (doesnt really matter what make) kicks into life again. These really old bikes have Soul and character not like new bikes that use computer chips and built by robots etc 🙂
My old friend bought 20 of these army surplus in a net for $800 once. He got 14 pieces together and sold them to marine buddies for $75 each so they could start a club. We kept and occasionally road the bike into his 80s, although he did require help kicking it over near the end, it was a privilege to be asked honestly
When?
@@drisk6808 1952
I pray I have one one day
Privledge to kick one over, until it knicks you over its handlebars. LOL.. but yeah I know that feeling, my friends father an old biker from the 60's, let me ride his 42' knucklehead one fine day. And I thought that was something to write about.
@@88TRUNKBACK And let me guess. That club is now the Hell's Angels.
This is the coolest bike you’ve ever featured! What an awesome find!
It really is!
I'm so happy it didn't lock up in traffic and you had to drop it, then look around like it wasn't your fault. Trust me, it's embarrassing. 😉
Exactly what I was thinking 🤔
This episode was a mixture of Wheels Through Time and Vice Grip Garage
😎👍🏽 restore it and keep it
Someone had to be asleep at that junkyard to let this go. It was a piece of history even in 1970.
Sometimes its just about giving it a home with someone who will appreciate it, or who you know will fix and ride it.
Around here we call the wannabees "Gunners", as in you ask what they want for the rusting hulk in their driveway / front yard and they say "Not for sale. I'm gunna fix her up" or something similar. Five years later you drive past the same lot and that same hulk is sitting there, returning to the Earth.
Anywho, rant aside, awesome to see someone give this up and get it a new lease on life!
In 1970 it was just a crappy 45 flathead.
Nothing special at all.
@@michaelszczys8316
Things like a 55-57 Chevy or An old Harley were no big deal when they were new. Now they’re antiques.
@@PrivateEyeYiYi almost bought a '49 45 flathead all original ( beat up ) in 1982 for $1000 but I passed as I wanted a bigger bike. They still weren't that special at that time. I bought a really hammered 1200 panhead instead.
For $1500
Dude.. this is 100% the coolest one yet. I thought I was stoked when I first kicked my '78 shovelhead last year after I got it. I'd be over the moon to own that WL.. congrats man.
Dude i have my grandpas 78 shovelhead ive ridden it plenty but were rebuilding it now cant wait to kick it over for the first time. Its kick electric thats why ive never had to kick it over.
@@B.A.D.805 mine is a kick/electric also. I just enjoy kicking if the mechanism engages correctly. I just had to fix the electric starter 2 weeks ago. Wasn't bad really to do. The ring gear on the clutch basket had some broken teeth.
@@patrickm6000 My father has a 77' Shovelhead FLH and that bike is a beauty.
Not a junk yard . Good find 👏
@@cole9777 flh 1200 is what mine is. A blue/white color scheme with wide whitewall tires
That was epic. I'm not a Harley guy but man this was awesome.
@Repent!. are you good
@Repent!. no
I like how you say prayers. I pray when I got to ride that the Lord will keep me safe or guide me. Also that I accept if something happens to look after my family and bring peace to world and stop hate. Loved the sound of that old bike. Made me smile when it started.
The year was 1967; I was 17 years old, traded a BMW Iseta for a black WL. I drove it and my Harley 750 flathead KIt KR for a year and had to sell both before I left for Marine boot camp in June of 1969 because my dad said he wouldn’t store my junk while I was gone.
While stationed at El Toro Marine Air Station in California a buddy and I had an opportunity to purchase five of these bike still in crates and wrapped in oiled paper for $500; we were broke and lost the deal!
You sure brought back memories; thanks!
This video takes me back a ways. I bought a stock 1942 WLA in 1977 when my son was born. When he turned 16 I gave it to my son. It even had the maps and paperwork from its tour of Europe during WWII. That bike was in our family for 30 years. Great video great memories.
Never have i ever heard a more badass sound in my life. To see them bring this piece of history back to life is stunning.
