F237.1 1956 HARLEY-DAVIDSON KHK ROAD RACER After World War II, Great Britain was in financial ruin, which meant manufacturing was in peril. As such, the British government dictated that 75% of manufactured goods be sold overseas, particularly in the United States. Within just a few years, British motorcycles were scurrying all over American roads, and for good reason. Whereas most American motorbikes were larger and made more for cruising and long runs, British bikes were easier to ride, thanks to their shifting and clutch actions, and they were smaller, lighter, nimbler and, frankly, more fun. These smaller bikes spoke loudly to returning servicemen, many of whom used Harley-Davidson motorcycles during their service and remembered how cumbersome they could be. By the early 1950s, Harley-Davidson was actually shocked to learn how many English motorcycles were being used in the U.S., so much so the company turned to Congress to increase tariffs against imported motorcycles. Government moves slowly, and anticipating a dismal response, Harley-Davidson got to work creating the KH and NO RESERVE hotter KHK. These bikes represented an import fighter; they were small, purposeful, quick, light, agile and fun to ride. This 1956 KHK is a remarkable example of the first of the rebellious motorcycles and has been enhanced with various performance parts. The 883cc flathead V-twin is peppered up with billet heads, H cams, SST valves, R&D valve springs, a magneto ignition, the Harley-Davidson horseshoe oil tank and shotgun pipes. A simple racing tachometer serves as the only gauge, which is as minimalist as they come, while drum brakes and a steering damper make things slightly more civil. Sold on a bill of sale, this KHK has been extensively modified for road racing and is not for use on public highways. Interestingly, bikes like these would inspire another crowd that would emerge during the 1960s, known as café racers in England. Using small, nimble, powerful bikes to zip from café to café in London and the surrounding areas, those enthusiasts and their machines largely owe their identities to the earliest of the sport bikes—for Harley-Davidson, it was the KHK. THE LUKE CONNER COLLECTION
