Full Throttle - Magazine For Motorcycle Enthusiasts

This is Part Three in this series. We’d love to hear from you and what you think of it.

1916 - Motorcycle sales in the U.S. were on a major climb upward. While a lot of the new, smaller companies sold some, it was Indian and Harley leading the way in both mechanical improvements and sales. With Harley entering the racing scene it was a big plus as more law enforcement agencies began to buy from Harley. Another plus for Harley was that Mack Sennett had an arrangement with Harley for exclusive use of their motorcycles in his "Keystone Kops" silent comedies. In other areas of change around the country 1916 a new footwear appeared Keds Sneakers, smokers were also taking to a new cigarette brand Lucky Strikes. For the kids something new called Lincoln Logs found their way into many a child’s toy chest. But 1916 was also a time when we kept a wary eye on WW I in Europe knowing we’d be involved.

1917 - In 1917 the U.S. entered WW I and it would have a lasting effect on the country for years to come. The military came to Harley and one third of the year’s production is sold to the U.S. Army. Harley also runs a school for the military to teach both mechanics and how to ride. They were also becoming more active on the racing circuit and having great success. In the Dodge City 300, six of the first seven finishers were riding Harleys. 1917 was also the year, because of their military connection that Harley would switch colors from the standard grey to olive drab. Around the country and in the home more new things were being introduced into the marketplace. S.O.S Soap Pads, Clark Bars, Moon Pies, Birdseye Frozen Foods all made their debuts and have become staples of American life over the years.

1918 - With the U.S. deeply involved in WW I in Europe, half of Harley’s motorcycle production went to the military. It should also be noted that the military did not deal exclusive with Harley. They also purchased 20,000 Indian motorcycles as well. Because of finances the Henderson Motorcycle joined forces with Excelsior in Chicago. This year saw more new products come along. The new Raggedy Ann Doll was cherished by every little girl. For the homemaker Rinso Laundry Soap and Welch’s Grape Jam quickly became a favorite of young and old alike and still is. The Westinghouse Electric Stove was welcome additions to the kitchen. Airmail service would change mail delivery forever.,

1919 - The war ended and life returned to normal in the U.S. On the racing end Indian continued to be a force winning 9 dirt track events. They also introduced an 18 hp Powerplus V- Twin bike with a top speed of 60 mph. Harley introduced the J Model V-Twin with 24 hp. They also intro’d the W Sport Twin modeled after the successful British Douglas. It was also the last year for the Militaire and Militor. This machine looked like an automobile but was in reality a regular motorcycle. On the front of new products and services there were several. In kitchens families had the brand new Pop Up Toaster, and also marveled at the new Fridgidaire. Another new candy bar, Peter Paul’s came along, kids were fascinated with the Pogo Stick and homes now had Dial telephones. It was also 1919 when the Hilton Hotel chain began.

1920 - Along with Harley and Indian, another new motorcycle company came along, Ace Motorcycles. Ace was begun by William Henderson of the Henderson line. Ace immediately made an impact with inline fours that offered solid performance and speeds that topped 100 mph. But Harley was now the largest motorcycle manufacturer in the world with over 2,000 dealers in 67 countries. On the racing circuit Red Parkhurst broke 23 speed records on a Harley in 1920. In other areas of life in 1920 some more new changes and products came along. This was the first year people had Band Aids for cuts and another new candy bar, Baby Ruth hits the market. For summer treats the Good Humor Ice Cream trucks made their debut, as well as Wonder Bread. It was also the year Babe Ruth joined the Yankees and prohibition began.

1921 - Harley continued it’s growth as did Indian Motorcycles. Indian’s big push was the introduction of the Scout and the 95 mph Chief, the fastest motorcycle they’d built. Because of it’s speed and durability the Ace was also making big strides in the industry. It was clear the motorcycle industry was becoming a race between Harley and Indian. More than half the companies around since the early part of the century had folded by 1920. In other areas in 1921, John Larsen invents the Lie Detector. Potato chip lovers were introduced to Wise Potato Chips while candy lovers got yet another new candy bar Oh Henry. For burger lovers, 1921 saw the beginning of the White Castle hamburger chain. It also saw the first Miss America pageant held in Atlantic City and the passing of the Federal Highway act to build new modern roads.

1922 - On the Harley front, it was another breakthrough year both in product and on the racing circuit. The JD and FD models sport the first 74 cubic inch V-Twin and on the racing front Harley-Davidson sweeps all eight national championship races in 1922. Indian had the formal debut of the Chief and it’s 1000 cc V - twin engine, the Chief, mainly built to compete with Harley’s big twin and it was quickly accepted. 1922 saw a big breakthrough in medicine as diabetics now had the new drug Insulin It was also the year that people were first introduced to the Reader’s Digest. Once again another new candy bar, Milky Way made it’s debut as did the famous orange and black of A & W Root Beer.

1923 - In 1921 Harley discontinued their racing team in spite of all their success and for the next few years concentrated on a low cost side valve singles. They also came up with an overhead valve style that appealed sport riders and racers. The Ace XP3 was doing well, being sold below cost and Indian’s Scout model was keeping up with Harley and Henderson was also hanging right in there with their K model, but change was coming. Being the "Jazz Age" and "Roaring 20’s", styles changed and a new dance craze, the Charleston, came along. Time magazine made it’s debut and again two more candies Butterfingers, and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups debut. A new game, Mah Jongg sweeps the country.