Yes! I miss these buy and attempt to ride home videos! You should do more of these
Agreed!
The funny thing is when the bike locks up in front of everyone on the road and you drop the bike and everyone looks at you like you can't ride... Trust me, it's embarrassing
This is the best bike you have ever featured and welcome to the world of classic bikes. I live in Hong Kong and ride a WW2 1943 BSA WM20 and a 1929 Scott Flying Squirrel on a daily basis. It's not about getting from A to B as fast as you can but it's all about the journey and the massive smile on your face when you arrive.
I feel the same I restoring a Raleigh Runabout, only 49cc but , it is my journey. thanks for sharing
Engine sounds surprisingly healthy for how many decades it sat. Hopefully she cleans up real nice and keeps running a long while yet.
Obviously, because it is repaired. It's just a show, nobody will ride broken thing for hundreds miles.
Healthy..lol.. observe it again
@@Millions0fDreams Sounds. That excludes the clouds of smoke
@@Skywalker9201 no its not a Russian bikeski! 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
the smoke coming out the exhaust doesnt say repairee, these arent two strokes...@@Skywalker9201
My Grandfather had one he got after leaving the air force/ army air corps in the 50’s, he had all the parts to convert it from military to civilian trim. Occasionally during winter he’d tear down the engine and run the 74” flywheel to stroke it to 950cc approximately, went a lot faster especially after he found a racing cam. I wish he didn’t sell it when I was 16,
How cool man! Great story!
My grandpa rode this model through WW2.
In England, he escorted convoys at night, with black out lights, to prepare for d-day invasion.
While escorting a convoy, wrecked in the dark, broke ankle and got a purple heart.
Then him and bike was put on a ship, taken to Normandy and escorted convoys from France to Germany.
He was also trained to use a mortar, that fit the bikes side car frame.
You're grandpa is a hero ! Thanks.
thanks for sharing
We are grateful for your grandpa’s service.Thank you from England.
Very cool thanks for sharing
He was the first to be drafted, from the second smallest county in Indiana, during the peace time draft; before Pearl Harbor.
Trained on the east coast to use the bike, then sent to New York City for deployment.
Don't know how it worked out this way, but while waiting for a ship to ship out, he was allowed to ride his bike all over early 1940's New York city.
That had to be a shock, coming from little rural Union county Indiana.
Then across England several times, France, Belgium and Germany.
Was still in Germany after end of war.
Seen pics of him riding around in back seat of big fancy Mercedes open top car, after VE day, that had belonged to some high ranking general or something.
That's a very long and difficult adventure ride, plus using that model of bike.
This is so amazing, this shop is literally 40 minutes from my hometown and I used to come here almost every other weekend for gear, looking at the motorcycles, and parts. Great bike and great shop, with a great story and beautiful area to ride through.
I bought a bike like this when I was 16 years old back in 1963 for $100. My first registered vehicle. I learned to ride it the morning I picked it up. I had so much fun with it. It was red but had been painted so with a brush and wasn’t all rusty.
Such great comments spawned by this old treasure being fired up and driven to a new lasting future. Good stuff.
Dang if only I can find a deal like that today lol
I had to watch this because I feel that the ww2 military Harleys are the most beautiful bikes ever. Ever. So great. Cant beat it.
You’re a brave man taking that old bike on such a trip, especially on the highway. Great video as always!
I'm on an old flathead, I'm not going very fast, my bike hasn't even run for 50 years, and im trying to get it home.
All my friends I'm hoping will follow me drive 80 mph and wait for me to show up.
That's what friends are for.
@@michaelszczys8316 well hope you make it home man! 🤞
The best part of starting an old bike is the look on everyone's faces when it fires up for the first time.
Thats the reason why my hobby was to get old (small) bikes to running again. If it started, I had a good day!
The best
*after a long time*
One kick too. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
When I heard that engine kick over, it was like hearing my children being born. Except this baby has a very deep voice!
So vicariously happy with you!
@Repent!. uh, yeah,,, got that covered. Nothing to repent of in my comment though. Take a break and be happy with a brother for a brother. Leave space for Grace.
