1937 Crocker Small Tank Motorcycle
From 1936 to 1942 about 110 of these vehicles were built in Los Angeles, California, and each one is unique in its own way. Albert G. Crocker was known for not numbering his motorcycles, so nobody knows exactly how many bikes were built (it also says a lot about the creator himself).
The tag 37-61-25 on the engine says that our Crocker is the 25th motorcycle made in 1937 with a 61 cubic inch (1,000 cc) engine. Back then, Crocker cost $495 against $380 for the most expensive Knucklehead Harley-Davidson. Moreover, Harley had four gears, while Crocker had only three. That’s why Crocker began to offer engines with an increased capacity (1,180 ccm and more).
The Crocker weighs 240 kg – 40 kg less than the equivalent Harley-Davidson. All thanks to the wide use of aluminum alloys. The engine crankcase, gas tank, hoods of the generator and engine gear, running boards, dashboard, rear light body, and other details are made using aluminum. Compared with Harley-Davidson, Crocker motorcycles are more compact: the wheelbase is shorter, and the tires are narrower. These bikes are similar to British superbikes HRD-Vincent and Brough-Superior but also retain the typical American design.
text & photo via A group on FB : Motorcycles that are old.
