Company History:
• Company was founded in 1903 By William Harley and Arthur Davidson.
• Motorcycle back then was used more for transportation and less for recreation however that quickly changed as motorcycle racing and hill climbs became popular.
• Incorporated in 1907.
• By 1920 they were the largest manufacturer in the world and they had dealers in 67 countries (Data monitor)
• Harley Davidson produced motorcycles for the allied forces which further helped to establish their reputation in Europe.
• In 1969 HD merged with American Machine and Foundry Co. (AMF). Following this merger the company reorganized it production facilities to meet the increased demand for motorcycles. The result was a motorcycle that was poor in quality and almost ruined HD.
• In 1981 HD senior executives initiated a management buyback—they focused on improving the quality of their bikes and removing the AMF nightmare. Since that time they have enjoyed record sales.
• Underwent further production reorg to compete with foreign motorcycle manufacturers.
• In 1986 the company was listed on the American Stock Exchange and on the New York Stock Exchange the following year.
• Entered strategic partnership with Buell in early 1990’s acquired them in 1998
• Celebrated their 100th anniversary in 2003. They celebrated with a variety of corporate sponsored rides and parties with the culmination of a huge week long party in Milwaukee WI-corporate headquarters of HD.
• 2004 signed a memo of understanding ? with Zongshen Motorcycl ...