Harley Davidson History
Author: Low Jeremy
In 1901, the 21 year-old William S. Harley had created the
blueprint of an engine that was designed to fit in a
conventional bicycle. Two years later, William together with his
friend Arthur Davidson started and developed a one-cylinder
engine that was installed on a conventional bicycle during that
time. However, this motorized-bicycle was proved to be incapable
of climbing through the Milwaukee hills without pedal
assistance. Harley and Davidson developed further their motor
after that experience.

Immediately, they have created a bigger engine (405 cc or 24.74
cubic inches) that was become the very first and real
Harley-Davidson motorcycle. Meanwhile, the first Harley-Davidson
factory was in a 10 x 15-foot wooden shed. The two friends were
helped by Arthur's older brother Walter.

After a year, the Harley-Davidson motorcycle entered its very
first motorcycle race at Milwaukee.

The first years came in so quickly for the company that after 3
years, Harley-Davidson motorcycle production was transferred at
Chestnut Street (that was later become Juneau Avenue). This is
still the Harley-Davidson headquarters up to this time.

In 1907, William received a degree in mechanical engineering at
University of Wisconsin. This helped them to development of
better Harley-Davidson engines in the future. The same year also
provided them a much needed factory expansion for the growing
motorcycle demands. The year 1907 introduced the 45-degree
V-Twin engine which has become the sole Harley-Davidson engine
for a very long time.

Over the years, the company has gained so much popularity that
was converted into sales output. During the First World War,
Harley-Davidson was commissioned to provide more than 20,000
units for military use. The story of the Second World was the
same for the company. They produced thousand upon thousands of
motorcycle.

Before the entry of the 70's, AMF or the American Machinery and
Foundry bought Harley-Davidson. Policies had changed that
resulted to labor strike and substandard bikes. The popularity
and reputation of the company was severely damaged.

In the 80's, it was sold to a group of investors headed by
Willie G. Davidson and Vaughn Beals. The provided innovations
such as the introduction of the "Sturgis". The costumers began
to return and the company had seen clearer promise.

Since then, the popularity of Harley-Davidson motorcycles was
unquestionable. They regained their leadership in motorcycle
industry as they create a unique line of motorcycles, different
from the conventional Japan made. Now, after more than a hundred
years of existence, Harley-Davidson motorcycles have become an
attraction in every road around the world.


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