| MODEL | HARLEY-DAVIDSON EL KNUCKLEHEAD 1936 |
| Year | 1936 |
| Engine Type | Four stroke, 45° V-twin, OHV, 2 valves per cylinder |
| Displacement / Capacity | 988 cc / 61 cu in |
| Bore X Stroke | 84.1 x 88.9 mm / 3.31 x 3.50 in |
| Compression Ratio | 7:1 |
| Cooling System | Air cooled |
| Max Power | 29.8 kW / 40 hp |
| Max Torque | — |
| Ignition | 6V battery, coil and points |
| Induction | 1.25 in Linkert carburettor |
| Start System | — |
| TRANSMISSION SPECS | |
| Lubrication | — |
| Gear Box | 4 Speed, hand shift |
| Clutch | Foot operated |
| Final Drive | Chain |
| CHASSIS SPECS | |
| Frame | Steel, double down tubes |
| Front Suspension | Springer fork |
| Rear Suspension | Rigid (sprung seat) |
| Front Brakes | Drum |
| Rear Brakes | Drum |
| DIMENSION SPECS | |
| Overall Length | — |
| Overall Width | — |
| Overall Height | — |
| Seat Height | — |
| Wheelbase | 1511 mm / 59.5 in |
| Ground Clearance | — |
| Dry Weight | 256 kg / 565 lbs |
| Wet Weight | — |
| WHEEL SPECS | |
| Front Tyre | 4.50-18 |
| Rear Tyre | 4.50-18 |
| FUEL SYSTEM | |
| Fuel Capacity | — |
| Fuel Consumption | — |
| Top Speed | 153 km/h / 95 mph |
The 1936 Model EL introduced Harley-Davidson's first production overhead-valve V-twin, nicknamed the Knucklehead for its big rocker covers, replacing the flathead VL at the top of the range. Engine, frame and springer fork were all new, and the teardrop tank, horseshoe oil tank and Art Deco tank badge set the template for later cruisers. Early engines suffered valve-spring and oil-leak problems that the factory fixed with dealer kits, but the 61 cu in twin went on to define the company's big-twin line.
