Author Description

The World of Harley-Davidson covers the history of the company and the machine from its origin in a small Milwaukee basement through its ascendance as the largest motorcycle manufacturer in the world, its bankruptcy and near demise in the 1980s, to its rebirth in the 1990s. The book includes the history of the development of the trademark V-twin engine, its racing history and its significant role throughout the 20th century. What makes Harley-Davidson unique is the culture that has emerged around it: the love affair forged between aficionado and crafted heavy metal as evidenced in the custom scene, the numerous annual rally meets, the shady underworld of biker gangs, and Hollywood¿s fascination with it. The World of Harley-Davidson charts the epic tale of a ike that almost epitomizes the story of motorcycling itself and the making of a true American icon.