Archive for the ‘Harley Davidson’ Category

How Buell Became Part of Harley Davidson

Saturday, February 20th, 2010

The Buell Motorcycle Company is an American motorcycle manufacturer that is based in East Troy, Wisconsin. It was founded by Erik Buell, who was once employed by the Harley Davidson Company as an engineer. The Buell Motorcycle Company is the only significant manufacturer of sporting motorcycles in the United States.

Eric F. Buell was born in Pittsburgh, PA, in 1950. He was raised on a farm, learning to work on machinery at a young age. As a teen-ager, Buell took up motorcycling. His first bike was an Italian-made Parilla 90cc moped, his second a 74ci basket-case Harley Davidson. He began racing motorcross and also became interested in road racing in his early 20’s.

Buell was also employed as a motorcycle mechanic during the day, while taking classes in engineering at the University of Pittsburgh at night. He received his engineering degree in 1979 and soon began working for Harley Davidson in Milwaukee. This is where he began designing concept motorcycles and was involved with the Porsche-designed “Nova” V-four program. He was also responsible for a lot of the improvement in stability made to the chassis design of the FXR series of cruisers.

Buell’s loyalty to the Harley Davidson Company prevented him from racing Japanese or Italian made motorcycles in the 1980′2. This led to his purchase of a bike produced by a company in Great Britain. The Barton Company produced a limited production racer that was powered by a water-cooled 750cc Square Four two-stoke engine. The bike however, was poorly made and Buell began using his engineering talents and own designs to remake it as the parts failed.

Knowledge can give you a real advantage. To make sure you’re fully informed about Harley Davidson, keep reading.

Buell raced this prototype bike, which was still using the mostly-stock Barton engine, in 1982 at AMA National on the Pocono Speedway. He called this bike the RW750 with the RW standing for Road Warrior. During testing the RW750 reached speeds of up to 178 miles per hour.

When the Barton Company shut down in 1982, Buell purchased the entire stock of spare engines and parts, all drawings and the rights to produce and sell the engine. The shipment was delayed causing him to miss out on the opportunity of using this equipment for the 1983-racing season. The lack of reliability of the Barton engine also caused Harley Davidson to decline giving engineering and financial support to Buell when he asked. He then left the company to devote more time to his racing effort. Luckily the split was amicable.

Buell offered his RW750s for sale in 1984 with much success. The American Machinist’s Union Racing Team bought, tested and raced the first publicly sold RW750. Unfortunately by the spring of 1985 the AMA announced that the Formula One class was being discontinued for the 1986 season leaving no market for Buell’s machine.

Buell continued to design and improve his bikes with great success, all the time studying Harley Davidson’s concepts and maintaining a close relationship with the company. This success and partnership benefited both companies and in the 1990’s Harley Davidson invested a 51 percent interest in the newly reformed Buell Motorcycle Company. By 2003 Harley Davidson bought complete control of Buell Motorcycle Company, and currently distributes their bikes through select Harley Davidson dealerships. Eric Buell is still responsible for the engineering and design of Buell motorcycles.

Those who only know one or two facts about Harley Davidson can be confused by misleading information. The best way to help those who are misled is to gently correct them with the truths you’re learning here.

About the Author
By Anders Eriksson, feel free to visit my latest venture: GVO to claim your $1 trial membership!

Famous Harley Davidson Riders

Tuesday, January 26th, 2010

Though it’s not documented the very first woman to ride a Harley Davidson motorcycle was probably Janet Davidson. Janet was an aunt of Arthur, Walter and William Davidson. She helped her nephews out by using her artistic talents to paint pinstriping and lettering on their motorcycles.

Several other women are notable in the just over 100-year history of the Harley Davidson Company. In 1929 Vivian Bale road her 45 Twin D Harley on a trip of almost 5,000 miles. Along the way she stopped to meet with dealers of her favorite ride. After completing this legendary trip she spent many more years riding and performing motorcycle stunts at various racing events in Florida.

Brigitte Bardot was a famous movie star and pinup star in the 1950’s. In the 1960’s she became so enamored by Harley Davidson Motorcycles that she debuted her hit single entitled Harley Davidson. Also popular was a photograph of her astride her favorite motorcycle. She is wearing hot pants and a partially unzipped leather jacket.

