Harley-Davidson Motorcycles

by: Michael O'Brien

This classic series of motorcycles has a long and storied history with a legion of fans that includes owners, motorcycle enthusiasts, old and young alike. Distinguished by its style, unique engine sound and fan loyalty, Harley-Davidson motorcycles are unlike any bikes ever produced.

From modest beginnings in 1901, Harley-Davidson Incorporated was the brain child of William Harley who had developed a small, powerful engine. Like many engine manufacturers of the era, these engines were intended for use with existing bicycle designs, combining motorized power with pedal power. From a small shop in Milwaukee, Wisconsin Harley and his partner Arthur Davidson embarked on a journey that would revolutionize the world of motorized transportation.

1903 saw the introduction of its first production motorcycle. The early Harley-Davidson bikes were popular as race machines. By the end of the decade Harley-Davidson was selling a version if its bikes for use as police vehicles. Shortly thereafter, The Company introduced a 45 degree V-twin engine design that would represent a style synonymous with Harley-Davidson for years to come.

World War I and World War II ushered in new market opportunities for the Company. At one point during World War I nearly half of the company’s motorcycle production went for use by the military.

The big V-twin engine configurations were reflected in many subsequent designs including the F-Head, Flathead, Knucklehead, Panhead and Shovelhead, all exceeding 1000 cubic centimeters in displacement. The smaller V-twin designs reflected a smaller displacement under 1000 cubic centimeters until the introduction of the Evolution and Ironhead series of engines and are found on the Sportster X series bikes.

The V-Rod, introduced in 2002, incorporates a liquid-cooled 1130 cubic centimeter super bike engine. The VRSC models are unique in both style and performance from all of its predecessors. The 60 degree V-twin engine features fuel injection and was developed with the help of Porsche.

The post-war years saw a rapid expansion in production, along with some ownership bumps in the road. The mid-1980s saw ownership shift from AMF to a group comprised of Harley-Davidson management. The Company went public on the New York Stock Exchange in 1987. The rest, as they say, is history.

Even the Harley-Davidson logo has created incredible marketing potential with after-market merchandise and accessory sales accounting for up to 5 percent of the Company’s revenue. The distinctive HD eagle reflects the respect Harley-Davidson enjoys from competitors and motorcycle fans.

About the Author

Michael O'Brien is Staff Writer for MotorCycleSalesandService.com