This year, Harley-Davidson is celebrating 120 years of manufacturing the iconic American cruiser motorcycle. On July 13-16 of 2023, there will be a massive homecoming in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with food, drinks, and live performances. But beyond the celebration, there is much to be explored and appreciated at the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee. The museum is a testament to the brand’s illustrious history, showcasing vintage models, racing bikes, and lesser-known motorcycles. Whether you choose to take a guided tour or wander around aimlessly, a visit to this museum guarantees a fantastic time for any motorcycle enthusiast.
American Motorcycle History
Harley-Davidson has been manufacturing motorcycles since 1903. As you enter the museum, you’re immediately immersed in the brand’s rich history. Vintage Harley models stretch from one end of the building to the other, showcasing the evolution of the motorcycles over time. The museum also offers exhibits that delve into the early years of the company and its involvement in World War II. These exhibits provide fascinating insights into the brand’s journey and are meticulously curated with informative annotations.
The Engine Room
The ‘Engine Room’ is a captivating exhibit that appeals to gearheads and enthusiasts alike. It features a collection of Harley engines, showcased in interactive displays and exploded views, allowing visitors to explore the various components. Additionally, visitors can participate in a guessing game to identify different engine sounds. The highlight of the exhibit is, undoubtedly, Harley’s famous V-twin engines. From early experiments to the latest models like the Milwaukee Eight, the ‘Engine Room’ offers a comprehensive experience. One particularly impressive centerpiece is a fully disassembled motorcycle intricately arranged so that it appears whole when viewed head-on, revealing its true nature as visitors walk around it.
Harley’s Racing Pedigree
The Clubs & Competition exhibit is a surprising highlight for many visitors. It showcases full-size motorcycles that were used for racing on board tracks, hill climbs, and endurance races. The exhibit features motorcycles with unique modifications, such as chain wheels, sidecars, and specialized racing parts. Notably, it pays homage to the 1936 El Factory Streamline OHV V-Twin, which broke the land-speed record in 1937, reaching 136 miles per hour at Daytona Beach, Florida. The exhibit also sheds light on Joe Petrali, a member of the Harley-Davidson racing team, who played a significant role in promoting the brand and setting records. Petrali’s accomplishments extend beyond motorcycle racing, as he later became associated with Howard Hughes and his “Spruce Goose” airplane.
The Gas Tank Exhibit
The Harley-Davidson museum offers more than just motorcycles; it presents motorcycle culture as an art form. The Gas Tank Exhibit, located toward the back of the second floor, showcases a stunning collection of colorful and uniquely shaped gas tanks. These aesthetically pleasing objects resemble an art installation, inviting visitors to appreciate their glossy finishes and vintage and modern designs. The exhibit’s psychedelic colors guide visitors into other captivating displays, extending the experience beyond motorcycles themselves.
Long Way Up’s Adventure LiveWire
Visitors familiar with Ewan McGregor’s motorcycle adventures will be delighted to find a special exhibit dedicated to the Long Way Up series. In this series, McGregor and his companion, Charlie Boorman, embarked on an adventure across South America on modified electric Harley-Davidson LiveWire motorcycles. The exhibit showcases one of the actual bikes used in the series, complete with dirt, damage, and luggage. Adjacent to it is the PanAmerica, the motorcycle set to lead Harley-Davidson into the future. This exhibit highlights the brand’s embrace of electric motorcycles and their potential for adventure touring.