I enjoyed watching that, reminds me of my younger days I never knew if I were going to make the trip but that didn’t stop me, and I’m glad that you included our Heavenly Father
Old Harley’s never die. Still wish I had my 1936 80.
@ONLINE INTELECTUAL Stolen long ago.
Never ridden the WLA, but from what I've read, the must switch to taller cogs to keep up with the bigger Harley's on a run. Pretty sure that little flathead only makes about 25 horsepower.
Yeah bullet too
Imagine owning this bike and being shy haha, so many people are gonna want to talk to you about it for hours. What a cool bike!.
Probably not
@@Josh_martin689 😐
@@Bellysdead ??
@@Bellysdead it’s a Harley man, that’s why.
yeah whenever i get gas or ride mine, [people stare or take pix
I'm from Italy. When I was 14 I took out of my dad's basement grandpa's old Vespa from the '60s and it started with just fuel in it after decades. Old bikes are awesome. Your WLA is amazing, man.
I bet you actually really enjoyed every second of that journey! They way you gotta take your hand off to shift the gears just really makes me appreciate what you said! “That Motorcycle if from another time.” Makes me wanna buy & restore a golden oldie!
Imagine how the harley feels, sitting in a garage for 50 years and then is like omg someone found me and wants to ride me lets go0o0o0ooo 14:11
I agree
What? Dude... who would'nt want to ride that bike? And who would cover it up in the corner of some garage like it's " oh that old rusty thing?"
The Joy, yeah! And I can imagine it taking a deep breath...coming back to life...kinda crazy but can't help it, I've got tons of imagination 🙏🏼👍🏼
@@Ed-ty1kr one of the modern crotch rocket kids would laugh at this. Their loss tho.
My fav TH-cam video right now no lie th-cam.com/video/kPznVA-yANk/w-d-xo.html
That WLA is in amazing condition. What a find! Kudos to Sean for riding it home.
Considering that it is almost suicidal to ride a bike on the street or the highway without a front brake, I'm glad you made it safely. People forget that about 75% of your braking is on the front wheel. A lot of people don't know that a significant percentage of those bikes went to the Soviet Union during the war, the Jeep proved to be so versatile that they ended up doing most of the jobs they thought would be done by the bikes, so the went on the lend/lease program to Russia. After the war the Soviets sold the bikes as surplus to their own people, there are still WW2 vintage Harleys being ridden in Russia.
At 35 miles an hr I don't think the old mechanical brake was that big of a loss. They help keep the bike from rolling if you have to stop on an incline and with the shift and clutch set up on those bikes that a big big plus.
@@rivjoy I had a 58 model bike and the front brake didn't work. Back in 1962 when I was riding that bike we were told to never use the front brake, it will throw you on your head, an old wives tale I hope nobody believes anymore. I had to make several panic stops when I had that bike, and I have the memory burned into my brain just how far that bike takes to stop on the rear brake alone. I had a guy run a stop sign, I was riding about 30 mph at the time. I missed a broadside by only a couple of feet, I got the bike stopped about 50 ft past him, I just sat there a couple of minutes shaking, if that guy would have been going slower I would have hit him broadside. 58 years and over 300,000 miles on bikes and I am very aware of the value of the front brake.
@@G56AGand also judging by how bad the brakes on my '78 vespa are, the front brake cant throw you over anyways, its far too weak.
That is freaking awesome. That’s one of my dream bikes right there and you got to ride it 5 hrs. Amazing! Congratulations Sean
my next dream is to have the seat shock fixed before i ride it lol
@@BikesandBeards LOL
@Bikes and Beards or get your spine fused! Lol. It can’t be that hard to free it up and get her moving. Bless you brother. If you want to ride up here in Ontario let me know. Got some great roads
I got goosebumps just watching you ride this bike. I love things like this. I know exactly what you mean about feeling like nostalgia. I restored an old 56 ford truck. And driving something with history is an amazing feeling.
