1943 Harley Davidson WLC

This Harley-Davidson WLC was left behind in northern Netherlands by the Canadian liberators after World War II. In 1951, the motorcycle was registered with a Dutch license plate and remained in the possession of its first owner for a long time. In the early 1980s, it was restored by the second owner. After changing hands a couple of times, the iconic Harley came into the possession of the current owner in 2023. After enjoying many rides, this beautiful WLC is now offered for sale to allow focus on other motorcycles in his collection. This WLC is ready to be kick-started on the very first sunny day.

Emplacement

Meterik, The Netherlands

Année de construction

1943

Pays d'origine

United States of America

Fabricant

Harley Davidson

Type

WLC

État

In good and running condition

Prix d'achat initial

€ 2.500

Détails

État

Condition

The WLC starts, shifts, brakes, and rides well. It is largely in its original state and has correct casting numbers. The engine number matches the frame number, and the motorcycle retains its original linen license registration papers from 1951. The Harley is equipped with the almost legendary wheel siren that is highly desired and commonly used by many owners during parades. And it works well!

Spécifications

Détails techniques

Manufacturer: Harley Davidson
Model: WLC
Manufacturing date: 1943
Serial number: 43 WLC 6358
Length: 88 in (2,20 m)
Width: 41 in (1 m)
Height: 43,3 in (1,1 m)
Height seat: 29 in (0,73 m)
Weight: 576 lb (261 kg)
Max. speed: 75 mph (120. km/h)
Operational range: 217 mi (350 km)
Engine: 45.12 cu in (739.4 cc), 25 hp (19 kW), SV Air-cooled, side-valve, 45-degree V-twin
Fuel Capacity: 3.375 US gal (12.8 L)
Fuel consumption: 35 mpg (US) (6.7 L/100 km)
Crew: 1
Production numbers: 20.000 (WLC)
Road registration: Yes (Dutch)
Wheel siren: Yes

Historique

History

Before World War II, the Canadian Army, also known as the Canadian National Defense Forces, used motorcycles from brands like Norton, BSA, and Indian. This was because they wanted to use the same motorcycles as the British, their Commonwealth partner.

However, as the war progressed, England could not supply enough motorcycles to meet Canada's needs, forcing Canada to seek out other manufacturers. After France surrendered, Britain took over an Indian contract intended for the French army and supplied several Indian Chief models to Canada.

Canada was pleased with these bikes and ordered more Chiefs, along with the 640 Scout models, directly from Indian. But when Indian began to struggle with spare parts orders and technical issues arose with the motorcycles, Canada began looking for another supplier. They found this in Harley-Davidson. Like with Indian, Canada ordered both 45ci Solo models and Big Twins from the Milwaukee factory. These would later be known as the WLC and ELC models.

WLC Production

The production of Harley-Davidson WLCs began in late 1941 and continued through 1944. They were released as the Model 42WLC and Model 43WLC. The 43WLC came in two versions: a 'Domestic' model for use in Canada and an 'Export' version for overseas use. Unlike the WLA, the WLC models had two different types of engine numbers, either 42WLCXXXX or 43WLCXXXX.

Although the WLC is very similar to the US Army WLA, it differs in several details. The front and rear wheels are interchangeable, the front brake drum is of the 'Big Twin' style, the lighting equipment is different, the throttle is on the left handlebar with the ignition timing on the right, and the oil and gas lines are rubber. An auxiliary clutch lever is provided on the handlebars, and later 43WLC models have green plastic grips. Additionally, the front fork has a ride control, and an extra stand is provided for the front wheel, while the rear stand has 'sand pads.'

WLCs were not equipped with a submachine gun bracket or an ammo box at the factory. The WLCs were primarily used by the Canadian (and Commonwealth) armies, so a correctly restored WLC should not have US Army markings, just as a restored WLA should not have a WLC-numbered engine (with a few exceptions).

Note au vendeur

BUYER’S PREMIUM

On all lots a buyer’s premium of 16,5% of the hammer price is charged. Over this buyer’s premium a 21% sales tax (VAT) will be applicable.

PARTS, ACCESSOIRIES & MILITARIA

Spare parts, accessories and militaria are sold in as-is condition and delivered without any guarantee of functioning.

VEHICLES & VEHICLE RELATED EQUIPMENT

Cars, motorcycles, trucks, cannons or howitzers, armored vehicles, and tanks are sold in as-is condition, with no technical guarantee and guarantee of authenticity and with or without registration.

ARMS & WEAPONS

The Auction House will not supply ANY item unless the correct paperwork and licensing – if needed – has been supplied by the Buyer in full.

If required and applicable (fire)arms can be made inoperable or permanently disabled by BAIV in The Netherlands as being a licensed Arms & Weapons Dealer Registration Nr. NL20191618779. In this case all relevant cost will be charged to the Buyer in addition and have to be paid in advance in full. Collection by appointment only!