Come back and see us next week as we continue this ride of Motorcycles and History...............

1924 - This year there was really nothing new and exciting coming from Harley except increased sales all over the world. As for Indian the Chief began to become the favored motorcycle by many law enforcement agencies. Another of the popular companies, Excelsior, was getting ready to introduce their Super-X, a 750cc twin that would change the face of oval bike racing. In 1924 the first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade was held, the 10 millionth auto is produced by Ford Motors. A new breakfast cereal makes it’s very popular debut, Wheaties and another candy bar, Bit O Honey comes on the market as well as fruit flavored Life Savers. In 1924 two future U.S. Presidents were born, George Bush and Jimmy Carter and J. Edgar Hoover became the director of the FBI almost right up until his death in 1972.

1925 - It was becoming evident that Harley and Indian were in a one two race for motorcycle sales supremacy and all the other companies were just biding time. Harley also went to Japan to help start motorcycle manufacturing offering personnel, Harley blueprints, etc. to get them started. This move by Harley would be the catalyst for the Japanese motorcycle boom in the U.S. 40 years later. One change Harley made was introducing the now famous tear drop design gas tank for the bikes. In 1925 on the product front Green Giant canned vegetables come along, the newest candy bar is Mr. Goodbar and a very handy kitchen item was invented, the Can Opener. Also in 1925 the very first motel opens in San Luis Obispo, California and rookie by the name of Lou Gehrig joins the New York Yankees.

1926 - For the first time since 1918, Harley reintroduces the single cylinder models with side valve and overhead valve styles. Ace motorcycles were on the brink of bankruptcy and were taken over Michigan Motors and in turn would be sold to Indian motorcycles. The Excelsior Super-X was doing well but still could not keep up with Harley and Indian. In this year Playboy’s Hugh Heffner is born as is the late film legend, Marilyn Monroe. On the food front there was the introduction of Hormel Canned Hams, another candy, Milk Duds and in stores Good Humor Ice Cream. This was also the year a new form of travel began with the debut of the Greyhound Bus Company. With the new invention of radio talking hold the National Broadcasting Company, NBC, is formed.

1927 - Other than Indian taking over Ace Motorcycles and their patented Ace Four, nothing really major in the motorcycle world took place. A few more companies close shop as the numbers from a high of 300 are now less than 50 in the U.S. still manufacturing motorcycles. Harley sales and number of dealerships continued to increase and in racing it was Harley and Indian still dominating the tracks and courses. In other areas of progress in 1927, Massachusetts becomes the first state to require automobile insurance. New products in the food line that debut include Wonder Bread and Hostess Cakes. Thirsty kids in summer now have something brand new, Kool-Aid. And who can forget the debut of PEZ Candy! For mothers of new babies, they are introduced to Gerber Baby Foods. Also the first transatlantic phone service begins.

1928 - Motorcycle sales continue to climb for both Harley and Indian as Ace Motorcycles closes down after a fairly successful 8 years. Harley introduces it’s first two cam engine giving speeds up to 100 mph. Indian’s 101 Scout become the bike of choice for stunt riders on the "Wall of Death" performances. In other areas of life in 1928 movies with sound were in full force and America is introduced to a new cartoon character named Mickey Mouse. A new food staple hits the supermarkets, Peter Pan Peanut Butter and a new vegetable is imported from Italy, Broccoli. Kids also find new enjoyment with the new Fleer’s Bubble Gum and the Butterfingers candy bar. In medicine Vitamin C is discovered. Two new breakfast products, Nabisco Shredded Wheat and Rice Krispies make their debut in 1928 along with Velveeta Cheese.

1929 - This was a year that would change everything in every way ion the country. One of the new innovations that would come from Harley this year was the 45 cubic inch V-twin engine to be known as the "flathead". This engine proves so reliable that a number of variations are used up until 1973. Also all Harley models are now equipped with front wheel brakes. A new soft drink, 7 -Up, debuts and ice cream lovers are introduced to the Klondike Bar. Hot dog lovers got their first taste of Oscar Mayer Weiners. It was also the year of the first Hollywood Oscars, the formation of TWA and coast to coast airline flights. But in spite of all the good things in 1929 it was Black Thursday Oct. 24 that would devastate the country for years with loss of jobs, homes, businesses with the Wall Street crash as the Great Depression would settle in.

1930 - The big depression took a toll on the country with 5.4 million losing jobs., Businesses went under, as well as more than 1300 banks closing and bread lines the norm. With the exception of Harley and Indian, every other motorcycle company in the U.S. went out of business. For the next 23 years it would stay between Harley and Indian. Elsewhere in the country as they tried to dig out of the depression new products came along. There was the Snickers candy bar and the year folks were introduced to Twinkies as well as Toll House Cookies. A very useful household item made it’s debut, Scotch Tape. Travel wise, American Airlines began and the Sunday Comics had a brand new strip, Blondie. Also a new form of entertainment was introduced with the Pinball Machine.

1931 - As the only two remaining motorcycle companies, Harley continued to do well on the endurance race circuit while Indian started the Art Deco look on their motorcycles. While sales were good, they were nowhere at the level they had been prior to the depression. But changes for both companies were on the way, some immediate and some that would have far reaching effects in later years. On the front of new products and services Alka Seltzer is marketed. Hoping to compete with Gerber, Beech Nut Baby Food debuts, also the Schick Electric Razor and for the ladies a new hair product, Clairol hits the market. Also in 1931 another new comic strip hero, Dick Tracy, debuts.