Well-known actress Elizabeth Taylor rode a Purple Passion motorcycle that was given to her by her friend Malcolm Forbes. It was said that the bike matched her famous eyes.

If your Harley Davidson facts are out-of-date, how will that affect your actions and decisions? Make certain you don’t let important Harley Davidson information slip by you.

Peter Fonda is probably one of the most famous male Harley Davidson Riders thanks to the 1969 movie Easy Rider. Dennis Hopper also appeared in this movie and the photo of a scene showing them both together, each atop his Harley is still sough after today.

Malcolm Forbes, the founder of Forbes magazine and one of the wealthiest men ever, not only loved giving Harley Davidson’s to friends as gifts, he owned more than 50 of them himself. Forbes began riding motorcycles in his late 40’s and enjoyed it so much he began collecting them. His personal endorsement of the Harley made its sales soar to new heights.

Jay Leno is another celebrity who is known for his love of Harley Davidson motorcycles. He loves them so much that not only does he own several, but he also does his own maintenance and repair work.

Several other well-known Harley Davidson riding celebrities include: Elvis Presley, Don Johnson, Jackson Browne, Mickey Rourke and Tina Turner. And who can forget Arnold Schwarznegger and His Terminator role. Former President of the United States, Bill Clinton also posed astride a Harley during his campaign.

Though not famous in a good way, the hard-core motorcycle gang known of as the Hells Angels also favor Harley Davidson bikes. There is no known link to the Harley Davidson Company. This motorcycle club began in 1948 and by the 1960’s was notorious throughout the United States and Canada. Tied to drugs and crime just the site of these bikers was enough to strike fear into an entire town whenever they rode through. Today the Hell’s Angels sponsor several charitable events in the United States and Canada. Unfortunately they still frequently appear in the news for criminally related activities. The motorcycle club has been deemed an established criminal organization by the Ontario Superior Court of Justice.

So now you know a little bit about Harley Davidson. Even if you don’t know everything, you’ve done something worthwhile: you’ve expanded your knowledge.

About the Author
By Anders Eriksson, feel free to visit my latest acquisition: Free Google Traffic System and make sure to visit my bonus site!

Tips for Buying a Used Harley Davidson Motorcycle

Thursday, January 14th, 2010

Harley Davidson motorcycles are some of the most durable bikes on the market. They are built to last using high quality materials and craftsmanship. Therefore, the cost of a new Harley may be out of reach for some individuals.

Many people find that purchasing a used motorcycle is a better option. However, it’s a good idea to possess a healthy dose of skepticism when purchasing a used bike; particularly from a private seller.

Previously owned motorcycles can be found through private sellers who oftentimes announce their offer via classified ads posted in magazines or online bulletin boards. Used motorcycles can also be found at authorized Harley-Davidson dealerships and public auctions.

Authorized Harley-Davidson Dealers. One of the safest ways to purchase a used Harley-Davidson motorcycle is through an authorized dealer. Along with financing options, many dealers offer extended warranties and optional maintenance services. They inspect the bikes for any potential problems and provide buyers with documentation that guarantees the used motorcycle is legal.

To find a list of authorized Harley-Davidson dealers visit www.hogs4sale.com. Click on the state you reside in to locate a dealer in your area.

Online Classifieds. There are several reputable websites that offer a wide range of used motorcycles. Ads are placed by private sellers and transactions are made directly from seller to buyer. Both buyers and sellers are required to create an account in order to communicate with one another. Upon registration, buyers can contact sellers via email to obtain information, arrange a meeting, and arrange financial transactions.

Care should be taken when buying or selling through online classifieds. While the majority of people participating are honest, you should thoroughly investigate the motorcycle and its history before handing over your hard earned cash.

Three of the most reputable online classified websites for used motorcycles include:
www.CycleClassifieds.us, www.HD4Sale.com, and www.HarleyHunters.com.

Online Auction Sites. E-bay is one of the most popular auction sites for used Harley Davidson motorcycles. Certain precautions are required and buyers should thoroughly investigate the seller using E-bay’s tools and seller rating system. If you use common sense and adhere to the information provided on E-bay’s website, chances are excellent that you will have a safe and happy transaction.

