The History of Harley Davidson

As you all know I’m a huge Harley Davidson fan, after my divorce I even sold my house for cash to buy one. I just wanted to write a lil bit about the history of Harleys. Founded in December 1880, Harley Davidson is the world’s most famous motorcycle manufacturer. Having survived two world wars and the financial crisis of the 1980s, Harley-Davidson continues to produce iconic V-twin engines and all-American motorcycles. Its headquarters are still located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Harley-Davidson started out in a small shed in Milwaukee. The company later built its first factory in 1906 on Chestnut Street. The first 50 motorcycles were manufactured that year.

In the following year, the company built a second floor and expanded the factory. By 1907, Harley-Davidson was producing nearly one bike a week. The company began selling motorcycles to police departments in 1907.

Harley-Davidson was incorporated on September 17th, 1906. It was later known as Harley-Davidson Motor Co.

During World War I, Harley-Davidson motorcycles were used by U.S. infantry. The company also sent nearly 100,000 machines overseas. The company earned the Army-Navy “E” award for excellence in production.

Harley-Davidson continued to grow in the years that followed. By 1914, the company had more than 150 dealers. They were also sending motorcycles to Japan. By 1909, the company had begun producing motorcycles with two-cylinder engines.

In 1911, the company introduced its first V-twin engine. This model was produced for three years and boasted dual belt-drive. The engine dispensed 7 horsepower. Its valve ports are in an inlet-over-exhaust design. It is still in use until 1929.

In 2007, Harley-Davidson introduced a 96 cubic inch Twin Cam 96 engine. The company also introduced a five-speed transmission.