William Harley was born in 1880, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He was born into a family of gifted inventors, and his profound knowledge of mechanics and engineering became evident at an incredibly young age.
Harley Davison was Founded
From tinkering with bicycles and motorbikes with his friend Arthur Davidson, the duo developed a fervent passion for understanding how things work. What initiated as a modest pastime eventually grew into a lifelong commitment and profession. In 1903, the Harley-Davidson Motor Company came into existence after William and Arthur produced their first motorbike in a small shed in their hometown.
William Harley
Willian Harley served as an instrumental figure in not only designing but also supervising the production of some of the most significant motorcycle models in the history of engineering. His unceasing devotion to innovation and cutting-edge technology is best exemplified by his pioneering design of the first 45-degree V-Twin engine that became synonymous with the Harley-Davidson brand.
William Harley’s unwavering diligence in creativity and production fostered a motorcycle institution that enthralled enthusiasts worldwide. His legacy remains an indelible testament to the triumph of the human spirit and unmatched dedication to quality and innovation, ultimately connecting people with his pioneering vision and unbridled passion.
Arthur Davidson was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin,1881 and was a co-founder of the innovative Harley-Davidson. Davidson began his career as a pattern maker for a railroad company. He joined forces with his brothers William and Walter and their mutual friend William Harley to build their first motorcycle in a small shed in their backyard.
As their business grew, Davidson helped to design and develop new models of motorcycles, including the iconic Harley-Davidson Knucklehead in 1936. He also played a key role in expanding the company’s dealerships and marketing efforts, helping to establish Harley-Davidson as a premier manufacturer of high-quality motorcycles.
Despite a series of challenges, including the Great Depression and World War II, Davidson remained committed to his vision of providing riders with the best possible motorcycles.
Adam Ziska Jr. collaborated with William Harley in the early 1900s to create the Harley-Davidson motorcycle brand. Ziska Jr. was a successful car racer and mechanic who helped William Harley and Arthur Davidson to improve their original motorcycle design.
Ziska Jr. worked with Harley and Davidson on various innovations, such as adjustable handlebars, v-twin engines, and a three-speed transmission.
Ziska Jr. provided valuable engineering skills and helped to create a reliable and powerful motorcycle that could compete with other brands. Together, they founded the Harley-Davidson Motor Company in 1903 and began producing motorcycles in a small shed. The business grew quickly and by 1907, Harley-Davidson had become one of the most popular motorcycle brands in America. Ziska Jr. continued to work with Harley and Davidson on various innovations, such as adjustable handlebars, v-twin engines, and a three-speed transmission. Their collaboration helped to create a lasting and iconic brand that is still loved by motorcycle enthusiasts around the world.