History of Harley Davidson

The Harley Davidson is one of the most beautifully designed motorcycles made today. Harley riders often consider their bikes to be their most prized possessions.

In Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Bill Harley and Arthur Walter Davidson developed their first one-cylinder motorcycle in a wooden barn. By 1908, Harley Davidson became a company that produced more than 150 motorcycles and employed roughly 20 people. They grew very quickly, and by 1912, Harley Davidson had over 200 store locations in the United States and completed the first overseas sale to Japan.

The first twin cam engine and front wheel brakes were added in 1928, making their motorcycles reach speeds of up to 85 mph. In 1941, civilian production of the Harley Davidson was on pause in order to send the motorcycles overseas for the war effort. By 1957, the British owned 40% of the motorcycle market. During this time, the Sportster, the fastest Harley, was made. The motorcycle went on to win the AMA National Championship in dirt track racing four years in a row, beginning in 1975. By 1987, Harley Davidson began a buyback program, in which they would buy back certain models of their bikes at full value for up to two years. The 1990s brought a collector's item called the Fatboy, whose name was derived from the names of two atomic bombs (the "fat man" and the "little boy"). Today, Harley Davidson owns 62% of the motorcycle market.

Although Harley Davidson bikes are not the fastest motorcycles on the market, owning and riding one is a piece of American history. They offer a level of comfort and a distinct quality that is unparalleled by all other manufacturers, whether American or overseas.