American Icons: Harley-Davidson

This is American power running on two wheels.

It’snot the fastest motorcycle or the fanciest, but to many Americans, a motorcycle is a Harley-Davidson. Veteran NPR producer Jay Allison, a longtime biker, heads to Laconia Bike Week to find the source of the mystique. Diehard riders (including a biker church deacon), scholars, and a Davidson family member explain how the Harley image yokes patriotism together with outlaw rebelliousness. With a look that suggests industrial might, a backstory of garage ingenuity, and a roar so distinctive the company tried to trademark it — Harley-Davidsons are the American motorcycle.

Harley-Davidson was produced by Jay Allison and edited by Emily Botein.

Bonus Track: The New Harley Enthusiast
Jay Allen, owner of the famous Broken Spoke Saloon, describes the allure of a Harley-Davidson, and the new millenium’s kinder, gentler Harley rider.

Slideshow: Harleys and Their Owners