How can you put a limit on learning more? The next section may contain that one little bit of wisdom that changes everything.

Other used motorcycle auction websites include www.MotorcycleAuctionsOnline.com and Yahoo Shopping Auctions at http://auctions.yahoo.com.

Before you begin shopping for a used motorcycle, it’s a good idea to educate yourself about the makes and models of motorcycles you are interested in. Do some research to determine the average cost of the motorcycle in your area; investigate insurance and finance rates; and make a list of common defects to look out for.

When purchasing a used motorcycle through online classifieds or auctions, be aware of any claims that sound too good to be true. If you find a potential deal, physically review the bike before purchasing it.

Look at the paint for scratches, irregularities and rust. Visually check the tires and foot pedals for wear and tear. Make certain that electronic equipment, such as lights and blinkers, are in good working order.

Always take a good look at the maintenance history of any used motorcycle you are considering purchasing. Start the engine to see how well it runs. Check for blue smoke from the exhaust pipe, which is a sign that the engine is worn. Make certain there are no oil or gas leaks. The seller should possess written documentation of mechanical check-ups.

Pay particular attention to mileage, damage, accident history and any paint jobs. Find out how many people have previously owned the bike and be certain to verify the VIN number. To verify the VIN number, visit www.is-it-a-lemon.com or the Department of Motor Vehicles at www.dmv.org.

Hopefully the sections above have contributed to your understanding of Harley Davidson. Share your new understanding about Harley Davidson with others. They’ll thank you for it.

About the Author
By Anders Eriksson, feel free to visit my latest acquisition: Free Google Traffic System and make sure to visit my bonus site!

The Must-Have Harley Davidson Apparel for Children

Tuesday, January 12th, 2010

When you think about Harley Davidson, what do you think of first? Which aspects of Harley Davidson are important, which are essential, and which ones can you take or leave? You be the judge.

Harley Davidson offers a full line of motorcycle apparel for bikers of all ages. While all of their apparel is popular amongst motorcycle enthusiasts, the Harley Davidson children’s apparel is some of the most highly sought after apparel in the world.

Your children can be covered from top to bottom in Harley Davidson apparel. Selections range from briefs to leather jackets; all emblazoned with the Harley Davidson logo. Below are ten “must-have” pieces of apparel for young Harley Davidson enthusiasts.

1) Harley Davidson Children’s Classic Motorcycle Jacket is manufactured from genuine leather and includes silver hardware, three front zipper pockets, one front button pocket, adjustable belt and zippered wrist closures. An exact replica of the adult sized motorcycle jacket so kids can dress just like mom and dad!

2) If you’re not into spending the money on a real leather jacket, consider the Harley Davidson Kid’s Motorcycle Jacket made from durable pleather. While it looks similar to leather, it won’t hurt so much if it gets ripped or torn. The back side of the jacket sports a Harley Davidson logo surrounded by the words, “My Daddy Rides a Harley-Davidson”. The jacket’s classic design includes the same features as the adult leather motorcycle jacket, including the Shield and Bar logo.

3) Little girls will flip for the Harley Davidson Girl’s Biker Jacket. This bright pink beauty is constructed from nylon and features hearts and “Harley-Davidson” embroidered on the front. The back side of the jacket sports a heart with wings embroidery and rhinestone accenting. For girl’s that don’t like pink, the jacket is available in classic black.

4) The Harley Davidson Hoodie with Flames is one hot look for cool days. Manufactured from soft fleece, the hoodie is black in color with bright orange accents. The Harley-Davidson logo and flames are embroidered on the front of the jacket and on the sleeves. For the more adventurous types, the hoodie is available in bright orange with black accents.

It’s really a good idea to probe a little deeper into the subject of Harley Davidson. What you learn may give you the confidence you need to venture into new areas.

5) The Harley Davidson Reversible Varsity Jacket offers style and comfort. Featuring a black wool body and off-white pleather sleeves, this jacket is perfect for cool fall and winter weather. The jacket can be reversed to expose a black nylon body and orange nylon sleeves. The snap-up front is easy for younger children to open and close. Harley Davidson patches are embroidered on the front, back, and sleeves.

