Harley-Davidson

Milwaukee’s Hot Wheels

What started out as a dream for four young lads from Milwaukee became a symbol of American freedom and individuality. The classic rumble of the engine, the sleek body, and the iconic bar and shield symbol are sure to turn heads when adventuring on and off the road. Here are some fun facts about the iconic brand.

WRITTEN BY Maria Han

The Sportster

• The popular Sportster model was first released in 1957. • People who own Harleys can join a club called HOG (Harley

Owners Group).

100

MPH

TOP SPEED

$1K

USD

COST THEN

$13K

USD

COST NOW

About the Founders

Harley-Davidson was founded by William Harley and the three Davidson brothers: Arthur, William, and Walter. They were bike enthusiasts who wanted to build a motor-driven bicycle.

It all began with a collaboration between William Harley and Arthur, who met while working at Barth Manufacturing. Harley spearheaded the design for an internal combustion engine.

The first bike was sold, supposedly to a Davidson family friend, in 1903. A second prototype was completed around 1904, and it is now housed at the HarleyDavidson Museum in Milwaukee.

When the company was incorporated in 1907, Harley took the role of chief engineer and treasurer. Walter was selected as the president, while Arthur was the general sales manager and William was in charge of the manufacturing process.

Why Harley?

Early Prototype

A Brand Is Born

LEFT Lorem ipsum

Fun Fact

• Harley-Davidson released its first electric motorcycle in 2019, which can go from 0 to 60 in 3 seconds.

• Keeps them dry in the rain • Keeps them cool in the heat and warm in the cold • Leather acts as a layer of armor in the event of an accident (faux leather does not offer the same protection)

Why do Bikers Wear Leather?

History

WHAT IS WORTH REMEMBERING

Inside

40 | Young George

Washington on a Mission Impossible

He journeyed through the wilderness and into the French and Indian War

HISTORY QUIZ

62 | Christmas in America

50 | Dining

With Mr. Jefferson

How our third president liked to entertain

58 | Apollo 11

and Its Code Maker

Warnings flashed on Mission Control’s screens. What happened next?