This 1949 Harley-Davidson FL originates from the collection of well-known motorcycle road-racer and team-owner Jon Couch.

Not only did Couch race motorcycles for his well-known TOBC Racing team, he also owned Rand Construction Corporation to fund his many passions. Couch once restored a yacht known as Chanticleer that was owned by Hollywood film and radio star Frances Langford Evinrude. He also enjoyed piloting a 1954 T-28C airplane and flying his mother, Frances, to the motorcycle races. In 2014, Couch was at Virginia International Raceway for a race, when he attempted a barrel roll in his plane.

The plane struck a group of trees and Couch and his mother were tragically killed in the crash. The man left a legacy of business success and a passion for motorcycles behind, one of those motorcycles being the Harley-Davidson FL featured here. The FL model “Panhead” was introduced in 1948. The major improvement for the 1949 model year was the introduction of the "Hydra-Glide" front end, which replaced the leading-link fork design. This telescopic design provided greater suspension travel and a higher level of riding comfort. The rear “hardtail” suspension was kept for a few more years. Engine options for 1949 remained at 61 CI for the EL model and 74 CI for the FL version. The 1949 FL also incorporated a larger front brake for much-improved braking. The foot clutch and hand shift was also carried over for the 1949 FL series. Showing a mere 193 miles since the restoration, this FL was showcased on “Chasing Classic Cars” with Wayne Carini while handling a Dream Collection Estate Sale.

Photos courtesy of Mecum Auctions.