Harley-Davidson 1933 VF 1217 cc 2 cyl sv 3603

Harley-Davidson 1933 “VF” 1217 cc side valve V-twin frame # 4F59Z engine # 33VF3299

In 1930 the Model “V” came on the market to replace the F-head models J and JD. In the beginning there were serious problems with the design but once these were ironed out the new model gained a good reputation both as a solo mount and as a sidecar puller.
The model range comprised no less than 23 variations, ranging from the VC “low compression commercial, nickel iron pistons” that turned out 25 hp @ 4000 rpm to the VLD
“high compression, Dow metal pistons” that was good for 36 hp @ 4500 rpm. The machine we present is the VF with the configuration “medium compression, nickel iron pistons”. The VF was only offered in 1933, has a compression ratio of 4.0:1 and delivers 28 hp @ 4000 rpm. (source: Mathias Gerst, “Harley Davidson, all the motorcycles 1903-1983”)
There were not many changes for the 1933 model year: the headlamp glass was not longer flat but convex and the petrol tank decoration took the form of an Art Deco eagle. 1933 was also the first year that frame and forks would be finished in black as standard and that a number of attractive colour combinations were offered; the olive or Brewster green colours that had been the rule since the end of the first World War were finally finished.
In 1934 the tank graphics would be changed to the “Flying Diamond” design, so it is easy to recognize a 1933 model. There were 5 colour options for the 1933 twins; this impressive VF is finished in black and mandarin red with gold striping.

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