History Of Harley Davidson Motorcycles

By Dennis Ward


When it comes to motorcycles, there are many different brands and models. Harley Davidson Motorcycles are one of the most historic and well known brands. From motorcycle clubs like Hell's Angels and The Bandidos among others, these bikes have become well known. There is no shortage of community spirit when it comes to these biker clubs. In fact, most often thousands of riders meet at festivals like The Redwood Run in Northern California and Sturgis, South Dakota for annual festivals on a regular basis.

There are only two brands of bikes which survived the Great Depression, Harley Davidson being one of them. As such, the company has seen many changes over the years. Whether in development, marketing or ownership, these changes have, at times, caused economic and quality issues with the brand. The company has now recovered from these issues, and has once again found its place the hearts of friends, fans and loyal riders.

There are several annual motorcycle festivals held each year, one of which is held in Sturgis, South Dakota, the other in Piercy, California. While there is a strong Harley presence, bikes of all types are generally welcome at these events. Loyalist, and others can now visit a museum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin that boasts over 450 different models, accessories and artifacts.

Most often known for a style called "the chopper, "the company has given birth to many new styles over the years. "Choppers, " are cruiser motorcycle with engines greater than 700cc. More recently, the company has expanded into offering a number of different sizes and styles. One of the most popular bikes for travel is known as a touring bike which host side bags for storage.

Originally started by the Davidson brothers and assisted by William S. Harley, the two families blended names to create the company and brand name. The idea and development of the first motorbike occurred in 1901. Upon attempting to ride the motorbike, the brothers discovered the machine lacked the power to climb hills. Rather than giving up, the brothers saw this as a learning experience.

Ultimately, it took two more years to develop a working model from the original prototype. During this time, William and Arthur Davidson dedicated all the spare time available to working on the first model. Using a Milwaukee machine shop, original and revised specifications and parts from a number of resources, the boys finally had a bike that would not only go up hills but do so in rather fast and loud manner.

When first testing this power cycle, the boys found that it could not climb hills around town without pedals. While frustrated, the boys wrote off this first attempt as a learning experience. The boys never gave up and began working on a new and improved model almost immediately. Finally, after rebuilding the prototype at a shed in the Davidson's back yard, the boy's found success.

The first prototype was finished and ready to ride on September 8, 1904. Being the first motorized bike ever made, William and the Davidson brothers entered it into the Milwaukee State Fair. When Edward Hildebrand placed fourth, most were astonished. Then, after placing several ads a well known trade journal, the brand reached the popularity for which the brand is know today.




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