I love these guys so much , Sean and Craig have one of the best employee/friendships ever. Sean you are an inspiration man, I love your positivity and daily scripture. Thanks for the awesome content, keep it up can’t wait for the next video!
I'm thankful for cameras so more of us can experience this epic trip with you. That is a beautiful bike and no one can talk crap about it. To sit that long and then go all that way. I'm still in awe. This was one of your best videos although I haven't seen a dud yet except I missed the Road King giveaway 😭
Love the prayers and Bible verses, so wholesome. Keep up the great example of manliness.
We had access to parts and sometimes near finished WLA Harleys when I was stationed in the Philippines in the '80s. They are a blast to ride. My friend had a '42 and we built it from parts we were able to acquire.
That is pretty freaking legit. I hope one day I get to fulfill my dream of writing. I may Air Force wounded warrior and I broke my back at the young age of 24 now being 27 high always dreamed of riding one day since I was a little kid I played with motorcycles. But now after my back injury it’s extremely nerve-racking and I do have a lot of stress worrying about hurting myself because I can become paralyzed. I am a follower of God like you are and I’m happy that I get to watch these videos and kinda live through you.
Thank you for your service, but seriously, do what Bruce Lee did. And go ride!!
Hey brother. Im 100% total and permanent. From my vacation in the sandbox. I have a bike and it is better therapy riding and being in nature than any mental health specialist. I have fractures, ddd, spinal stenosis, basically i need a new back. I retired from the Army and moved my home of record to Florida from Illinois. I say all of this to say i totally understand. There's a bike out there from everyone. If two wheels is too nerve wracking, there are trikes and slingshots and can am spyders out there. Please dont hurt yourself, but there is something out there for everyone. I wish you the best brother. Carpe Diem!
@@deadbread_brian onwards and upwards son ☘️ god bless,🙏🐓🇮🇪
Disabled army veteran back broken in 6 places both knees and hips and a shoulder has to be replaced most my disc missing carpel tunnel rheumatoid and osteo arthritis in bother hands I ride brother and I plan on getting a bigger and more powerful bike my lil 650 V-Star isn't powerful enough for major emergency maneuvers especially 2 up ya ain't passing 3 truck going 30 under the speed limit. I also wear a lower back brace aka kidney pad I also have a plate in my left leg and screws in my left ankle . Hope this gives ya see hope. I rebuilt this bike too.
May as well just send it. It’s pointless to spend your whole life worrying about this injury and the fact you could end up paralyzed. Just get out and send it. If it happens it happens. Just stay safe. But you’re going to hate yourself in 50 years if all you have to talk about is stuff you never did. Just fuckin send it bud. Thank you for serving but don’t live your whole life contained to a shell of stress
That's a great looking bike, and I really appreciate your spiritual aspect to the video. The text from Philippians was spot on!
Thats a piece of history right there. Good find guys.
get the dog through the oven really cool Harley I love the old one s
Yes it’s a piece of something. Lol 💩
That's a proper motorcycle. Love that you're giving some screen time to an old classic. That took some balls to ride that thing home in that condition.
Dude, don't be a pervert. It has nothing to do with his private parts.
Big cohones! Don’t worry Dave I don’t think he speaks es pano lol. The ride was definitely a sketchy one
@@Mr.deviledegg,
Quit, dude. That's the same thing. You have to be smarter than that. Thinking that you're clever is not necessarily being smart. Have some decency. Have some sense.
All you need to get a old Honda or Harley’s running is starter fluid and miracle oil and probably a set of valve stem seals depending if you want to blind the car behind you
Where is the fun in that?
@@donalddoty5768 good point 😂
Ehh... You’re right BUT... your statement is more true for old Honda motorcycles than it is for old Harley motorcycles (in regards to the ease & what’s required to get them running).
But having that said, the older carbureted Harleys were somehow less troublesome (in some ways) and easier to get going after they’ve sat for extended periods than the bikes they made after the mid-80’s, even though those were carbureted as well.
@Alex D i was only joking kid 😂
Amazing find.Its never about the destination its about the journey and the freedom of taking such a classic and giving it life again.
