Harley Davidson, Museum

Motorcycle riders now have their own version of the Metropolitan Museum of Art: the first-ever

Harley-Davidson Museum. This Saturday, the $75 million homage to the Harley opens in Milwaukee, where the company headquarters have been located since 22-year-old Arthur Davidson and 23-year-old William Harley built their first motorbike in 1903. The grand opening will feature the governor of Wisconsin, the mayor of Milwaukee, four bands and a tattoo artist. (If you were hoping to get inked, you're out of luck: the tattoo artist is only doing 10 pre-selected people, including company CEO Jim Ziemer.)

The museum celebrates 105 years worth of history, as told through its choppers, from Evel Knievel's stunt bike to more pedestrian U.S. Postal Service and military motorcycles. With Harley still selling half of all U.S. heavyweight motorcycles, designed for highway cruising, and fan clubs around the world, it's no surprise that company officials expect 350,000 people a year to take it all in.

The 20-acre site, which includes parking spaces for 1,000 motorcycles and 500 cars, looks very, well, Harley, with lots of black and orange paint, 1,200 tons of steel and plenty of bricks. (Steel and bricks were chosen, says Harley-Davidson spokeswoman Amanda Lee, because, "They're very honest materials. They're reflective of the industrial history of the city.") The site officially fits 15,000 people, while the museum itself can hold 1,300. Company officials are encouraging rallies, parties and weddings. White leather, anyone?
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And, as befits the Harley brand, everything is oversized. The doors into the museum are 17 feet tall, an enormous steel Harley-Davidson sign weighs in at 23,000 pounds and even the view, of the Menomonee River and nearby smokestacks, is big. A full tour will take about two hours, as visitors traipse through thematic galleries focused on how engines work, on clubs and competition, on custom culture and on the design process. The engines room is a family tree of the major motors over the past century, all lovingly displayed on the wall near buttons that allow visitors to hear how each engine sounds. Overall, it's remarkable how unchanged the famous "potato-potato-potato" sound has remained through the years.

The museum also devotes space to racing and hill-climbing, the latter a popular extreme sport in the 1930s. Riders put chains on their wheels, reduced the sizes of their gas tanks, widened their handlebars and headed up muddy, loose rock. As you'd expect, there are photos of old riders who raced through the pine forests in the '20s, '30s and '40s and motorcycle legends like Joe Petrali, who in 1937 broke the land-speed record by going 136mph, as well as actual hill-climbing bikes on display.

Think Harleys have just been for biker-gang outlaws like those in "The Wild One"? Think again—the bikes were a part of both civilian and government life. One exhibit displays the three-wheeled motorcycles that the U.S. Postal Service used in 1916 because they were cheaper to maintain than horses. Another shows Harley's police motorcycles, manufactured for the past 100 years. And hog fans can also see that women have been riding Harleys for almost as long as they've existed. One display case features photos and newspaper clips about Vivian Bales, who bought a cycle in 1929 and rode solo from Albany, Ga., to Milwaukee. Bales wrote about it for Harley-Davidson Enthusiast magazine, which is still published quarterly.

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Harley Owners Group

The Harley Owners Group (H.O.G.) is a club for Harley-Davidson motorcycle owners.

Harley-Davidson established the Harley Owners Group in 1983, in the United States, in response to a growing desire by Harley riders for an organized way to share their passion and show their pride. By 1985, 49 local chapters had sprouted around the country, with a total membership of 60,000.

Rapid growth continued into the 1990s, and in 1991 H.O.G. officially went international, with the first official European H.O.G. Rally in Cheltenham, England. Worldwide membership numbered 151,600, with 685 local chapters.

As the 1990s continued, H.O.G. spread into Asia, including new chapters in Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. By 1999, worldwide membership had hit the half-million mark, and the number of local chapters totaled 1,157. Today, more than a million members make H.O.G. the largest factory-sponsored motorcycle organization in the world.

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Families Model of Harley Davidson

Modern Harley-branded motorcycles fall into one of five model families: Touring, Softail, Dyna, Sportster and VRSC. Model families are distinguished by the frame, engine, suspension, and other characteristics.

Touring

The touring family, also known as "dressers", includes three Road King models and five Glide models offered in various trim. The Road Kings have a "retro cruiser" appearance and most models are equipped with a large clear windshield. Road Kings are reminiscent of big-twin models from the 1940s and '50s. Glides can be identified by their full front fairings. Most Glides sport a unique fairing referred to as the "Batwing" due to its unmistakable shape. The Road Glide has a different front end, referred to as the "Sharknose". The Sharknose includes a unique, dual front headlight.

