Facts About Harley-Davidson Motorcycles

Facts About Harley-Davidson Motorcycles

The Harley-Davidson Motor Company was founded in 1903 and has been the most popular manufacturer of motorcycles in the United States for more than 100 years. Harley-Davidson has become the most widely used brand of motorcycle, in every aspect from racing to military use. Harley-Davidson enthusiasts travel all over the world to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where they were first created, to help celebrate the history of this popular motorcycle.

1. Firsts

   • Harley-Davidson was founded by William Harley and Arthur Davidson. They made the first Harley in a 10-by-15 foot wooden shed. Henry Meyer bought the first Harley in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. C.H. Lang in Chicago was the first Harley-Davidson dealer, opening in 1904.

   Racing

   • In 1905, a Harley motorcycle won a race for the first time. In 1910, Harley-Davidsons in seven different contests--ranging from hill climbs, races and endurance contests--came in first all over the United States. In 1913, the racing department was created.

   Military

   • In 1917, one third of all Harley-Davidsons produced were being sold to the U.S. Military. By 1918, this had grown to more than 50 percent. At the end of World War I, it was estimated that more than 20,000 motorcycles were used in the war effort and that the majority of those were Harley-Davidsons.

   H.O.G.

   • The Harley Owners Group started in 1983, becoming the largest factory-sponsored motorcycle club in history. By the year 2000, there were more than 500,000 members.

   2009

   • The newest addition to the Harley-Davidson family is the XR1200. It has a 1200cc Evolution engine, 2-1-2 straight shot exhaust, a sport front fender and more. Stock, it will cost a driver a little more than $11,000.