Harley Davidson V

Harley Davidson V

Specs Mentioned:
Make/ Model – Harley Davidson V – 1931
Engine – 1280cc side valve V-twin frame
Power – 28hp@4000rpm
Top speed – 80mph

In 1930 the Model “V” came on the market to replace the F-head models J and JD. The model “V” was a medium compression model, the “VL” was its high-compression brother, designed for sidecar and package truck use.
Compared to the F-head models the V was heavier built: the frame of the V weighed 25% more than that of the J/JD.
The V’s internal-expanding brakes, front 184mm diameter and rear 203mm diameter, were certainly an improvement.
Another new feature was that the wheels were quickly detachable and interchangeable. Shortly after the introduction of the new V problems with performance were detected so for model year 1931 the engine got heavier flywheels.
This also necessitated a bigger crankcase and a redesigned frame.
Some other new features for the 1931 model year were the “Sunburst Face” horn, constant mesh starter and cadmium-plated clutch and brake pedals.
The Big Twin “V” produced some 28hp@4000rpm with a compression ratio of 4:1 and it was the top of the line for Harley-Davidson customers in the 30s.
The “V” was relatively rare with 825 machines produced in 1931.