1938 Crocker
Country: U.S.A
Engine: Air-cooled 45-degree V-twin, four-stroke
Ignition: Autolite distributor and coil
Power Rating: 60 bhp @ 4,000 rpm
Bore x Stroke: 82.5 x 86mm (3-5/16 x 3-1/2 inches)
Displacement: 60.3 cubic inches (986 cc)
Valves: Overhead, pushrod activated
Fuel System: Single Linkert 1-1/4-inch bore carburetor
Transmission: Close ratio three speed
Suspension: Front dual spring girder forks, rigid rear
Brakes: Front and rear drum
Weight: 495 lbs.
Top Speed: Approx. 110mph
Albert Crocker worked initially for the Aurora Automatic Machine Company, maker of Thor motorcycles. He then embarked on a career with the Indian Company, finally locating in Los Angeles, California, as the distributor for this company. Crocker relinquished his association with Indian to build speedway machines. He then embarked on designing and building a "Superbike," using his experience with the Indian brand.
Hand-built to order, the Crocker was described as the Duesenberg of American motorcycles. Able to cruise between 90-100mph, the Crocker was phenomenal. Approximately 75 machines were built between 1936 and 1940 with about one-half accounted for today.
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1936 Motorcyclist magazine, debuted the first bike and 2 photos, Al Crocker said "12 motors" were spoken for. Paul Bigsby said "64 bikes" were built, he left late 1941 when the scooter production ended. Those 2 quotes have been ignored in 'Iron Redskin' or the 'Crocker Register'. Today there are 76 "Crocker" bikes which is an extraordinary survival rate worthy of closer attention. Crocker never used HD crank pins, rods, pistons or STROKER plates. Elmo Looper hot rodded his 3 Crocker bikes and Ernie Skelton rebuilt Harry Sucher's bike, using HD rods and pistons, he copied Looper's work. since 1970 dozens of "Crocker" have them, it is impossible to calculate a total of 61" capacity with Harley diameter pistons. Crocker ads state 61" engine size, there are no ads offering the engine size as an option. Elmo Looper was at the factory working specifically on stroker motors for racing.
Pictures not great?
Beautiful machine, especially the powerplant. More than just a swelled up Sportster with a suicide 3 soeed for sure. I really like the girder front & the paint. Good write up, Thanks, R.Tillery