1932 - A new president, Franklin Delano Roosevelt is elected. Harley introduced it’s 3 wheel Servi-Car that would be in service for 41 years as a commercial and police vehicle. In dirt track racing, Harley’s Joe Petralli wins the AMA Grand National Championship. Indian introduces two inexpensive models the Motoplane and Pony Scout. While the depression lingered on and unemployment is at 24% and wages down 60% several new products did come along. In the food area people got their first taste of Skippy Peanut Butter, candy lovers had another new treat with Three Musketeers, snack lovers got Frito’s Corn Chips for the first time and also Jell-O Chocolate Pudding. Cigarette smokers were introduced to the Zippo Lighter and one of the greatest entertainment palaces in the world opens in 1932, Radio City Music Hall.

1933 - To help jazz up their motorcycles and slow sales due to the depression, Harley debuts the eagle graphic design on it’s gas tanks, In addition Harley also starts painting bikes in colors for the first time. Indian already has the art deco look and doing well on the racing circuit in Daytona and elsewhere. With FDR in the White House 1933 was a year of promise for the future and a year Americans were introduced to things like this. Ritz Crackers become a staple in homes, Kit Kat Bar is another new candy bar to enjoy. Windex Glass Cleaner makes it’s debut and V-8 Juice is in stores along with the new Kraft Miracle Whip. A brand new board game, Monopoly, makes it debut. Dancer Sally Rand creates a stir at the Chicago World’s Fair, the first drive in movie theater appears, in Camden, N.J. and Prohibition ends in 1933.

1934 - Because of the depression Harley sales were down to less that 4,000 units a year. They tried other ways to build up business like creating a street painter model for doing center stripes on streets and roads. They continued to improve on the Flathead V-twin with several variations. Indian introduced the full Indian headdress logo with bikes available in 24 different colors. With FDR putting in new programs to get people back to work, many new products and services made their debut in 1934. Fort Worth, Texas saw the very first Laundromat, ladies were introduced to a new fabric nylon. On the food front Campbell’s Chicken Noodle Soup comes out, kids love the new candy called Sugar Daddy. With prohibition a thing of the past Seagrams Seven Crown whiskey debuts. Also new comic and cartoon characters, Flash Gordon, Donald Duck, Li’l Abner appeared. In sports, golf’s first Masters tournament held in 1934 with Horton Smith the winner..

1935 - Harley gets involved with the Japanese to help found their motorcycle industry H-D gives licensing blueprints, tools, dies, machinery and a number of American employees to the Sankyo Company of Japan and creation of the Rikuo motorcycle. Sales began to rise as more people went back to work through a lot of FDR’s new programs. In 1935 GE introduced fluorescent lights, soda drinkers were introduced to the new Royal Crown Cola, also for ice cream and food the first Friendly’s Ice Cream opens. Life Savers now comes in 5 flavors. A new music era begins with swing music introduced by Benny Goodman. Beer drinkers find something new, beer in cans, introduced by Krueger Brewing. For readers Paperback Novels are introduced. Born in 1935, Elvis Presley, Woody Allen, Loretta Lynn and me!!

1936 - The depression was slowly ending, more people working and getting back to normal. Harley sales began to see a big increase and in 1936 H-D unveils the new EL motorcycle with a 61 cu. in. overhead valve engine. This new bike has become better known as the Knucklehead. Indian also saw an increase in sales and also preparing for a big reentry into racing. In other areas in 1936, FDR is reelected President, the novel, Gone With The Wind, is a runaway best seller. For home makers, the Waring Blender makes it’s debut. Two new candy bars, the Mars Bar and 5th Avenue were introduced and what has become favorite of everyone made it’s debut in 1936, Girl Scout cookies. Also a new movie cartoon character named Porky Pig is introduced and Henry Phillips invents the screwdriver with his name.

1937 - In this year for Harley race driver Joe Petrali sets a new land speed record on a Harley going 136.183 mph. Ed Kretz, riding an Indian wins the first Daytona 200 motorcycle race. Sales of motorcycles are the best in five years. In other areas in 1937 it was a busy year. A& P Supermarkets open, candy lovers are introduced to the Kit Kat Bar and Good n’ Plenty. Folks are also introduced to Kix Cereal, Kraft Macaroni and Cheese and Spam. Moviegoers got treated to Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and the newest engineering feat opens, the Golden Gate Bridge. Tragedy in 1937 comes when Amelia Earhart’s plane is lost and never found and the explosion during the docking of the zeppelin Hindenberg at Lakehurst, N.J. Born in 1937 are Bill Cosby, Dustin Hoffman, Robert Redford, Jack Nicholson and Colin Powell.

1938 - While Indian won the first Daytona 200, Harley comes back, under driver Ben Campanale, to win the next two on the 3.2 mile beach course. It is also in 1938 when Jack Pine’s Gypsies Motorcycle club hold their first rally in a small little town called Sturgis in South Dakota, meaning next year’s rally with be the 70th! FDR is in for another term, the depression is all but a memory and businesses start to flourish once again.

1939 - Both Harley and Indian sales in the U.S. were steadily on the increase. Production of new models slowed as both companies had an eye on the war in Europe. The Defense Department began negotiating with Harley for military styled motorcycles, while Great Britain was doing the same with Indian. As the rumbles of war took place in Europe in the U.S. people are introduced to a new product, Teflon and ladies could now add to their kitchens, the automatic dishwasher. Comic book fans are introduced to a new hero Batman, while movie lovers are treated to a new film that would become a classic, Gone With The Wind. On the food front Sara Lee and Lay’s Potato Chips make their debut. Also in 1939, is the opening of the New York Worlds Fair (I was there!) with the World of Tomorrow, 90% of which actually did come true.

