How Harley-Davidson Became a Motorcycle Legend

by Dellany Onyango, age 9

The Harley-Davidson Motor Company was one of the first successful American motorcycle companies. This Wisconsin-based company began in a small wooden shed which would become one of the most notorious motorcycle brands.

The company started up in 1903 and was incorporated soon after in 1907. It was founded in Milwaukee, Wisconsin by William S. Harley and Arthur Davidson. They were 21 and 20 years old when they sold their first motorcycle. The bike got its nickname “hog” after a Harley-Davidson racing team took a mascot pig on a victory lap after winning a race. The Harley bikes got their “bad-boy” image after an event in 1947. A biker gang terrorized a small town in Hollister, California, and a photograph was taken and published alongside an article in a magazine that captured the country’s attention. Thus, Harley’s got their “rebellious bad-boy” reputation.

The V-twin engine makes the classic loud “rrrm” sound when you rev the engine to start it up. These iconic bikes are known for how reliable and easy to repair they are. The Harley-Davidson Motor Company has made its mark throughout history. During World War II, it supplied thousands of motorcycles for the nation’s armed forces.

The Harley-Davidson company has had great success and is still running strong, it is 122 years old!

[Source: Wisconsin History Highlights]