This video was awesome! Can’t wait to see the restoration of this bike, Sean and his crew are absolutely kick ass. One of these days I’m hopping on my bike and making a trip up to SRK cycles, it’s only a couple hours away from me. Once again, you guys are absolutely awesome 👍👍
Persobaly,i would just give it a tidy up and a service and leave it as is.It's got character.😎👍
I love the Scrips you use on these vids. I still have the Triumph I had in school. Rebuilding again for the 3rd time in mine & it's lifetime. In the meantime I have a 95 evo I ride. I also had a 45 that I should never have sold. Great to see this. Be blessed brother.
A friend of mine has one that he found in Sicily while he as stationed there. Brought it back the Hawaii. Totally restored…awesome bike!
@Akhenaton no, not during WW2. It was the late 90s when he was stationed there…(I was there in the late 80’s - loved it)
I’d love to see that bike fully mechanically restored so it can drive on the highway safely but keep the patina
I want to buy it, that’s exactly what I’d do!! I’m only an hr from them so I’m going to reach out
@@f82dot he said he been looking for that bike for years so I don't think he will sell it, wish you luck asking them for it tho!
@@portgax Everything is for sale!!
@@paulf9653 hes not selling that bike it's his childhood dream to have that bike
If you want to thrash that fine old ride down a modern multi-lane highway, then that is not the droid you're looking for.
2 weeks ago, while riding a very early morning ride on my RT, a guy in full WWII GI uniform and helmet wit goggles showed up behind me on his WWII Harley WLA 'Liberator' .. Now that was such a cool sight! It was in pristine condition and the sound was awesome..He rode a few miles with me and then took another turn. Love these old H-D's.
Love watching Sean take on the challenge of getting some old classic to make the long trip home.
6:00 finally someone who knows how to kickstart a motorcycle, instead of just kicking full force 100 times
I’ve always passed that Harley dealer on my way to Penn state. Ever time i wanted to go look inside. Such a beautiful dealership. Truly a work of American art. I hope they’re still open.
I’m amazed that gas tank wasn’t full of rust and the carburetors didn’t even have to be rebuilt to get that thing going. What was it doing in a junkyard if it was almost ride ready?
Probably did it off camera
Thats fake bike painted as old model its not even old
@Hey Tex I think is joking. LOL
@@rivjoy Holy crap, good call on the cams. Watch his upload today (02/15/22) where they tear down the engine properly. Has hot cams in it.
Pa bought a used Harley when I was 5 years old and took me for rides around our neighborhood a few times (circa 1950)....Your bike takes me back; still remember those rides.....
I got my first motorcycle at 18 (used Jawa, early 1964)....Then a couple 350 Hondas until my bride made me stop riding, since we had 2 kids (late 70s).....After our divorce and just before my 50th birthday, I bought my first Harley (1200 Sporty) in '95....Fat Boy in '98, used bagger ('96 in 2000), used '99 Softail custom in 2003.....Currently a Sporty 48 customized to look like a Fat Boy junior.....
thats sooo cool
Your history is quite interesting to listen mate any long story of yours?? Willing to hear any day
Wow. Perfect timing. A few months ago I bought a KMZ K-750 to restore, and now you've bought a lovely Harley.
This is what motorcycles are all about! A real man’s machine! No electric start, no smooth effortless ride, just a man and his machine. Cantankerous as hell, leaks, breaks down but for the love of motorcycles a work of art!
This is the best thing you've had on your channel so far man. I'm so pumped for you. That's a unicorn..
Thanks a ton!
First time viewer from Panama (not Florida, but the Canal) . enjoyed you letting us share in your adventure.. Love the bike, can relate to the ride … Look forward to more videos …Take Care
Thanks
I am glad you said a prayer brother,I think most would ,you definitely have bigger nads than I as i would have not trusted such an old bike that had sat for so long ,it really is testament to how well Harleys were made back in the day.
