Trying to identify some old Kansas City Police vehicles.

rjoecalton

I can see a Harley Davidson label on this motorcycle. I believe the photo was taken in 1937. Can anyone tell me anything more specific about this bike?

texases

Looks a lot like this 1936 Harley Davidson 'Police Special':

Mr_Shiftright

Probably an "R" or "W" series, 739cc. We'd need a frame # to zero in on it I think, as both the R and W series had sub-series as well.

rjoecalton

I think you nailed it texases! Sure looks like a match to me! I'm working on a history of Kansas City, Mo Police vehicles and I'm going to need some help identifying them from old photos. I can already tell this forum is going to be a HUGE help! Thanks guys!

lostwrench1

Note the radio on the back and the speaker at the front.

isellhondas

Only 739cc? That's less than a Sportster! Sounds like one of those 3 wheeled meter maid bikes!

Mr_Shiftright

Power to weight ratio probably wasn't too bad for the day. After all, there were a lot of cars at that time that weren't very fast themselves. I think predator and prey were pretty well balanced!