6 Harley-Davidson Models That Changed History
Daily Slideshow: Motorcycles have come and gone but these bikes have changed the direction of the industry.
1936 Harley-Davidson Knucklehead
When Harley rolled out the EL in 1935, it was an entirely new machine. The frame, bodywork, and fork were all brand new, and art deco design touches aided the look, but it was the introduction of a new engine, the overhead valve EL-61, that most people remember it for. The new overhead valve V-twin engine featured bulging rocker boxes so unmistakable that people affectionately refer to it simply as the "Knucklehead." The Knucklehead's timing couldn't have been any better - with the recession over, this great looking, powerful motorcycle was just what America needed at the time to hit the open road.
1915 Harley-Davidson Model J
When the Model J debuted in 1915, Harley-Davidson lagged behind Indian in terms of production, producing only about a third as many motorcycles each year. The Model J helped Harley close that gap and eventually surpass Indian as the world's largest manufacturer. The first Harley to wear an electrically powered headlight, the J also received a flathead engine configuration, and 3-speed transmission, moving Harley into the mainstream and increasing power. The J also signified a strong factory effort to support racing, as it was offered in stripped stock form for privateers, which led to a number of major race wins over the years.
1952 Harley-Davidson Model K
Harley's smaller, sportier Model K was easily one of the most popular motorcycles on the market from its introduction in the 1950's. It began life as a 45-inch flathead powered WL during the war years, but became the K model in 1952, with a revised motor and 4-speed transmission. This bike was Haley's attempt to fight the smaller, sportier British and European bikes, and evolved into the Sportster which is still made today.
1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster
The Sportster, one of the best selling Harleys of all time, is also one of the most versatile motorcycles ever produced. It can be anything from a daily commuter to a weekend cruiser, to a dirt track racer. Sportsters are inexpensive, reliable, and fun, and they can be modified into anything from a chopper, to a dirt bike. The real historical significance here is that the Sportster has served as a gateway bike for countless people, introducing them into the world of Harley-Davidson.
1915 Harley-Davidson Model 11F
The Model 11F in 1915, introduced the sort of 3-speed transmission, chain drive, and kick-start that persisted until modern times. Though it wasn't the first V-twin powered Harley, the 11F was the first reliable one and did away with a lot of the motorized bicycle trappings. This combination made the 11F a formidable racing machine and became the benchmark for all motorcycles for many years to come.
1994 Ultra Classic Electra Glide
The Electra-Glide's name came from the "big twin" engines that came equipped with electric starters. The bike served as the quintessential American tour-bike/bagger dresser aesthetic so much that it caused Harley to be beholden to the look but still expected to make changes. The beefy bikes were indeed heavy but offered up a well-balanced ride even when tipping over. The 1994 model of the Ultra defined what touring would be for the next 25 years with a bike that was the culmination of all the work that had come before it.
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