1949 Harley-Davidson Police Servi-Car

Harley-Davidson Servi-Cars are indelibly associated with police departments and were part of the American urban landscape for 42 years, specifically from 1932–74. Their most common use was for parking enforcement, and they were never really intended for highway use. The 750 cc side-valve engine dated to 1929 and featured large cooling fins so it could idle around town without overheating. The rear wheels were spaced 42 inches apart so that the rider could follow car tracks in snowy or muddy conditions. The Servi-Car shared another characteristic of police bikes in that it had left-hand throttle, allowing for policemen to draw their sidearm as they rode. This meant the gearshift was switched to the right side, as well. Behind the rider’s Meisinger saddle, the Servi-Car’s lockable box is large enough to carry additional supplies and tools.