These are pictures of my dad back in the 1950s. I thought it would be cool to know what bikes they are. The back story is my dad died last month. He road his Sportster up to the end. He was 77. So I inherited my first hog. I had several metric bikes when I was a kid. I'm finally back to riding after 25 years off. Anyhow, I figured I'd ask the experts. Thanks!

 

Welcome and those are amazing pictures you have there. Nice to see that riding is in your blood too. Sorry but I have no clue - so no help. But there are a bunch of people here that will be able to help.

 

Yeah, those aren't mine. Hope this helps.
Pre-48's...Probably Knuckles.

 

Welcome.

Both pre-War flatheads. I would guess VL's but I am far form the expert, but defintely 30's and not Knuckles.

I would repost the pics in the Classic/Flathead section of this forum, get some more looks from the right people.

They look a lot like this 1930 VL to my eye, especially the top picture:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/1930-Harley-...dYXDVT&vxp=mtr

I would guess the second picture is probably the same model just a couple of years newer. Your Pops rode some nice bikes.

 

I concur. Those look like VL Harleys (1930-1936). My sister-in-law's father rode one back in the day.

 

Those pics are awesome!

 

it's a Knucklehead looks like an E model 36-47 Nice pics and nice bike

 

carbs on the wrong side, dead give away.

 

What amazes me the most is that these pics were ever taken. He was a dirt poor farm boy (probably obvious). I'm surprised they even had a camera or cared to take the time.
Appreciate all the responses. Thanks!

 

And, the lower frame goes straight out to the rear instead of swooping up like on the later big twins, like knuckles.


Also, if you look closely at the springer up front, it is of the earlier one piece rear leg construction that the VL had, so I'm leaving toward VL.

Definitely not knuckles