Photo: Matti Blume / Freisteller: Auge=mit · CC BY-SA 4.0
Brough Superior SS100
79/100 Overall
57 On the road100 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Brough Superior SS100 vs Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead
Brough Superior SS100 scores 79/100 overall against Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead on 79/100. On the road: 57–57. As classics: 100–100. Overall result: A draw.
Photo: Triple-green · CC BY-SA 2.0
Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead
79/100 Overall
57 On the road100 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Brough Superior SS100 | Harley-Davidson Knucklehead | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 7 | 6 | Brough Superior SS100 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 4 | 4 | Level |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 6 | 5 | Brough Superior SS100 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 3 | 5 | Harley-Davidson Knucklehead |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
Choose the Brough Superior SS100 if…
you want the ultimate pre-war prestige motorcycle, combining performance, craftsmanship, history and exceptional rarity.
Choose the Harley-Davidson Knucklehead if…
you want landmark Harley-Davidson engineering, exceptional visual character and one of America's most collectible motorcycles.
Background
History
Brough Superior SS100
The Brough Superior SS100 was produced from 1924–1940 and used a approximately 1000cc air-cooled V-twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, historic importance, collector appeal. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Harley-Davidson Knucklehead
The Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead was produced from 1936–1940 and used a 989cc air-cooled overhead-valve V-twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, historic importance, collector appeal. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Brough Superior SS100
- Its production span in this library runs from 1924 to 1940.
- The recorded engine description is: approximately 1000cc air-cooled V-twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, historic importance, collector appeal.
Harley-Davidson Knucklehead
- Its production span in this library runs from 1936 to 1940.
- The recorded engine description is: 989cc air-cooled overhead-valve V-twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, historic importance, collector appeal.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Brough Superior SS100
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Brough Superior SS100. Its library score for styling is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Harley-Davidson Knucklehead
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead. Its library score for styling is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Brough Superior SS100
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check primary drive, charging system, engine mounts and evidence of non-standard modifications.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Harley-Davidson Knucklehead
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check primary drive, charging system, engine mounts and evidence of non-standard modifications.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Brough Superior SS100
Rivals to the Harley-Davidson Knucklehead
Final result
The verdict
On the road the motorcycles finish level. As classic motorcycles they also finish level. Their evenly weighted overall scores are tied, so the better choice depends on whether the rider values road ability or classic appeal most.