The Summit Racing Equipment Piston Power Show is always a treat, people come from all over the country to Cleveland, OH to show off their pristine rides. There’s always a ton of cool cars there, as well as some pretty sweet custom-built motorcycles. Most of them were older Harley-Davidson choppers, including this 1947 OHV we checked out early on at the show.
Owner Milan Stocking started working on his friend’s 1947 Harley-Davidon decades ago, and once his friend rejoined the navy, the bike was sold to Stocking. He rode if for a few years in stock form before getting married and subsequently tearing the bike apart and storing it in the attic.
42 years later after he retired from General Motors, he decided to pull everything out and work on a rebuild.
The engine is a 61 cu. In. 1947 OHV, but the bike itself is composed entirely of components between the years of 1972 and 1975. The Corbin-Gentry hardtail frame is a standout edition. With a 45-degree rake, it makes for a. very comfortable ride that isn’t too aggressive. Stocking says he tries not to push his limits too often.
“This is Icarus here painted on the tank,” he said. “I can get crazy at times and when I look at my speedometer, I’m going a little too fast, so Icarus here keeps me grounded.”
The front end consists of a 1973 California Cycle Works girder that’s 18” over. 1973 Invader wheels are found on both ends, while a 3.00-18 Duro tire sits up front and a Shinko MT90-16 in the back. Braking is operated by a Hallcraft drum in the front and an Air-Hart 175-06 hydraulic brake in the back.
As far as other aesthetic additions go, the peace sign taillight is another standout addition. Stocking is an electrician by trade, and decided to swap the stock incandescent bulb for an LED via a pc board he built himself that adds a lot more character.
If you have a motorcycle, ATV, UTV, snowmobile or jet ski you’d like to feature in MPN’s Ride of the Week series, please email MPN Content Director Greg Jones at [email protected].