I really dug this one for real, I think you should update what ever needed to make it safe and leave it as is. I can’t wait to see what you end up doing with it! Awesome find
Chad knows his Chit, 3 times down on the crank, ignition on 4th crank down fired up bringing the Old Hog back to life, loving these bike videos reminding me when i rode the old 62 Panhead Chopper back in 1975 like my picture shows. Harley's run in my family in the 1930s to the late 40s, my dad had a 1929 JD and a 1936 Flathead WL, my uncle a 1937 UL
When working properly, the WLA makes MAYBE 25 horsepower. Given the ancient condition of the carbeurator, I would assume that the bike is making 10-15 horsepower at the wheel. It’s probably advisable to not exceed 40-45 MPH lol.
Which, for the time, is fairly impressive. Especially since that bike was made to trundle down dirt roads with gear on it. It wasn’t made to go on the highway at all. Hell, highways barely existed in the US.
Makes it an enduro
damn my ebike can smoke this thing. to be fair, it smokes most low end motorcycles
@@Blox117 yeah, but its still a little toy. Time to upgrade to a real bike with an engine for big boys. 🤣🤣🤣
@@johnmichaels4330 you're right, I could put a 100kw controller on it and destroy the highest end sport bikes and a tesla
@@Blox117 for what? 20 minutes? If you're lucky? Until batteries can hang with fuel, engines will rule.
I've always thought they had to have a hidden gem there. Gotta say that going down 322 was ballsy, but it's good that you made it. 7 mountains would have me a little worried going down.
It's amazing how that bike even survived the scrapyard and then for you to not only get it running but to ride it home. Awesome 🤜💥🤛
I am proud of you for making such a historic ride.! Out-Friggin-standing!
In before the haters complain that it’s junk because it “iSnT fAsT eNoUgH!”, ignoring that this is an amazing piece of history you scored!
Definitely the coolest bike you’ve had on here yet!
Nobody's saying that though
There's no hate
As always god bless you brother it heals my soul a little each time i watch your videos never rode a bike but i have two older bikes in the garage 80s cavalcades one a parts bike my friend went down and snapped his ankle and brought them to me
Bike resurrection and ride home deserves a feature length video. 1 hr, maybe 1.5
good idea
OMG, that's the holy grail bike! And what an INCREDIBLE video and INCREDIBLE journey! I've made the trip to and from State College a few times, so I know how long it is! Holy crap, you must have been bricking it the whole way.
yeah i was going pretty slow
No sir the holy grail of bike is a 1936 knucklehead
@@sixstringsaway7642 well, there's no way I can argue with that!
For me personally this is the dream, it's what it is all about. This bike is beautiful, another great video.
That was awesome, I don’t think I would’ve rode that on the freeway though unless I had someone directly behind me the whole way.
Loved the prayer, and Bible verses.
I would keep that bike just like it is, I would just work on what needed to be done mechanically, and find a front and rear tail light for it, oh yeah and a speedometer, that old so-called patina is actually more cool than having a nice shiny restore job, at least to me anyway, cheers.
Actually cheered when I saw you coming towards the finish what a amazing opportunity to ride that bike respect is due 👏👌🙌👍😀
My very first "real" motorcycle was a 1933 Harley VL that I bought in 1961 for $20. Memories!
Edit: Be glad that you weren't on a VL - they had a total loss oil system with a hand pump in the right side tank where you would pump oil to the engine when you felt it tightening up. Technology!
11:52 looking under the bike, seeing that it has marked its territory. God i love old Harleys, lol.
I’ve got to be honest here and I thoroughly enjoyed this video. Was so good to take the challenge on such an old bike you knew naff all about. Well done 👏🏼
What an awesome old motorcycle!
Thanks for posting.
Yep, that the coolest thing. Congrats on making the ride back.
I have to add that your shifter and clutch arrangement was/is known as a “suicide shifter and suicide clutch”; because you have to take you hand of the handle bar to shift.
Also a 'jockey shift' a 'mousetrap', 'handjammer' (?), & thats about it✌
Also at traffic lights if foot slipped off clutch, you’d be torqued into traffic.
