Harley's third and most successful commercial vehicle was the "Servi-Car". This three wheeled machine was first available in 1932 and like it's predecessors, was designed with hauling cargo and making deliveries in mind. Initially, the Servi-Car was powered by a low compression 45 cubic inch V-twin motor used in Harley's R-series solo motorcycles, but was soon updated to the W-series motor in 1936. This proved to be one of Harley's most reliable powerplants and was produced in huge numbers during WWII to power the WLA.
The W-series was also a low compression 45 cubic inch V-twin, but unlike the R-series, it was designed with a recirculating oil system instead of the previously used total loss system which essentially pumped oil through the engine and then onto the ground.
One the key reasons that the Servi-Car was popular with police departments, service stations and other delivery companies was it's ease of operation. Unlike a solo motorcycle which takes no small amount of skill to ride, the Servi-Car could be driven by just about anyone who already knew how to drive an automobile. Similar to a car, the transmission was hand shifted and the clutch was foot operated. Of course there was no steering wheel, but the Servi-Car still had to be steered like a car since it was a three wheeler and did not lean like a solo motorcycle. The Servi-Car was also towable with an optional tow bar that could be clamped to the rear bumper of a car. Service stations took advantage of this capability, using the Servi-Car as a return vehicle when delivering repaired cars back to their customers.
The Servi-Car had the longest production of any Harley-Davidson motorcycle, being continuously produced until 1973.
I am looking around for an unrestored or older restoration example as that's all I can afford. I remember back when people were almost giving these away...not any more ! I would like to use it as a mascot for the non-profit I am putting together
This bike is not stock but it is far cleaner than most custom Servi-Cars
