If you are a fan of the Harley-Davidson brand, you’re probably wondering, “Does Harley-Davidson make cars?” Historically, sidecars have been an excellent substitute for a family vehicle because they offer the rider fun, practicality, and ease of use. Early marketing photos show sidecars supporting various job functions and doubling as recreational vehicles. But today, electric motorcycles have taken the role of the family car.
Ford
The motorcycle maker Harley Davidson makes cars that have been around for over a hundred years. The first model used a four-stroke, 60-degree V-twin engine, which produced 90 horsepower. In 2007, the company added a six-speed transmission and a new 96-ci Twin Cam engine. The engine is water-cooled, features four overhead cams, and is capable of a 9,000-rpm redline.
The company is cautiously optimistic about the future of electric motorcycles. But with its only EV, the LiveWire, the company hasn’t been able to build a significant market share yet. While the LiveWire was launched late last year, sales have been slow. Moreover, the company is planning to invest heavily in its core heavyweight motorcycle segment. The LiveWire will be one of the more expensive models in 2021.
Harley-Davidson
Motorcycle makers like Harley-Davidson make cars for many different reasons. The company makes touring bikes and motorcycles and is also expanding into the adventure touring and cruiser segments. Their new models have many features, including an upgraded engine, a sleeker look, and more comforts and amenities. Some models even feature USB connectivity and charging. Many are equipped with Bluetooth functionality, a large touchscreen display, and upgraded passenger comforts. A new hardtop Harley-Davidson model, the Ultra Classic, was also released in 2018.
Touring models provide ample power and comfort for long trips. The models feature saddle bags and storage compartments for clothing. Other features include a windshield to protect the rider from the elements, and other creature comforts. Harley-Davidson is one of the few motorcycle manufacturers to introduce touring models, and its motorcycles include the legendary Road Glide and Electra Glide. Listed below are the latest models in the line.
Ford trucks
For years, Ford trucks and Harley Davidson cars have shared a similar look. The F-150, for example, was a mainstay in the Harley-Davidson lineup. Its paint scheme was reworked several times and a Super Duty version was added for the 2004 model year. This version featured flame graphics. It continued in its light-duty and Super Duty forms until the 2012 model year when it was discontinued.
The relationship between the two companies has been a long-standing one, beginning with a 2000 appearance package for the Ford F-150 SuperCab. The two companies continued to collaborate in the aftermarket, with the latest collaboration being a “fancy” version of the Sierra. The two companies are now teaming up to introduce new models for 2020. Here are the highlights of Ford and Harley-Davidson collaborations.
Harley-Davidson electric motorcycle
The launch of the LiveWire electric motorcycle from Harley-Davidson demonstrates the company’s commitment to the rapidly growing EV market. It will compete against Zero, Lightning, and Energica in an effort to capture market share. While electric motorcycles account for only about 1% of the total motorcycle market in the U.S. today, Harley-Davidson expects the number to rise to 10% in 2026. By 2026, they expect the electric motorcycle market to account for nearly 13% of motorcycle sales worldwide, as well as 45% in the Chinese market. Earlier this year, the company revealed a five-year strategy to drive EV sales, and its plans for the future of the industry.
The LiveWire’s design is meant to be reminiscent of the Prius of the motorcycle world, which is not an entirely new concept. But Harley wants to show that electric motors can improve riding experience. It will reach 60 mph in under 3.5 seconds, and can run up to 110 miles on a charge. It will have a fast charging CCS connector, and its lithium-ion batteries will feature hints of air-cooled engines.
Harley-Davidson midget racer
A home-built Harley-Davidson midget racer powered by a 750cc flathead Harley-Davidson was built in the late 1940s and early 1950s. The engine likely came from a WWII-era Harley-Davidson WLA motorcycle built for the American forces. In a post-war economy, a small-engine Harley was a much-requested upgrade, and the new bike was ready to hit the racetrack.
The first midget racers were powered by motorcycle engines rather than cars. Harley-Davidson knuckleheads were common in these small cars, as were outboard marine engines. Perhaps the most iconic power plant was a 60hp Ford V-8, which was originally developed for passenger cars. It was the perfect size for the small midget and was very fuel efficient. A Harley-Davidson midget racer can be restored using the original motor, which was often a replica of a genuine Midget.