6) Harley Davidson pajamas are the perfect choice for infants and toddlers. These comfy PJs are manufactured from 100 percent cotton for extreme sleeping comfort. The top is white with orange trim and the words “Harley-Davidson, The Highway is My Way” are imprinted on the front. The bottoms are bright orange with a motorcycles and highway signs motif.

7) When it comes to keeping kids clean, Harley Davidson offers a variety of bibs; all of which include the Harley Davidson logo. Select from bright orange bibs with a motorcycle and the words, “Harley Davidson” screen printed on the front, or bright red bibs with “Spit Happens” printed on the front. Girls will be pretty in pink bibs with cute pink ribbons and a pink Harley Davidson motorcycle.

8) Forget about boring bathing suits and swimming trucks this summer. Instead, let kids display their Harley Davidson loyalty on their swimming apparel. Swimsuits for girls include two-piece bathing suits in bright pink or aqua. Boys swim trunks are bright orange with black and white accenting. An embroidered patch of the Harley Davidson Bar and Shield logo is sewn onto the front left leg.

9) Harley Davidson backpacks make quite a fashion statement. A popular choice amongst girls is the Harley Davidson black pleather backpack that transforms into a shoulder bag. Features include pink trim accents and Harley-Davidson embroidery on the front. A popular choice amongst boys is the 2-in-1 backpack with detachable sling. Features include “Harley-Davidson” embroidered on the back, and screenprint flames on the front.

10) Every infant should be welcomed into the world with the Harley Davidson “Born to Ride” gift set. The set includes a long-sleeved creeper, bib and blanket. The girl’s set includes a matching headband and the boy’s set includes a doo rag. Both include allover motorcycle screenprint and the Harley Davidson logo.

There’s no doubt that the topic of Harley Davidson can be fascinating. If you still have unanswered questions about Harley Davidson, you may find what you’re looking for in the next article.

About the Author
By Anders Eriksson, feel free to visit my latest acquisition: Free Google Traffic System and make sure to visit my bonus site!

H-D Racing

Saturday, December 26th, 2009

The following article lists some simple, informative tips that will help you have a better experience with Harley Davidson.

H-D motorcycles were raced almost from the beginning of the company. In fact the very first appearance of a motorcycle created by William Harley and the Davidson brothers, Arthur, Walter, and William, was in a Milwaukee, Wisconsin motorcycle race.

H-D created an official racing department in 1914, but even before that co-founder Walter Davidson rode a stock single cylinder machine to victory in The Federation of American Motorcyclist endurance and reliability contest of 1908. This race, which had 65 competitors, was a grueling 2-day event that was held on 365 miles of dirt roads in the Catskill Mountains. Davidson earned the only perfect score.

By 1912 H-D had added speed to their successful racing equation by setting a new record at the Bakersfield Road Race. The success of H-D racers, whether on muddy dirt roads, or wooden plank tracks continued despite the interruption of World War I. H-D shattered speed records by 1921, becoming the first motorcycles to reach speeds of 100 miles per hour during a race. H-D racers were known as “the Wrecking Crew, because of this success.

Notoriety continued when a H-D sidecar one the first annual Pike’s Peak race in 1916, and another H-D claimed first place in the 1922 Adelaide to Melbourne South Australia race.

Think about what you’ve read so far. Does it reinforce what you already know about Harley Davidson? Or was there something completely new? What about the remaining paragraphs?

Joe Petrali was one of the best H-D racers of the early Twentieth Century. In the six years between 1931 and 1936, Petrali amassed the most National points five times. The year 1935 proved to be his best season with his winning of every race on the 13-stop National schedule. Petrali also set a speed record in 1937 by riding a 1937 Model E 61 cubic inch V-Twin Streamliner at speeds of 136.183 miles per hour, at Daytona Beach. He also won the National Hillclimb Championship 8 years in a row beginning in 1929. What a guy!

Racing was halted for the H-D team and others with the start of World War II. Petrali did not return to the circuit when the war was over but H-D continued to dominate the scene.

