The Harley Davidson motorcycle empire was founded more than a century ago. Since the company was established, they have continued to produce iconic, memorable, and timeless motorcycles that have managed to navigate their way into auto history. Interestingly, Harley Davidson was one of the only American motorcycle companies to survive the Great Depression successfully. This brand has also survived product quality issues, subsidiary arrangements, ownership changes, and fierce global competition.
This well-known American-made motorcycle brand creates a wide variety of motorcycle models that include speed bikes and tourers. It’s highly likely you have seen or heard of Harley Davidson and at one time in your life dreamed of owning one. Many of the brand’s prominent models have featured in movies, documentaries, and television series.
This extraordinary brand has produced many spectacular motorcycles. That’s why it can be challenging to determine which motorcycle models manufactured by this company are the best. Yet, we have researched and found 10 of the best Harley Davidson bikes of all time. Feast your eyes on the below models to learn more about why they are iconic and what makes them sought after.
1. 1915 Harley Davidson 11F
Arguably one of the most memorable Harley Davidson motorcycle models of all time is the 1915 Harley Davidson 11F. This motorcycle was one of the very first to introduce riders to a new driving experience. It was the first Harley Davidson model to have an automatic coiler, intake valves, and three-speed transmission capabilities.
Unlike previous models, the 1915 Harley Davidson 11F had a service light that could be detached which was one of the most significant technological advancements in motorcycle history at the time. With the features and 1000 cc engine the bike possessed, it was able to achieve a horsepower rating of 11, which was impressive. Additionally, the 11F had a complete electrical system with a renowned magneto ignition system.
Moreover, the Harley Davidson 11F also had an automatic oiling system. In the 1910s, bike fanatics would need to oil their motorcycle engines themselves as oil pumps did not come standard. Yet, riders didn’t need to worry about this hassle with the automatic oiler system and could instead focus more on the driving experience.
2. 1965 Harley Davidson Electra Glide
Chances are you have heard of the 1965 Harley Davidson Electra Glide. This motorcycle model became incredibly popular after famed musician Elvis Presley rode one of these bikes. Over the years, the original design concept has changed drastically, yet it is still a favorite amongst many riders.
The 1695 Harley Davidson Electra Glide was a true touring model made for long drives through the countryside. With an electric start and shovelhead engine, the Electra Glide was incredibly powerful. This model also had a range of touring options that could be equipped, such as the king of the highway package. This option had a removable windshield, chrome accessories, hard saddlebags, and a luggage rack.
The 1965 Electra Glide model had a horsepower rating of 60 hp, and it had a top speed of approximately 100 mph. The newer models of the 2000s are now equipped with 107 cubic inch Milwaukee eight engines that have a horsepower rating of 67 hp and are able to produce around 111 lb-ft.
3. 1957 Harley Davidson Sportster XL Ironhead
Not every motorcycle in the Harley Davidson collection has an immense impact on the motorcycle world, but that doesn’t make certain models any less important. The 1957 Harley Davidson Sportster XL Ironhead might not be as famous or as flashy as other models, but it is known for its high-quality components and exemplary build. In fact, the XL models are so well crafted that they are still in production even though the Iron Head was discontinued in 1985.
The 1957 Harley Davidson Sportster XL Ironhead is aptly named for its iron head engine that replaced aluminum. The engine was an air-cooled V-twin. The 1957 model had an 883 cc engine, but riders could purchase the XL Ironhead models with a 1,000 cc and 1,200 cc engine.
Surprisingly the Sportster XL models have not changed much, with the brand only making minor modifications to each new design. New Sportster XL models are authentically similar to their original design, making them an attractive motorcycle model for many.
4. 1958 Harley Davidson Duo Glide
Most modern motorcycles feature rear suspension, but it was not always a standard feature. The very first Harley Davidson motorcycle to feature genuine rear suspension was the 1958 Harley Davidson Duo Glide.
The Duo Glide’s suspension had three settings. Drivers could choose between heavy rider, solo, and two-up. Contrary to popular belief, the Duo glide did not remove the sprung seat as the new suspension was simply added to this standard seating. Additionally, the new step-down frame was equipped with a swingarm that was attached to coil-over shocks.
The suspension was a big step forward for Harley Davidson, and this model helped the brand enter the arena of comfortable motorcycle designs. With the stunning combination of newer and older features, the Duo-Glide is easily one of the best models created.
5. 2009 FXSTB Night Train
One of the best Harley Davidson performance motorcycles is the 2009 FXSTB Night Train. Yet, it wasn’t only the performance of this model that had it standing apart from its competition. The 2009 FXSTB Night Train was a full black design. Everything from its drive belt sprocket, wheels, engine, and frame was done in a spectacular black color.
