As one of the most recognizable brands in the world, Harley-Davidson has transcended motorcycling to become an international corporate and cultural icon. Featured in famous motorcycle movies and known for its American attitude, Harley-Davidson has garnered a devoted fan base. Its distinctive styling and sound have been imitated by manufacturers worldwide, yet diehard fans insist there's no bike like a Harley.
Founded in 1903, Harley-Davidson is not only one of the largest motorcycle manufacturers but also one of the oldest. When the internal combustion engine was just emerging from the era of horseless carriages, innovative mechanics began attaching it to another invention of the Industrial Revolution: the motorcycle.
What inspires such loyalty to Harley-Davidson? Is it the thrill of the open road, the rebellious spirit of its 70s and 80s pop culture impact, the powerful engines, or the distinctive sound and design? It's hard to pinpoint, but our list of 10 surprising facts about Harley-Davidson might provide some insights into over a century of this iconic motorcycle.
It's More Than Just William Harley and Arthur Davidson
Harley-Davidson might have been called Harley, Davidson, Davidson, and Davidson. Childhood friends William Harley and Arthur Davidson are the names most associated with the company's founding, but Arthur's brothers, Walter and William, soon joined the brand. The Davidsons lived near the Harley home in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and shared an interest in bicycles and mechanics. They developed their first bike in a 10x15 shack behind the Davidson house. A German businessman named C.H. Lang sold three of the original five shed-built bikes, and the company was born. William Harley became the chief engineer, Arthur Davidson the primary sales manager, Walter Davidson moved from Kansas to help complete the first motorcycle and later served as President and Manager, and William Davidson left his job to run operations and purchase manufacturing tools. Despite the prevalence of the Davidson name, it is believed that the company is called Harley-Davidson because it was initially Harley's idea to strap an engine to a bicycle.
The First Company to Average Over 100 MPH
In 1921, Otto Walker rode a Harley-Davidson motorcycle at Fresno Speedway, achieving an average speed of 107 miles per hour in a single-lap time trial and 101 miles per hour in a 50-mile race. This accomplishment set new standards and elevated Harley's status as a racing machine, paving the way for further advancements.
Harley-Davidsons on the Battlefields of Europe
World War I saw Harley-Davidson contributing over 20,000 motorcycles to the war effort. Based on their J-series motorcycle, these bikes were equipped with sidecars and machine guns, serving in mobile infantry units, scouting missions, casualty extraction, and convoy protection. The war not only proved Harley-Davidson's reliability but also led to many veterans buying their own civilian models and the creation of Harley-Davidson University to train mechanics.
The Same Engine Configuration Since 1909
Harley-Davidson has used essentially the same V-twin engine configuration since 1909, despite advancements by Japanese and European manufacturers. The first V-twin was a 50 cubic-inch engine producing seven horsepower. By 1911, Harley introduced the F-head V-twin engine, and though today's engines are far more powerful, the roots of Harley's engine design remain the same.
Attempt to Patent Their Trademark Sound
Harley-Davidson tried to patent their distinctive "potato-potato-potato" engine sound in the early 1990s to protect it from being replicated by competitors. However, proving the uniqueness of the sound proved costly, and the company eventually abandoned the effort in mid-2000, though the attempt itself reinforced the association of the sound with Harley-Davidson.
The Distinctive Sound is No Accident
Harley-Davidson's distinctive sound results from using a single pin to connect both pistons to the crankshaft, creating an uneven rumble. This design, originally a cost-saving measure, has become a trademark sound cherished by Harley fans.
Harley & Porsche Collaboration
In the 1980s and 90s, Harley-Davidson collaborated with Porsche to develop the V-Rod model, which featured a 60-degree V-twin engine from Porsche. This partnership helped modernize Harley's performance and keep up with Japanese competition.
Harley-Davidson's Road Racing Championships
Harley-Davidson held three Grand Prix World Championships between 1974 and 1976, thanks to their acquisition of Italian manufacturer Aermacchi. Italian rider Walter Villa dominated the 250 cc class, bringing championships to Harley-Davidson.
The Largest Motorcycle Manufacturer in the World
By 1920, Harley-Davidson had become the largest motorcycle manufacturer in the world. Starting from a backyard shed, the company grew rapidly, earning a reputation for reliability and securing police and military contracts.
The World's Oldest Harley Club in the Czech Republic
The oldest Harley-Davidson club in the world was formed in Prague, Czech Republic, in 1928. Founded by Bohumel Turek and his friends, the Harley Club Prague has survived a tumultuous century and continues to organize events and meetings today.