There is something special about the Harley-Davidson Knucklehead engine. Much like the Shovelhead, the Knucklehead is easily spotted from far away. With its large knuckle-shaped valve covers, the Knuck is definitely a staple in motorcycle history. The Knuck had a good run, too, powering FLs from 1936–1947 until the Panhead was introduced. And when cool comes into play, you can guarantee you’ll see them entering the chopper equation.

The David Mann Chopperfest hosts plenty of cool choppers from coast to coast. With the abundance of old iron on display at the Ventura Fairgrounds in Southern California, you’ll also see some of the latest and greatest of what’s new and trending in custom bike land. But we have a soft spot for Knuckleheads in general, which is why we felt it necessary to bring you a whole host of goodness from the lens of our man, Ryan Loughridge, who was there grabbing the best of the best for yours truly.

Andrew Ursich’s ’15 93ci S&S Knucklehead

Ryan Loughridge

Kissed by the sun in Ventura.

Ryan Loughridge

Definitely one tidy springer chop.

Ryan Loughridge

Ryan Grossman’s ’47 Knuck dubbed “Alien Poison” was crowned Best in Show at Chopperfest.

Ryan Loughridge

Another stellar Knuck from Grossman, this one a ’46, and one of our personal favorites.

Ryan Loughridge

We’re always fans of what Yaniv Evan from Powerplant Motorcycles does, especially this Knuck.

Ryan Loughridge

Ben The Boog’s ’47 long chop.

Ryan Loughridge

Paul Wheeler’s ’39 Knucklehead.

Ryan Loughridge