Harley-Davidson MODELL E/EL OHV (KNUCKLEHEAD) (1936–1947) — Specs

Identity
Manufacturer: Harley-Davidson
Model: MODELL E/EL OHV (KNUCKLEHEAD)
Category: Cruiser
Type: Motorcycle
Years: 1936 → 1947
Engine
Displacement (cc): 1000
Cylinders: 2
Power (hp): 40
Power (kW): 29
Torque (Nm): 75
Dimensions

Overall length: 2400 mm
Overall width: 940 mm
Overall height: 1140 mm
Wheelbase: 1645 mm
Ground clearance: 140 mm
Weight (kg): 240
Tank (L): 14.2
Tires
Front tire: 130/90 R16
Rear tire: 180/65 R16
Drivetrain
Drive chain: 102 teeth (530)
Sprockets (front / rear): 22 / 51
Ignition
Spark plug: NGK NICHT VERFÜGB
Fluids & Filters
Engine oil (without filter, L): 3.8
Oil filter: OEM oil filter
Air filter: OEM air filter
Brake fluid: DOT 4
Fuel consumption
Estimated range: ~258 km on a full tank (14.2 L)
Service
Battery: OEM battery specification
Service interval (km): 10000
Service interval (months): 12
Valve check (km): 24000
Parts and consumables for this motorcycle
Data is gathered with care, but without guarantee. Always confirm critical information with your dealer or workshop.
Service notes
Service interval: every 10,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first. Valve clearance check every 24,000 km. Valve clearance — intake STARRE STÖSSEL, exhaust STARRE STÖSSEL. Engine oil: 3.8 L without filter change. Spark plug: NGK NICHT VERFÜGB.. Chain: 102 teeth (530), sprockets 22/51 teeth. Tire size: front 130/90 R16, rear 180/65 R16. Always confirm critical values with the workshop manual or an authorised dealer.
OEM and quality aftermarket parts that fit this bike. Always confirm with your dealer before ordering.
Engine oil
Spec: nan, 3.8 L (without filter)
- OEM OEM recommended engine oil
- Premium Motul 7100
- Premium Motul 5100
Which Motul for this bike?
| Motul 7100 4T ✓ | Motul 5100 4T | |
|---|---|---|
| Product | Motul 7100 4T — 100% fully synthetic | Motul 5100 4T — semi-synthetic |
| Best for | Sport, Naked, Adventure (600cc+), track | Standard, Cruiser, Scooter, daily use |
| RPM protection | Excellent — ester base, stable under load | Good — for normal riding conditions |
- Standard Repsol Moto Racing 4T
- Standard Elf Moto 4 Tech
Fully Synthetic vs Semi-Synthetic
| Fully Synthetic | Semi-Synthetic | |
|---|---|---|
| Base oil | 100% chemical synthesis (ester or PAO) | Mineral oil + synthetic additives |
| Heat resistance | Excellent — stable at extreme heat & RPM | Good — suitable for normal temperatures |
| Cold start | Better — reaches engine faster when cold | Good — adequate for normal climates |
| Change interval | Longer (up to 10,000 km) | Shorter (5,000–7,000 km typical) |
| Price | Higher | Lower |
Oil filter
Air filter
Spark plug
Spec: NGK NICHT VERFÜGB.
Front brake pads
Rear brake pads
Drive chain
Spec: 102 teeth (530)
Front tire
Spec: 130/90 R16
- OEM OEM 130/90 R16
Rear tire
Spec: 180/65 R16
- OEM OEM 180/65 R16
Battery
- Premium Yuasa YTZ14S or YTX14-BS (typical 1000-1300cc)
Brake fluid
- Standard TotalEnergies HBF4
Coolant
Service interval
Spec: 10 000 km / 12 months
- OEM Engine oil + oil filter change
- OEM Air filter inspection
- OEM Spark plug check
- OEM Brake fluid replacement: every 2 years
Valve check
Spec: 24 000 km
- OEM Intake clearance: STARRE STÖSSEL
- OEM Exhaust clearance: STARRE STÖSSEL
Suspension
Spec: springer fork / springer fork
- OEM Fork: springer fork
- OEM Fork oil grade: springer fork
