Many parts of modern off-road motorcycles come from the military: strong frames, high fenders, luggage racks. Manufacturers mixed military reliability with convenience – and thus the class of dual-purpose motorcycles was born. The Topspeed portal spoke about five of them.
Harley-Davidson WLA “Liberator” (1940−1952) was created for the US Army on the basis of the civilian WL model. The bike received the nickname “Liberator”, as the Allied forces rode it throughout liberated Europe. Engine – 739 cc with 23.5 hp. with a low compression ratio of 5:1 for running on poor fuel. Among the military features: blackout, a box for cartridges, a holster for Thompson and reinforced arches.
Indian 841 (1941−1943) – experimental desert bike with a 739 cc, 24.6 hp longitudinal engine, inspired by the BMW R17. It received a driveshaft, separate 19L tanks and a rifle holster. Due to changing military priorities in favor of jeeps, the project was canceled, and today it is a rare collectible motorcycle.
Harley-Davidson XLA Sportster (1957−1972) is a rare American military bike that few people know about. Unlike others, it was ordered not for combat, but for patrolling bases, so it had more comfort. Equipped with an OHV 883 cc engine. cm, 4-speed gearbox, reinforced luggage racks and blackout. Today these Harleys can be found at military auctions.
Kawasaki KLR650 (1987 – present) is famous for its endurance. This attracted the military, and Hayes Diversified Technologies made a diesel version of the M1030M1/M2, which could run on JP8 aviation fuel, diesel fuel and even kerosene. At 30 hp consumption was more than 160 mpg (about 68 km per liter), and the range was more than 640 km. The bike received blackout, infrared headlights and reinforced suspension.
Zero FX (2013 – present) – a modern electric military MMX bike, created on the basis of the civilian FX model. Quiet, no exhaust, light (125 kg) and instant torque. Equipped with replaceable batteries and long-travel suspension. It can ford a depth of 3.1 meters. Power – 46 hp, maximum speed – 137 km/h.
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