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TRAVEL GUIDE |
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Wisconsin Travel and Harley Davidson History
Hailed as one of the greatest leisure transportation inventions in history, the Harley Davidson Motorcycle was first invented, engineered and manufactured right here in Milwaukee Wisconsin! An integral part of Wisconsin's rich history, the Harley Davidson Motorcycle was invented in 1903 by Bill Harley and two brothers, Arthur and Walter Davidson. Based around a one-cylinder gasoline engine, the first Harley Davidson Motorcycle wasn't much more than a motorized bike, but over time it would transform into one of the world's most prestigious two wheeled vehicle. The first Harley Davidson motorized creation (built and polished in a small 10x13 foot shed) drew immediate attention throughout the streets of Milwaukee, and it wasn't long before the boys were booming with business! By 1908 over 150 bikes had been sold and the Harley Davidson Motorcycle INC. was official coined. Over the years the Harley Davidson brand has proven to be the benchmark for all other motorcycles, providing travelers with the ultimate driving experience. An important part of Milwaukee's history, the Harley Davidson Motorcycle INC. is ready and waiting to show you the extreme side of two wheeled transportation!
A National Icon
The Haley Davidson name and logo have long been a powerful name in American transportation, but did you know that the Harley Davidson played a pivotal role the nation's war-time movement? When the US was drawn into World War I, the armed forces required immediate motorized vehicle support; in other words, they needed Harleys! Considered the contemporary motorcycle of choice for early 20th century police forces, the Harley Davidson was unanimously selected to be the nation's supplier during the wartime efforts overseas. Harley Davidson would go on to produce some 20,000 machine for the war effort, providing overseas soldiers with enhanced maneuverability and speed. Mayfair Discount Car Rental Wisconsin customers may also be interested to note that Harley Davidson also supplied motorcycles during World War II, resuming the production of civilian models shortly afterwards. Harley Davidson was one of only two American Motorcycle manufactures to survive the economic turmoil of the Great Depression, flourishing in 67 countries by 1920.
An important part of the Milwaukee economic and social landscape, the Harley Davidson Motorcycle INC. currently features three outstanding Harley Davidson dealerships, including two House of Harley-Davidson retailers and one official Harley Davidson INC. location. Mayfair Discount Car Rental Wisconsin customers are encouraged to stop by any one of these stores in order to sneak a peak and upcoming model releases and exciting new concepts. The official Harley Davidson INC. store can be located at 11310 West Silver Spring Road. Mayfair Discount Car Rental Wisconsin travelers can will also find bike displays at both House's of Harley Davidson on West Layton Avenue and at the corner of 62nd Street and Layton.
Celebrating 100 Years of Harleys!
2003 marked the 100th birthday of the Harley Davidson brand, attracting more than 200,000 loyal Harley fans and followers to the city of Milwaukee for what is now considered to be the biggest motorcycle event in Harley Davidson history. This year long celebration can to a head during the Labor Day festivities, which features a variety of exciting events and bike-based fun. Merchandisers and collectors were on-hand to help kick of the festivities along with current company owners Vaughn Beals and Willie G. Davidson. Other exciting annual Harley Davidson events include:
- The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota
- Laconia Motorcycle Week in New Hampshire
- Daytona Beach Bike Week in Florida
- Rolling Thunder Rally in Washington D.C.
Mayfair Discount Car Rental Wisconsin customers interested in learning more about Harley Davidson and their Milwaukee connection are encouraged to visit the official Harley Davidson website at www.harley-davidson.com. Visitors can also contact Harley Davidson INC. for more information on upcoming events by calling a Harley-Davidson customer service representative at (414) 343-4056.