Touring models are distinguishable by their large saddlebags (usually with a top box as well), rear coil-over air suspension and are the only models to offer full fairings with Radios/CBs. All touring models use the same frame, first introduced with a Shovelhead motor in 1980, and carried forward with only modest upgrades until 2009, when it was extensively redesigned. The frame is distinguished by the location of the steering head in front of the forks and was the first H-D frame to rubber mount the drivetrain to isolate the rider from the vibration of the big V-twin. Although all touring models weigh in excess of 800 lb (360 kg), they are remarkably easy to handle at low speeds and high, and give the most comfortable and relaxing ride of any Harley.

The frame was modified for the 1994 model year when the oil tank went under the transmission and the battery was moved inboard from under the right saddlebag to under the seat. In 1997, the frame was again modified to allow for a larger battery under the seat and to lower seat height. In 2007, Harley introduced the 96 cubic inch motor, as well the 6 speed transmission to give the rider better speeds on the highway.

In years past, these touring models have become favorites with several local, and state police agencies, such as the Chicago Police Department, the Los Angeles Police Department, the Iowa State Patrol, and several others.

In 2006, Harley introduced the FLHX, a bike designed by Willie G. Davidson to be his personal ride, to its touring line.

In 2008, Harley added anti-lock braking systems and cruise control as a factory installed option on all touring models.

For the 2009 model year, Harley-Davidson has redesigned the entire touring range with several changes, including a new frame, new swingarm, a completely revised engine-mounting system, 17-inch (430 mm) front wheels for all but one model, a six-gallon gas tank, and a 2-1-2 exhaust. The changes result in greater load carrying capacity, better handling, a smoother engine, longer range and less exhaust heat transmitted to the rider and passenger.Also released for the 2009 model year is the FLHTUCTG Tri Glide Ultra Classic, the first three-wheeled Harley since the Servi-Car was discontinued in 1973. The model features a unique frame and a 103 cid engine exclusive to the trike.

Softail

These big-twin motorcycles capitalize on Harley's strong value on tradition. With the rear-wheel suspension invisible on the bottom of the frame, they are visually similar to the "hardtail" choppers popular in the 1960s and 1970s, as well as from their own earlier history. In keeping with that tradition, Harley offers Softail models with "springer" front ends and "heritage" styling that incorporate design cues from throughout their history.

Dyna
Main article: Harley-Davidson Super Glide
2005 Dyna Super Glide Custom.

Dyna motorcycles feature big-twin engines and traditional styling. They can be distinguished from the Softail by the traditional coil-over suspension that connects the swingarm to the frame, and from the Sportster by their larger engines. On these models, the transmission also houses the engine's oil reservoir.

In 2006, Harley-Davidson released a line-up of five Dyna models: Super Glide, Super Glide Custom, Street Bob, Low Rider, and Wide Glide.

In 2008, the "Fat Bob" was re-introduced to the Dyna line-up featuring aggressive styling, including a new 2-1-2 exhaust, twin headlamps, a 180 mm rear tire and a 130 mm front tire.

Sportster

Introduced in 1957, the Sportster is the longest-running model family in the Harley-Davidson lineup. They were conceived as racing motorcycles, and were popular on dirt and flat-track race courses through the 1960s and '70s. Smaller and lighter than the other Harley models, contemporary Sportsters make use of 883 or 1,200 cc Evolution engines and, though often modified, remain similar in appearance to their racing ancestors.

Up until the 2003 model year, the engine on the Sportster was rigidly mounted to the frame. The 2004 Sportster had a new frame accommodating a rubber-mounted engine. Although this made the bike heavier and reduced the available lean angle, it reduced the amount of vibration transmitted to the frame and the rider.[67] The rubber mounted engine provides a significantly smoother ride for rider and passenger, allowing longer trips.

In the 2007 model year, Harley-Davidson celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Sportster and produced a collectors' edition called the XL50 1200 Custom, of which only 2000 were made for sale worldwide. Each motorcycle was individually numbered and came in one of two colors, Mirage Pearl Orange or Vivid Black. Also in 2007, electronic fuel injection was introduced to the Sportster family, and the Nightster model was introduced. In 2009, Harley-Davidson added the Iron 883 to the Sportster line, the newest in the Dark Custom series.

VRSC

Introduced in 2001, the VRSC family bears little resemblance to Harley's more traditional lineup. Competing against Japanese and American muscle bikes and seeking to expand its market appeal, the "V-Rod" makes use of an engine developed jointly with Porsche that, for the first time in Harley history, incorporates fuel injection, overhead cams, and liquid cooling. The V-Rod is visually distinctive, easily identified by the 60-degree V-Twin engine, the radiator and the hydroformed frame members that support the round-topped air cleaner cover. Based on the VR-1000 racing motorcycle, it continues to be a platform around which Harley-Davidson builds drag-racing competition machines. The V-Rod has gathered an enthusiastic following in the U.S., Europe and Australia, and an annual Rally at the Kansas City production facility has been organized by Max Millender and the members of a 21,000+ member strong internet discussion forum www.1130cc.com. Bill Davidson has presented Mr Millender with a signed airbox cover to recognize the contribution the forum has made to the VRSC platform which continues to evolve with models like the Night Rod Special (VRSCDX).

