The subject motorcycle of this appraisal is a 1942 Harley Davidson 45 Cu in (750cc) in excellent restored condition.
This particular model of Harley Davidson is one of the longest running production models that Harley ever produced and has become a sought after collectable.
The motorcycle was sold new without accessories. Any form of accessory added to the bike enhanced its value and would continue to help maintain that value throughout its life if kept in good condition. The retention of the stock parts and the originality of the appearance also will enhance its value. In this case the bike is a tastefully done restoration with extensive custom modifications which in today’s market also enhance its value Recent sales of this model in restored factory original condition listed in NADA have varied from $11,800.00 to $18,500.00.
This motorcycle being appraised is an extremely well restored and customized example.
Looking at the quality of the workmanship and attention to detail I would class this motorcycle as a class 1 custom. As such the bike would have a value as shown of at least $15,500.00
Most "Trade in Guides" that list a value on an older motorcycle derive their information by deducting a fictitious percentage rate from the original manufacturers suggested list price.
This method does not take into account the enthusiast and collector value of these motorcycles. Many models now sell for many times their original new sale price as most quality items have done in today's nostalgia conscious society.
The numbering sequence that describes the overall condition of the motorcycle is
1. Excellent original or fully restored. 2. Very nice, well maintained but showing evidence of use.
3. Average runner, well worn with possible cosmetic damage. 4. Rough.
Michael A. Harper
Member of Board of Appraisers
NADA Appraisal Guides
AMA Appraisal Guides
Old Cars M/C Value Guide
Sales Information
As far as the current condition of the motorcycle, I'm embarrassed to say
that it probably doesn't have more than 200 miles on it since it as finished.
It's in nearly the same shape as the pictures on this site.
The only things that aren't up to par include: Speedometer
is still not hooked up, still burns out headlight and taillight bulbs quickly,
and rear brakes don't work nearly as good as they should.
As you can see in
the Wheels and Brakes section of this site, the wheel, drum, and brake shoes
were all brand new so I'm not sure what's going on. Other than
that, it starts quick and runs great.
I have receipts for every part that was ever
purchased so there will be a record in case additional parts are needed and you
won't be left wondering where the originals came from. I have some extra
spark plugs, a primary drive belt, assorted small parts, etc. that I'll throw in
too.
Engine wasn't wanting to run properly without the choke on. So, it took
the carburetor apart to clean the pilot jet. When it went back together it
kept overflowing. After many attempts to fix it, I finally gave up and
bought a brand new Mikuni VM34.
Buyer responsible for shipping costs... specifications are: weight ~500 lbs, length 88", width 37", height
40".
Basically, I'm swamped with
work and a lot of the tools I need went with my son so I'd like to avoid fixing
the items that mentioned above if I could... make me an offer.
If you have
any questions, just send me an e-mail or call 734-213-2363.
Steve