1940 - The winds of war in Europe blew stronger and the U.S. kept a close on it. Business was good, people were working and both Harley and Indian were enjoying good sales. Harley won the 1940 Daytona 200. Indian added full skirted fenders to their bikes giving it a new sleek look with pro and con camps pretty evenly divided. While the threat of war edged ever closer, Americans went on with their lives enjoying new products and inventions that would come into their d lives. Candy lovers got their first taste of York’s Peppermint Patty (always a favorite of mine to this day!) and also another candy we all love came along in 1940, M & M’s, cereal lovers were treated to the new Kellogg’s Raisin Bran. A brand new vehicle debuts, the Jeep, very important militarywise in the coming years. Ice cream lovers find a brand new place called Dairy Queen and two brothers in California open a small drive in called McDonalds. Two new movie cartoon characters debut, Bugs Bunny and Woody Woodpecker. FDR is elected for a third term as President.

1941 - As the war in Europe escalated, the U.S. would be caught totally off guard on December 7 when the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor, throwing us into WW II against Germany, Italy and Japan. Early in 1941 Harley introduces the FL series and it is doing well, but then all commercial production ceases as H-D and Indian turn their production over to military styled motorcycles. Harley produced the WLA flathead 45 degree V-twin for the Army. Another model, the XA, designed for desert use was turned down in favor of the new Jeep. Still, there more new changes with new products and services coming into home and business. Homeowners are introduced the first aerosol insect spray. A new cereal shows up in homes that kids love, called Cheerios. Also in the area of food, a man who runs a roadside cafe with his wife, invents a new chicken recipe. Harlan Sanders would turn that recipe into Kentucky Fried Chicken. Fans of comic books are introduced to a new super hero called Wonder Woman, and in 1941 Mt. Rushmore opens to the public.

1942 - With the U.S. firmly entrenched in WW II, just about every major factory is involved in producing materials and needs for the military. Shipyards work 24/7 building ships, and planes were being produced at a record rate. America had to endure rationing for food, gasoline, clothes and more. Young men were being shipped off to war and women working in factories created a whole new work force that still exists today. By war’s end Harley would produce over 80,000 motorcycles for the military, not only the U.S. but Russia, China and Great Britain as well. FDR urged the country to try and live life as usual, mandating major league baseball keep playing, Broadway shows stay open, and other entertainment so people would have something to keep their minds off the war. A Texan, Neil Fletcher, invents a food that has become a staple at fairs and carnivals, called the Corn Dog. Folks also get their first taste of Dannon Yogurt and Sunbeam Bread

1943 - The biggest loss for Harley-Davidson in 1942-43 was the death of Walter Davidson, 63 in late 1942 and then the death of William Harley, 64 in mid 1943. The contract for the Harley XA is cancelled by the military with only 1,000 of these machines built. However, Harley is kept busy on a three shift schedule producing the WLA’s for the military and also running the Quartermasters School for the Army to teach mechanics in regards to motorcycles. FDR orders the stoppage of production of all automobiles. One of the few new things to emerge into the U.S. makeup is synthetic rubber that would be used to make tires longer lasting and better riding. Kids, who needed all the fun possible were treated to two new playthings. One was the Slinky and the other, even made adults have fun, Silly Putty. Born in 1943 were Robert Di Niro, Mick Jagger, Joe Namath and George Harrison.

1944 - In 1944 there were big signs of the war clouds beginning to disappear and make way for the sun and peace again. U.S. and allied troops made huge advances in both Europe, the invasion on Normandy Beach the biggest and in the Pacific as plans were being made to bomb Japan. Still there were sanction in the U.S. and still some rationing and war production going on in factories, shipyards and other facilities. Harley - Davidson and Indian were still producing motorcycles for the military, but both companies were looking toward the future with new innovations, styles and a big jump in sales. In 1944 one of the biggest new invention in medicine, the kidney dialysis machine made it’s debut. To help returning servicemen, the G.I. Bill becomes law, Seventeen Magazine makes it’s debut, FDR is reelected to a fourth term as President. Among those born in 19944 were Roger Daltrey, Tom Seaver, Diana Ross and George Lucas.

1945 - This was the year all Americans waited for as the war in Europe ends as Germany surrenders in May. In August the Air Force drops the atomic bomb on Nagasaki and Hiroshima. Japan officially surrenders and by September WW II is over. It was also a year in which FDR died and Harry Truman took over as President. General George S. Patton also dies in 1945. Servicemen return home hoping to find jobs and a normal home life in what would become known as the baby boomer era. After producing almost 90,000 motorcycles for the miltary Harley gets back to normal production in November. However, most all of the "new" models are redesigned 1941 models that were put on hold because of the war. Indian also gets back into production and once again the two companies continue their pre war battle for the motorcycle dollar. In other areas in 1945 more new products and services will come along. One of them developed first for the miltary is now commercial, Minute Maid frozen orange juice. Also making a debut in the food area is French’s Instant Mashed Potatoes. Homemakers are treated to a brand new product, Tupperware, a new kitchen appliance, the microwave oven, is patented and produced. This is also the first year we see something new added to the rears of cars, bumper stickers.