Riders who thirsted for an open road and the freedom that came with it invested in this model. The extended front end provided comfort allowing drivers to enjoy cruising through town.
It was equipped with an uber impressive 1,584 twin-cam 96B engine and had a specialized six-speed Cruise Drive transmission. These features allowed the bike to deliver 87.9 pounds of torque per foot with a 2500 rpm rating.
6. 2002 Harley Davidson VRSCA V-Rod
Although Harley Davidson motorcycles are well known for their cruising personas, a few models stand out because of their speed. The 2002 Harley Davidson VRSCA V-Rod is one of these motorcycles. It is easily recognized as one of the fastest models manufactured by a reputable brand.
Unsurprisingly as one of the most outstanding speed performers manufactured by the brand, this model prominently featured in numerous drag racing events. Its custom styling and high-performance capabilities had it quickly become a global benchmark standard for motorcycle manufacturers.
During the early 2000s, many motorcycles were not capable of reaching high-top speeds, yet the 2002 Harley Davidson VRSCA V-Rod was capable of reaching 140 mph. This is because it was equipped with a 1,1130 cc liquid-cooled V-twin Revolution engine. This engine was capable of producing 115 horsepower and 74 lb-ft.
7. 2012 Harley Davidson FLHR Road King
Potentially the best modern Harley Davidson motorcycle to be manufactured in recent years is the 2012 FLHR Road King. This Road King model is definitely the king of the road with its many modern features and various customization options.
This model offered riders a seamless driving experience. It was equipped with a twin-cam 103 1,690 cc engine and a six-speed Cruise Drive transmission. Additionally, the 2012 Harley Davidson FLHR Road King’s noteworthy modern features include an electronic cruise control system, ABS braking, adjustable touring rear suspension, and removable windshield. These are only some of the very impressive features that helped make this model a favorite amongst motorcyclists.
8. 1936 Harley Davidson EL
The 1936 Harley Davidson El, fondly known as the “Knucklehead” model, was the last motorcycle to be designed by the Davidson brothers and S. Harley as a team. This motorcycle is believed to be the model that allowed Harley Davidson to become a powerhouse brand of the 20th century. The 1936 Harley Davidson EL had a 61 cubic inch V-twin knucklehead engine, which allowed it to become one of the most well-known motorcycles in the world.
Unlike previous flathead bike designs, the 1936 Harley Davidson EL had a hemispherical combustion chamber design that allowed the bike to achieve a horsepower rating of 40 hp. The 61 cubic inch engine was attached to an impressive four-speed gearbox which allowed this model to be considered a modern motorcycle engineering masterpiece.
Although this model faced some design and manufacturing issues due to the engine being somewhat rushed, it was reworked in 1937. With the reworked model design, the Knucklehead was able to set numerous records proving just how impressive it was.
Additionally, once the faults were addressed, the model saw good sales and is one of the most sought-after Harley Davidson models of all time. A high-quality well preserved 1936 Knucklehead easily sells for around $100,000 when they do come up for sale on the market.
9. 1990 Harley Davidson Fat Boy
After years of developing quality motorcycles, Harley Davidson decided to think outside the box and create something different. This unconventional mindset led to the creation of the 1990 Harley Davidson Fat Boy, one of the most well-recognized models produced by the brand. To date, in 2021, riders can still purchase new Fat Boy models as they are still in production.
This cruiser bike has a beautiful shotgun-style exhaust system handily paired with massive 16-inch rear and front disc wheels, FL-style front forks, valenced fenders, and a powder-coated frame. These design features created the famed Softail look, which is immensely popular with bike enthusiasts. Before Harley Davidson created this style, riders mostly only had access to Hardtail design models.
Interestingly the original 1990 Harley Davidson Fat Boy Motorcycles were equipped with a 1,340 cc Evolution V-twin engine, while the newer models feature a Milwaukee eight V-twin.
10. 1993 Harley Davidson MT350E
The 1993 Harley Davidson MT350E was in production from 1993 until 2000. This motorcycle model is different from many other bikes manufactured by the brand because it was based on an inherited design.
After the collapse of the Armstrong CCm company, its military division was sold to the Harley Davidson company. While in production Harley Davidson built the MT350E model as a military spec motorcycle.
Interestingly, the MT350E was primarily utilized by British, Gulf, and Cyprus armies. This model was seen as quite an improvement due to its electric starter and traditional kick starter combination. The 1993 Harley Davidson MT350E was never available for sale to the public as it was only ever produced for military use.