Harley-Davidson began producing the WLA in small numbers in 1940, as part of a general military expansion. The WLCs differed from WLAs chiefly in the use of some heavier components, usually Big Twin parts, as well as Canadian blackout lighting. The company would also produce a model to the slightly different specifications of the Canadian Army, which would be named the WLC. The 'low compression' W model was only briefly available. The W series at the time was the newest incarnation of the 45-cubic-inch (740 cm 3) flathead motor, and was developed from the earlier R family 1932–1936. Harley-Davidson (except in very early models) gives a letter designation for each model family. It was based on an existing civilian model, the WL, and is of the 45 solo type, so called due to its 45-cubic-inch (740 cm 3) engine displacement and single-rider design. The Harley-Davidson WLA is a Harley-Davidson motorcycle that was produced to US Army specifications in the years during and around World War II.
A Harley-Davidson 42WLA on display at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra, Australia.Ģ.75 in × 3.8125 in (69.85 mm × 96.84 mm)Ħ V battery and coil with circuit breaker (timer)
