26 July
Motorcycles are one of the most sought after modes of transportation for various reasons. For some, it is as convenient as it can get. It is a good mix of convenience on the road as it gives the riders the ability to weave in and out of traffic. At the same time, it gives people the convenience of riding on two-wheels without having to pedal all the way through.
As motorcycles became a constant part of transportation, one brand managed to stand out from the time it started manufacturing and selling motorcycles in the early 1900s up to present. The brand Harley Davidson is synonymous to motorcycles and is deeply rooted in the culture and tradition of the vehicle.
Harley Davidson history on motorcycles
The story starts way back in 1901 when 21-year-old William S. Harley put together a blueprint of an engine design. This was meant to fit into a bicycle and would forever change the way people traveled on two wheels. Two years later with the help of Arthur Davidson, the duo came out with the first production motorcycle.
The history of Harley Davidson is embedded in the values of hard work as the founders worked their way from the bottom all the way to the top. Their first factory was a 10X15 wooden shed with the words “Harley-Davidson Motor Company” scrawled on the front door.
As the company grew setting up shop in Milwaukee and started hiring more people, Harley Davidson was supplying Uncle Sam with motorcycles used during both World War One and Two. The company also made a niche with their patented 45-degree air-cooled V-Twin.
Harley Davidson went public
Sometime in the 1960s, Harley Davidson went public where it also merged with American Machine and Foundry or AMF. However, AMF sold back its stake to the original founding family sometime in the 1980s. From that time on, the family has had a direct hand in the operations and in running the business. From then on, the company has been putting out famous bikes on the road.
Famous motorcycle models of Harley Davidson
Here are some of the famous motorcycle models the company is known for.
1915 11F
Having the distinction of being the first three-speed transmission on motorcycles, the 1915 11F changed the motorcycle world. The fact that it also had huge intake valves as well as an automatic oiler made things a lot easier. It also had night time service light that can be taken out when not in use. The bike was able to show the world that it is possible to combine performance with comfort.
2006 VRSCSE2
Amazing handling, as well as maneuverability on the road, is characteristic of the VRSCSE2 model. It was also able to blend functionality with design and came in different colors.
2012 CVO Softail Convertible
This model is known mostly for its touring capabilities bringing riders to far and distant places. The backrest was removable and this model also had a rear passenger seat making the trip a lot more memorable. It also had a windscreen to help protect the rider and passenger from wind, dust and even insects.