The tradition of great H-D racing continues today with both drag racing and flat track racing. Most national championship races are managed by the AMA in the United States. These include the AMA Supercross Series, AMA Superbike Championship, AMA Motorcross Championship, and AMA Flatrack Championship. The National Hot Rod Association is another great racing venue for H-D riders.

The VRSXE Screamin’ Eagle V-Rod Destroyer is H-D’s current pride and joy of drag racing machines. This bike can do a quarter mile run in less than 10 seconds. This machine is not street legal and ill see limited production.

The Buell Motor Company, a subsidiary of Harley Davidson also produce bikes for racing. Buell motorcycles are available at select Harley dealers. Buell racing teams are definitely up and coming, claiming top spots in several recent racing events. This success is propably due to the fact that the founder of the company, Eric Buell was not only a racer himself, but worked as an H-D engineer before forming his own company.

About the Author
By Anders Eriksson, feel free to visit my latest acquisition: Free Adsense eBook and make sure to claim your free adsense ebook download!

How To Find A Harley Part Online

Saturday, December 19th, 2009

In today’s world, it seems that almost any topic is open for debate. While I was gathering facts for this article, I was quite surprised to find some of the issues I thought were settled are actually still being openly discussed.

Finding a legitimate, well-priced source for A Harley Davidson motorcycle part online is not hard if you know what you are doing. You may even find that it is easier and quicker than looking for a part out in the “real” world. In fact with all the time you save, you will have a lot more free time to ride you motorcycle.

The first step in locating a part online is to locate a source or supplier. Open you favorite search engine, or multi-search engine and type into the search box the name of the part you are looking for. Once you have entered the terms, click the search or submit button. Within just a few seconds you should have a list of several web sites that sell the part you are looking for. Don’t just choose the first one on the list though.

With so many websites available, how do you know which one to buy your part from? Start by comparing prices. Look for special deals like frequent buyer’s clubs and free shipping. The cost of shipping can sometimes vary from site to site, as well as the price of the part.

Be aware that there are fraudulent websites on the Internet that just want to take your money or you credit card numbers. You in turn don’t get the part you ordered and may end up with additional charges for items you did not order. Make sure the site you are using is secure. Take the time to read their terms and conditions, especially their payment policies, as well as their return policy.

If you find yourself confused by what you’ve read to this point, don’t despair. Everything should be crystal clear by the time you finish.

If you are still unsure of what online site to order your motorcycle part from try asking in a Harley Davidson discussion group, forum or blog. Just register and type in something like “Where can I find a reliable online site to order a Harley Davidson part?” You will have feedback from other members, and some of these sites have online links to parts distributors already.

Online motorcycle magazines, newsletters and articles may also be helpful. Online auction sites are another source and may offer the part at a lower price than a distributor. Just be sure to check the seller’s ratings before you bid.

Once you have located an online supplier for your part, go ahead and place the order. You should receive some kind of an order confirmation. Be sure to print your confirmation or save it to your hard drive incase you need to track or return your order.

Now that you have learned how to buy a Harley Davidson motorcycle part online you buy all your parts and accessories this way. You can even buy your next motorcycle online. In this case you should look for sites that will “escrow” your funds. In other words, the site will place your payment into s secure account until arrangements have been made for you to pick up the bike, or have it delivered.

The downside of buying online is that you cannot test ride the motorcycle.

I hope that reading the above information was both enjoyable and educational for you. Your learning process should be ongoing–the more you understand about any subject, the more you will be able to share with others.

About the Author
By Anders Eriksson, feel free to visit my latest acquisition: Free Adsense eBook and make sure to claim your free adsense ebook download!

Did You Say Harly?

Sunday, December 13th, 2009

If you are looking for a special ride and you see a motorcycle with Harly painted on the side do not buy it no matter how good the deal seems to be. Harley-Davidson is a registered trademark and only real Harleys can bear the logo. Notice that is Harley, not Harly.

The Harley-Davidson Motor Company was established in 1903 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It was co-founded by William Harley, Arthur Davidson, Walter Davidson, and William Davidson. The three Davidsons were brothers, and William Harley was Arthur’s friend. They named the company Harley-Davidson with the hyphen in the middle to tell people there was more than one founder. Rumors for the reason Harley’s name is first range from because it sounded better, to because he came up with the design for the first engine. The hyphen is often left out, especially on websites and when searching online.

