To be sure, there will be a whole lot of bikers congregating in Milwaukee to celebrate Harley-Davidson’s 115th anniversary this month who look as if they wandered off the set of a “Sons of Anarchy” reboot. But there will be plenty of others who don’t, according to Heather Malenshek, vice president of marketing for the company.
Harley appeals to a wider demographic than the general public realizes, Malenshek says. And she hopes the company’s 115th anniversary party will set the record straight. “It’s the amplification of what this community is all about, which is people coming together regardless of socioeconomic background, age or nationality,” she says. “We get people from all around the world, coming together under this banner of freedom.”
See for yourself. The festivities kick off on Aug. 29 and run through Sept. 2.
Memorable Motors
Photos courtesy of Harley-Davidson, Julien’s Auctions
Serial No. 1
As its name implies, Serial No. 1 (1903-04), is considered Harley’s first production-ready bike.
1969 FLH Electra-Glide
After his star turn in The Wild One in 1953, Marlon Brando remained a motorcycle enthusiast. He rode this 1969 FLH Electra-Glide around the Hollywood Hills.
Captain America
It’s easy to see how this bike – a custom version of which made its big-screen debut in the 1969 biker flick and Peter Fonda vehicle Easy Rider – got its name.
2018 Heritage Classic
A lot’s changed since Harley was founded. But the company’s limited-edition anniversary bikes still feature the meticulous detailing that made it famous.
FREE EXHIBITION
“Matt Hintz: The Spirit of the Open Road”
Aug. 8-Oct. 20
Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design
MIAD alum Matt Hintz, one of only a handful of licensed Harley-Davidson artists whose work was sold at the company’s dealerships, died unexpectedly in 2017. Proceeds from this exhibition, which features many of his colorful, impressionistic motorcycle paintings, will support his family.
Factory Tours — Aug. 29-31, Harley-Davidson Powertrain Operations, Menomonee Falls
Beach Brawl — Aug. 31 and Sept. 1 Bradford Beach
Run What You Brung — Aug. 31, Great Lakes Dragaway, Union Grove
Flat Out Friday — Aug. 31, Panther Arena
Hillclimb — Sept. 1, Little Switzerland, Slinger
Parade — Sept. 2, Downtown Milwaukee