1946 - The war is over, soldiers coming home to wives, jobs and the hope for a new and happier life. Businesses, big and small, get back to making products for commercial use rather than military. A new phenomenon springs up with people moving in droves from cities out to the new suburbs to new homes and the start of a new post war life. Harley introduces new models which are actually 1941 models held back because of the war. A few small additions make them "new". They also introduce the 45 cu. in. flathead engine. With new ownership in place, Indian’s Chief motorcycle was it’s only production model. As for the new products and service in 1946 the ladies were introduced to a new swimsuit, the Bikini. In the laundry room Tide Detergent made it’s debut, frozen fish dinners from Mrs. Pauls and Ragu Pasta Sauces also were introduced. Ladies also had Tupperware as a new convenience and men and women were introduced to Timex watches. Movie lovers are treated to a film that would become a holiday classic, "It’s A Wonderful Life". Among those born in 1946 are Jimmy Buffet, Liza Minelli, Reggie Jackson, William Clinton and Donald Trump.

1947 - The economy was picking up, the baby boomer age set in and this year would see the beginning of a new period in American life. On Long Island a new community called Levittown was being built with over 17,000 homes that could be bought for less than $7,000. Other surburban sub divisions like that were being built all over the country. Big business was do well again. In sports, history is made when Jackie Robinson of the Brooklyn Dodgers becomes the first black player to play in the major leagues. Right in the mix of businesses growing and doing well after the war was Harley-Davidson. A new clothing line is started, they win in racing competition, move into a huge new factory and their sales almost double from the previous year. Indian on the other hand, while doing good in the racing arena, was pouring a lot of money into new ideas they hoped would work. This was also the year that people started spotting UFO’s. A new entertainment form for the homes came along. It was called Television. Candy lovers get yet another new candy bar Almond Joy and also coming along was Redi-Whip whipped cream. Among those born in 1947 were Dan Quayle, Nolan Ryan, O.J. Simpson, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Steven Spielberg and David Letterman.

1948 - The suburbs continue to expand as more and more people move from the cities. In the presidential election Truman defeated Dewey and it was a year of more post war changes for the country. As for Harley and Indian, H-D came out with several innovations for their overhead valve engines including aluminum heads and hydraulic valve lifters. The new engine would be referred to as the Panhead. Indian on the other hand, while doing okay commercially, was doing great on the racing circuit including winning the Daytona 200. Still it was Harley leading in overall sales. With TV the new entertainment at home, Tuesday nights left streets empty as people stayed home to watch Uncle Miltie, Milton Berle and the Texaco Star Theater. A new product called Velcro came along and a new fun toy called the Frisbee. Folks who liked taking pictures had a new way where they could see their pictures in one minute as the Polaroid camera makes it’s debut. A new healthy drink, V-8 Juice is marketed and ice cream lovers are introduced to a new ice cream chain, Baskin - Robbins. Music lovers put away those old 78’s as Columbia introduced the LP. Among those born in 1948 were Al Gore, Richard Simmons, Andrew Lloyd Weber, Bryant Gumbel. Leaving us in 1948 were Babe Ruth and Orville Wright.

1949 - As the era of the 1940’s came to a close, thoughts of WW II had all but vanished as life seemed to get back to normal with a lot of promise for the future. However, a new phrase "the cold war" and a new place, Korea, was becoming a worry to the U.S. As for Indian motorcycles, the beginning of the end came when they had to suspend production of the popular Chief because of some bad moves creating financial problems. Harley, on the other hand, was doing very well in their motorcycle sales, their accessory lines and dealerships. It was in this year that hydraulic front forks are introduced along with the Harley Hydra-Glide motorcycle. In other areas in 1949 more new products and services were showing up in homes and stores. Another new convenience for the home the electric dishwasher is marketed. Women have it easier to bake a cake as both Pillsbury and General Foods introduce prepared cake mixes. Candy lovers are enjoying the new Jolly Rancher candy and Whoppers Malted Milk Balls. Board game lovers take to a brand new board game called Scrabble, while the kids are having fun with new products, Silly Putty and Lego Building Blocks. Among those born in 1949 were actress Meryl Streep rock singer Bruce Springsteen.

1950 - The new decade of the 1950’s would bring about changes that would have an affect on how we live even today some fifty plus years later. Television was becoming a powerful medium in every sense. There were the Kefauver Senate hearings on crime. The Joe McCarthy witch hunt for Communists went nowhere. A new form of religion called Dianetics came from L. Ron Hubbard. In the middle of the decade a new music called rock n’ roll would change music and kids who loved it, forever. As for Harley-Davidson they tore up the racing circuit winning 18 of 24 championships and setting six world records. All the publicity H-D received for their racing prowess was a big boost to their sales. Indian, now owned by a Brit, brought back the Chief with a lot of new design changes, but the new owner, John Brockhouse, focused his interests on his British motorcycles. Changes in the home, products and services continued. Among new products that made their debut in 1950 were Green Giant vegetables, Minute Rice, Kraft Process cheese and Sugar Pops Cereal. A new way of buying came with the very first credit card issued by the Diner’s Club A new comic strip was introduced, it was called "Peanuts". One of the inventions of 1950 was the Telephone Answering Machine. Among those that were born in 1950 were John Candy, Jay Leno, Stevie Wonder, Natalie Cole, Bill Murray and Karen Carpenter

