History of Motorcycles

  • First

    Sylvester Howard Roper invents the first motorcycle. It was a 2 cylinder, steam engine powered by coal.
  • First Gas Powered Motorcycle

    Gottlieb Daimler creates the first gas engine powered motorycle attached to wooden bike
  • Production starts

    Hildebrand & Wolfmüller created the first series production motorcycle. Made Travel easier, just as the car did in later years.
  • Harley-Davidson

    William Harley and the Davidsons brothers launched the Harley-Davidson Motor Company, which is very popular today. Aided in creation of choppers the bigger street bikes, which are still popular today.
  • Ducati

    Ducati started as an italian company for hoses, tubes, condesners, and radio components but created a motorcycle prototype in 1944. It was a hit with public and Ducati started producing motorcycles. They are a major influence in the racing industry, and with super/sport bikes today.
  • Gear shifter

    Charles W. Lindquist patented an adjustable stirrup type motorcycle gear shifter allows the cyclist to slip his shoe into shifting position, either sidewardly or lengthwise, for safe retention during up and down gear shifting.