Harley, Indian and Victory: a history of custom motorcycles

These motorcycles, which often attract attention, generate general interest, and which, surprisingly, are never found in stores ... Custom motorcycles ! As the name suggests, they are “customized” motorcycle prototypes or even personalized hobbyists or specialized instructors.

Custom motorcycles, unlike traditional two-wheelers, are truly iconic vehicles. The mythical roads of American cinema, piloted mainly by famous American stars such as Marlon Brando, James Dean or Elvis Presley ... Their images are often associated with the famous brand Harley Davidson, which first entered the market. However, over the years, two more American custom brands have emerged, notably Indian and Victory.

Let's find out their stories!  

The birth of custom motorcycles

Custom motorcycles are a trend that emerged in the United States during the Kustom Culture, a movement popularized in the 50s and whose main reason for being was todecorate cars both aesthetically and technically. If at first the custom concerned only cars, then very quickly it reached the world of two wheels.

Thus, custom motorcycles are as massive and quiet motorcycles as large typical American cars. These are neither road bikes, nor sports bikes, nor even all-terrain vehicles. They are more of retro, luxury and collectible motorcycles with independent styling and their characteristic riding style.

They are recognizable at first sight, especially in character. very low and wide in their saddles, their length should be such that the rider's feet are very forward and their rudders are high and wide apart, Etc.

Today, this particular style of motorcycle is still widespread in the United States and also enjoyed great success around the world. They are offered with small travels for short trips in urban areas, with intermediate travels for city trips, and for use on roads and long travels for competitions and exhibitions.

Major Custom Motorcycle Brands

When it comes to custom motorcycles, there are three brands that stand out: Harley Davidson, Indian and Victory.

History of custom motorcycles: Harley-Davidson

The history of custom motorcycles in the collective memory is inseparable from the iconic brand: Harley-Davidson (HD). It must be admitted that the history of the label was also built around customs. Indeed, custom motorcycles have always been featured in American films and television series. Harley-Davidson which is nothing less than the world's first manufacturer of motorcycles and large engines.

Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is one of the motorcycle manufacturers specializing in the production of suits. It is also the source of the oldest and most famous custom motorcycle in the world.

In addition to models from its own range, Harley-Davidson also offers a wide range of customization parts and accessories. Elements that transform a classic Harley into an ultra-seductive custom.

Custom Motorcycle History: Indian

Actually indian the first American motorcycle brand... It was established long before other firms since its founding in 1901 in Springfield, Massachusetts. In the world of two wheels, it is the only American competitor that can oppose the legendary Harley-Davidson. She had already spoken of her at the start-up competition in Milwaukee. Its debut was impressive: the very first Indian sold just 1200 copies in its first three years.

Between 2948 and 1952, between war and fierce competition, Indian gradually disappeared from the radar before returning in 2004, bought by Stellican Limited. He manufactures luxury motorcycles, suits, and old Indian models revived.

A History of Custom Motorcycles: Victory Motorcycles

The Victory brand is the newest American motorcycle company. Created in 1998 by the Polaris group, it was an immediate success with the launch of its first model: the V92C, which won the Cruiser of the Year award in 1999.

Consistent appearance of his models with non-standard appearance, large V-shaped twins, Freedom, Végas, Kingpin, Hammer and Vision contributed to the rapid development of the brand. But also to its appearance on the international market: in Canada, Great Britain, France and Asia.