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Shop Wheels Laced Wheels with Drum Brake Hub
Bates Star Hub Wheels for E(L)/F(LH) 1936-1966, U(LH) 1937-1948, W(L) 1937-1952

Bates Star Hub Wheels for E(L)/F(LH) 1936-1966, U(LH) 1937-1948, W(L) 1937-1952

Price and stock:
Item №
26-891
Price incl. VAT
719.84 €
Available
0
Temporarily out of stock
The price includes 114.93 € German VAT.

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  • Laced wheel by Bates
  • fits E(L)/F(LH) 1936-1966, U(LH) 1937-1948 front and rear, W(L) 1937-1952 rear only
  • steel
  • hub finish: chrome plated
  • profile: semi-drop center
  • rim finish: chrome plated
  • 2.15x18 ”
  • spokes: steel chrome plated
  • matching axle Ø: 17.5 mm
  • metal valve in center
  • replaces Harley-Davidson part number HD 40978-36
  • gross weight: 8 kg

These spoked wheels replace missing or worn original parts on classic Harley-Davidson motorcycles, specifically Knucklehead, Flathead, and Panhead models. Each Harley spoked wheel is precisely manufactured to original dimensions and meets the OEM specifications of the respective series.

The wheels are designed for the following models and years:

E(L)/F(LH) 1936–1966, U(LH) 1937–1948 (front and rear), and W(L) 1937–1952 (rear only). Production according to original specifications ensures correct hub width, rim height, offset, and the proper hole pattern. Spoke gauge and tension also meet the technical requirements of the factory setup, guaranteeing stable and precise wheel alignment.

In the original configuration, Harley rims and hubs were black with cadmium-plated spokes. Alternatively, the spoked wheels are also available fully chrome-plated, providing an aesthetically appealing yet technically identical option.

All spoked wheels are compatible with stock Harley brake drums, rim brakes, and axle dimensions of the respective years. They are ideal for authentic restoration or as high-quality replacements for vintage Harley E-, F-, U-, and W-series models.

Star Hubs with Tapered Roller Bearings

Special wheel axle kits are required, OEM  axles will not work or must be modified.

Possible assembly fault and brake drum failure.

Some brake drum/wheel hub combinations require one or more spacer shims (front W&W 27-748, rear 27-746) to prevent them from touching the hub’s spoke rim. The brake drum must not touch the hub’s spoke flange. This might result in the drum breaking when tightening lug bolts.

See also:

Avon Safety Mileage Mk II Tires

Avon Safety Mileage Mk II Tires

The distinctive block tread pattern of the Avon Safety Mileage MKII gives classic Harley-Davidsons like the Knucklehead, Panhead, or Shovelhead the authentic vintage look that traditionalists appreciate. But behind the period-correct appearance lies modern tire technology: the updated rubber compound ensures noticeably confident and balanced handling....
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Tire Valve Fishing Tool

Tire Valve Fishing Tool

Fumbling the tube valve through its hole in the wheel rim can be a real pain. This smart tool makes the job a lot easier with its 21 cm cable and "fishing hook". Just route the cable through the rim hole and attach its threaded tip to the valve core. Now you can pull the core through the rim without pinching your fingers or damaging the threads. With valve remover inside the handle.
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Coker Diamond Tread Tires

Coker Diamond Tread Tires

The Firestone Diamond Tread tire was standard equipment on Milwaukee’s products and on most US competitors up to 1940. Its typical appearance is strongly related to the bikes of this era and installation is a must for all serious restaurations.
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Hammer Sycle Wheel Covers

Hammer Sycle Wheel Covers

Pictures of the good old days, i.e. the Forties and the Fifties, often show bikes which sport so-called wheel covers. These were very popular accessories in their days, because they gave the wheels a completely different appearance. So if you really want to show off and stand out with your classic bike, here’s your hot ticket. These wheel covers are exact reproductions of the period parts, hand-made from industrial finish stainless steel which allows you to polish, chrome or paint them. They fit 16” wheels with star hubs →1966 or 1967-1972 hubs and come with the correct small parts. Slight modification of axle spacers may be necessary.
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