A brief history of motorcycles and motorcycle touring

A Brief History of Motorcycles

Motorcycles have come a long way since the late 1800s, when early inventors first strapped engines onto bicycles. One of the most iconic names to rise from those early days was Harley-Davidson, founded in Milwaukee in 1903. Harleys quickly made their mark, especially during World War I and II, when thousands were used by the military for dispatch and transport. After the war, many veterans returned home with a deep connection to these machines—riding became a way to recapture the sense of freedom and brotherhood they had felt in service. For many, hitting the road on a Harley wasn’t just about transportation; it was therapy, identity, and adventure rolled into one. That spirit still rides strong today.

Harley Davidson Motorcycles used in WWII

A Brief History of Harley Davidson Touring and Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

Harley-Davidson changed the game for long-distance riders with the Electra Glide in 1965. With its iconic batwing fairing and smooth ride, it quickly became the go-to touring bike for those chasing the horizon. Around the same time, the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally was gaining traction—what started as a small race in 1938 grew into a legendary gathering of riders. For many of us, rolling into the Black Hills on an Electra Glide isn’t just a ride—it’s a tradition that keeps the spirit of the open road alive.1

Sturgis Motorcycle Rally 2021