MARGIN/ VAT

However, for most of the lots 21% sales tax (VAT) over the hammer price will be not applicable, it might be that in some specific cases sales tax (VAT) over the hammer price will be charged. In such a case this will be specifically specified in the lot description. For all other lots the margin scheme will be applicable. For more info see our General Conditions of Sale Article 9 on our website; www.tracksandtrade.com

COLLECTION

Parts, accessories, and militaria

The collection of the lots, subject to payment, is by appointment only. The date and time for collecting the goods will be arranged in consultation with the seller.

Vehicles

Vehicles can be picked up, subject to payment, by appointment only. The date and time for collecting vehicles will be arranged in consultation with the seller.

Handling costs for the removal of the vehicles will, when applicable, be applied at cost.

Arms & weapons

The Auction House will not supply ANY item unless the correct paperwork and licensing – if needed - have been supplied in full. If required and applicable (fire)arms can be made inoperable or permanently disabled by BAIV in The Netherlands as being a licensed Arms & Weapons Dealer Registration Nr. NL20191618779. In this case all relevant cost will be charged to the Buyer in addition and have to be paid in advance in full. Collection by appointment only.

IMPORT & EXPORT

Depending on the destination and content of the Lot the Buyer shall obtain an International Import Certificate / End User Certificate. Some of the items listed in the auction may require special licenses or permits or existing documents must be prepared for export. If this is relevant, Tracks & Trade will take care of this. The applicable costs will be charged to the successful bidder. Please email [email protected] if you have any questions or concerns. No item will be allowed to be collected without 100% of all legal requirements being fulfilled.

DELIVERY

Removal of lots must be completed:

After full payment and 100% coverage of all legal requirements.
Within 6 weeks after the auction had ended (November 30, 2024). No storage fees will be applicable until that date.

Shipping and packing costs and special costs that arise for loading special items, such as crane costs or costs for hiring special equipment etc., will be charged to the Buyer on the basis of actual costs + a surcharge of 10%. Naturally, you can count on us when it comes to the shipment of your purchases. We are happy to take care of that.

STORAGE

Lots not picked up by Buyers within 6 weeks after the auction had ended (November 30, 2024) will be returned to secure storage at Buyer’s expense. In this case storage fees will be applicable. Contact Tracks & Trade for costs and conditions.

NOTE

If you have any specific questions, please contact us either by telephone (+31 6 518 22 502) or E-mail ([email protected]). We are happy to help and support you through the entire process. We will do our utmost to please and comfort you. So, don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.

GENERAL CONDITIONS

All information and transactions are subject to the general terms and conditions (Version 2.0 dated 29-04-2022). For more detailed information visit our website.

Informations sur la livraison

After buying a classic military vehicle or other items such as cannons, planes, howitzers and tanks, there are several steps you would typically need to take:

Legalities
In principle, no special permit is required for unarmored wheeled and tracked vehicles. In many cases, an export procedure that is comparable to that for exporting classic cars and motorcycles is sufficient. Military collectables older than 75 years and with a value over Euro 50k are often considered National Heritage. In such cases an export permit must be requested from the National Ministry of Culture of the exporting country. Tanks, howitzers and self-propelled or towed cannons often require specific permits that are highly dependent on the country of shipment and the country of destination. In such a case first ensure that you apply for the necessary permits, licenses, and other paperwork required to own and operate such an item in your jurisdiction. This may involve registering the item with the appropriate authorities and complying with any regulations regarding its ownership and use. In such a case it is advisable to contact us in advance because we have many decades of experience in the import and export of Classic Military Heritage. Based on this experience, we can generally quickly provide feedback on what applies to you. This is especially relevant because regulations in this regard change every now and then and sometimes, we also have to deal with export-restrictions. In short: if you want to be sure, contact us in time to avoid difficulties in a later stage.
Storage
Find a suitable storage location for your collectable, preferably a secure and legal place where you can keep it when not in use. This could be a garage, warehouse, or even a specially designed storage facility or museum.
Transportation
After you have all paperwork in place next step will be the (oversees) transport to your desired location. This may involve hiring specialized transport and broker services due to permits, size and weight. Als in this case we can support you with organizing the transport or make sure you get in contact with some experts.
Maintenance and Restoration
Depending on the condition of your military collectable our partner BAIV can help you with maintenance and restoration work to ensure that it is safe and operational. This could involve relatively easy maintenance and repair, service till a Class-A restoration. In such a case please contact BAIV (link to BAIV website).
Training
If you intend to operate a vehicle then make sure you have manuals that describe how the operate vehicle. Nowadays there are numerous reprints available on the Internet that explain you in a playful way how to drive and operate your vehicle. This is often a team effort, which makes owning such a vehicle extra attractive. If required, you can also involve hiring a professional instructor or attending specialized training courses to learn how to drive and maintain it safely. In such a case, our partner BAIV can also support you.
Insurance
Consider obtaining insurance coverage for your vehicle to protect yourself against any potential accidents or liabilities that may arise from owning and operating it. Often there are specialized insurance companies offering these kinds of services. Local military vehicle clubs often also know their way around the specific options offered by insurance companies.
Enjoyment
Finally, once everything is in place, you can enjoy owning and, if permitted, operating your classic military vehicle, cannon or howitzer. Whether it's for display purposes or for participating in historical reenactments, owning such a great unit can be a unique and rewarding experience.