If you search for Harly on the Internet you will come up with results, even though it is not the proper spelling of the name. This happens either due to typos, or cleverly designed search engine optimization of ads. Whatever the reason, most of these sites are still legitimate. Do not be afraid to order from them or follow their advice. Any products for sale with the word Harly however, are not legitimate. They are either cheap knockoffs or out right scams. Don’t waste your money.

If you don’t have accurate details regarding Harley Davidson, then you might make a bad choice on the subject. Don’t let that happen: keep reading.

Legitimate Harley-Davidson dealers are located all over the United States, as well as in the United Kingdom, Australia and Europe. Most dealerships sell not only motorcycles, but also Harley Davidson clothing and accessories as well. The very first Harley dealer was C.H. Lang. He opened for business in Chicago, Illinois in 1904 and sold one of the first 3 production Harley Davidson motorcycles ever sold.

Once you have purchased a Harley-Davidson you might decide to customize it. Once again if the parts say Harly Davidson look elsewhere. If the guy selling you the parts is named Harly, well that’s just a heck of a coincidence.

There are many kits available to help you customize your bike yourself, or you can take it to the shop. If you can afford it you may even want to have your own customized bike designed and built just for you. Some people choose to customize to increase functionality. This may include installing luggage racks. Some people customize to fit their riding style. This is where chrome comes in. Chrome fenders are just the beginning. Chrome hardware such as polished screws and bolt covers can actually be matched to your other accessories. A chrome master cylinder cover and chrome hand levers complete the look.

Custom paint is another way to establish your own style. You will probably want to have this done unless you are an artist yourself. Any bike can be custom painted whether it is a touring bike, a cruising bike, or a racing bike. Just make sure the artist paints Harley-Davidson, not Harly-Davidson. The paint job should reflect the riders personality.

About the Author
By Anders Eriksson, feel free to visit my latest venture: GVO and make sure to claim your $1 trial membership!

Preventing The Need For Costly Repair

Wednesday, December 2nd, 2009

Are you looking for some inside information on Harley Davidson? Here’s an up-to-date report from Harley Davidson experts who should know.

Proper motorcycle maintenance and preparation before riding will prevent the need for costly repair jobs. The Internet abounds with motorcycle repair videos, DVDs, books and magazines. If you prefer not to go to an authorized repair center, it is possible to learn how to do-it-yourself.

A quick pre-ride check of your bike will help prevent the need for repair, especially if you are going on a long road-trip, and even if you are just riding to the store.

First check the oil and the oil filter. Learning how to change your own filter will save time and money. If you do change your own oil make sure to dispose of the old oil properly. It should be sealed in an approved container and taken to a legitimate oil disposal facility. This is a good time to check the other fluid levels as well.

Next check the controls to make sure they all operate properly. Controls include front and rear brakes, throttle, clutch and shifter. Also check to see that the steering mechanism works smoothly. This may be done by turning the handlebars through the full operating range.

Now that we’ve covered those aspects of Harley Davidson, let’s turn to some of the other factors that need to be considered.

You should check your tire pressure often. If you are touring, carry a tire gauge and check it daily. The owner’s manual that comes with your bike will tell you what the correct tire pressure should be. Remember that air pressure can change with air temperature. When you check your tire pressure you should also check the condition of your tires. Replace any tires that have less than 50 percent of the tread left. Also replace tires that have cracks, cuts or signs of wear. You should not try to repair a tire unless there is no other option. Even then it is a short-term solution.

Make sure to check for any fuel, oil, or hydraulic fuel leaks. Check both the cases and the lines for leaks. Running out of oil out in the middle of nowhere will definitely mean costly engine repair or even replacement.

Check your headlights, taillights, and turning signals and brake lights. Get into the habit of doing this every time you ride. This is for your own protection letting other drivers see you as well as letting you see them. Instructions on replacing bulbs should be in your owner’s manual. Oh, by the way, if you bought a used bike and the owner did not give you a manual, try looking on line.

