Motorcycle Information

The 1911 Excelsior motorcycle was a product of Schwinn better known for bicycles. As was common for the era, the single was driven by a wide leather belt with progress slowed by a rear coaster brake. Learn about the 1911 Excelsior motorcycle.

By the Auto Editors of Consumer Guide

The 1915 Harley-Davidson 11F motorcycle had an advanced-for-its day 11-horse F-head V-twin engine. A proper three-speed transmission was offered along with a magneto and electric lighting system incorporating a taillight. Read about this historic Harley.

By the Auto Editors of Consumer Guide

The 1916 Harley-Davidson J motorcycle was a leap forward in style with a longer lower appearance. Other than the kickstarter, however, there were few mechanical changes of note for this year. See pictures and learn about the 1916 Harley J.

By the Auto Editors of Consumer Guide

The 1925 Harley-Davidson JD motorcycle introduced Harley's familiar tear-drop-shaped fuel tank. Sidecars were popular accessories of the day as these vehicles often served as a family's primary form of motorized transportation. Read about the Harley JD.

By the Auto Editors of Consumer Guide

The 1927 Harley-Davidson BA was a single-cylinder motorcycle that was economical but sold poorly. Two versions of the single were offered: a flat-head with eight horsepower and an overhead-valve variant producing twelve horsepower. Read about the Harley BA.

By the Auto Editors of Consumer Guide

The 1934 Harley-Davidson VLD motorcycle helped Harley survive the Great Depression. The Great Depression killed off all the major U.S. motorcycle manufacturers except for Harley-Davidson and Indian. Learn about the classic 1934 Harley-Davidson VLD.

By the Auto Editors of Consumer Guide

The 1936 Harley-Davidson EL motorcycle introduced the famous Knucklehead engine to the Harley line. It became one of the most popular Harley-Davidson models of all time. See pictures and learn more about the Harley EL.

By the Auto Editors of Consumer Guide

The 1938 Harley-Davidson UL motorcycle featured a Flathead V-twin instead of the newer Knucklehead. It was a Sport Solo model with new colors and striping available. See pictures and learn about the Harley UL.

By the Auto Editors of Consumer Guide

The 1942 Harley-Davidson WLA motorcycle and Harley-Davidson XA motorcycle were weapons of World War II. Wearing the requisite Olive Drab paint, these were 45-cubic-inch V-twins fitted with special wartime equipment. Learn about these Harleys.

By the Auto Editors of Consumer Guide

The 1948 Harley-Davidson FL motorcycle introduced Harley's overhead-valve Panhead engine. More chrome trim pieces gave the bikes a fancier look and a steering-head lock was added. See pictures and learn about the Harley FL motorcycle.

By the Auto Editors of Consumer Guide

The Harley-Davidson S-125 motorcycle was a popular civilian bike in the wake of World War II. Producing only three horsepower, the S-125 had a tough time reaching 55 miles per hour. See pictures and learn more about the Harley S-125.

By the Auto Editors of Consumer Guide

The 1948 Harley-Davidson WL motorcycle was one of the last Harleys with a small V-twin. It proved to be a versatile engine that remained in production for more than four decades. See pictures and learn more about the 1948 Harley-Davidson WL.

By the Auto Editors of Consumer Guide

The 1920 Ace motorcycle had a short life, but it was a powerful and durable bike. Production ceased in 1922 due to financial setbacks and the death of its creator in a motorcycle accident. Learn about the 1920 Ace.

By the Auto Editors of Consumer Guide

The 1970 BSA Lightning motorcycle battled faster less-expensive Japanese bikes. BSA didn't survive long afterward as the competition from Japan proved too much. See pictures and learn how the BSA Lightning dealt with its rivals.

By the Auto Editors of Consumer Guide

It could be the distinctive body styling, or maybe it's that tellatale sound. There's just something about Harley-Davidson motorcycles that hundreds of thousands of folks can't resist. Find out all about this motorcycle icon.

By Marshall Brain

There is no denying that a Harley-Davidson motorcycle has a unique sound. So makes a Harley sound different from other motorcycles?