The Most Popular Harley-Davidson Models of All Time
Since its founding in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in the early 1900s, Harley-Davidson has manufactured high quality motorcycles varying in specifications. While all models are distinctly favored by enthusiasts, there are a few that have proven to be very popular for different reasons.
Harley-Davidson XL Sportster
Harley-Davidson produced the first in the XL Sportster series in 1957. With its overhead valve, 55-cubic inch V-twin engine and telescoping front forks, the Sportster was developed to compete with foreign motorcycle manufacturers. Harley-Davidson had been losing ground due to riders' attraction to smaller British models, and the Sportster was quicker than other motorcycles that the company manufactured.
The original engine was the Ironhead, which was replaced in by the Evolution engine in 1986. From its inception until 2003, the engine was mounted directly to the frame of the cycle. This created significant vibration directly to the rider; in 2004, Harley-Davidson begin using rubberized mounts to connect the engine, which resulted in less shaking for the operator. Another upgrade to the Sportster was introduced in 1995, when the electronic speedometer replaced the mechanized version.
The Sportster was a significant departure from the heavier models in ways other than size: The shifters and drive chains were relocated to the right on the Sportster, whereas the FLs placed these features on the left. Basically, this amounted to riders needing to shift gears with other foot if they had previously been accustomed to the bigger FL models.
Harley-Davidson FL Series
The first FL Harley-Davidson was manufactured in 1949 as the Hydra-Glide touring model. The "H" designation derives from the hydraulic technology that dampens the telescopic forks and front suspension system. Until 1951, the FL model utilized hand shift, foot clutch operation. However, in 1952, this switched to become a hand clutch and foot shift. Still, the original shift-clutch feature remained as an option for riders who preferred the operation. This first in the FL series featured a 74 cubic inch, V-twin cylinder pushrod engine and 59.5 inch wheelbase.
Starting in 1958, Harley-Davidson gave the FL a new frame and replaced the Hydra-Glide with Duo-Glide. For a more streamlined dashboard, the company also eliminated the zeros from the speedometer, making the dial read from 1 to 12. The new Duo-Glide switched the suspension system from front to rear after this feature proved to be popular with Harley-Davidson's smaller motorcycle models.
Production on the FL upgrade, the Electra-Glide, began in 1965. The first of the Harley-Davidson models to be equipped with electric starters, the Electra-Glide was the third and final motorcycle in the FL line.
Harley-Davidson Fatboy
Arguably the most popular, and certainly noteworthy in pop culture, of all Harley-Davidsons is the "Fatboy." The company began production on this model in 1990 and it was an instant success as being reminiscent of the choppers of the 1960s. This motorcycle includes the distinctive Softail chassis which encloses the big-twin engine. The Fatboy features large diameter telescopic forks upfront, similar to those in the Harley-Davidson touring series.
The Harley-Davidson Fatboy has developed such a huge following worldwide that is even the subject of an urban legend. Rumor has it that the term is derived from a combination of the nicknames that were given to the two atomic bombs dropped on Nagasaki and Hiroshima: Fat Man and Little Boy. Fatboy enthusiasts agree on its unparalleled performance and distinctive design, and many owners spend thousands of dollars customizing these cycles.