Now check your battery. You may actually double the life of your battery by checking and maintaining water levels regularly. This is as simple as shining a flashlight into the opening and filling to the indicated level. You may also consider installing a battery charger with a convenient disconnect.

Finally before you start out, check the position of the mirrors. Do this while you are sitting on the bike to ensure that they are correctly positioned.
Following this simple maintenance plan can save you time, money and the need for repair. If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, find the closest Harley Davidson dealership to help you out.

About the Author
By Anders Eriksson, feel free to visit my latest venture: GVO and make sure to claim your $1 trial membership!

Finding The Right Harley Accessory

Friday, October 16th, 2009

Finding just the right accessory to give to your favorite Harley Davidson rider is fun and easy. Even if that favorite rider is you! There are three basic categories to know when you are searching.

Items that can be added to your wardrobe, or that can be worn. Any accessory in this category would include black leather jackets, pants, chaps or other items of outerwear. It also includes headgear such as helmets, sunglasses, goggles and masks. Hats, caps and bandanas are also popular. Bandanas can be either for the head or around the neck. Next up are belts, belt buckles, watches and other small items like lighters, jewelry, key chains, money clips, patches, pins and scarves. Purses are also a great gift for the ultimate biker chick and perfume is even an option. T-shirts are also available and don’t forget underwear. Clothing even comes in kids’ sizes for your favorite little biker. It is important to know what size whomever you are buying for is. Better too big than too small, better still that it fits.

The second category is for items that can be added to your motorcycle. Any accessory in this category would include anything that would give you a more comfortable and stylish ride. Luggage racks and saddlebags for example, provide storage on long trips. Radios and navigation equipment are also fun. A more practical accessory might include grips, decorative gas caps, timer covers, license plate frames, medallions, mirrors, covers and cleaning products. Handlebars, gas tanks, floorboards and footpegs, fuel gauges and the most popular items to give your bike a new look-chrome fenders and other chrome accessories are another way to go. Practical or custom, whatever you want is available.

Once you begin to move beyond basic background information, you begin to realize that there’s more to Harley Davidson than you may have first thought.

The third category is reserved for any Harley Davidson accessory that can be used in the home. These items are for fun. Books, calendars, computer software, music collections, videos and handheld games are appearing on the market. Other items include dartboards, posters and other pictures, coffee cups, coasters, clocks, piggy banks-especially ones shaped like motorcycles, bottle openers, wine glasses, shot glasses, beer mugs and other dishware. Playing cards are a must. And for the true Harley fan there are table and chair sets, storage units, popcorn machines and even game tables. Don’t forget to check out the pet gear as well. Truly there is something for everyone.

Most Harley Davidson dealerships offer some of these items for sale. The best place to find that special Harley Davidson accessory just may be online. Just open your browser, go to your favorite search engine, type in Harley Davidson accessory and hold on for the ride. Trade magazines are also full of ads. Biker rallies and Harley Davidson sponsored events should also have merchants hawking their wares.

If you are buying online make sure you pay through a secure site, and be aware of any return and refund policies. While you are searching for that perfect accessory, you might even find a good free Harley Davidson screensaver to download on to your computer!

Knowing enough about Harley Davidson to make solid, informed choices cuts down on the fear factor. If you apply what you’ve just learned about Harley Davidson, you should have nothing to worry about.

About the Author
By Anders Eriksson, feel free to visit my latest venture: GVO to claim your $1 trial membership!

The History of Harley Davidson Motorcycles

Thursday, October 15th, 2009

Today, Harley Davidson motorcycles are a household name, but it hasn’t always been that way. It began way back in 1901, when a young man named William S. Harley had a vision for attaching an engine to a bicycle.

William had a friend named Arthur Davidson who embraced his concept. Together, they began working endless hours in a small wooden shed, with the words “Harley Davidson” scrawled on the door. By 1903, they rolled out the first production Harley Davidson motorcycle.

The legendary “Bar and Shield” logo became the defining symbol of Harley Davidson motorcycles in 1910. The logo is representative of strength and ruggedness. The design was patented in 1911 and continues to be used today.

