The '42 WLA
The ’42 WLA started its life during World War II as a service bike for the U.S. Army. After the war ended, this Harley returned to the United States, where its life continued, but not in the glory it should have.
The Frame and Tank: Once regulation Army Green from its time in service, it received a “custom” paint job with a brush and some standard black house paint.
The Motor: Saw the same unfortunate fate as the frame and tank, instead with silver mobile home roof paint.
The Bike: Never ridden, stored in a garage, collecting years of dust. Buried under boxes, allowed to be ravaged by rodents that chewed through the wiring and anything else they could tear apart.
Fortunately, that wasn’t the end of its story, though. The ’42 WLA received a new lease on life when Scott Sunday bought it in 2001 and began a complete overhaul, attempting to bring it back to its glory. He was successful. Scott not only restored it to its historic condition but also took care to add modern touches, ensuring it remains in peak condition for modern times. Even with the remanufactured chrome parts (which were built off original parts), the bike is still considered to be historically accurate.
After all the blood, sweat, and care that went into this restoration, The ’42 WLA received another lease on life 23 years later. Scott sold the Harley to an avid collector and rider who bought the bike in 2024. The ’42 WLA now gets to be admired by others for its craftsmanship and history.