1943 Harley Davidson WLA w/sidecar

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Beautifully restored 1943 Harley-Davidson WLA with sidecar in authentic WWII livery, representing Patton’s Ghosts. Complete nut-and-bolt restoration with original parts where possible, documented with over 100 photos. Minimal use since completion.

Perfect for reenactment events, weekend adventures, or leisurely rides, the sidecar provides ample room for a passenger or additional gear. It transforms every journey into a shared adventure, combining practicality with the simple joy of riding.

Location
Zistersdorf, Austria
Year of construction
1943
Country of origin
United States of America
Manufacturer
Harley-Davidson
Type
WLA w/Sidecar
Condition
In restored and good running condition

Details

Condition

Restoration History and Current Condition

This Harley-Davidson WLA motorcycle with sidecar, dating from 1943, has been restored to a very high standard approximately five years ago. The restoration was a complete "nut and bolt" rebuild, aimed at preserving originality while ensuring mechanical reliability. Since the restoration, the motorcycle has only been driven for approximately 10 kilometers, mainly due to the fact that it was never registered for road use in Austria.

The motorcycle is finished in authentic World War II livery, representing the 42nd Cavalry Reconnaissance Unit — famously known as "Patton’s Ghosts."

 During the restoration:

  • All parts were disassembled, sandblasted, and spray-painted.

  • The engine was externally glass-pearl blasted, and internally, all components were replaced with new, original Harley-Davidson parts sourced from the United States, as the original internals were beyond saving.

  • A new diaphragm clutch was installed, along with a modern electronic ignition system.

  • The fuel tank was not only blasted but also internally sealed.

  • The speedometer is original, with the original number blade, and was fully overhauled.

  • The wiring harness was completely renewed, and the electrical system remains 6 volts.

  • All critical moving parts like bushings were replaced.

  • Tires, electric cables, rubber parts, and seats were renewed where necessary.

Visible components such as the frame, engine casings, wheels, handlebar, carburetor, regulator, lights, filters, and speedometer are all original Harley-Davidson parts. Also the seat is still original; however, one seam has opened slightly due to natural shrinkage over time.

Certain non-visible or non-critical parts are reproductions or later replacements:

  • The battery tray and battery are new.

  • The brackets for the scabbard and ammunition box are reproductions.

  • An ignition switch was installed behind the air filter, as required by Austrian road registration authorities to prevent theft; this modification is reversible.

  • Additionally, a switch was fitted to the oil line to prevent oil loss when the vehicle is parked.

The restoration process was thoroughly documented with approximately 100 photographs, demonstrating the high level of craftsmanship and the no-expense-spared approach. Every bearing, seal, and internal engine component was carefully replaced to factory specifications.

Sidecar Details

Nothing is known about the originality of the sidecar, but it is believed to be an identical replica of the L29 Goulding model, manufactured by the renowned company ClassicSidecar.com. The canvas top of the sidecar is a high-quality replica. The sidecar itself was restored along with the motorcycle to match the same standard and color.

 Engine Number

The engine number is 42WLA43022, matching both cylinders.

Technical details

Manufacturer
Harley Davidson
Model
WLA w/sidecar
Manufacturing date
1943
Engine number
42WLA43022
Length
95 in (2,41 m)
Width
69 in (1,75 m)
Height (including windshield)
61 in (1,55 m)
Height (no windshield)
42 in (1,1 m)
Weight
850 lb. (385 kg)
Max. speed (land)
55 mph (88 km/h)
Engine
WLA 45 V-twin-cyl., Side-Valve, 45.12 cu.in, 23 bhp at 4600 rpm
Crew
1 driver + 1 passenger
Road Registration
No. A purchase contract with the seller is available, dated September 25, 2005. Official customs documentation confirming the import into Austria is dated December 22, 1993. The import papers explicitly mention the serial number of the motorcycle into Austria. The former owner has imported the motorcycle into Austria. To facilitate obtaining Austrian road registration, a court-appointed expert report was commissioned. This report is available and documents the motorcycle's condition as FIVA Class 2 ("Authentic and well-preserved or correctly restored, in excellent condition"). All documents, including the contract, customs papers, and expert report, are available for review.

History

The Harley-Davidson WLA is a legendary military motorcycle that was widely deployed by the U.S. Army during World War II. Produced between 1940 and 1945, the WLA was based on the civilian Harley-Davidson WL but adapted extensively for military use.

It features a 750cc (45 cubic inch) side-valve V-twin engine, paired with a 3-speed hand-shift transmission and foot clutch. Characteristic military features include olive drab paint, heavy-duty fenders, blackout lighting, an ammunition box, and various mounting points for equipment.

The version equipped with a sidecar added extra capacity for transporting personnel, gear, or weapons. Some sidecars were even adapted to carry machine guns or communications equipment. Contrary to what many restorers believe, US Army WLAs were never fitted with side cars during WW2.
The WLA frame and engine were considered too light and the US Army always classed their 45ci bikes as 'Solo'. The motorcycles they did order with sidecars from Harley-Davidson were all Big Twin 74ci models.
However some countries who received WLAs under the 'Lend-Lease' act did attach sidecars to the bikes.

Harley-Davidson produced over 90,000 WLA's for Allied forces. The bike earned the nickname “The Liberator”, as it became an iconic presence during the liberation of Europe by Allied troops.

What makes this combination especially appealing is that you're essentially acquiring two vehicles in one: a motorcycle-sidecar unit with unique handling and road presence and a solo machine that you can enjoy on your own. The sidecar is detachable, allowing you to either having the joy of having someone ride along with you, or fully experience the freedom and agility of solo riding—perfect for winding back roads and classic touring routes.

Feel free to get in touch

Ivo Rigter Sr.

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