The Early Experimenters

In the early days of Harley-Davidson, experimentation was key to innovation and growth. The company’s willingness to try new things led to some truly unusual motorcycles, including concept bikes that never made it to production. One such example is the Harley-Davidson Trike Revolution, a series of three-wheeled vehicles designed for stability and ease of riding.

The first trike prototype was unveiled in the late 1960s, featuring a modified Sportster engine and a unique three-wheel design. The bike’s stability was unparalleled, making it an attractive option for riders who wanted a more relaxed riding experience. However, the project never gained momentum and was eventually shelved.

Despite this setback, Harley-Davidson continued to experiment with trikes, leading to the development of the XPT-10, a more refined three-wheeled concept bike. The XPT-10 featured a sleek design, improved stability, and a range of engine options, including a V-twin and a four-cylinder.

Although these unusual motorcycles never made it to production, they demonstrate Harley-Davidson’s commitment to innovation and its willingness to push the boundaries of what is possible in motorcycle design.

The Trike Revolution

In the 1960s and 1970s, Harley-Davidson began to experiment with three-wheeled vehicles, including trikes and quads. These unusual motorcycles were designed to be more stable and easier to ride than traditional two-wheelers, but they also had a unique aesthetic that set them apart from other Harley-Davidson models. One of the most notable trikes was the Harley-Davidson Tri Glide, introduced in 1969. This three-wheeled motorcycle featured a central drive wheel with two rear wheels, creating a wide and stable base. The Tri Glide was marketed as a more accessible option for riders who were new to motorcycles or had mobility issues. Its unique design also made it an attractive choice for touring riders who wanted the comfort of a trike without sacrificing the thrill of riding.

Other Harley-Davidson trikes from this era included the Servi-Car, which featured a unique “umbrella” design with two front wheels and one rear wheel. The Servi-Car was designed as a delivery vehicle for businesses, but it also gained popularity among recreational riders who appreciated its stability and ease of use.

The Harley-Davidson trike revolution of the 1960s and 1970s may have been short-lived, but it paved the way for future innovations in motorcycle design. Today, Harley-Davidson continues to experiment with new concepts and technologies, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in motorcycling.

The Electric Era

As Harley-Davidson continues to push the boundaries of innovation, their electric motorcycles are taking center stage. One of the most unusual electric Harley-Davidson motorcycles ever built is the LiveWire prototype from 2014. Designed to showcase the potential of electric powertrains in motorcycles, the LiveWire features a sleek and minimalist design with a single seat and a futuristic instrument panel.

Key Features: + Single-seat design + Minimalist aesthetic + Electric powertrain producing 74 horsepower and 129 lb-ft of torque + Top speed limited to 110 mph for safety reasons

The LiveWire prototype also featured an advanced braking system that allowed it to slow down quickly and smoothly, making it a safe and thrilling ride. Although the LiveWire was never intended for mass production, it played a crucial role in Harley-Davidson’s electric motorcycle development journey.

Another unusual electric Harley-Davidson motorcycle is the Project LiveWire 2 prototype from 2019. This bike took the lessons learned from the first LiveWire prototype and applied them to create an even more advanced electric motorcycle.

Key Features: + Improved range and charging times + Enhanced braking system with regenerative braking + New instrument panel design with digital displays + Increased power output to 78 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque

The Project LiveWire 2 prototype showed that Harley-Davidson was committed to continuous improvement and innovation in their electric motorcycle lineup.

The Concept Bikes

Harley-Davidson has always been known for pushing the boundaries of motorcycle design and innovation, and their concept bikes are no exception. From futuristic designs to radical prototypes, these unusual Harley-Davidson motorcycles showcase the company’s willingness to experiment and take risks.

One of the most notable concept bikes is the 2014 Harley-Davidson LiveWire, a fully electric bike that featured a sleek, aerodynamic design and a powerful motor. The LiveWire was designed to demonstrate the potential for electric motorcycles to offer both style and substance, and it quickly gained attention from motorcycle enthusiasts around the world.

Another unusual concept bike is the 2006 Harley-Davidson V-Rod Museum Concept, which featured a unique combination of classic and modern design elements. With its vintage-inspired paint scheme and sleek, minimalist lines, this bike was meant to pay homage to Harley-Davidson’s rich history while still showcasing cutting-edge technology.

  • The 2013 Harley-Davidson Project LiveWire Prototype: A radical prototype that showcased the potential for electric motorcycles to offer both style and substance.
  • The 1999 Harley-Davidson V-Rod Concept: An early example of Harley-Davidson’s willingness to experiment with new designs and technologies.
  • The 2001 Harley-Davidson VRSC-A Concept: A futuristic design that featured a unique combination of classic and modern elements.

The Future is Now

Harley-Davidson’s commitment to innovation has led to some truly remarkable production models that are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in motorcycle design and technology. One such example is the LiveWire, Harley-Davidson’s first all-electric motorcycle. Introduced in 2019, the LiveWire features a unique design language that sets it apart from other Harleys, with a sleek, aerodynamic body and a futuristic instrument cluster.

Another unusual production model is the CVO Limited, a high-performance touring bike that boasts an impressive array of advanced technologies, including adaptive cruise control, cornering ABS, and a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The CVO Limited also features a powerful 117ci V-twin engine that produces 122 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque.

In addition to these production models, Harley-Davidson has also been experimenting with new technologies like autonomous motorcycle systems, which have the potential to revolutionize the way we ride. With its commitment to innovation and its willingness to take risks, Harley-Davidson is well-positioned to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of motorcycles.

In conclusion, Harley-Davidson’s commitment to innovation and experimentation has led to the creation of some truly unique and fascinating motorcycles that are sure to capture the imagination of motorcycle enthusiasts. From concept bikes to production models, these unusual Harley-Davidson motorcycles showcase the company’s ability to push boundaries and challenge convention.