1951 - The decade of the 50’s would prove to be one of the most defining decades in American history, It would be a decade where the motorcycle world would be clearly defined. The decade would bring not only new products and services, but new technology, new music and much more. It would also see our military tossed into another conflict in Korea. In 1951 Harley-Davidson remained pretty much status quo, but sales of their motorcycles were solid and their apparel lines at dealerships were also growing in popularity. On the other hand Indian was struggling to survive and came out with a new model called the Warrior to go along with the Chief and Scout. 1951 also saw the introduction of many new things among them power steering in automobiles. A new product name in orange juice was Tropicana, Sunday comics lovers enjoyed a new character, Dennis The Menace. Topps introduced their first series of baseball cards. Swanson introduced chicken, beef and turkey pot pies. Direct dial coast to coast telephone service debuts and women began saving the new S & H Green Stamps. TV viewers are treated to a brand new sitcom called I Love Lucy. Among the notables born in 1951 are Phil Collins, Luther Vandross, Michael Keaton and Angelica Huston

1952 - In 1952, I Like Ike was the byword as Dwight Eisenhower is elected President. The country suffered through a 53 day strike by steel workers. On a lighter note, the big movie of the year was "Singing In The Rain" with Gene Kelly and Rocky Marciano would win the world heavyweight championship. As for motorcycles, Indian jazzed up it’s Chief model for the year in an attempt to still compete even dropping the price to under $900. Harley on the other hand was having a banner year with their new Hydra Glides and new innovations like the foot shift and hand clutch. There was also improvement with quieter mufflers and new extras like saddlebags and a new variety of colors. But there was also sadness as the last founding member of H-D, Arthur Davidson was killed in an automobile accident. A lot of new products and services as well as experiments towards peace came about in 1952. The G.I. Bill is extended to Korean vets. The first H-Bomb is tested. Radio lovers now have the new transistor pocket radio by Sony. Lovers of satire were treated to the debut of Mad Magazine. Travelers had a new place to stay on the road as the first Holiday Inn opens in Memphis. Pez candy shows up, cereal lovers now have Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes and housewives are introduced to a new product for wrapping food, Saran wrap. Among notables born in 1952 are Dan Aykroyd, Jimmy Connors, Rosanne and Bob Costas.

1953 - This was a big year as the Eisenhower administration undertakes a massive super highway program throughout the country. More H-bomb testing is done in the south Pacific. The Rosenbergs are executed for spying. A new movie screen, Cinemascope, hopes to get people back to the movies. In April the UN formally opens in New York. On the motorcycle front 1953 saw the demise of Indian after 52 years. No longer able to compete and with less finances and management and engineering failing, the end came. Indian dealers began selling imports like Norton, Royal Enfield, AJS and others from England. Harley celebrated it’s 50th anniversary in grand style and for the next 46 years would be the only motorcycle manufacturer in the U.S. Meanwhile red blooded American males were treated to two new things that would change many men for years to come. It was 1953 when Playboy magazine and the famous Marilyn Monroe centerfold caught the eye of the public. It was also the year TV watchers had their own weekly, as TV Guide debuted. Little girls had the Betsy McCall Doll created from the magazine. A new refreshing drink, White Rose Instant Iced Tea hit the market. Danny’s Donuts opened and a few years later would become known as Denny’s. Also for quick and easy meals Swanson TV Dinners became popular. Notables born in 1953 were Christie Brinkley, Ron Howard and Tom Petty.

1954 - Less than 10 years removed from WW II, then Korea, the cold war, the absurd McCarthy hearings, but America perservered and kept making this a better country for everyone in many ways. Superhighways being built all over the country, the first nuclear powered sub, the Nautilus, skyscrapers like the Seagram Building Chicago, the first kidney transplant, the Air Force Academy is established and so much more. As for Harley-Davidson, while there were no new models this year, they did tweak things on current models and with Indian totally out of the picture now, Harley was getting ready for a big future. However in racing circles Harley clearly was a champion. Joe Leonard won the AMA Grand National Championship and that would begin a string of eight years in a row. In the homes late night TV viewers were treated to a new show called The Tonight Show with Steve Allen, sports fans saw the debut of a new magazine called Sports Illustrated. Housewives now could have colored kitchen appliances brought by General Electric. Candy lovers are introduced to M&M Peanut chocolate candies. On the heels of McDonald’s opening, the first Burger Kings open in 1954. Swanson’s also introduce the frozen TV dinner. Among notables born in 1954 are Chris Evert, Walter Payton, Oprah Winfrey and Denzel Washington.

1955 - This year brought a lot of the future to Americans. The Salk vaccine to fight polio, the Montgomery Bus boycott with Rosa Parks and the minimum was is raised from 75 cents to $1.00. The first business computer by IBM is introduced and there was the merger of the AFL-CIO unions. As for Harley-Davidson they win the Daytona 200 and would for the next seven straight years. They introduced the FLH model motorcycle and for the first time, Harleys are now priced at over $1,000. They also introduce the KHK model with a speed kit and it would be the first glimpses of what would become the Sportster. In other areas cereal lovers are introduced to Kelloggs Special K and also Quaker Oats Instant Oatmeal. The first McDonalds franchises open and another new fast food operation, Kentucky Fried Chicken begins. The Tappan stove company introduces the first Microwave ovens and a new entertainment mecca, Disneyland opens in 1955.

Among notables born this year were Dana Carvey, Jerry Seinfield and Kevin Kostner.

