This entry was posted on Friday, August 29th, 2008 at 12:12 am and is filed under Motorcycle. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.
Many people are surprised to learn that the venerable Harley-Davidson motorcycle of today actually had very humble beginnings as a motorized bicycle (sort of a very early moped). Beginning in 1901, William S. Harley drew up plans for a 7.07 cubic inch (about 116cc) engine designed for use as a power-assist in a standard bicycle frame. With the help of his boyhood friend Arthur Davidson, Arthur’s brother Walter and friend Henry Melk’s home machine shop - the first prototype was created in 1903.
The boys quickly discovered that the bike could not even negotiate the modest hills around Milwaukee without pedal-assist and set about work on a larger, more powerful model. With the additional assistance of engine designer Ole Evenrude, they came up with a 24.74 cubic inch (405cc) engine which resulted in the birth of the first real Harley-Davidson motorcycle in September of 1904. This first ‘Harley’ was ridden by Edward Hildebrand in a Milwaukee motorcycle race in State Fair Park. Thus, began the long and rich heritage of the Harley-Davidson motorcycle. Unfortunately, it took another 36years before they started making leather motorcycle jackets to go along with the bikes. I guess they were busy ![]()
September 3rd, 2008 at 1:19 am
Harley Davidson | Cycle Leather…
I have been looking for a leather jacket for my teenage son. He has been clamoring for one because everyone’s having it. I guess it’s the “in” thing nowadays. Your site offered the cheapest jackets there is and your customer service was gracious and very helpful.
September 3rd, 2008 at 1:20 am
Harley Davidson | Cycle Leather…
I do not have a motorcycle but I have been looking for a leather jacket that’s snug and classy. I am a singer of a rock band and I have to dress the part. Your site offered the best styles there is. I am very satisfied with my purchase. My band mates …
September 3rd, 2008 at 4:48 am
Harley Davidson | Cycle Leather…
I have been looking for a leather jacket for my teenage son. He has been clamoring for one because everyone’s having it. I guess it’s the “in” thing nowadays. Your site offered the cheapest jackets there is and your customer service was gracious and very helpful.