WWII spawned enormous technological advancement and, by the late 1940s, the 'Knucklehead' (Harley-Davidson's first overhead-valve twin-cylinder roadster) was beginning to show its age. This was recognised by the Milwaukee firm who commissioned a wholesale revision of the engine. In 1948, Harley-Davidson released a new super motor. While the engine's bottom end remained fundamentally unchanged, aka bullet proof, the top end gained aluminum cylinder heads and those distinctive pan-shaped rocker covers. The oil lines were internalised and hydraulic valve lifters adopted, an innovation that greatly reduced tappet noise and simplified maintenance. With an improved cooling system, the 48 Pan delivered 50hp that translated into deep low-down power and effortless high cruise speeds. However, the main advantage of the many improvements was greater reliability, a factor that would extend the Harley's appeal. The heavy lines of the 1948 Pan are accentuated in factory red while at the same time balanced by the light lines offered by the springer front end (1948 was the only year Harley-Davidson offered the ridge frame with the springer front end). With this, the 1948 Pan is one of Harley-Davidson's most important transitional designs and one which is still referenced in contemporary production. More than this, the 1948 Pan's low-slung weight makes it a machine built for long meandering rides up and down the line. This example, from the Howard Museum has been restored by Fred Lange. Meticulous detail and an ultimate knowledge of this period of design is reflected throughout this restoration. Fewer than 35 miles have been driven since a ground-up re-commission, so this is the nearest you will ever get to a crate-fresh 1948 Pan.