In 2008, Harley added anti-lock braking systems as a factory installed option on all VRSC models.[63] Harley also increased the displacement of the stock engine from 1130cc (69ci) to 1250cc (73.6ci), which had only been previously available from Screamin' Eagle, and added a slipper clutch as standard equipment.

VRSC Models Include:

VRSCA: V-Rod (2002–2006), VRSCAW: V-Rod (2007–2008), VRSCB: V-Rod (2004–2005), VRSCD: Night Rod (2006–2008), VRSCDX: Night Rod Special (2007–2008), VRSCSE: Screamin' Eagle CVO V-Rod (2005), VRSCSE2: Screamin' Eagle CVO V-Rod (2006), VRSCR: Street Rod (2006–2007), VRSCX: Screamin' Eagle Tribute V-Rod (2007), V-Rod Muscle (2009).

VRXSE

The VRXSE V-Rod Destroyer is Harley-Davidson's production drag racing motorcycle, constructed to run the quarter mile in under ten seconds. It is based on the same revolution engine that powers the VRSC line, but the VRXSE uses the Sceamin' Eagle 1300cc "stroked" incarnation, featuring a 75 mm crankshaft, 105 mm Pistons, and 58 mm throttle bodies.

The V-Rod Destroyer is not a street legal motorcycle.

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Harley Davidson Engines

The classic Harley-Davidson engines are two-cylinder, V-twin engines with the pistons mounted in a 45° "V". The crankshaft has a single pin, and both pistons are connected to this pin through their connecting rods.

This design causes the pistons to fire at uneven intervals. This is due to an engineering tradeoff to create a large, high-torque engine in a small space. This design choice is entirely vestigial from an engineering standpoint, but has been sustained because of the strong connection between the distinctive sound and the Harley-Davidson brand. This design, which is covered under several United States patents, gives the Harley-Davidson V-twin its unique choppy "potato-potato" sound. To simplify the engine and reduce costs, the V-twin ignition was designed to operate with a single set of points and no distributor, which is known as a dual fire ignition system, causing both spark plugs to fire regardless of which cylinder was on its compression stroke, with the other spark plug firing on its cylinder's exhaust stroke, effectively "wasting a spark." The exhaust note is basically a throaty growling sound with some popping.

The 45 degree design of the engine thus creates a plug firing sequencing as such: The first cylinder fires, the second (rear) cylinder fires 315° later, then there is a 405° gap until the first cylinder fires again, giving the engine its unique sound.


Harley-Davidson has used various ignition systems throughout its history - be it the early points/condenser system, (Big Twin up to 1978 and Sportsters 1970 to 1978), magneto ignition system used on 1958 to 1969 Sportsters, early electronic with centrifugal mechanical advance weights, (all models 1978 and a half to 1979), or the late electronic with transistorized ignition control module, more familiarly known as the black box or the brain, (all models 1980 to present).

Starting in 1995, the company introduced Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) as an option for select models.[54] With the introduction of the 2007 product line, EFI is now standard on all models, including Sportsters.

In 1991, Harley-Davidson began to participate in the Sound Quality Working Group, founded by Orfield Labs, Bruel and Kjaer, TEAC, Yamaha, Sennheiser, SMS and Cortex. This was the nation's first group to share research on psychological acoustics. Later that year, Harley-Davidson participated in a series of sound quality studies at Orfield Labs, based on recordings taken at the Talladega Superspeedway, with the objective to lower the sound level for EU standards while analytically capturing the "Harley Sound."[citation needed] This research resulted in the bikes that were introduced in compliance with EU standards for 1998.

On 1 February 1994, the company filed a sound trademark application for the distinctive sound of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle engine: "The mark consists of the exhaust sound of applicant's motorcycles, produced by V-twin, common crankpin motorcycle engines when the goods are in use". Nine of Harley-Davidson's competitors filed comments opposing the application, arguing that cruiser-style motorcycles of various brands use a single-crankpin V-twin engine which produce a similar sound. These objections were followed by litigation. In August 2001, the Company dropped efforts to federally register its trademark. However, legal counsel for the company claims that the Harley-Davidson still holds trademark rights in the sound even without a registration.
Electra Glide "Ultra Classic" in Bristol

