For 121 years, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, has been home to Harley-Davidson, the most iconic motorcycle brand in America. In its early days, the company experimented with building engines and frames, starting from what was essentially a motorized bicycle. Eventually, Harley-Davidson found its identity in creating large motorcycles powered by longitudinally-mounted V-twin engines. The distinctive rumble of these engines, combined with a timeless design, has cemented Harley-Davidson's status as an American road legend.
Like any major manufacturer, Harley-Davidson has faced its share of challenges over the years. To stay relevant and profitable, the company recognized the need to diversify its product offerings, attracting new buyers by exploring different market segments and even venturing into entirely new markets. While die-hard Harley fans might be familiar with some of the brand's more unconventional models, many others remain lesser-known curiosities.
Harley-Davidson Topper In the late 1950s, Harley-Davidson was financially stable and saw an opportunity to tap into the booming motor scooter market. This led to the creation of the Harley-Davidson Topper, a scooter powered by a 165cc two-stroke engine derived from a German DKW design. The Topper featured a step-through design with metal bodywork and a fiberglass engine housing. Despite its innovative features, including a continuously variable transmission, the Topper struggled against competition from Japanese manufacturers and ceased production in 1965.
Harley-Davidson Golf Cart During the early 1960s, Harley-Davidson also ventured into the golf cart market. Initially offered as three-wheeled models, these carts were powered by a 250cc two-stroke engine, later joined by electric versions in 1969. One unique feature of the gas-powered models was their ability to reverse by running the engine backward, a quirk made possible by the two-stroke design. Harley-Davidson continued producing golf carts until 1980, when the division was sold to Columbia Par Car.
Harley-Davidson Nova In the early 1980s, Harley-Davidson embarked on a secret project to develop a water-cooled V4 engine with the help of Porsche. The Nova, as it was called, was intended to revolutionize the brand with a range of models featuring this new engine. However, financial constraints and a shift in company priorities led to the project's cancellation, despite its advanced design and potential to compete with Japanese and European manufacturers.
Harley-Davidson Sprint SS350 In the 1960s, Harley-Davidson acquired a controlling stake in the Italian motorcycle manufacturer Aermacchi, allowing the brand to introduce smaller bikes like the Sprint SS350. Originally a 250cc model, the engine was later enlarged to 350cc to compete with Japanese rivals. Although it was an Italian import, the Sprint SS350 found success on the racetrack and became a noteworthy part of Harley-Davidson's history.
Harley-Davidson MT500 The MT500 was Harley-Davidson's attempt to re-enter the military motorcycle market in the 1980s. Based on a British Armstrong design and powered by a 500cc Rotax engine, the MT500 was a dual-sport machine built for rugged terrain. Despite its limited production and military-specific features, the MT500 never saw widespread use due to changing military needs and a shift toward diesel-powered vehicles.
Harley-Davidson SXT125 In the mid-1970s, Harley-Davidson offered a trail bike called the SXT125, built by Aermacchi in Italy. This 125cc two-stroke motorcycle was a capable trail bike, complete with road-legal features. While it was a departure from Harley's traditional lineup, the SXT125 remains a little-known part of the brand's history.
Harley-Davidson Y 400 During the AMF ownership era, Harley-Davidson ventured into the snowmobile market with the Y 400. Powered by a 400cc Aermacchi engine, the Y 400 featured innovative dampened skis for stability. However, it suffered from poor performance and high noise levels, leading to its discontinuation after just four years.
Harley-Davidson MX250 The MX250 was Harley-Davidson's entry into the motocross market during the 1970s. Originally developed in Milwaukee as a prototype, the MX250 was later produced by Aermacchi in Italy. Despite its potential, the MX250 failed to gain traction in the competitive motocross scene and was discontinued after limited production.
Harley-Davidson Sport In 1919, Harley-Davidson introduced the Sport, a horizontally-opposed twin-engine motorcycle with a unique design. Despite its innovative features and lightweight construction, the Sport struggled to find an audience in the United States and was discontinued after only four years. It remains a rare and interesting footnote in Harley-Davidson's history.
Harley-Davidson Servi-car The Servi-car was one of Harley-Davidson's longest-running models, produced for 50 years starting in 1932. Originally designed as a utility vehicle for small deliveries, the Servi-car became a popular choice for police departments and service shops. Its durable design and versatility have made it a valuable collectible today.
Harley-Davidson X440 In recent years, Harley-Davidson has partnered with India's Hero MotoCorp to produce smaller motorcycles for the local market. The X440, introduced in 2020, is a 440cc single-cylinder bike designed to appeal to Indian riders. While it represents a new direction for Harley-Davidson, the X440 is a modern interpretation of the brand's legacy.
Harley-Davidson Bronx The Bronx was a sport bike concept teased by Harley-Davidson in 2019, built around the Revolution Max V-twin engine. However, the project was quietly shelved after a change in company leadership in 2020. While the Bronx may never see production, it remains an intriguing glimpse into what could have been a new chapter for Harley-Davidson.