Harley - Davidson Center Ltd

Description:

Around 1901 William S. Harley and Arthur Davidson spent their spare time in a Milwaukee basement workshop. They both worked for the same company, Barth Manufacturing, Harley as a draughtsman and Davidson as a pattern maker. They shared an enthusiasm for motorcycles. Within two years, two Davidson brothers had joined their project, Walter and William A. Their first single cylinder machine of 161cc was hardly an indication of things to come. Even when the engine capacity was increased to 410cc it only produced 3hp. In 1903 the Harley-Davidson Motor Company produced the first three machines and the journey began. By 1909 the company had gained enough experience and confidence, through training and taking on more staff, to launch its first V-twin engine. This engine configuration has remained a Harley-Davidson 'trademark' to this day. Harley-Davidson continued to grow, supplying motorcycles to the military during both World Wars, police forces in many countries, and to private buyers who enjoyed the powerful torque from the V-twin engine. By 1953 Harley-Davidson was the sole survivor in the American motorcycle industry. The company became the king of the road and moved forward with the introduction of the Sportster motorcycle in 1957. The 1950s and '60s also witnessed the explosion of the American "motorcycle culture". Black leather jackets became not only a fashion statement but a way of life. In the late '60s the company merged with AMF. The financial strengths of AMF aided Harley's growth in the '70s. However the market share was reduced due to low-priced motorcycles imported from Japan. The association with AMF ended in June 1981, following a Harley executives buyout. During the 80's Harley introduce the evolution engine which was used to power new models like the Electra Glide, the Softtail and later the Dyna. By 1986 the company had regain the top spot in the market share. Two years later market share was up to 54% in the U.S market. The 1999 model year saw the introduction of the latest Harley-Davidson 'Big Twin' engine - the Twin Cam 88. 1450cc of American muscle that are powering their bikes into the 21st century. In 2002 the amazing VRSCA 'V-Rod' was presented to the market place. This 1130cc 115hp liquid-cooled V-twin machine sets new standards of Harley-Davidson styling, looks and performance. 2003 marks the 100th Anniversary of Harley-Davidson. All models produced as model year 2003 bikes are specially designated to celebrate this milestone.