The Big V-Twins

* F-head, also known as JD, pocket valve and IOE (intake over exhaust), 1914-29 (1,000 cc), and 1922-29 (1,200 cc)
* Flathead, 1930–1948 (1,200 cc) and 1935-41 (1,300 cc).
* Knucklehead, 1936-47 61 cubic inches (1,000 cc), and 1941-47 74 cubic inches (1,200 cc)
* Panhead, 1948-52 61 cubic inches (1,000 cc), and 1948-65, 74 cubic inches (1,200 cc)
* Shovelhead, 1966-85, 74 cubic inches (1,200 cc) and 82 cubic inches (1,345 ccm) since late 1978
* Evolution (aka "Evo" and "Blockhead"), 1984-99, 80 cubic inches (1,340 cc)
* Twin Cam 88 (aka "Fathead") 1999–2006, 88 cubic inches (1,443 cc)
* Twin Cam 88B (counter balanced version of the Twin Cam 88) 2000–2006, 88 cubic inches (1,443 cc)
* Twin Cam 96, 2007–present, 96 cubic inches (1,584 cc)
* Twin Cam 103, 1999–2006, 2009, 103 cubic inches (1690 cc) (engines for C.V.O. models)
* Twin Cam 110, 2007–present, 110 cubic inches (1802 cc) (engines for C.V.O. models)

Evolution Sportster cruising around downtown Buenos Aires

[edit] The Small V-Twins

* D Model, 1929-31, 750 cc
* R Model, 1932-36, 750 cc
* W Model, 1937-52, 750 cc, solo (2 wheel) frame only)
* G (Servi-Car) Model, 1932-73, 750 cc
* K Model, 1952-53, 750 cc
* KH Model, 1954-56, 900 cc
* Ironhead, 1957–1971 (900 cc), 1971-85 (1000 cc)
* Evolution, 1986–present, 883, 1,100 and 1,200 cc

V-Rod on the show room floor

The Revolution engine

The Revolution engine is based on the VR-1000 Superbike race program, developed by Harley-Davidson's Powertrain Engineering team and Porsche Engineering in Stuttgart, Germany. It is a liquid cooled, dual overhead cam, internally counterbalanced 60 degree V-twin engine with a displacement of 69 cubic inches (1130 cc), producing 115 horsepower (86 kW) at 8250 rpm at the crank, with a redline of 9000 rpm. It was introduced for the new V-Rod line in 2001 for the 2002 model year, starting with the single VRSCA (V-Twin Racing Street Custom) model.

A 1250 cc Screamin' Eagle version of the Revolution engine was made available for 2005, and was present thereafter in a single production model from 2005–2007. In 2008, the 1250 cc Revolution Engine became standard for the entire VRSC line. Harley-Davidson claims 123 horsepower (92 kW) at the crank for the 2008 VRSCAW model. The VRXSE Destroyer is equipped with a stroker (75 mm crank) Screamin’ Eagle 1,300 cubic centimetres (79 cu in) Revolution Engine, producing over 165 horsepower (123 kW).

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Bandidos History

Bandidos M.C. Australia was formed and chartered in August 1983. The original charter members were ex-members of the city chapter of the Comanchero M.C. Our chapter president at the time had previously travelled with other members to the U.S.A whilst members of the Comanchero M.C. They met Bandido members and were greatly impressed by their brotherhood and hospitality.

The split from the Comanchero M.C. was caused through an ongoing rift between chapters and resulted in total loss of respect for the mother chapter especially the founder and club president. The city chapter president and life member, Snotgrass tried vainly to restore the brotherhood between the two chapters but it was lost forever the Comanchero colours were incinerated in a ceremonial act, unknowingly setting the scene for the hatred and consequently the violence that was to follow.

After remembering how much respect U.S Bandidos showed to him, Snotgrass contacted National president Ronnie Hodge. Through much correspondence our Australian Charter was sealed with approval. By giving us a charter in Australia Ronnie Hodge paved the way for Bandidos International.

Our first Australian National president, Snotgrass, took his own life in prison following the shoot-out between the Bandidos M.C. and the Comanchero M.C. on the 2nd September 1984 which left 7 people dead, 2 Bandidos, 4 Comancheros and tragically a 14 year old girl Leanne Waters.

Snotgrass will always be remembered and held in high regard along with the other lost brothers Shadow and Chopper whose lives were taken from them on that day..

Bandidos Forever Forever Brothers

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Harley Davidson and the Hells Angels

Harley-Davidson and the Hells Angels. Few pairings are as synonymous as
those two names. The pairing of Harley Davidson and the Hells Angels is
something akin to peanut butter and jelly, but sometimes it turns into
oil and water. In other words, sometimes the two don't mix. Since the
formation of Hells Angels, Harley Davidson has been their motorcycle of
choice, which hasn’t always thrilled the company. They faced
a negative reaction from the buying public, who connected the company
to the biker gang.

