Drawing inspiration from early cross country riders like Erwin “Cannonball” Baker, this series follows the 3000+ mile fall 2015 ride of a 1933 Harley-Davidson VL across the United States along US Route 50. The trip was completed with just two riders—one on the 1933 VL and the other on a 1934 Harley-Davidson VLD—with no chase vehicles or support crew.
Everything needed for the journey had to be carried on the motorcycles themselves, relying on preparation, mechanical knowledge, and a bit of luck to reach the west coast.
This page documents the ride itself, one day at a time. For the build and technical work behind the machine, see the VL Tech section.
The 1933 VL was chosen not only for its reliability and capability, but also for its unique place in Harley-Davidson history. As part of the V-series introduced in 1930, it featured modern improvements such as an enclosed valve train, I-beam front forks, and a duplex primary chain—making it one of the first truly roadworthy long-distance motorcycles.