And the clutch is operated by feet! Thats suicide!
This is the most beautiful bike I have ever seen. I never knew I wanted this bike till now.
The ride home on an old Harley you've just bought is the greatest feeling in the world!
Reminded me of driving home my barely running rolling - basket case panhead.
Should have never bought it, should have saved more money.
Absolutely a fantastic motorcycle by the way... I love everything about it, especially the springer front end. I would leave it pretty much the way it is if it was mine... it's just perfect.
Of course it would be good to make sure it would run, stop and not burst into flame, but beyond that it's very cool as is. NICE FIND! I really enjoyed the vid.
Build a nice looking stocker flathead out of it. I wish I had one to build, I'm trying to build an old style 30s - 40s Harley and I don't even have one to start with.
All I have is a springer and some big fenders, and my old Triumph.
This bike is so beautiful. Thanks for giving this bike new life. Hoping you bring it back to its former glory.
Badass. This was so cool to watch. I think it is safe to say everyone on the channel was hoping you would make it back.
"What do you think of your electric start now Enstien?"
Yeah I got an SV650 now, but I loved that Norton Commando I had in the Marine Corps. But it's not what you ride, it's where you're going. Or that you're riding something there.
"Under no circumstances will I go on the highway!" *goes on highway*
I would literally kill to take one of these on a ride even around the block, lifelong dream of mine
I am pretty sure there's companies that hire rides on old classics, so you don't have to resort to murder. Maybe it's your preferred option. ;)
Sean needs to take this to Jerry Palladinos ride like a pro class
My dream bike! Thanks for the upload,really enjoyed it,and the word to the chief upstairs!👌🏴
As a kid I remember going to see the joey chitwood thrill show, early 70's I think.
I remember being a young kid back in the 60's when the stories were that you could get a WWII surplus bike for $75. I wasn't old enough to ride at the time and by the time I was and had gotten into bikes they were nowhere to be found.
This is a stupid question but did you mean $75 in today’s money or the equivalent of what it was back then?
@@palmchristmastree $75 back then was 2 Oz of gold. Some $3500 in today's money. Still cheap.
I was hoping you were going to point out the Statue of Liberty out there in the river. Nice job!! What a very cool looking bike. Love your videos!
Do more like this “will it run n make it home” with cool unique old bikes
i would love to
I absolutely love 322 for the smooth roads and typically not a abundance of traffic! Scenery is spectacular also!
I remember seeing a bike like that sitting in a field when I was a kid with no wheels on it I used to play on it for hours. Idk if it’s still sitting there or not
Has anyone ever had a price list from Quingo. All I want is to price a 5 wheel scooter. I want to know how much I can claim through PEP.
in NS or NB?
@@WeShallNeverStop Newfoundland
@@canadaeast8358 where to in nl?
@@cpevida309 West coast a little town called boswarlos it was behind my brother in laws house. It had no wheels but was standing upright I would sit on it as a kid a pretend I was riding it
This is one of my dream bikes to have. So jelly 👍
This is an icon,an important part of American history
Awesome find! I can't believe you made it all the way back to the shop. I'm in Scranton and have been meaning to ride down to check out your shop. I'll have to swing by and check that beauty out.
@Kitan Mani why do you keep sending this trash ?
@@redwing771 It's a bot. I report it every time I see that message.
Those guys is State College probably look forward to seeing you pull into the lot. That's like the third bike out of there I think. Pretty good for your first time with a suicide shifter, mighty ambitious first ride.
Almost bought one back in 2000...dragged my feet. Now I have a very modern HD...1978 shovel head. Great video, cool bike.
That was definitely cool 😎. Now imagine riding that at a hurried pace while shooting and getting shot at 🤪. Them boys were tough!!!! Not sure if you can find a WW2 vet that's able bodied enough to ride it, but damn it would be great to see them do it! 🇺🇲
That is where the green bike superstition comes from.
I love that prayer you did while rideing. I pay Everytime before rideing for the lord to keep angels around me ,mindful drivers and open roads. Very cool bike nice find forsure!!😎