Since the early days of the biker gang, the Hells Angels have seemed to
revel in their poor reputation. To this day many members still wear a
patch on their jacket, signifying their
“one-percenter” status. The label was given to them
in the 1950s after the American Motorcyclist Association claimed that
1% of all bikers clubs were outlaws, the Hells Angels included.

Harley seemed willing, albeit reluctantly, to accept the relationship
until the 1966 release of a Hunter S. Thompson book. Hell’s
Angels: The Strange and Terrible Saga of the Outlaw Motorcycle Gang
delivered an unflinching description of the gang in action. Thompson
lived around the gang for nearly a year, only leaving after receiving a
severe beating from some members. He wrote about everything
the gang did, including violent beatings and gang rape.

This rape of two teenage girls, 14 and 15, by a group of outlaws, sent
shockwaves across the country. Over 300 Hells Angels members were
gathered for a rally in California when the event occurred, landing
four members in jail, and the rest escorted from the area. The men were
eventually acquitted of rape, but Harley-Davidson was still left with yet
another black mark on their record. Suddenly the company saw themselves
as a willing participants to the actions committed by the gang.

Another incident, documented and verified in Thompson’s book,
occurred in 1961. A man accidentally hit one of the members’
bikes with his car, a shouting match ensued, and the man was severely
beaten as well as having his car destroyed. At the same time, articles
detailing the worst offenses of the Hells Angels appeared in Time,
Life, and The New York Times. In each instance, the bikers connection
to the bikes they loved appeared front and center.

The most famous incident involving the Hells Angels took place in
Altamont, California in 1969. Members of the Oakland chapter were hired
as security guards for a concert featuring some of the biggest bands at
the time. A concert goer who charged the stage was stabbed to death by
one of the Hells Angels. Despite charges being dropped, the incident
had already done damage to Harley-Davidson’s reputation.

During the 1980s and 1990s, the tangled relationship between
Harley-Davidson and the Hells Angels became even more strained. A 1983
incident led to four members being charged with conspiracy, after a
conflict with another biker gang. In more recent years, the Hells
Angels tangled with a rival gang in Nevada. The skirmish ended with two
members dead, and two in prison.

Harley-Davidson’s affiliation with the Hells Angels, willing
or not, suffered as a result of poor public opinion. The motorcycle
gangs were the long time loyal customers, who depended on the company
for equipment, but not their only customers. The majority of people who
purchased a motorcycle, had no involvement in a biker gang, but were
fearful of others thinking they were. When the Harley-Angels connection
formed, some customers took their loyalty elsewhere. Throughout certain
points in the history of the company, they’ve blamed their
financial woes on the biker gang. They claim that when the Hells Angels
make the front page, sales plummet.

The history of Harley-Davidson and the Hells Angels, is a long and
tangled one. Thanks to the publicity surrounding the bikers, the
company reached a widespread audience of new consumers. The same
publicity has caused damage to the company’s reputation, but
they have always managed to bounce back. Harley Davidson and the Hells
Angels are two groups that will forever be connected.

Mel Raskinski is a senior writer for Motorcycle Parts and Apparel. Check out their wide selection of motorcycle parts and apparel by visiting: http://motorcyclepartsandapparel.com/

To view a wide selection of Harley Davidson aftermarket parts, please visit our site.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mel_Raskinski

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About Trivett Harley Davidson, Sydney

A couple of years ago, a huge US marketing company embarked on an ambitious project to find out how consumers viewed certain brands and what brand names and products were most recognisable. Harley-Davidson rated in the top ten most recognisable brand names in the world! And also in the top 20 brands that evoked passion, quality, style and confidence!

Anyone who has even the slightest idea of what Harley-Davidson means would not be surprised by those results. Talking of products that evoke passion??? How many people do you know that have the McDonalds logo tattooed on their body? Not many I would imagine, but millions of people have the words Harley-Davidson tattooed on their body. I know I do.

So it should come as no surprise that the Harley-Davidson Motor Co. would keenly associate itself with a company like Trivett when looking to expand its dealer network in Sydney. Trivett Harley-Davidson officially opened its doors to the public on September 19th, 2006 at a temporary facility at Young Street, Waterloo. Customers were amazed to discover the showroom was only a temporary one until the purpose built facility at O'Riordan Street in Alexandria opened in September 2007.

Now located at its new showroom, what strikes you as you enter this state-of-the-art facility is the stunning array of 2008 model Harleys, collectibles and motor-clothes on offer. Trivett Harley offers all the latest model Harley-Davidson motorcycles, collectibles, motor-clothes, parts and accessories, in fact anything to dress you and your Harley up -But the service does not end there.

