Following their 1938 Dayton win, Harley Davidson continues to update their racing models. Magneto ignition and special ball bearing motors were allowed in 1939.

Ben Campanale and Babe Tanerede continued to outclass Indian in long distance races. Although riders received little compensation for their efforts, the bond between riders and manufacturers became inseparable.

The pictured 1939 WLDR features a special Edison racing magneto, large capacity tanks and M5 carburetor. All were the best offering from Harley Davidson at that time.