- 51 PANHEAD
- 51 FL
- 51 FL
In 1951 only six big twin models were offered. The EL and FL models were continued. ELS and FLS sidecar gearing models that where offered in 1949 but not in 1950 where brought back. production of the low compression models E and F was discontinued. Also in 1951. new style gas tank emblems, chrome plated piston compression rings and rocker arms were machined with pushrod sockets. In mid 1951 the M-74B carburetor was introduced along with a larger diameter pinion shaft.
1951 gas tank emblems

Here are some great sources for detailed information about Harley Davidson’s 1951 Panhead
hydra-glide.com The panhead and flathead site
How to restore your Harley-Davidson by Bruce Palmer 111
The Harley Davidson Panhead service manual 48-57 rigid
Riding vintage website
the Jocky Journal web forum
1951 models
model | engine type | actual displacement | compression | options |
---|---|---|---|---|
EL sport solo | 61 c.i.high compression | 60.32 c.i. | 7.0:1 | — |
ELS sidecar twin | 61 c.i.high compression | 60.32 c.i. | 7.0:1 | S = sidecar gearing |
ELF sport solo foot shift | 61 c.i.high compression | 60.32 c.i. | 7.0:1 | F = foot shift |
FL sport solo | 74 c.i.high compression | 73.66 c.i. | 7.0:1 | — |
FLS side car twin | 74 c.i.high compression | 73.66 c.i. | 7.0:1 | S = sidecar gearing |
FLF sport solo foot shift | 74 c.i.high compression | 73.66 c.i. | 7.0:1 | F=foot shift |
NOTE: the ” F “ denoting foot shift will not be stamped in serial number.
NOTE: the ” S “ denoting sidecar gearing will not be stamped in serial number.
1951 models available colors
paint | stripes | speedometer |
---|---|---|
Black | — | Bluish gray center. cream white mph numbers. red indicator |
1951 metallic blue | — | |
Metallic green | — | |
Persian red | — | |
Rio blue | — | |
Silver | — | |
White | — |