Trivett Harley also is able to offer riders an intimate and quality service centre, handling routine service work, modifications, Dyno runs, fitment of accessories and so much more. Trivett Harley has assembled a group of passionate enthusiasts with over 90 years of experience in motorcycling between them. Only Harley-Davidson is spoken at Trivett Harley-Davidson Sydney. Pop in and see for yourself the exciting range of stunning machines. They would love to see you!

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What's the difference between a Motorcycles and a Harley Rider ??

First, Harley Davidson does not make motorcycles. They make Harleys, and at this they are better than all the other manufacturers. Harleys are not ment to go or stop or handle or be comfortable or anything. They are mobile pieces of art, complete with the embedded compromises.

The main duty is to be looked at, and to make sure they are looked at by as many people as possible, they are portable. Like a circus. Weight is about that same as a circus too. Harley could make motorcycles if they wanted to, but they do not want to. If they did, there wouldn't be Buells, there would be motorcycles manufactured by Harley. It is really a cleaver marketing ploy. "Your motorcycle is very slow!" "Its a Harley, if i have to explain it you wouldn't understand" "Your motorcycle is very heavy!" "Its a Harley, if i have to explain it you wouldn't understand" "Your motorcycle is very expensive!" "Its a Harley, if i have to explain it you wouldn't understand" "Your motorcycle is very uncomfortable!" "Its a Harley, if i have to explain it you wouldn't understand" etc.Its a built in excuse masquerading as a surly attitude. Once we recognize Harleys for what they are, we can appreciate them for what they are. I will never appreciate a Harley for what it is not.

It is not a motorcycle.Second we have to define the people who ride Harleys. I believe they fall into two families The two famillies are1) Motorcyclists who ride Harleys, and2) Harley Riders. Motorcyclists who ride Harleys recognize Harleys for what they are. Rolling Retro influenced art, not motorcycles. These people appreciate the admiring glances they get when they ride their bikes, they secretly think of themselves as Lee Marvin, and they like to look at and improve the appearance of their Harley. It is a work in progress, and this piece of art becomes their canvas upon which to express themselves.Motorcyclists who ride Harleys have a reasonable motorcycling resume, and may own more utilitarian vehicles (Japanese Motorcycles, Jeep Cherokees etc.) when transportation is required. These people love motorcycles as much as everyone on this list, but they also like Harleys, and as already mentioned these are two distinct things.Harley Riders did not read the previous paragrahs, and mistakenly believe that Harleys are motorcycles. Unfortunately, these people tend to mistake Harley ownership for a personality as well, so they are usually way screwed up.

These are non motorcyclists whose whole mental representation of motorcycles equals Harleys 'cause they once saw a Mickey Rourke film. These films also offers explanation for the typical Harley Rider's behavior. Pissed off at the world due to a lagging film career. As the Harley is used as a personality, and these people lack the self- concept and are so non ego formed as adults, they feel they must behave in this stereotypical manner regardless of situation. Usualy these people have little to no motorcycling experience, and are attracted to flashy thing in the same manner as crows. Sometimes an avid motorcyclist becomes a Harley Rider; friends and family can usually identify the warning signs in hindsight only.

Perhaps the biggest transgression these people make is to "Talk Motorcycles" when they have no experience with them (they ride Harleys remember). When people talk of rpm levels used to settle the suspension for a set of twisties, they fall back on "Jap Crap", "Rice Rocket/Burner" etc. They use anger, insults and surliness to mask their ignorance. They want to interact, but they don't know how (Mickey Rourke never spoke nicely to people in any of his movies), they don't have the vocabulary or social skills. It is really quite tragic. I believe these definitions help explain one of the longest standing questions in modern motorcycling. Why don't all Harley guys wave back. It is simple really. It is a in-group bias sort of thing. Motorcyclists wave at other Motorcyclists due to the kinship we feel. We see someone riding a motorcycle and immediately recognize them, as being of superior intellect. Since they are so smart, the must be a good person to know, so i will wave and act politely and friendly towards them. Generally, when waved to, motorcyclists will wave back (provided they are not in the middle of a tank slapper or something) for the reasons identified above.

Here is the difference. Harley Riders are not motorcyclists (remember, Harleys are not motorcycles, they are Harley), and therefore do not feel the kinship. They feel the kinship with other Harley riders only. Why do some people on Harleys wave? Because they are from the first group, Motorcyclists who ride Harleys. The Drunk, Blind, Fat, Ugly, Smelly, Chaps-wearin, GPZ-hittin', Bleeding, Brain-damaged, Surly, Church swearing, Wedding Vomitting, Pencil-dicked, Vault-twated, Cell phone riding, Nun melting, Lying bastards with straight pipes tend to come from the second group ...

