Historical Tidbits On Harley-Davidson Motorcycles

Harley Davidson motorcycles, which are popularly known as ‘Harleys’, made a great impact on the motorcycle industry. Many people, including the famous ones, were astounded by the appearance of the Harleys, the great American freedom machine. But where did it all begin? Who are the people behind the great Harley motors success.

The Harley Davidson Motorcycle Company, founded in 1903, was made possible through the efforts of William Harley, Arthur Davidson, and his brother Walter Davidson. They made the idea of designing and making motorcycles when they were still attending the university (specifically taking the course on mechanical engineering). Actually, the blueprint of the motor (engine that fits in a bicycle) was already completed by William Harley in 1901. But due to some factors, the ‘real’ Harley or the official Harley Davidson motorcycle was produced two years after it was conceptualized.

Just like many other products, the Harley Davidson motorcycles faced difficulties before they made an explosion in the world market. But by the perseverance and hard work of its founders, it became a success.

Because of its great effects on the motorcycle industry, you may want to know some important events associated with the Harleys. The (mass) construction of the motorcycles began in 1912 at their headquarters in Milwaukee. And in 1918, Harley supported the World War by providing motorcycles for the US troops. At that time, it was considered a symbol of American individualism and was even called the ‘King of the Road’ because it has helped the US troops a lot. Meanwhile, the Harley Davidson insignia, which is a symbol of power, freedom and performance for its riders, started to appear on all gas tanks in 1933.

When the Harley Davidson Company celebrated their 50th anniversary in 1953, it wasn’t still that famous because it was not yet recognized worldwide. Also, the 1950’s were a depressing time for the Harleys because it was then that other motorcycle brands appeared (Honda, Kawasaki, and British motorcycles). These other brands were lighter and faster than the Harleys, which is why people favored them more. But the Harley Davidson Company did not accept defeat, it continued in improving its engines.

They had developed the Cruiser, Sportster and many other bikes that rocked the motorcycle industry. These newly built designs enabled the Harley Davidson motors to attract consumers and also made it possible for the company to move to a plant in York, Pennsylvania (main headquarters of Harley Davidson company where they produce Harley motors today) which measures a total of 400,000 square feet. In the 1970’s, the Harley motorcycles had won a lot of races which is the very reason why people were amazed and started to buy their own Harleys. And in 1987, its stocks went public and its fame increased exponentially.

It is not an easy job for the Harley Davidson motorcycles to be famous at an instant. Perseverance and real hard work were what enabled it to stand still and be strong. Indeed, the Harley Davidson Company did not look back. Though it has fallen a lot of times before, it stood up and continued the fight.