1956 - This could be called the year of the good, bad and ugly. Among the good, Ike being re-elected President, actress Grace Kelly became Princess Grace with her marriage to the Prince of Monaco. Also good was "In God We Trust" is now printed on U.S. Currency. The bad was the cold war escalating as Russia’s Premier Kruschev took a hard line against the U.S. Ugly was an air disaster over the Grand Canyon killing 128 and the ocean liner Andrea Doria sinking just several hours away from docking in New York City, an accident that would cost $40 million. 1956 also saw rock and roll really take off thanks to a young singer by the name of Elvis Presley who would appear on TV variety shows, have number one hits, drive teen girls wild and make the churches and prudes scream for his being immoral. But still there were new products and services. Ladies had a new kitchen cleaner called Comet Cleanser, while new mothers had a the new Pampers Disposable Diapers. Families had a new way to view things with the debut of the Videotape Recorder. For those who liked their beer, 1956 saw the debut of Busch Beer and a new alcoholic drink called a Bloody Mary and also new were Certs Breath Mints. Among notables born this year were Joe Montana, Martina Navratilova, Mel Gibson and Carrie Fisher.

1957 - Another year of ups and downs as the U.S. is one upped by the Soviets when they launch Sputnik I into space and then Sputnik II. Morality and church groups do all they can to ban rock and roll but it just becomes more popular. There is civil unrest in Little Rock when riots break out when 9 blacks try to enter a high school for class. The Governor stands by refusing to abide by the law. Jimmy Hoffa took over leadership of the AFL-CIO. In New York, the Giants and Brooklyn Dodgers announce their move to San Francisco and Los Angeles. In the world of Harley-Davidson, there was competition now from Great Britain in the form of Triumph, Norton and others. Harley was up to the challenge introducing a brand new bike with a 55 cu. in overhead valve engine called the Sportster. It would quickly be dubbed the first of the "superbikes" In other areas of American life, the softening of rock and roll was helped when a new show came on TV called Dick Clark’s American Bandstand. College students now had a portable typewriter and kids had a crazy new toy called the Frisbee. Also in 1957, Velcro is invented, a new orange drink, Tang, debuts and KFC starts selling chicken by the bucket. Among notables born in 1957 are Melanie Griffith, Spike Lee, Katie Couric and Michelle Pfeiffer.

1958 - Once more there were many changes taking place in the U.S. and the world around us. VP Richard Nixon failed goodwill trip to South America was a blackeye as was the continuing fight for civil rights. The jet age officially arrived as Pan American Airlines became the first American airline to use jet airliners and others would follow. Our first successful satellite, Explorer 1 was launched. In music the Grammy awards make their debut and the big news in Hollywood is the Liz, Eddie, Debbie triangle. In 1958 Harley-Davidson added rear brakes and rear hydraulic suspension to the Duo Glide models. The Sportster became a very popular bike with the younger set with it’s red and black and blue and white colors. Harley also won the first of four straight AMA Grand national Championships in 1958. On other fronts, American Express and BankAmericard are introduced to the public. Music lovers have a new sound called Stereophonic and kids, as well as adults, are enjoying the new Hula Hoop. New breakfast foods like Cocoa Puffs and Cocoa Krispies are introduced, as is a new diet soda from Royal Crown, Diet Rite. We also are introduced to the Jolly Green Giant and to another new fast food place we will all become familiar with, Pizza Hut. Among those born in 1958 are Madonna and Michael Jackson.

1959 - Coming to the end of the decade a lot was going on that would carry into the next decade, one that would be filled with drama, turmoil and sadness. In 1959, the great 48 became 50 as Alaska and Hawaii gained statehood. The United Steelworkers went on strike for 116 days creating major problems. After 51 years Oklahoma legalized alcohol. In the world of Harley-Davidson the Sportster line was expanded with the additions of the XLH and XLCH models with a top speed of 115 mph and a price tag in the $1400 range. It would become a big seller to the hot rodder crowd. Harley was also in the midst of forming a big business partnership that would be formalized the following year. Around the U.S. and close to our shores were big changes. Castro took over Cuba, Nixon and Kruschev debates in Russia worried Americans with the cold war. There was another quiz show scandal when the TV Show "21" was found to be rigged. One of the big movie hits of the year was the Marilyn Monroe, Jack Lemmon, Tony Curtis comedy hit "Some Like It Hot". Little girls got their first taste of a new doll, the Barbie Doll and ladies found a new comfort with panty hose. A new TV western called Bonanza, becomes a big hit, Bic Pens make their debut and Danny’s Coffee Shops become Denny’s. Also Coors Beer is the first to put their product in aluminum cans and a new music company called Motown is formed. Among notables born in 1959 are Magic Johnson, John McEnroe and Emeril Lagasse. We also lost in a plane crash 3 rock and roll stars, Buddy Holly, Richie Valens and the Big Bopper.

MOTORCYCLES & HISTORY – THE 1960’S PT. #1 by Art Koch

1960 – As the new decade began so did a new chapter in American history, It would be a decade never forgotten as it would be filled with new directions, new challenges and tragedy, sorrow and hate. But in 1960 ro get the new decade started, a charismatic JFK was elected President. There was the U-2 incident with Gary Powers plunging relations between the USSR and the U.S. to an all time low. Sit ins spread throughout the country in a new type of civil rights movement. Women were finally given something new to prevent pregnancy, the birth control pill. As for Harley-Davidson 1960 would see them branch out in two directions. First was the production of the Topper, H-D’s first and only scooter. Second was their new partnership with Aeronautica Macchi of Italy to produce small single cylinder motorcycles for the Italian market. Back on the everyday homefront in 1960, the felt tip pen is introduced. Women got help in the kitchen with a new quick product, instant mashed potatoes and a new dance craze The Twist took the country by storm. In Chicago, the very first Playboy Club opens. Notables who were born in 1960 include,

John Elway, Darryl Hannah, Joan Jett, Sean Penn, Cal Ripken Jr.

