History of Harley Davidson

Bill Harley and Arthur Davidson founded the Harley Davidson motorcycle company in Milwaukee. In 1903 the two boys completed the first Harley-Davidson motorcycle, which was powered by a one-cylinder gasoline combustion engine. At that time they were working in the backyard shed of the Davidson’s family, but soon enough they opened the first real Harley Davidson factory. By 1907 about 50 motorcycles were produced.

In the following years the famous company expanded enormously and Harley-Davidson’s motorcycles were even used by the military services during the World War I. By 1920 Harley Davidson was already the biggest motorcycle company in the world. During World War II the majority of the Harleys produced were devoted to the military forces and they were also shipped overseas to countries such as England, where they can only afford production of planes and tanks.

In the middle of the century, Harleys had become a real icon not only in America but all over the world. A big contribution to this success came from famous stars such as Elvis Presley and Peter Fonda, who were immortalized on Harleys and helped increase the company’s image, as well as famous movies such as “Easy Rider.” Subsequently, Harley-Davidson became an important trademark for clothing and apparel.

Harley-Davidson is without a doubt one of the most impressive companies in USA and celebrated its 100th birthday few years ago. These days, very few companies are able to survive for such a long time producing the same original, quality product they have started with.