Harley Davidson is the most iconic American motorcycle brand. These unique bikes have captured the hearts and imaginations of riders for decades. So, here are some fun facts about the ‘Harleys’ for those who have been riding them for years and those who would love to someday.
Harley-Davidson was founded by four men
Harley-Davidson was founded in 1903 by William S. Harley, Arthur Davidson, Walter Davidson, and William A. Davidson. The first Harley-Davidson was built in a small wooden shed in 1903 which had Harley-Davidson Motor Company written on the small door.
Harley-Davidson made significant contributions to the World War
During World War I, Harley-Davidson motorcycles became essential tools for the U.S. military. Approximately one-third of all motorcycles produced by the company between 1917 and 1918 were shipped overseas to support the war effort.
Around 20,000 motorcycles were provided to the U.S. Military. The company produced over 88,000 WLA models for the U.S. Armed Forces.
The Fabled V-Twin Engine
One of the most distinctive features of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle is its V-twin engine. The V-twin engine was first produced by Harley-Davidson in the year 1909. V-twin refers to the two-cylinder engines, two-cylinder arranged in a V shape. This kind of engine is not only a powerful and compact engine but also gives a unique phrase to the ‘potato-potato’ sound to the bike. Harley-Davidson has experimented and stuck with this classic design and the ‘sound’ for years, making it one of the most distinctive motorcycles ever.
The Motorcycle Known as the Liberators in World War II
In World War II the company manufactured 90,000 WLA models known as “Liberators,” utilized for tasks such as reconnaissance missions, courier services, and military police duties. These bikes were so sturdy and dependable that many ended up in civilian hands after the war.
The WLA was specially crafted to fulfill requirements showcasing a 45-inch (740 cc) V twin engine built to endure the tough conditions of wartime use.
The First Racing Superbike
Harley Davidson’s XR750, unveiled in 1970 is widely recognized as the first American superbike. Originally tailored for track racing the XR750 quickly earned acclaim for its performance and resilience. Initially equipped with an iron head engine it was later upgraded to an all-aluminum version.
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The first company to average over 100 miles per hour
Harley Davidson made history back in 1921 as the motorcycle maker achieved a speed of over 100 miles per hour in a race. Otto Walker riding a Harley Davidson bike accomplished this feat at a race held in Fresno, California. This milestone showcased Harley-Davidson’s dedication to performance and innovation highlighting the engineering of their motorcycles that could maintain speeds while ensuring reliability.
The Tomato Can Carburetor
Some legends said the original Harley Davidson motorcycle prototype featured a carburetor crafted from a simple tomato can. While some historians question the truth of this tale it has become a part of Harley lore adding a charm to the brand’s early engineering endeavors. This instance of DIY engineering set the stage for Harley-Davidson’s innovations and problem-solving approaches.
The Harley-Davidson Bell
One cherished tradition among Harley enthusiasts is installing a “Guardian Bell” beneath their bikes. These bells are believed to bring luck and provide protection for riders during their journeys, on the road.
The Harley Davidson riding experience gains an air of mystery and tradition through the symbolism and superstitions associated with its bells fostering a sense of unity and shared values, among enthusiasts.
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The company was once all in on Japan
It might surprise many that Harley Davidson once had a good business in Japan. Harley-Davidson even set up a factory in Japan and built motorcycles in the 1930s in Shinagawa, Tokyo. This was a brilliant idea of H-D to develop an overseas market. The Harleys built in the Japan Factory were manufactured to exact blueprints. In 1935, the first Japanese-built Harley-Davidsons known as the Harley Davidson ‘Rikuo’ (Road King) model was released. These bikes were built just for the Japanese military at first.
The Harley Owners Group
The Harley Owners Group (H.O.G.) is one of the most iconic and influential motorcycle clubs in the world. It was founded in 1983 by Harley-Davidson and has now become an integral part of the Harley-Davidson family. It brings together riders who share a similar passion and deepens the bond between the brand and its satisfied customers. The club’s success comes from its ability to cater to its members’ lifestyles by providing them the freedom they long for, the adventure they need, and continuous support on the open road.
The Iconic Teardrop Gas Tank
The classic “teardrop” gas tank design introduced in 1925 has become a symbol of Harley Davidson motorcycles. The bike’s design not only boosted its appeal but also enhanced fuel capacity and distribution leading to improved performance and a more comfortable ride. The iconic teardrop tank continues to represent Harley-Davidson’s blend of style and functionality.
Green Color Superstition
Many Harley Davidson riders hold a belief that green motorcycles bring bad luck. Dating back to World War II when green-painted Harley Davidson bikes were targeted by snipers. This superstition stems from the vulnerability of riders on these bikes leading to a fear of fates for those who ride them.
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The Oldest Harley Club Isn’t In the U.S.
The oldest Harley Davidson club was established in 1928 in the Czech Republic, known as the Harley Davidson Club Prague. It holds the title of being the group of Harley riders worldwide. Founded by Czech motorcyclist Bohumel Turek and his companions this club’s origins trace back to a wedding in 1927 where 60 Harley riders accompanied a motorcycle racer groom to the altar.
It started with 35 workers
In 1909 Harley Davidson doubled its factory size to meet increasing demand for their motorcycles. This growth allowed them to boost production with a team of 35 full-time workers employed by the company at that time. With the expansion of its team and facilities, Harley Davidson managed to manufacture over 1,000 motorcycles in 1909.
Harley’s Hollywood Fame
In the world of Hollywood, Harley-Davidson motorcycles have become symbols of rebellion, freedom, and adventure through their appearances in movies and TV series. From the Captain America chopper in “Easy Rider” to the bikes featured in “Sons of Anarchy,” Harley-Davidson’s portrayal on screen has solidified its importance.
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There are Nine Harley Davidson V-Twin Engine Designs
Throughout its history, Harley Davidson has introduced V Twin engine designs including the 1909 V Twin, 1911 1929 F Head, 1929 1973 Flathead, 2001 2017 Revolution, Revolution Max 1250 Milwaukee Eight, Atmospheric, F Head, and Evolution engines. Each design represents a milestone in Harley-Davidson’s engineering legacy by combining power and innovation to produce motorcycles beloved by riders worldwide.
