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Sport · 1955

KHK

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MotoLibrary Score
48 /100 Balanced
Power/Weight
0.19 hp/kg
Top Speed
153 km/h
Engine
833 ccm

1955 Harley-Davidson KHK Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Positioned in Harley-Davidson's sport motorcycle lineup, the 1955 Harley-Davidson KHK features a 833 cc (50.8 cu in) air-cooled flathead 45 degree engine. mirror polished ports and cylinder heads configuration. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 38 HP (27.7 kW), transferring power to the rear wheel through a 4-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 45.6 HP per liter, the engine character is prioritizing low-RPM tractability, mechanical longevity and relaxed throttle response over peak redline numbers.

On the scales, the KHK measures 199.6 kg (440 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.19 HP/kg (5.25 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 1 mm (0 in) wheelbase engineered for quick, flickable steering geometry. The 17-liter (4.5 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 153 km/h (95 mph).

Within MotoLibrary's Harley-Davidson archive, this model family spans 3 indexed model years from 1954 to 1956, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.

Specific Output
45.6 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.19 HP/kg (5.25 kg/HP)
Engine
Displacement 833.00 ccm (50.83 cubic inches)
Engine Type Flathead 45 degree engine. Mirror polished ports and cylinder heads.
Engine Details V2, four-stroke
Power 38.00 HP (27.7 kW))
Fuel System Carburettor. Linkert M-53A1
Cooling Air
Transmission
Gearbox 4-speed
Final Drive Chain
Performance
Top Speed 152.9 km/h (95.0 mph)
Chassis
Frame Type Steel single downtube
Front Suspension Hydraulic telescopic fork
Rear Suspension Swing-arm, twin hydraulic shocks
Wheelbase 1,435 mm (56.5 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre 3.50-18
Rear Tyre 3.50-18
Front Brakes Expanding brake (drum brake)
Rear Brakes Expanding brake (drum brake)
Wheels Wire spoked
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight 199.6 kg (440.0 pounds)
Power/Weight 0.1904 HP/kg
Fuel Capacity 17.00 litres (4.49 gallons)
Oil Capacity 2.80 litres (0.18 quarts)
Other
Starter Kick
Color Options Brilliant Black, Aztec Brown, Atomic Blue, Glamorous Hollywood Green, Pepper Red, Anniversary Yellow and Silver, White for Police duty.
Electrical 6 Volt
Notes

Tuned up version of the HD KH model.

More from Harley-Davidson
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Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Weight
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Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
Rider Profile

Who Is This Bike For?

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Beginner
A2 license compatible, manageable power.
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Best For
Sport & Track
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Handling
Medium weight — some experience needed
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