The rider of the bike needs no explanation.
But for those who aren't Harley enthusists, a "knucklehead" is the type of engine in this chopper. It got its nickname from the shape of the rocker cover, which looks like a knuckle. It came onto the scene in the middle of the Depression, and was manufactured through the War, until it was replaced by the "panhead" motor in '48. The panhead, you guessed it, has a top that looks like an upside down pie tin, or a frying pan without the handle. that was replaced by the "shovel-head," which, yes, looks like the spade of a shovel. And on, from Ironhead to Evo. Each generation motor has it's own style, and it's own personality.
Of all of them, the knuckle is revered like a bad-ass old grandpa. And although it has been outdated for decades, it still holds its special place in the world of chopper builders.
How's that for a monday morning nibble of history?
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