This is one of the last “pocket valve” Harleys, and the first year of the front brake. It is finished in cream, (an optional color for '28), rather than the usual green, and is fitted with spotlights, siren, fire extinguisher, and one of the earliest police motorcycle radios in existence. This “receive only” radio rides on the luggage carrier. The strange looking device on the handlebars is the speaker horn for the radio. The radio is in working order, but nobody is home at the precinct. The tool box, mounted under the headlight, contains an authentic tool roll with all original Harley tools, and rider’s handbook, as well as a 1928 pocket map of Milwaukee, the home of Harley Davidson. The 1200cc or 74 cu in V twin has lots of grunt, and drives via an indestructible three speed box, with a foot operated clutch. The brakes are surprisingly good, considering it was the first year for a front one. Harley Davidson were well on their way to being the USA’s No. one manufacturer by this time, as only Indian and the Shwinn company, making the Excelsior and Henderson, were active by that time.

Impressions from the Saddle
“Cheez it, it’s the cops!” You”ve got to be careful throwing your leg over this one, so you don’t bash your shins on the mobile radio on the rear carrier, which is about the size of a car battery. Once you’re on, starting follows a procedure familiar to several generations of Harley riders. Turn on the gas tap, roll the left twist grip anti clockwise, choke the carburetor, and give a couple of kicks with the throttle partially open. Turn the key on; open the choke, one kick, and its running. The clutch is a rocking pedal on the left, which rocks back to disengage, and forward to engage, the opposite of Indian, and early British bikes with rocking clutch pedals. The shift lever is on the left side of the tank, and is of the shift gate style, with three speeds. The handbrake is on the left side, which seems a bit strange at first, but makes sense given the location of the other controls. With its 400 section “balloon” tires, the Harley feels a bit ponderous at first compared to the other bikes, but once under way is quite tractable. Its very long legged, with lots of torque from its 74 cu in., or 1200 cc engine, and the gear change is effortless. The first year front brake is very good, and the rear is very effective on its own, possibly due to the wider tires, and rigid frame. The large pan saddle and sprung seat post give a comfy ride. There are lots of gadgets to play with, including the flashing lights and siren, which are great fun in parades.

Listen to the 28 Harley Davidson Police Special.

Click and drag the QTVR image below to rotate the HD Police Special.