FAQ
About the Product
Are these frames exact replicas of the original Harley-Davidson frames?
Not exact replicas, but as close as practically possible. Our frames match the original dimensions and geometry, so fitment of period-correct components is not an issue. Where they differ is in certain construction details — primarily the welding process.
Original frames from 1936–1957 were built using electrode welding and brazing (hard soldering). We work with MIG and TIG welding, which are the modern standard but produce a visually different result at the joints. We are continuously refining our process to get closer to the period look and feel, but fully replicating a 1936 Knucklehead frame using only brazing — as it was originally built — is not economically viable. The labor involved would make the frames prohibitively expensive.
That said, we do apply brazing and other period-correct construction details selectively, depending on the model year being replicated. It is also worth noting that Harley-Davidson itself moved away from brazing over time. By the final years of Knucklehead production, only the steering head and axle plates were still brazed — the rest of the frame was welded.
So while our frames are not museum reproductions, they are accurate where it counts: in dimension, proportion, and the details that define the character of each year.
What years and models do you cover?
We cover Harley-Davidson Big Twin models from 1936 to 1957, including Knucklehead (1936–1947) and Panhead (1948–1957) frames.
Are the frames ready to build, or do they require modifications?
Our frames are supplied as bare frames. They are ready to build using period-correct or reproduction components. No major modifications should be required for a stock build.
Where are your products manufactured?
Our frames and parts are manufactured in the Netherlands. All materials — including tubing and castings — are sourced from suppliers within the European Union. This means our supply chain is fully compliant with EU trade regulations.
What material and manufacturing process do you use?
Our frames are built from seamless precision tubing with a wall thickness of 3.2mm. Outer dimensions match the original inch specifications exactly, ensuring correct fitment of all period-correct components.
In terms of material quality, our tubing actually exceeds what was available to Harley-Davidson at the time. Steel quality during the late 1930s and through the war years was compromised by wartime material shortages and rationing — what we have access to today is simply better steel.
Each frame is assembled in a rotating welding jig. This ensures that all mounting points — including the engine and gearbox mounts — are positioned exactly to specification and remain in place throughout the welding process. For details on welding procedures and material certifications, see Do the frames come with a certificate or documentation?
How do replacement parts like axle plates and sidecar mounts connect to existing tubing?
Our axle plates and sidecar mounts are designed for straightforward replacement of original or damaged parts. Each part includes an E355 steel insert that bridges the joint: the existing tubing is cut at the weld seam, the insert fits partially into the new part and partially into the remaining original tubing, and the assembly is welded back together. This method maintains the structural integrity of the original joint and simplifies the replacement process considerably.
What welding methods and materials are recommended for these parts?
We recommend using the same welding methods and materials that we use in our own production. The exact specifications — welding processes, filler materials, and applicable ISO standards — are documented in the frame certificate that ships with every frame. You can also view a sample certificate here.
Please note that using different welding methods or materials may affect the integrity of surrounding components, including our cast parts. Any damage resulting from deviating from the specified procedures is not covered under warranty.
Do the frames come with a certificate or documentation?
Every frame ships with a material and production specification certificate. This document covers the full specification of the frame: tubing material and dimensions, casting materials and methods, welding procedures with applicable ISO standards, and checked tolerances.
This certificate can be an important document when presenting your frame to a type approval authority or vehicle inspection agency. Requirements vary by country, so we recommend using the sample certificate below to check with your local authority in advance whether this documentation meets their requirements.
Ordering & Availability
Why do I need to contact you for frame availability?
Since shipping costs can vary a lot depending on location and other factors, frames can’t be ordered directly online. We personally check the best available options for you — making sure you get the lowest possible rate, so you’ve got more left for the road ahead — to ride, explore, and enjoy your machine.
How long does it take before my frame ships?
This depends on current stock and production planning. Contact us for an up-to-date estimate.
Can I order a custom frame (different rake, extended neck)?
Yes, we occasionally accommodate custom requests. Contact us to discuss your requirements and we will let you know what is possible.
Do you sell individual parts separately from frames?
Yes. We offer a range of mounting brackets, tubes, castings, and other parts that are available directly from our webshop.
Payment & Shipping
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept iDEAL, Wero, Bancontact, Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and PayPal. All orders are charged in EUR.
Our webshop includes a country selector that automatically shows the correct VAT rate for your country. Please note that the VAT percentage shown is based on your selected country, but the final VAT calculation at checkout is determined by your shipping address.
My country is not in the country selector — can I still order?
The country selector only includes countries we actively ship to. If your country is not listed, we do not have a shipping zone set up for your region. Please contact us directly and we will see what we can arrange.
Do you ship worldwide?
Yes, we ship to most countries worldwide. See also: My country is not in the country selector.
Who pays import duties outside the EU?
For shipments outside the European Union, the customer is responsible for any import duties, taxes, and customs clearance costs. These are not included in our prices or shipping fees.
How is my order packaged and shipped?
Individual parts are shipped in a cardboard box. Frames are packaged differently depending on the destination.
For shipments within the EU, frames are bolted to a wooden base with a cardboard box placed over them. For international shipments outside the EU, frames are secured in a metal cage with a cardboard box over it — this keeps the overall volume smaller, which reduces shipping costs.
Frames can also be collected in person at our workshop in Hengelo. Contact us to arrange a pickup appointment.
Returns & Warranty
Can I return a frame if it doesn’t fit my project?
Frames are only available via direct contact and are not ordered through the webshop. Please contact us before purchasing if you have any doubts — we are happy to advise. For parts ordered through the webshop, our standard return policy applies.
What is the warranty on your products?
Our frames carry a lifetime warranty, provided no modifications or heat treatments — such as welding or brazing — have been applied to the frame after delivery. Any changes to the frame will void the warranty.
Individual parts carry a 10-year warranty, provided they are welded according to the specifications documented in the frame certificate.