What is a Harley-Davidson

What is a Harley-Davidson? Well do you want the long or short answer? The simple answer is, it is a motorcycle. The Harley-Davidson got its start in 1903 in the city of Milwaukee. Bill Harley and Bill Davidson produced a one cylinder motorcycle that was both reliable and even good looking. During the next five years they built over 154 motorcycles out of a little wooden barn

In 1908 they had the makings of a company. This small company quickly expanded and William Davidson joined them. In a short time the company they had 20 employees and they had to build a new stone factory so they could expand to keep up with the growing demand.

The Harley-Davidson has had many changes from its small beginnings back in 1901 until 1970. More detailed information can be found on line There are hundred of sites for you to explore.

In 1971 the Harley-Davidson revolution. This motorcycle had a sporty front end with the frame and power train like the FL series of motorcycles. The bike which we know call a cruiser was actually born in 1971 in a Harley Davidson plant.

In 1977 the FXS Low Rider And the FLHS Electra Guide. Sport was introduced to the public. This FXS featured a special lower seat position. This is known as the low rider. This was a low cost basic FLH Electra Glide with modifications to make it a sportser.

The first part of the 1980s saw a change in the engine and the transmission. The FLT model was given a 5 speed transmission hard bolted to the engine. At the same time the drive line was replaced with a Kevlar belt

In 1983 the 1340 cc v-twin engine was available in the Softail model, complete with its hidden rear shock absorbers. This changed the look of the bike. In 1988 the FXSTS Springer Softail was introduced. This modern recreation had the look of the classic 1940s bike coupled with the 1340 cc engine this symbolized a new era for Harley-Davidson

The 1990s brought the introduction of The Fat which quickly caught on. The name Fat Boy is the combination of the names of two atomic weapons which were dropped on Japan. There names were Fat Man and Little Boy. This motorcycle has become a collectors item among all motorcycle enthusiasts.

In the USA today Harley-Davidson has 62 % of the market share on motorcycles over 850 cc and more. The Harley-Davidson has become the motorcycle to own with great choices for all riders.

Like all fun toys the Harley-Davidson has become a symbol of the up and coming people of today. If you own a Harley-Davidson it says you have made it to the top. Like the top motor cars porches BMW and Hummer it is a status symbol.

Basically rich customers rule the market. Even with all the hype about the baby boomers Harley-Davidson has not bought in to this line of marketing. Harley-Davidson knows that when all the hype is over they will sell the motorcycles because of the loyal followers it has gained over the years.

You'll hear this bike long before you see it and when you see it you'll be google eyed at the sleek lines and overall appearance. This massive large noisy motorcycle is without a doubt not the easiest to handle, nor the fastest bike on the road. But without a doubt it is one of the most recognized and sought after bikes to own. No other motorcycle rides like a Harley-Davidson.

Kristopher is the Editor and Publisher of Article Click. For more FREE articles for your ezine and websites visit - www.articleclick.com

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