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Harley Davidson History

The history of the Harley-Davidson motorcycle began in Milwaukee in 1903. In Milwaukee, Bill Harley and Arthur Walter Davidson developed a one-cylinder motorcycle. Around the turn of the century the gasoline engine was developed and the one-cylinder motor was introduced. In 1901 the Indians were the first motorcycles and in 1903 Mitschell, Merkel and Yale.

This motorcycle was initially built for racing and was powered by a one-cylinder gasoline combustion engine. Picture from 1916 In 1903 in Milwaukee, Bill Harley and Arthur Walter Davidson developed a one-cylinder motorcycle. It was a reliable and even a beautiful cycle. And ... someone bought it !! In 1905 they had made 11 motorcycles, in 1908 it were 154 and ... they had a company, in a little wooden barn, that was build by Davidson's father.

The small company extended quickly and another member of the Davidson family, William, joined them. In no time they hired about 20 employees in an especcially build stone-factory.In 1909 Bill Harley made a project of the first 1000 CC V-Twin. It produced a modest seven horsepower. The 45-degree V-twin would become one of the more recognizable images of the Harley-Davidson motorcycle. This V-Twin stayed with HD for a long, long time. Maybe it's hard to believe, but Harley-Davidson didn't invent the V-twin !! When Bill Harley developed one, he just followed the tendency of the time. 1910 brought the legendary "Bar and Shield" logo that was placed on their motorcycle.

This would become the defining symbol of Harley-Davidson to this day. Numerous first place winnings in races, endurance contests and hill climbs give Harley-Davidson more recognition.The "F-head" engine is introduced in 1911. It will be the power workhorse until 1929, when the "Flathead" engine is introduced. Arthur & Walter Davidson, William S.Harley and William A Davidson (1915) The year 1912 saw further growth of the Harley-Davidson Company. Construction began on a new 6-story factory. Harley-Davidson also became an exporter this year and their first overseas sale was made in Japan. In the states there were now over 200 dealerships.

1914 saw the addition on the sidecar to the Harley-Davidson. The Company also formally put their hand in the ring of motorcycle racing this year and would soon dominate the sport and become known as the "Wrecking Crew".

1915 saw the emergence of the three-speed sliding-gear transmission. In 1917, one-third of all Harley-Davidsons were sent overseas to the U.S. Military to fulfill their patriotic call and to aid in the war effort. The following year, roughly half of the motorcycles produced were sold to the U.S. military. In the end, about 20,000 motorcycles were used in the war, most of them Harley-Davidsons. By this time Harley-Davidson was the biggest motorcycle factory in the world with nearly 2,000 dealerships worldwide. In 1918 Harley-Davidson was the biggest motorcycle factory in the world. They even survived the depression. The V-twin was Harley's specialty, so the company tried to defeat its only remaining rival ... Indian. But these days were the thoughest, because the motorcycles got out of date and the prices of automobiles decreased (the T-Ford was born).

Therefore, Harley Davidson tried other technical enterprises, like manufacturing parts, side cars and even airplane motor-engines, but they also improved their own products. The 1920's saw some changes to the appearance of the motorcycle, which are more recognizable today. One such change was the identifiable teardrop shape gas tank. In 1926, single-cylinder engines were once again available, having been discontinued in 1918. In 1928, the first twin-cam engine and front wheel brakes were available on the Harley-Davidson. With this modification, the motorcycle could reach speeds in excess of 85 mph.

The 1930's and subsequent years saw more record breaking and award winning Harley-Davidson's. In 1932, the three-wheel Servi-Car was introduced and would become a familiar commercial and police vehicle. Along with appearance changes such as the "eagle" design, which was painted on all Harley-Davidson gas tanks, changes were also made to the engine. These days the biggest Harley ever appeared , the 1340 CC. This motorcycle became Harley Davidson's trademark. 1936 also became a milestone. That year the Knucklehead was launched and this motorcycle also became the victory over the Indian. And when in 1947 the Panhead was driven out of the factory, Harley Davidson was THE American Motorcycle.

In the 1940's, the Harley-Davidson once again answered the patriotic call and sent its motorcycles overseas to aid in the war effort. In 1941, civilian production on the motorcycle was mostly suspended as the company turned out motorcycles for the war. Because of their commitment and excellence, Harley-Davidson received the Army-Navy "E" award; this wouldn't be the last time. In November of 1945, civilian production once again started. In 1947, Harley-Davidson purchased the old A.O. Smith Propeller Plant and used it as a machine shop. The parts made here were shipped back to the old factory on Juneau Avenue for final assembly. In 1949, hydraulic front brakes were introduced on the Hydra-Glide models.