In 1920, motorcycle racing legend, Leslie “Red” Parkhurst, broke numerous speed records on a Harley Davidson racing motorcycle. Each time Parkhurst won a race, he would carry a pig on a victory lap and it was during this time the term “hog” became associated with Harley Davidson motorcycles.

During World War I nearly half of the Harley Davidson motorcycles produced were sold to the United States Army. Throughout the 1920s, major changes took place to the design. The most notable was the change in the gas tank, which was switched to the now infamous teardrop shape. In 1928, Harley Davidson introduced the first twin-cam engine and front wheel brakes. These modifications allowed Harley Davidson motorcycles to reach speeds in excess of 85 mph.

Throughout the 1930s, Harley Davidson motorcycles continued to break speed records and won multiple awards. Harley Davidson further expanded into commercial and police vehicles through the introduction of the three-wheel Servi-Car.

Appearance changes were made to Harley Davidson motorcycles and included the famous “eagle” design, which was painted on all Harley Davidson gas tanks. During this time, the trademark 1340 cc engine was introduced and the “Knucklehead” motorcycle was launched.

Between the years of 1941 through 1945, Harley Davidson ceased civilian production of motorcycles and focused solely on providing reliable motorcycles to the U.S. Armed Forces during World War II.

When civilian production resumed, Harley Davidson motorcycles were in high demand. The organization expanded and purchased the A.O. Smith Propeller Plant to be used as a machine shop. Here they manufactured motorcycle parts and shipped them to the factory for final assembly.

1947 saw the introduction of the “Panhead” Harley Davidson motorcycle, which was deemed “THE American Motorcycle”. Two years later, hydraulic front brakes were introduced on the Hydra-Glide models.

The best time to learn about Harley Davidson is before you’re in the thick of things. Wise readers will keep reading to earn some valuable Harley Davidson experience while it’s still free.

The 1950s were filled with challenges and triumphs. During this time, the British captured nearly 40 percent of the motorcycle market with their ever-popular Triumph motorcycle. Harley Davidson owners knew they would have to get creative if they were to remain at the top.

To compete with the smaller, sportier motorcycles coming from Great British, Harley Davidson developed the side-valve K model with an integrated engine and transmission. Today, the K model is known as the Sportster.

1953 marked the 50th anniversary of Harley Davidson motorcycles. The organization marked this event by creating a special logo which included a “V”, with a bar overlaid reading “Harley Davidson” and the words “50 Years American Made”. Every motorcycle manufactured in 1954 had a medallion version of the logo placed on the front fender.

During the 60s, Harley Davidson scaled down production and offered the only scooter bike ever produced. It was also during this time that the Sprint model was introduced. Other innovations included the electric starter and the introduction of the “Shovelhead” engines.

The 70s brought about transformation of the Harley Davidson motorcycle. A new Sportster racing motorcycle was introduced in 1970. One year later, the FX 1200 Super Glide cruiser was introduced; along with the first Harley-Davidson snowmobile.

1977 brought the Harley-Davidson Low Rider to the forefront when it was debuted to the public in Daytona Beach. Later in the year, the Café Racer was released.

Last, but not least, Harley Davidson introduced the FXEF Fat Bob in 1979. This bike has dual gas tanks and bobbed fenders. It was featured in Hollywood films and quickly became a favorite of the American public.

During the 80s, Harley Davidson went through considerable internal changes and more attention was focused on motorcycle racing. One of the most notable changes occurred in 1986, when Harley Davidson became listed on the American Stock Exchange.

In the 1990s, Harley Davidson expanded its U.S. operations to include a multi-million dollar paint facility, a new distribution center, power train plant, and production facility. Harley Davidson also opened a new assembly facility Brazil, the first operations outside of the U.S.

Since the beginning of 2000, Harley Davidson has exploded the marketplace with a variety of new and exciting motorcycles. These include the Softail Deuce; the Buell Blast, Firebolt, and Lightning; the Road King Custom; and the Street Glide.

Today, Harley Davidson owns more than 60 percent of the motorcycle market share. Considering their history and reputation, chances are good that Harley Davidson motorcycles will be around for another 100 years.

About the Author
By Anders Eriksson, feel free to visit my latest venture: GVO to claim your $1 trial membership!