Photo: Triple-green · CC BY-SA 2.0
Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead
79/100 Overall
57 On the road100 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead vs Crocker Big Twin
Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead scores 79/100 overall against Crocker Big Twin on 79/100. On the road: 57–57. As classics: 100–100. Overall result: A draw.
Crocker Big Twin
79/100 Overall
57 On the road100 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Harley-Davidson Knucklehead | Crocker V-Twin | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 7 | 8 | Crocker V-Twin |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 6 | 7 | Crocker V-Twin |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 4 | 4 | Level |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 5 | 6 | Crocker V-Twin |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 5 | 2 | 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 Harley-Davidson Knucklehead if…
you want landmark Harley-Davidson engineering, exceptional visual character and one of America's most collectible motorcycles.
Choose the Crocker V-Twin if…
you want one of America's rarest and most coveted performance motorcycles, with exceptional engineering and mystique.
Background
History
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.
Crocker V-Twin
The Crocker Big Twin was produced from 1936–1942 and used a 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?
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.
Crocker V-Twin
- Its production span in this library runs from 1936 to 1942.
- The recorded engine description is: air-cooled overhead-valve V-twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, historic importance, collector appeal.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
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.
Crocker V-Twin
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Crocker Big Twin. 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
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.
Crocker V-Twin
- 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 Harley-Davidson Knucklehead
Rivals to the Crocker V-Twin
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.