In the fifty's Harley survived another bad period. The Brittish owned 40 % of the motorcycle market with their Triumph ! In 1957 fortunately the Sportster was born, the fastest Harley ever. A great success !! Just like the English motorcycle industry, Harley stuck to its technic, style and caracter. That's why this motorcycle was so populair for many, many years. In opposite to the English manufacturors, Harley Davidson survived this decision. Due to the enormous attack from the Japanees from the Far East, the English dissapeared without a trace and the American were almost dead. Even the Shovelhead couldn't save its ass.

1969, Time for a merger with the American Machine and Foudry Company (AMF).However, the quality decreased ernormously and the Super Glide and the SLCR Caféracer of 1970 got a bad name. But Harley Davidson bought itself out and survived and with launching the new Evolution-motor in 1984, the company managed to create a modern motorcycle, which was still a Harley Davidson. Historic Factory The beginning of the 1970's saw a revolution of the Harley-Davidson. In 1971, the cruiser was born. This machine united a sporty front end with the frame and power train of the FL series. 1973 saw the move of assembly operations to a new 400,000 square foot plant in York, Pennsylvania.

The year 1975 was the first of four consecutive years that the Harley-Davidson won the AMA Grand National Championships in dirt track racing. In 1977, the FXS Low Rider and the FLHS Electra Glide Sport were introduced to the public. The FXS featured a special lower seat position (hence the distinguishing term Low Rider...). The FLHS was a low cost base line FLH Electra Glide with modifications intended to make the model sportier. The beginning of the 1980's saw another change in the partnership of the engine and transmission. In 1980, the FLT model was born with a 5-speed transmission hard bolted to the engine. Also this year, the drive train was replaced with a Kevlar belt. In 1981 senior members of Harley-Davidson bought back Harley-Davidson Motor Company from AMF. In 1982 Harley-Davidson enacted the Materials as Needed (MAN) application in their production. This would cut production costs and improve the quality of the parts.

In 1983 the group H.O.G was founded and became the largest factory-sponsored motorcycle club in the world. By the year 2000, the club had over 500,000 members. In 1984 the 1340 cc V-twin engine was introduced, seven years in the making. Also this year, the Softail model became available. The Softail was most primarily distinguishable by hidden rear shock absorbers. In 1987 Harley-Davidson began its "Buy Back Program" which offered full trade in value within two years on certain models. Also at this time, the Harley-Davidson Company obtained a place on the New York Stock Exchange for those interested in taking a financial stake in the company.

In 1988 Harley-Davidson celebrated their 85th Anniversary in Milwaukee, an event that brought forth 60,000 aficionados of the Harley-Davidson. At the end of this revolutionary decade for Harley-Davidson, the FXSTS Springer Softail model was introduced into the lineup. The FXSTS Springer Softail was a modern day recreation of the 1940's Harley-Davidson. It had the classic biker look with the 1340 cc engine symbolizing the new era of Harley-Davidson. In the early 1990's the Fat Boy design was introduced and quickly caught on. The name Fatboy was derived by combining the names of the two atomic bombs "Fat man" and "Little Boy" which were dropped on Nagasaki and Hiroshima. It was destined from the start to become a Collector's item among biking enthusiasts and definitely achieved that status throughout its existence. Also in 1990, Construction on a 31 million dollar state of the art paint facility began in York, Pennsylvania. It was finished the following year.

Electra GlideThe Los Angeles police is riding Harleys since 1930Take a look at the amazing gloss of his boots ...or would it be just oil ?!?In 1991, The Dyna line of Harley-Davidson's was introduced with the FXDB Dyna Glide Sturgis. 1994 saw the jump of Harley-Davidson into the Superbike racing with the VR1000. The VR1000 featured a dual overhead cam and a liquid cooled engine and showed that Harley-Davidson was not fully averse to manufacturing a race inspired sport bike. In 1996 a state of the art Parts and Accessories distribution plant was opened in Franklin, Wisconsin.

The following year a new Product Development Center opened in Milwaukee. Also in 1997, a 330,000 square foot plant in Kansas City made its first Sportster. In 1998, assembly operations were taking place in another part of the world, Brazil. In the year 2001 Fuel injection was available on the Softail models. These days, in America, Harley Davidson owns 62 % of the market of motorcycles with 850 CC or more !! Harleys are, just like porches, funn stuff for people with money and appearance. So, "rich" customers rule the market. It could have been tempting for Harley Davidson to participate in this commercial hype, but when the hype is over, they know the company will still be there and will still sell motorcycles ... because of the loyal followers. For these people, despite of age and appearance, a Harley is the one and only. It is an obviously arrogant, massive and cool cycle, without doing its best for it. However, Harleys aren't the fastest and manageable cycles, riding a Harley is uncomparable with riding any other bike ...In the mean time, the die hards have to share this experience with the yuppies !!!

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