1961 – This year was a year of surprise, of a threat of war and more. The surprise came when the Russians beat the USA by launching the first man in space a month before Alan Shepard’s trip into space for the U.S. Just 90 miles from our shores was the fiasco between Castro and Kennedy with the Bay of Pigs that could have escalated into a bloodbath. It was also in this year that we begin to send more “advisors” to Viet Nam unaware of what was to come. In the world of Harley-Davidson they continued to do well on the racing circuit piling up win after win. In ’61 they also introduced the lightweight Aermacchi/Harley-Davidson Sprint motorcycle with a top speed of 75 mph and a price tag under $700. This was their first combined effort with their new partnership. The XLCH was still a very popular street rod version of the Sportster. Elsewhere in the country in 1961. Among some of the new products to come along in 1961were the electric toothbrush, coffee drinkers now had Coffee Mate, students now had, thanks to IBM, the electric typewriter, homemakers had the new Teflon frying pans and also had a new cereal called Life for families to enjoy. It was also the year Roger Maris broke Babe Ruth’s homerun record by belting 61 homers. Notables born in 1961 include Wayne Gretsky, Dan Marino, Eddie Murphy and Steve Young.

1962 – People could feel that things were going to be different in this decade as sit ins continued and a small group began a “flower power” movement. There was the Cuban Missile crisis as the cold war escalated. There was the death of movie star and sex siren Marilyn Monroe. While all these things and others were going on Harley-Davidson was having a very solid year sales wise both with motorcycles and their accessories. They also purchase 60% of the Tomahawk Boat Co., not to manufacture boats but because of the fiberglass becoming the new material. They turn the Tomahawk plant into a Harley plant as fiberglass become a relevant part of motorcycle production. In other areas in 1962, the U. of Mississippi was the first college to desegregate. Teens had new music idols as the Beatles and the British music invasion was about to begin. Another new cereal, Fruit Loops is on store shelves. When it came to department store shopping folks had two new places to shop K-Mart and Wal-Mart. Also the minimum wage is raised to $1.15 per hour. Among notables born in 1962 are Garth Brooks, Demi Moore, Jerry Rice, Roger Clemens, Tom Cruise, Jodie Foster, Evander Hollyfield, Bo Jackson and Jon Bon Jovi.

1963 - This would be a year that none of us would forget and not because of the good things that came our way from movies, television, music and in new products and inventions. 1963, November 23, to be exact, is when the country mourned the death of our President, John F. Kennedy who died from an assassin’s bullets in Dallas, Texas. It was a shock heard around the world and would plunge this country into more of a rebellion in so many ways. Almost 45 years have passed and none of us will ever forget that fateful day. In the world of Harley-Davidson sales of the Sportster and the XLCH, considered the fastest bike on the road. Harley also got back to winning ways racing as Ralph White won the Daytona 200. This year also saw more expansion with new Harley dealerships opening around the country. On the music scene rock and roll was undergoing change as the British invasion continued at the Beatles got bigger. In films, Sidney Poitier became the first black to win an Oscar for Best Actor in Lilies of the Field. People watching their weight had a new drink Tab Diet Cola. There was also the debut of the Kodak Instamatic camera, cassette tape recorder. The entire country had to get used to a new system for mailing, zip codes. The first disco in the U.S. opens, the Whiskey Au Go Go in Los Angeles. Notables born in 1963 include Charles Barkley, Michael Jordan, Johnny Depp, Brian Boitano.

1964 – In 1964 the country was still reeling from the death of JFK as conspiracy theories surfaced from everywhere. A nemesis of the U.S., Nikita Kruschev was ousted as Premier. President Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act into law as civil rights workers were murdered in the south. In Boston, people breathed easier as, after 2 harrowing years, the “Boston Strangler” who killed at least a dozen, women, was caught and imprisoned. It was also the year that seniors 65 and older would now have the new Medicare program to help with illnesses and the Dept. of Agriculture reinstitutes food stamps. For Harley-Davidson this year was a continuation of wins in racing with another Daytona 200 win and an AMA Grand national championship. Harley also introduced the three wheeled Servi-car which was also the very first Harley with an electric starter. The XLCH had 60 hp and topped at 115 mph and was the popular street rod version of the Sportster. As the only motorcycle manufacturer in the U.S. Harley was doing very well, but was also feeling a bigger competition from the British and Japanese bikes being imported into the country. In other areas in 1964 to take our mind off civil unrest, a looming problem in Viet Nam, folks got pleasure out of TV shows like The Addams Family, Gilligans island and The Munsters. Kids had a new toy with the G.I. Joe Doll and car lovers were introduced to the new Ford Mustang. Sports fans had a new boxing champ in the name of Cassius Clay A new product called Cool Whip is introduced and becomes a big hit and at a place called the Anchor Bar, a brand new treat is invented called Buffalo Wings. Among notables born in 1964 were Jose Canseco, Bonnie Blair, Dwight Gooden, Tracy Chapman.