Harley Davidson

Here are 5 cool and classic trivia facts about Harley-Davidson, the legendary American motorcycle brand:

🏍️ 1. It Started in a Shed in 1903

Harley-Davidson was founded in Milwaukee, Wisconsin by William S. Harley and the Davidson brothers (Arthur, Walter, and William) in a tiny 10x15-foot wooden shed. The sign read: “Harley-Davidson Motor Company.” Humble beginnings for an American icon.

🔊 2. The “Potato-Potato” Sound is Trademarked

That deep, rumbling sound of a Harley V-twin engine? Harley-Davidson tried to trademark the sound in the '90s. While it ultimately didn’t go through, it’s still one of the most recognizable engine sounds in the world.

🇺🇸 3. Military Muscle in WWII

During World War II, Harley-Davidson produced nearly 90,000 WLA motorcycles for the U.S. Army, earning them the Army–Navy "E" Award for excellence in wartime production. Soldiers nicknamed them “The Liberator.”

🛠️ 4. Harley Built a Scooter—Yes, Really

In the 1960s, Harley-Davidson produced a small scooter-like bike called the Harley-Davidson Topper, powered by a 165cc two-stroke engine. It was…not a big hit. But yes, Harley made a scooter.

🎥 5. Stars Ride Harleys—On and Off Screen

Harleys have been featured in countless films—most famously in "Easy Rider" (1969) with Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper riding custom Harley choppers. Celebs like Elvis Presley, Marlon Brando, and even Arnold Schwarzenegger are real-life Harley fans.